Removable Pan Handle with Universal Base and Snap Release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing removable handles for cooking containers, such as frying pans, are often complex to manufacture and use, requiring specific attachment means not commonly found on market containers, making them difficult to implement and utilize effectively.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a universal base portion with heat-resistant plastic and a handle with a mobile fastening mechanism, including a release button and torsion spring, allowing for simple and intuitive attachment and detachment without the need for specialized container modifications, using standard fastening means like screws or rivets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If removable handles are designed with complex attachment means, then the handle can be securely attached and released, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidattachment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism is divided into two functional parts: a base portion that attaches to the container wall and a handle portion that connects to the base. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall attachment mechanism while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base portion and handle portion are combined through a simple snap-fit connection that integrates the attachment and release functions into a single unified mechanism, eliminating the need for complex separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If specialized attachment means are used, then the handle can be effectively attached, but the adaptability to standard market containers decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment effectivenessVSAvoidcompatibility with standard containers
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The base portion is designed with a universal mounting interface that can be attached to various types of container walls using standard fastening methods (screws, rivets, or adhesive), making the handle system compatible with existing market containers rather than requiring specialized modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The base portion acts as an intermediary element between the handle and the container wall, providing a standardized interface that adapts to different container types without requiring modifications to the containers themselves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If complex fastening mechanisms are used, then the handle can be securely fixed, but the ease of operation for attachment and release decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle fixation securityVSAvoidhandle attachment and release simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between the handle portion and base portion incorporates a dynamic snap-fit mechanism with elastic deformation, allowing the handle to be easily snapped into place and released with simple pressure, transforming a potentially complex mechanical fastening into an intuitive one-handed operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic element automatically engages the protrusion and recess to secure the handle, and can be easily disengaged by applying pressure to the release area, allowing the user to attach and release the handle without tools or complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables easy, safe, and cost-effective handling of cooking containers by allowing the handle to be easily attached and detached, compatible with various market-standard containers, enhancing user convenience and manufacturing simplicity.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic element (42), like for example a torsion spring operating by compression

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2424415B1System for attaching and releasing the handle of a container for cooking food
Publication Date: 2013.04.03 LA TERMOPLASTIOC F B M SRL
  • EP2424415B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2424415B1 patent drawingFigure 2~8
  • EP2424415B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention describes a system (10) for attaching and releasing the handle of a container (14) for cooking food, in particular for a frying pan, comprising a base portion (12) and a handle portion (26) respectively provided with mutual attachment and release means (18, 20, 22; 28, 30, 32). Both the base portion (12) and the handle portion (26) as a whole are respectively made in a single piece from heat-resistant plastic material. The handle portion (26) as a whole is rotatable and removable with respect to the base portion (12) to obtain the attachment and/or release of the handle portion (26) with respect to the base portion (12) and thus with respect to the container (14) following the actuation of a release button (36) foreseen on the aforementioned handle portion (26) and capable of activating at least part of the aforementioned attachment means (18, 20, 22; 28, 30, 32).