Removable handle comprising a movable lock provided with an Anti-reverse device

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing removable handles for cooking containers can get stuck when transitioning from a closed to an open position, compromising safety and ergonomic operation.

Innovation Solution

A removable handle design featuring a protruding member that extends transversely under a locking wall, allowing for a small movement from the locked to unlocked position, with a guided clearance and ergonomic operation, and a compression spring for easy transition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the protruding part and recessed part are engaged to prevent lock retraction, then the lock reliability is improved, but the lock can get stuck when transitioning from closed to open position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelock retentionVSAvoidlock transition
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The projecting member is designed to be movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, allowing it to dynamically adapt its state based on the lock's position. In the closed position, it engages with the recessed member to prevent retraction; in the open position, it can disengage to allow smooth transition, thus resolving the contradiction between reliable retention and easy operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The projecting member acts as an intermediary element between the locking wall and the recessed member. It mediates the interaction by providing controlled engagement and disengagement, allowing the lock to transition smoothly between positions while maintaining reliability when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If the operating clearance is minimized for precise locking, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the risk of getting stuck increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclearance toleranceVSAvoidtransition reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones: the projecting member with its specific height (less than 0.5mm) that creates a controlled clearance, and the recessed member with its receiving housing. This segmentation allows precise control of the operating clearance while maintaining transition reliability through the designed geometric relationship between segments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the projecting member height is reduced for smoother transition, then the ease of operation is improved, but the locking strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransition smoothnessVSAvoidlocking force
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The height of the projecting member is optimized as a critical parameter (less than 0.5mm, preferably less than 0.3mm). This parameter change allows the mechanism to achieve smooth transitions while maintaining sufficient locking strength through the optimized geometric relationship between the projecting member, recessed member, and compression spring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Prevents the handle from getting stuck during position changes, ensuring safe and ergonomic use by minimizing the movement required to switch positions, thus enhancing usability and reliability.

Implementation Method 1

under the action of a pressurizing means

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression spring: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP4514188B1Removable handle comprising a movable lock provided with an Anti-reverse device
Publication Date: 2026.02.25 SEB SA
  • EP4514188B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4514188B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP4514188B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a removable handle (1) intended to co-operate with a cooking vessel (60) having a side wall (61) extended by a curved portion (64) comprising a free end (65), the removable handle (1) comprising a translatably movable lock (20), which lock comprises a blocking wall (21) intended to be at a distance from an internal bearing member (12) in an open position of the lock and to generate a force on the free end in the closed position of the lock under the effect of a pressure-applying means (47), the lock comprising a projecting member (24) and the removable handle comprising a fixed hollow member (54). According to the invention, the projecting member extends transversely beneath the blocking wall and comprises a free end that engages with the hollow member, the free end being movable between a blocked position in which the lock cannot reverse and an unblocked position in which the lock can reverse. The invention relates to the field of cooking utensils.