Segmented Kitchen Gripping Element with Rotatable Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripping devices for kitchen applications are uncomfortable to wear and difficult to use for varying the force and points of attack when handling food, especially hot items, due to their design and cost constraints.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device with detachable, two-part gripping elements featuring a circumferential ring and finger holder with a star-shaped receiving opening, allowing for adjustable fitting on fingers and a non-slip profile for food support, enabling better force control and versatility in handling various foods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If gloves made of silicone material or other temperature-insulating material are used for handling hot foods, then thermal protection is improved, but comfort and control of force are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping device divides the hand into multiple functional segments by equipping individual fingers (particularly thumb, index, and middle fingers) with separate gripping elements. Each element can be independently adjusted and positioned, allowing precise force control while maintaining thermal protection only where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements feature adjustable and variable components including rotatable ring elements, movable support elements, and reconfigurable profiles that can adapt their position and orientation. This dynamic capability enables the user to vary the points of contact and force application according to the specific food item being handled.
2Ease of manufacture
If gloves with fixed shape are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but versatility in points of contact with food is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Each gripping element incorporates a rotatable ring element that can be positioned at different angles and orientations around the finger. The support element can also be adjusted to different positions, allowing the profile to contact food at various points. This dynamic adjustability provides versatility in points of contact while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements are designed as universal components that can be attached to different fingers and configured for various food handling tasks. The same basic element design serves multiple functions through positional and orientational variation, eliminating the need for multiple specialized glove designs.
3Device complexity
If gripping elements are made as single integrated pieces, then structural simplicity is improved, but ease of cleaning is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping element is divided into separate components including the ring element, support element, and profile that can be detached from one another. This segmentation allows each component to be independently cleaned and maintained, with food residues accessible from all sides, while the overall structure remains relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable connection between components allows the gripping element to transition between assembled and disassembled states. During cleaning, the elements can be separated to access hard-to-reach areas, then reassembled for use, combining structural simplicity with cleaning accessibility.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2c
Figure 3a~4c
Figure 5a~6c
AI summary
The invention relates to a gripping device for kitchen applications, with at least one gripping element (1) comprising a circumferential ring element (2) on which a finger receptacle (4) with a receiving opening (5) is provided at one end region (3) and on which a profile (7) for supporting the gripping element (1) on a food is provided at another end region (6).