Modular Outdoor Kitchen Frame with Interchangeable Function Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing outdoor kitchen frames are not modular, making it difficult and costly to change or add function modules, as they are permanently connected and require specific adaptations, leading to space inefficiency and high production costs.

Innovation Solution

A modular frame design with a frame body and media distribution device that allows interchangeable function modules, featuring connectors and a line device for media distribution, enabling easy connection and disconnection of modules without tools, and accommodating various function modules such as ceramic burners, pizza ovens, and plancha grills.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If frame modules are permanently connected to function modules (bolted or materially bonded), then structural stability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates as function modules cannot be easily replaced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The frame module is divided into separable components: the frame body and the function module. The accommodating device provides mechanical support while the media distribution device with connectors enables detachable connections. This segmentation allows the function module to be replaced without damaging the frame body, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection between the frame module and function module is made dynamic rather than static. The accommodating device and media distribution device enable the function module to be easily inserted and removed. This dynamic connection allows the system to adapt to different function modules while maintaining structural integrity during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If frame modules are specifically adapted to respective function modules, then functional compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases requiring multiple frame modules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional compatibilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame body with the accommodating device and media distribution device is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different types of function modules (grill, pizza oven, plancha, smoker). The standardized connectors and media distribution system allow a single frame module design to support multiple functions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized frame modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The media distribution device acts as an intermediary between the frame body and the function module. It provides standardized connection interfaces (connectors) that mediate the connection between different function modules and the frame, enabling functional compatibility without requiring custom adaptations for each module type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized frame modules are purchased for different functions, then functional versatility is improved, but space efficiency deteriorates requiring more storage space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidspace efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

A single frame module with universal accommodating and media distribution capabilities replaces the need for multiple specialized frame modules. The user can interchange function modules (grill, pizza oven, plancha, smoker) on the same frame, significantly reducing the space required to store and accommodate multiple different cooking systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of manufacture

If frame modules are permanently connected, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates as defective modules cannot be easily replaced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidease of repair
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The frame module is segmented into the frame body and the function module with separable connections via the accommodating device and media distribution device. This segmentation enables easy replacement of defective function modules without affecting the frame body or requiring complex disassembly, significantly improving ease of repair while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20250089942A1Modular frame for an outdoor kitchen
Publication Date: 2025.03.20 BURNHARD GMBH
  • US20250089942A1 patent drawing
  • US20250089942A1 patent drawing
  • US20250089942A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular frame for an outdoor kitchen for the replaceable accommodation of at least one function module includes a frame body having a first side part and a second side part opposite the first side part, a front part and a rear part opposite the front part for defining a frame interior; a first accommodating device; and at least one media distribution device. The at least one media distribution device has at least two connectors and a line device. The line device can distribute at least one medium between the at least two connectors. A first connector is arranged in an area of the first side part and a second connector is configured for connection to the at least one function module. The at least one function module can be connected to the frame body and/or supported at the frame body via the first accommodating device.