Modular Grill and Side Cart Connection for Tool-Free Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing grill systems are often difficult to assemble, require numerous components, and can be cumbersome to set up and transport, lacking flexibility and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A modular grill system comprising a grill assembly and side assemblies, where the grill assembly includes a burner box with a first connection structure and the side assemblies include top caps with corresponding connection structures, allowing for easy coupling and decoupling without the need for tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If traditional grill systems are used, then structural stability is improved, but assembly complexity and setup time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The grill system is divided into modular components (burner box, side assemblies, top caps) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each module has standardized connection structures that simplify assembly while maintaining overall structural stability through the interconnected modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If modular design is implemented, then ease of assembly is improved, but connection strength may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple connection functions are merged into a single integrated connection structure. The connection structure combines alignment features, securing mechanisms, and structural support elements into one unified component that provides both ease of assembly and strong connections simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If permanent outdoor grill installations are used, then functionality and customization are improved, but portability and flexibility worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecustomizationVSAvoidportability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The grill system transitions from a static permanent installation concept to a dynamic modular system. The modular components can be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing the system to adapt between permanent and temporary installations, providing both customization and portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Weight of moving object

If foldable stands are used, then portability is improved, but setup complexity and space requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidsetup complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex foldable stand mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler modular cart-based support system. The support function is separated from the main grill structure, allowing independent optimization of each component for ease of assembly and portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS12295525B2Grill and side cart attachment systems and methods
Publication Date: 2025.05.13 OHC IP HOLDINGS LLC
  • US12295525B2 patent drawing
  • US12295525B2 patent drawing
  • US12295525B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments herein relate to grill systems. In an embodiment, a grill system is included. The grill system having a grill assembly and a first side assembly. The grill assembly can include a grill cart and a burner box configured to couple to a top portion of the grill cart. The burner box can include a first connection structure. The first side assembly that can include a first side cart and a first top cap configured to couple to a top portion of the first side cart. The first top cap can include a second connection structure. The first connection structure and the second connection structure mate together to couple the grill assembly to the first side assembly. Other embodiments are also included herein.