Modular Meal Tray with Detachable Modules for Flexible Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing meal-eating devices are rigid and do not allow for easy individualization or variation in the combination of containers and receptacles, limiting their adaptability to different user menus and environments.
Innovation Solution
A modular portable meal-taking system comprising connecting and hollow modules with complementary attachment means, allowing for flexible configuration and attachment of multiple containers and a cup holder, enabling easy adaptation to various eating scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid fixed-configuration tray is used, then the device structure is simple and stable, but the adaptability to different user menus and environments is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The tray is divided into multiple detachable modules including a connecting module with attachment means and multiple hollow modules (first type and second type) with complementary attachment means. This segmentation allows users to assemble different configurations based on their specific needs, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining manageable structural complexity through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray transitions from a static fixed-configuration design to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The attachment means enable modules to be easily connected and disconnected, allowing the tray configuration to adapt dynamically to different user menus and eating scenarios without requiring a completely different device for each situation.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed-configuration tray is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the ease of individualization for each user's menu is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment means are designed as universal connectors that can join any hollow module to any connecting module. This universal interface simplifies the manufacturing process by using standardized components across all modules, while simultaneously enabling easy individualization as users can mix and match modules to create personalized configurations for their specific menu requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid tray with protruding handle is used, then the device provides stable handling, but the device cannot be used on a table
Solution Approach 1:
The handle function is segmented from the traditional integrated design. The connecting module serves as the handle replacement, providing stable gripping surfaces on its lateral sides. This segmented approach allows the tray to be held stably like traditional designs while the modular flat structure enables it to be placed flat on tables without protruding elements, thus achieving versatility across different usage scenarios.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a modular portable meal feeding system characterized in that it consists of at least one linking module (100) having lateral attachment means and at least one hollow module (200, 300, 400) having complementary lateral attachment means.