Spiked Panel Retention Device for Bun-Less Sandwich Lateral Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food holding devices are not suitable for low-structure food items like bun-less sandwiches, as they fail to provide adequate lateral stability and prevent the flow of sauces, fats, and juices during consumption, leading to inconvenience and environmental waste from unnecessary utensils and napkins.
Innovation Solution
A retention device comprising a pair of flat panels with spaced-apart spikes to maintain lateral stability and a perimeter rim on the bottom panel to restrict fluid flow, allowing for clean and efficient consumption of low-structure food items without the need for plastic utensils or extra napkins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional food holders are used for low-structure food items, then the device structure is simple, but the food item lacks lateral stability and fluids leak
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the food item into multiple contact points through spikes, creating localized stabilization zones. The flat panel is segmented into a spike-containing section and a fluid containment section with raised perimeter, allowing each segment to address specific stability issues independently
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional flat surface to a three-dimensional structure by adding vertically extending spikes and raised perimeter walls. This dimensional change creates lateral containment and prevents fluid escape while maintaining structural simplicity
2Stability of the object's composition
If spikes are added to provide lateral stability, then food stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spikes serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide lateral stability by penetrating the food item, prevent horizontal displacement, and create a secure anchoring mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional stabilizing components
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes spike parameters including length, diameter, spacing, and penetration depth to achieve effective stabilization with minimal spike count. The raised perimeter height and spike distribution are tuned to provide maximum stability with simple geometry
3Object-generated harmful factors
If flat panels with spikes are used to hold food, then lateral stability is achieved, but fluid leakage occurs without a perimeter rim
Solution Approach 1:
The flat panel is segmented into a spike-containing section for lateral stability and a raised perimeter section for fluid containment. This segmentation allows each feature to perform its specific function independently while working together as a unified device
Solution Approach 2:
The raised perimeter acts as an intermediary barrier between the food item and the external environment, containing fluids and preventing leakage without requiring complex sealing mechanisms or additional components
4Ease of operation
If conventional utensils and napkins are used for low-structure food, then food can be eaten, but environmental waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables the food item to serve itself by providing integrated lateral stability and fluid containment features. The spikes and raised perimeter work autonomously to prevent leakage and stabilize the food, eliminating the need for additional utensils, plates, or napkins
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple functions (lateral stabilization, fluid containment, and food presentation) into a single integrated device structure. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate utensils, napkins, and supporting dishes, significantly reducing environmental waste
Data Source
AI summary
A retention device for a low-structure food item and method of operation for holding a low-structure food, such as a bun-less sandwich, during preparation, holding, and consumption. The retention device comprises a pair of flat panels having spikes arranged on one side. The panels sandwich the food item above and below to provide a border that supports the food item while held and consumed. The panels have spikes on one side that orient towards the food item to penetrate the food item. The spikes maintain lateral stability of the food item during consumption. In operation, the panels press down on the food item from opposing sides, causing the spikes to penetrate the food item.