Mobile Convection Oven Docking Lock for Flexible Vehicle Use
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile convection machines are limited in their operational efficiency as they can only be used for meal delivery during specific times, making the vehicle fleet idle for the rest of the day, and cannot be easily repurposed for other uses due to their size and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A mobile convection machine system with a docking module that allows the oven to be securely locked and unlocked, enabling easy removal and reinstallation, combined with a lifting structure and locking mechanism that allows for flexible use of the vehicle for various purposes throughout the day, and a dual heating system for efficient menu warming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mobile convection oven is permanently fixed in the vehicle, then the vehicle is dedicated for meal delivery, but the vehicle fleet remains idle for most of the day and cannot be used for other purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile convection oven is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable within the vehicle, transitioning between a locked fixed position during meal delivery and an unlocked removable position for other uses. The locking mechanism allows the oven to be securely fixed when needed and easily removed when the vehicle needs to be repurposed, enabling dynamic adaptation of vehicle functionality throughout the day.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the vehicle to serve multiple functions by allowing the mobile convection oven to be removed and stored in a storage compartment. During peak meal delivery times, the oven is installed and locked in place for dedicated meal delivery. During non-peak hours, the oven can be removed, allowing the vehicle to be used for other delivery services or purposes, thereby increasing overall fleet productivity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the mobile convection oven takes up large loading area, then meal delivery function is ensured, but the vehicle cannot be used for other purposes during non-peak hours
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle interior is segmented into functional zones: an active loading area for meal delivery operations and a storage compartment for the mobile convection oven. During meal delivery, the oven occupies its designated space in the loading area. During non-peak hours, the oven is moved to the storage compartment, freeing up the entire loading area for other uses, thus resolving the space conflict.
3Reliability
If the locking mechanism is complex, then the oven is securely fixed during transport, but the oven cannot be easily removed and reinstalled
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a simplified mechanical design with quick-release latches that can be operated manually or electromechanically. Instead of complex multi-point locking systems, the invention employs easy-to-operate locking points that secure the oven during transport but can be quickly released when removal is needed, balancing security with operational ease.
4Reliability
If the mobile convection oven is only used during lunch and dinner, then meal delivery quality is maintained, but the fleet operating time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transforms the vehicle from a single-purpose meal delivery unit to a multi-functional vehicle. By enabling easy removal and storage of the mobile convection oven, the vehicle can perform other delivery services during non-peak hours (morning and afternoon), effectively extending the productive operating time of the fleet from just lunch and dinner hours to throughout the entire day.
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 the vehicle to be used for multiple purposes beyond meal delivery, optimizing fleet operation by allowing the mobile convection machine to be used for other services during non-peak hours and improving operational efficiency by allowing the vehicle to be utilized more effectively throughout the day.
Implementation Method 1
The mobile convection oven (15) has a heating chamber (18, 19) in which prepared menus can be warmed
Implementation Method 2
mobile convection oven system
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A system consisting of a mobile convection oven (15) and a docking module (33), the docking module (33) being designed to be connected to a vehicle (14) and to support the mobile convection oven (15). The mobile convection oven (15) includes a heating chamber (18, 19) for warming pre-prepared meals. A locking mechanism (36, 37) is switchable between a locked state, in which the mobile convection oven (15) is locked to the docking module (33), and an unlocked state, in which the mobile convection oven (15) rests on the docking module (33) without being locked. The mobile convection oven (15) has a lifting structure (51) that is accessible to a lifting device (16) when the mobile convection oven (15) is resting on the docking module (33). The invention also relates to a method for operating a mobile convection oven (15).