Utensil cover system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing utensil covers require user contact to be placed on or removed from utensils, which does not effectively prevent the spread of germs and allergens, especially in unregulated food handling environments where utensils may not be sanitized between uses.

Innovation Solution

A utensil cover system with a frame and detachable covers that can be easily attached and removed without direct user contact, using elastic materials and static electricity to secure the covers to the utensils, and a wrapping module with a rotating mechanism to automate the covering and removal process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional utensil covers are used that require manual placement and removal, then the structure is simple, but user contact is required which spreads germs and allergens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelimination of user contactVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The utensil cover system enables self-service operation where the utensil itself facilitates the covering and uncovering process. When the utensil is inserted into the holder, the cover automatically attaches to the utensil without requiring user contact. Similarly, when the utensil is removed, the cover automatically detaches and returns to the holder, eliminating the need for manual placement or removal operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The holder acts as an intermediary device between the utensil and the cover. It provides the mechanical interface that enables automatic cover attachment and detachment. The holder contains the covers and positions them to engage with the utensil during insertion, while also facilitating cover release during utensil removal, thereby eliminating direct user contact with the covers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If utensils are reused without sanitization, then resource utilization is improved, but germs and allergens spread to users

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveutensil reuse rateVSAvoidgerm and allergen contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs disposable thin film covers that conform to the utensil shape. These flexible covers completely encapsulate the utensil surface, creating a barrier that prevents contact between the user and any contaminants on the utensil. The thin film nature allows for easy disposal after single use, enabling utensil reuse while maintaining hygiene.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The cover system utilizes inexpensive, single-use covers that are discarded after one application. This disposable approach allows utensils to be reused multiple times without sanitization, as each new utensil is wrapped in a fresh, sterile cover that prevents germ and allergen transmission to the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of operation

If automated wrapping mechanism is implemented, then user contact is eliminated, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated cover applicationVSAvoidwrapping mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wrapping mechanism operates autonomously without requiring user intervention. The system automatically advances the cover material, positions it around the utensil, and secures it as the utensil passes through the holder. The utensil itself triggers the wrapping action through its insertion motion, and the system automatically completes the covering process and prepares for the next utensil.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces complex mechanical wrapping mechanisms with a simpler guide-based approach. Instead of using motors, actuators, or robotic arms to apply the cover, the design uses fixed guides and channels that direct the cover material around the utensil as it moves through the holder, achieving automated covering with minimal mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

The system allows for germ-free and allergen-free handling of utensils by eliminating direct user contact during attachment and detachment, ensuring hygiene in food handling environments and accommodating various utensil types and sizes.

Implementation Method 1

using elastic materials and static electricity to secure the covers to the utensils

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

using elastic materials and static electricity to secure the covers to the utensils

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStatic electricity: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS11414224B1Utensil cover system

Publication Date: 2022.08.16 BARLOW DAVID GEORGE

AI summary

A utensil cover system includes a frame; and a first utensil cover. The first utensil cover has a first receptacle for receiving an end portion of a utensil; and a first tab extending from the first receptacle. The first tab and the first receptacle are separated by a line of weakness, and the utensil cover is temporarily attached to the frame via a connection member.