Ergonomic Utensil Handle Geometry for Secure Push-Pull Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kitchen utensil handles fail to provide a secure and comfortable grip for users across various age groups and physical abilities, particularly when used in multiple orientations or with repetitive motions, leading to physical strain and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A kitchen utensil handle with a varying elliptical cross-section, featuring a push/pull valley and concentric rings for enhanced grip security, allowing for comfortable gripping and force generation in both pushing and pulling motions, along with a ring stop section for additional grip support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the handle has a simple cross-sectional shape such as circular, then the manufacturing is simple, but the gripping security and comfort are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The handle employs varying cross-sectional shapes at different locations along its length. The distal portion features a circular cross-section for simplicity, while the proximal portion transitions to an elliptical cross-section that conforms to the natural shape of the hand, providing enhanced grip security and comfort without complicating the overall manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The handle design incorporates a transition from a two-dimensional circular cross-section to a three-dimensional elliptical cross-section that wraps around the hand. This dimensional change allows the handle to conform to the complex geometry of the human hand, improving grip security while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through gradual transitions
2Ease of operation
If the handle is designed for a specific grip position, then the grip security is enhanced, but the versatility for multiple orientations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed with rotational symmetry and consistent ergonomic features around its circumference, allowing it to function effectively in multiple orientations. The elliptical cross-section and finger engagement features are distributed uniformly, enabling users to grip the handle comfortably whether the utensil is held vertically, horizontally, or at intermediate angles
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is divided into distinct functional zones: a distal circular section for basic gripping, a proximal elliptical section for enhanced hand conformity, and intermediate transition zones. This segmentation allows each portion to optimize for its specific function while collectively providing versatile multi-orientation support
3Ease of operation
If the handle cross-section is large, then the grip comfort is improved, but the gripping strength required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle features a non-uniform cross-sectional design where the distal portion has a smaller circular cross-section requiring minimal gripping force, while the proximal portion expands to a larger elliptical cross-section that provides enhanced comfort. This local variation in cross-sectional dimensions allows the handle to accommodate different grip strengths while maintaining comfort across the entire length
Data Source
AI summary
A handle for a kitchen utensil or the like includes a hand gripping section having a rearward push/pull valley with a varying, substantially elliptical cross-section that forms a floor, a push slope tapering up and forward from the floor, and a pull slope tapering up and back from the floor. The radial cross-sectional area of an end of the pull slope and a radial cross-sectional area of an end of the push slope each are substantially larger than a radial cross-sectional area of the floor. The handle section further includes a ring stop section disposed forward of the push/pull valley with one or more concentric rings extending above a surface of the handle member. The kitchen utensil includes a blade mating section disposed forward of the handle section and configured to receive a blade.