Modular holding bin having individually configurable food holding modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food holding units are not reconfigurable, leading to inefficiencies in kitchen layouts and increased costs due to fixed sizes, and they lack remote access and power resilience, resulting in food spoilage during power outages.
Innovation Solution
A modular food holding bin system with individually controllable and configurable units connected via a multi-master, multi-point communication bus architecture, allowing dynamic address assignment and remote management, and incorporating a power recovery module to maintain food safety during power outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-sized food holding units are used, then the device structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the adaptability to different kitchen layouts and menu changes is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The food holding system is divided into multiple independent modular units, each capable of functioning autonomously. These modules can be individually configured and repositioned to adapt to different kitchen layouts and menu requirements, while maintaining overall system functionality through standardized interfaces and communication protocols.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular architecture with individual control is implemented, then reconfigurability and adaptability are improved, but device complexity and communication requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each modular unit is equipped with a microcontroller that provides universal control capabilities, allowing the same hardware platform to perform multiple functions including temperature control, communication, and self-diagnosis. This universal approach reduces overall system complexity while enabling flexible reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements bidirectional communication between modules and the master controller, with each module providing feedback on its operational status, temperature, and health. This feedback mechanism enables automated monitoring and control, reducing the complexity of manual management while improving adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed ovens are used, then initial cost is lower, but cost increases during remodeling or menu changes
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the food holding system into reusable modular units with standardized interfaces, the patent enables flexible reconfiguration without requiring complete system replacement. This reduces total cost of ownership by allowing incremental adaptations to menu changes and kitchen remodeling.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular architecture with dynamic address assignment and reconfigurable communication topology allows the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements. This dynamic capability enables cost-effective responses to changing menus and kitchen layouts without significant additional investment.
4Ease of operation
If centralized programming is implemented, then ease of operation and maintenance are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The master controller serves as an intermediary between the user interface and individual modular units, consolidating programming and configuration functions. This intermediary approach enables centralized control and remote access while simplifying the interface complexity for end users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical technician visits with electronic communication and remote programming capabilities. Digital communication protocols substitute for manual configuration, enabling centralized management and reducing the need for on-site technical intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular food holding bin has multiple food holding units or bins, which can be connected and disconnected from each other in multiple different configurations. Each bin can be set to its own temperature, independently of the others.