Tong with Interior Spring-Loaded Latch for Single-Handed Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tongs require two hands or a change in grip orientation to lock and unlock, which can be inconvenient or messy with liquids or sauces present.
Innovation Solution
A single-hand locking mechanism positioned on the interior surface of the arms, allowing locking and unlocking by simply squeezing the arms together without changing the grip or orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pull tab locking mechanism is used at the hinge, then the tong arms can be locked in the closed configuration, but both hands are required to lock and unlock the tong
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be actuated by the natural squeezing motion already used to close the tongs. The strike block and latch engage automatically when the tongs are closed, and can be released by a simple squeezing motion, making the system self-servicing without requiring additional hand operations
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the closing action of the tongs. The same squeezing motion that closes the tongs also actuates the lock, combining two functions (closing and locking) into a single motion, thereby eliminating the need for a separate locking operation with the other hand
2Ease of operation
If a gravity-based lock is used, then single-handed operation is possible, but the orientation of the tong must be changed to lock or unlock
Solution Approach 1:
The gravity-based mechanical orientation system is replaced with a spring-loaded latch mechanism. The spring provides the necessary force to engage and disengage the latch without relying on gravity, eliminating the need to change the tong's orientation while maintaining single-handed operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses a dynamic spring-loaded latch that can be actuated in either locked or unlocked state by squeezing the tongs. This dynamic system allows the lock to respond to applied force regardless of the tong's orientation, making the system adaptable to any holding position
3Ease of operation
If the locking mechanism is positioned on the exterior surface, then it is accessible, but it may be accidentally disengaged during normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism components (latch, strike block, spring) are nested within the interior surfaces of the tong arms. The latch is recessed into the first arm and the strike block is recessed into the second arm, creating a protected internal locking system that cannot be accidentally disengaged during normal food handling while remaining functional
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 secure, single-handed locking and unlocking of tongs without exposing the mechanism to accidental disengagement during normal use, maintaining a consistent grip and orientation.
Implementation Method 1
two arms connected by a spring-loaded hinge at one end
Data Source
AI summary
A tong with a lock that can be actuated using one hand without changing a grip on the tong and without having to change an orientation of the tong. The lock can be engaged and disengaged by squeezing arms of the tong together. The lock can have a latch on one arm and a strike on the other arm. When the arms are squeezed together the strike engages the latch into a locked configuration. From the locked configuration, when the arms are squeezed again, the latch releases the strike.