Multi-Purpose Grill Accessory

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Solution Overview

Problem

The proliferation of grilling instruments requires additional space for storage, and sauces used for flavoring are often forgotten due to their less accessible storage locations, making it difficult to efficiently manage and access them during grilling.

Innovation Solution

A grilling apparatus that combines a spatula, tongs, and a utility element such as a flask or flashlight, where the spatula folds onto the body for compact storage, and the tongs and flask are integrated into a single unit, allowing for secure storage of fluids or seasonings and easy access while grilling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple grilling instruments are used separately, then each instrument can be optimized for its specific function, but storage space requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional optimizationVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines spatula, tongs, and flask into a single integrated grilling apparatus. The spatula and tongs are attached to a common handle, and the flask is integrated into the handle structure, allowing multiple grilling instruments to be stored together in one compact unit while maintaining their individual functional capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The grilling apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions through a single device. The integrated spatula can flip and press food, the tongs can grip and turn food, and the flask can store and dispense sauces or seasonings, all within one multi-functional tool that reduces the number of separate instruments needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If sauces are stored in separate locations, then storage organization is improved, but accessibility during grilling decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage organizationVSAvoidaccessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The flask is nested within the handle structure of the grilling apparatus, with the handle serving as the outer container and the flask as the inner component. This nesting arrangement allows the flask to be securely stored within the handle while remaining accessible through openings or removable sections of the handle structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The handle structure acts as an intermediary between the user and the flask contents. It provides a structured storage environment for the flask while incorporating access mechanisms such as openings or removable sections that allow easy retrieval of sauces or seasonings during grilling operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20240298847A1Multi-Purpose Grill Accessory

Publication Date: 2024.09.12 BRICKER RYAN

AI summary

In at least one embodiment, a grilling apparatus comprises a body, spatula, tongs, and a utility element. The spatula is configured to fold on top of the body at a rotating joint. The tongs are configured to insert into the body. The top and bottom grips of the tongs are configured to align with the top and bottom grips of the body when the tongs are inserted into the body. The utility element can be a flask configured to be positioned between the slats of the tongs when inserted into the body and to store fluids or seasonings. The utility element can be a flashlight configured to be positioned at the first end of the body.