Movable Grill Latch Mechanism with Self-Aligning Retaining Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamshell grills require frequent calibration and alignment of latch mechanisms due to misalignment issues caused by movement of the lower platen assembly during operation, leading to inefficiencies in food cooking.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism with a retaining ring that can move into alignment with misaligned portions, allowing for secure retention of the upper platen assembly in the lowered position, even when the first and second portions are not perfectly aligned, using a design with a cap, arm, and detent system to accommodate misalignment and apply compressive force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional latch mechanism is used with tight alignment tolerance, then reliable retention is achieved, but frequent calibration is required due to misalignment from platen movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the alignment tolerance parameter of the latch mechanism by introducing a cam-shaped surface that converts vertical movement into horizontal alignment adjustment. This allows the latch to accommodate misalignment without requiring tight tolerance calibration, resolving the contradiction between retention reliability and calibration frequency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the latch mechanism dynamic by incorporating a movable retaining ring that can shift position in response to platen movement. The cam surface enables the latch components to automatically adjust their alignment dynamically, eliminating the need for frequent manual calibration while maintaining reliable retention
2Adaptability or versatility
If the lower platen assembly is made movable for cooking operations, then cooking versatility is improved, but misalignment of latch portions occurs during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cam-shaped surface as an intermediary element between the movable lower platen assembly and the latch mechanism. This cam surface mediates the relationship by converting the vertical movement of the platen into controlled horizontal adjustment of the latch components, allowing versatile cooking positions while maintaining latch alignment precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the latch alignment dynamic rather than fixed, allowing the latch portions to automatically adjust their relative positions in response to platen movement. The cam mechanism enables the system to adapt to different cooking positions without sacrificing alignment precision
Data Source
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AI summary
A grill includes a base structure, a first platen assembly connected to the base structure, and a second platen assembly connected to the base structure. At least the second platen assembly is movable between a first position and a second position. A latch mechanism is operable to selectively retain the upper platen assembly in the second position. The latch mechanism includes a first portion and a second portion. The second portion further comprises a retaining ring movable to receive and cooperate with the first portion when the first portion and the second portion of the latch mechanism are misaligned.