Griddle cooking station with hood and method thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hoods for portable grills are prone to being toppled by strong winds, posing safety hazards during cooking.
Innovation Solution
A pivotably coupled hood system for outdoor cooking stations that can be moved between closed and open positions, allowing the hood to be removed and suspended on a splash guard, providing stability and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the hood is fixed rigidly to the griddle, then the hood provides stable protection and heating acceleration, but the hood cannot be repositioned or removed when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The hood is coupled to the griddle through a pivotable mechanism that allows it to move between a closed position (for protection and heat retention) and an open position (for access and ventilation). This dynamic coupling resolves the contradiction by enabling the hood to adapt its state based on operational needs without requiring complex removable attachment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is divided into discrete components: a pivot axis, a first coupling element on the hood, and a second coupling element on the griddle. This segmentation allows for simple, modular construction that provides both stability when closed and ease of repositioning when needed, avoiding overall system complexity while achieving adaptability.
2Weight of moving object
If the hood is made lightweight for portability, then the cooking station is easier to move, but the hood becomes susceptible to displacement by wind
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable coupling mechanism allows the hood to be dynamically positioned. When not in use or during windy conditions, the hood can be opened or repositioned to reduce wind resistance and prevent displacement. This dynamic positioning capability maintains reliability without requiring increased weight, as the solution relies on operational flexibility rather than mass for stability.
3Temperature
If the hood is kept in the closed position continuously, then heat retention and protection are maximized, but access to the cooking surface is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable coupling enables the hood to transition smoothly between closed and open positions. Users can keep the hood closed during cooking to maximize heat retention and protection, then easily open it for access to the cooking surface. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by allowing optimal heat retention without permanently restricting access.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a cooking station having a main body and a griddle with a hood pivotably coupled to the griddle are provided. The hood is pivotably moveable between closed and fully open positions. Further, the hood is removable from the griddle to be positioned, for example, along a rear side of the main body in a low-profile position such that the hood may be suspended from the griddle with a hook structure.