Nested Sliding Module Kitchen for Tool-Free Vehicle Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile kitchen units are often too large or heavy for passenger vehicles, require complex installation processes, and need external support legs, which limits their portability and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A modular mobile kitchen unit design featuring a storage container with sliding modules, including a sink and stove, that can be easily mounted to a vehicle using adjustable retention straps and independent locking mechanisms, allowing for height adjustment and compact storage without external legs or electricity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the mobile kitchen unit is made compact and lightweight to fit in passenger vehicles, then portability is improved, but kitchen functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile kitchen unit is divided into separate functional modules (sink module, stove module, storage modules) that can be independently arranged and configured. This segmentation allows the system to provide comprehensive kitchen functionality through multiple specialized components while keeping each individual module compact and lightweight enough for vehicle transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested module architecture where smaller functional modules can be positioned within or alongside larger modules. The rail system enables modules to be nested at different positions along the vehicle interior, maximizing space utilization while maintaining full kitchen functionality without increasing overall unit weight.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the mobile kitchen unit uses complex installation processes with tool-required fasteners, then structural stability is improved, but ease of installation and removal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system uses adjustable straps with ratcheting mechanisms that can be dynamically tightened and locked into place. This dynamic system allows for tool-free installation while providing stable, secure mounting that adapts to different vehicle configurations and maintains structural stability during vehicle movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, welds) with a strap-based retention system using ratcheting mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for tools during installation and removal while maintaining adequate structural stability through the friction and mechanical advantage provided by the ratcheting action.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the mobile kitchen unit requires external support legs that contact the ground, then stability during use is improved, but space requirements and setup complexity are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile kitchen unit merges the support function directly into the vehicle mounting system. The retention straps attach to vehicle structure, using the vehicle itself as the support base. This eliminates the need for separate external support legs, reducing ground contact area and simplifying setup while maintaining stability through the vehicle's inherent structural support.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the mobile kitchen unit is designed to be height adjustable, then adaptability to different vehicle configurations is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The rail system provides dynamic height adjustability through simple sliding and locking positions along the rails. Each module can be independently positioned at different heights by sliding along the rail and engaging at predetermined locking points. This dynamic adjustment mechanism provides adaptability to various vehicle configurations without requiring complex mechanical systems, maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile kitchen unit includes a storage container, a first module, and a second module. The first module can include a sink for receiving water. The first module can be positioned within the storage container and mounted on a first set of rails such that it can slide at least partially out from the storage container. The second module can have a stove and propane tank in one example. The second module can be positioned within the first module and mounted on a second set of rails such that the second module can slide at least partially out from the first module. In one example, the first and second modules are independently slidable with respect to one another. In an example, the second module can fit substantially within the first module with the stove and propane tank still attached to the second module.