Outdoor Griddle Locking Mechanism for Stability and Removability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Griddles in outdoor cooking stations are not securely attached, leading to issues during transportation and use, especially when hoods are not appropriately attached, which can result in accidental dislodging due to wind or movement.

Innovation Solution

An outdoor cooking station with a main body and griddle that includes a locking mechanism using apertures and legs to secure the griddle, along with a pivotable hood for enhanced stability and protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the griddle is made portable and removable for cleaning and seasoning, then ease of operation and maintenance is improved, but reliability and stability during use deteriorate due to accidental dislodging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of cleaning and seasoningVSAvoidstability during use

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic removable state. During cooking, the griddle is securely locked to the cooking station. When cleaning or seasoning is needed, the griddle can be easily removed by actuating the release mechanism. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between stability during use and ease of maintenance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the griddle and the cooking station. It provides a controlled connection that can be engaged or disengaged as needed. The mechanism includes locking lugs that engage with slots in the cooking station, creating a secure connection during use while allowing easy removal when maintenance is required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the hood is made movable for access and storage, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential accidental movement or detachment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess and storageVSAvoidattachment stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The hood is designed with dynamic movement capabilities through pivotable connections and movable support arms. The hood can pivot open for access to the cooking chamber and can be moved to various positions for storage or cleaning. Locking mechanisms engage at specific positions to maintain reliability when the hood is in use, while allowing controlled movement when access or storage is needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hood support system includes cushioning elements and controlled movement mechanisms that prevent accidental detachment. The support arms are designed to maintain positive engagement during normal operation, and the locking mechanisms are positioned to engage automatically when the hood reaches certain positions, providing beforehand protection against accidental movement or detachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250235046A1Griddle cooking station and method thereof

Publication Date: 2025.07.24 NORTH ATLANTIC IMPORTS LLC

AI summary

Embodiments of an outdoor cooking station having a main body and a griddle with a hood pivotably coupled to the griddle are provided. For safety purposes, the griddle is removably secured to an upper portion of the main body with the legs of the griddle positioned within apertures defined in an upward facing surface of the upper portion of the main body.