Kettle Grill Heat Dispersion Insert for Multi-Zone Cooking Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring a standard kettle grill for multiple cooking zones is not convenient, as existing solutions do not provide a reliable heat dispersion device suited for kettle grills, limiting cooking flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical grill partition with a mesh screen bottom and a removable insert, designed to fit within a kettle grill, allowing for adjustable heat distribution and multiple cooking methods by positioning fuel and food strategically within the grill.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard kettle grill is used without additional accessories, then the grill structure remains simple and easy to operate, but the cooking versatility and ability to create multiple cooking zones is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The grill interior is divided into multiple functional zones using a divider assembly that creates separate cooking areas. The divider assembly includes a first section and a second section that can be positioned to create direct cooking zones, indirect cooking zones, and smoking zones, allowing simultaneous multi-zone cooking without requiring multiple separate grills.
Solution Approach 2:
The divider assembly is designed to nest within the existing grill structure, fitting between the heat source and the cooking grate. The water pan assembly nests within the divider assembly, creating a compact multi-functional unit that utilizes the vertical space efficiently without expanding the grill's footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If charcoal is piled on one side for indirect cooking, then indirect cooking capability is achieved, but heat distribution control and cooking zone definition are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the grill are created with distinct thermal characteristics through the divider assembly. The first section allows direct heat exposure for high-temperature searing, while the second section creates an indirect heat zone for slower cooking. The water pan assembly provides localized steam injection and heat moderation in specific areas, enabling precise control over heat distribution across different cooking zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The divider assembly acts as an intermediary structure between the heat source and the cooking grate, physically separating and directing heat flow to create distinct cooking zones. The water pan assembly serves as a thermal mediator, absorbing and redistributing heat while generating steam that modifies the cooking environment in the indirect heat zone.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a water pan is placed in the grill for indirect cooking, then moisture control is improved, but the grill space for food placement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The water pan assembly is positioned in the vertical dimension between the heat source and the cooking grate, rather than occupying horizontal food placement space. This vertical arrangement allows the water pan to provide moisture control and heat moderation while maintaining full horizontal surface area available for food placement on the cooking grate above.
Solution Approach 2:
The water pan assembly nests within the divider assembly structure, utilizing the space created by the vertical partitions. This nested configuration allows the water pan to occupy the vertical volume between the heat source and cooking grate without encroaching on the horizontal food placement area, maximizing both moisture control functionality and food capacity.
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 flexible cooking options, including indirect and direct cooking, by providing controlled heat dispersion and allowing for simultaneous use of different cooking methods, enhancing cooking efficiency and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
When burned, the charcoal will transform into embers radiating the heat necessary to cook food
Implementation Method 2
a water pan is placed in the empty space to one (1) side or between the charcoals. Food is then placed over the water pan for cooking
Implementation Method 3
The venting system can consist of one (1) or more vents in the bottom of the lower chamber and one (1) or more vents in the top of the lid. Normally, the lower vent(s) are to be left open until cooking is complete, and the vent(s) in the lid are adjusted to control airflow. Restricted airflow means lower cooking temperature and slower burning of charcoal.
Data Source
AI summary
A kettle grill heat dispersion device provides a grill insert particularly shaped for placement within an existing kettle-type outdoor grill. A circular top plate having a center cup-shaped cylinder is positioned under the upper cooking rack portion of the outdoor grill. A fuel such as charcoal may be positioned within the center cylinder or beneath the circular plate to enable respective direct and indirect cooking of food stuffs correspondingly positioned upon the cooking rack.