Modular griddle with searing device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing griddles lack the ability to simultaneously sear multiple food items efficiently and require cumbersome storage for separate searing devices, while also lacking integrated modular cooking functions for various cooking methods like steaming and toasting.
Innovation Solution
A modular griddle system with a pivotable cooking attachment, counterbalance assembly, and latch mechanism that allows for simultaneous searing of multiple items, integrated with a griddle, and includes interchangeable cooking attachments for steaming and toasting, enabling efficient and ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a weighted searing implement is used to press food against the griddle surface, then individual food items can be seared, but multiple food items cannot be seared simultaneously and the device requires separate storage
Solution Approach 1:
The searing device is integrated directly with the griddle surface, merging two previously separate functions (griddle cooking and searing) into a single unified system. This eliminates the need for separate storage of the searing implement and enables simultaneous searing of multiple food items across the griddle surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The griddle surface is designed to serve multiple functions: standard griddle cooking, searing of multiple food items simultaneously, and interchangeable attachments for steaming and toasting. This multi-functionality increases productivity while reducing the need for separate specialized devices and their storage.
2Productivity
If a pivotable cooking attachment is provided, then multiple food items can be seared simultaneously, but the attachment requires space for movement and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable cooking attachment is designed to nest against the griddle surface when not in use, allowing it to occupy minimal space. The attachment can be stored in a compact position when not needed, reducing the area occupied while maintaining the capability for simultaneous searing of multiple food items when activated.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable cooking attachments are provided for steaming and toasting, then cooking versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single griddle system provides universal cooking capabilities through interchangeable attachments for searing, steaming, and toasting. This multi-functional design improves adaptability while managing complexity through a unified attachment interface and modular design that allows attachments to be swapped as needed rather than requiring all functions to be permanently integrated.
Data Source
AI summary
A griddle system includes one or more of a variety of performance-enhancing structures and functions. For example, the griddle system may include a set of sensors and a latch mechanism to provide a closed and locked platen configuration which can be controlled according to a cooking routine controlled by a controller. A counterbalance assembly may be provided to minimize the effort required to pivot a base frame and cooking attachment between their open and closed configurations. A pullback linkage may be provided to draw a pivotable cooking attachment up at its distal portion when the base frame is pivoted open, creating extra space for placement of food items at the distal portion of the cooking surface. The cooking attachment may include provisions for self-leveling when closed, in order to apply even pressure to food items having varying thicknesses. Height adjusters may be provided to expand or contract the cooking space.