Kitchen appliance with charging control of an auxiliary device

Abstract

The invention relates to a kitchen appliance for preparing food in a food preparation vessel, a system of a kitchen appliance and a battery-powered auxiliary device, a method for operating a kitchen appliance and a computer program product. The kitchen appliance (1) for preparing food (20, 50) in a food preparation vessel (2) comprises means (9) for mixing or crushing the food (20, 50) in the food preparation vessel (2) and / or a heating element (6) for heating the food (20, 50) in the food preparation vessel (2). The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to receive status information about the food preparation from a battery-powered auxiliary device (40) and to use the status information for the food preparation process. The kitchen appliance (1) has a receiving unit for receiving a charge status of the battery-powered auxiliary device (40) and a control unit (10) for processing the received charge status. This prevents malfunctions of the auxiliary device and thus leads to particularly reproducible results of the food preparation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to kitchen utensils for preparing food in a food preparation container, systems for kitchen utensils and battery-powered auxiliary devices, methods for operating kitchen utensils, and computer program products. The kitchen utensils are intended for preparing food in a food preparation container. The kitchen utensils include tools for mixing or pulverizing food in the food preparation container and / or heating elements for heating food in the food preparation container. Background Technology

[0002] Known household kitchen utensils such as It can access digitally stored recipes for semi-automatic dish preparation. To prepare a dish, the user performs each recipe step sequentially in the order specified in the recipe. Especially with high-quality kitchen appliances, users expect to achieve reproducible, high-quality cooking results.

[0003] Kitchen appliances can be used in conjunction with auxiliary devices such as thermometers, household mixers, or ovens to prepare food. Examples of such kitchen appliances are described in an unpublished European patent application with official designation number 20175328.2. Properly configured kitchen appliances can be digitally linked to corresponding auxiliary devices, such as the household mixers defined in the aforementioned European patent application, to use information from the auxiliary devices for food preparation or control of the auxiliary devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide evolved kitchen appliances, evolved systems, evolved methods, and evolved computer program products.

[0005] This task is accomplished by the kitchen appliance according to claim 1, and by the system, method, and computer program product according to the independent claim. Preferred embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0006] A kitchen appliance for preparing food in a food preparation container is used to solve this problem. The kitchen appliance has tools for mixing or pulverizing the food in the food preparation container and / or a heating element for heating the food in the food preparation container. The kitchen appliance is configured to receive status information about food preparation from a battery-powered auxiliary device and use this status information in the food preparation process. The kitchen appliance has a receiving unit for receiving the charging status of the battery-powered auxiliary device and a control unit for processing the received charging status.

[0007] This enables reproducible results in food preparation. It has been recognized that the state of charge is a necessary adjustment variable to ensure an orderly food preparation process. Failure of auxiliary devices can impair the food preparation outcome. For this reason, to ensure reproducible results in the food preparation process, it is essential to include the state of charge during the process. In particular, appropriate measures can be taken based on the state of charge to allow the food preparation process to continue with as little interference as possible. Such measures could, for example, be charging auxiliary devices and / or modifying the planned food preparation process.

[0008] The process of preparing food is an operation performed by a kitchen utensil or another utensil in which food is processed. Examples of food preparation processes include stirring, grinding, heating, or heating with the aid of another utensil such as an oven, microwave oven, or grill in a food preparation container. A functional component is a technical unit that is electrically operable to operate the utensil and / or perform the process. In particular, it refers to a functional component used to perform the process of preparing food. Kitchen utensil includes, for example, the actuator and / or heating element of a tool as a functional component. The functional component of another utensil may also be a tool for mixing and / or grinding food or a heating element for heating food.

[0009] Kitchen appliances are configured to perform food preparation processes by mixing, pulverizing, and / or heating food in a food preparation container. The term "food" as used in this invention also encompasses liquids, beverages, food ingredients, untreated or partially treated ingredients, or mixtures thereof.

[0010] A food preparation process is a process in which food is handled. A food preparation process may include preparing food in a preparation container. A food preparation process may be performed using tools and / or heating elements and / or include separate processes. A food preparation process may include a process performed in at least one additional kitchen utensil or using at least one additional utensil. In particular, an additional utensil refers to an external utensil, such as another kitchen utensil, like a household mixing appliance, oven, microwave oven, or thermometer as defined in European Patent Application No. 20175328.2. A food preparation process may include a process performed using, for example, an oven or grill. A food preparation process may include the use of auxiliary devices. A food preparation process may include preparing several foods using a kitchen utensil and / or in another utensil. Information from functional components of the kitchen utensil and / or information received from the other utensil can be used to perform the food preparation process. The food preparation operation may include outputs to the user, such as displays and / or notifications. For example, a visual display of step-by-step instructions may be included, by means of which the user is guided step-by-step through the recipe during the food preparation process.

[0011] A recipe may involve the preparation of one dish, such as soup. However, a recipe may also cover the preparation of several dishes, such as several dishes used for a main course. The first course of a main course may be risotto. The second course of a main course may be a salad. A recipe may involve the preparation of a set meal, which includes several dishes such as appetizers, main courses, and desserts. An appetizer may be soup. A main course may be risotto. A dessert may be zabaglione.

[0012] Recipes can be stored digitally. If a recipe includes the preparation of several foods, then, for example, a control unit can combine the digitally stored recipes for these foods into a single recipe. If a recipe combined in this way is to be processed, then the recipe steps are processed one after another. The result of this processing is the preparation of multiple foods. Recipes can be combined such that several foods are prepared simultaneously or at least substantially simultaneously.

[0013] Kitchen utensils may include heating elements for heating food in a food preparation container, which may be arranged, for example, at and / or within the bottom of the food preparation container. Specifically, this refers to an electric heating element. Preferably, a rotatable tool is used for crushing and / or mixing, particularly arranged or potentially arranged in the bottom section of the food preparation container. The tool and heating element are electrically operable functional components for preparing food in the food preparation container. The tool may be reversibly connected to a shaft of the kitchen utensil. Preferably, a drive for rotating the tool or shaft is arranged within the housing of the kitchen utensil. Specifically, the drive is connected to the tool via a shaft extending in a sealed manner through an opening in the bottom of the food preparation container. Preferably, the tool has at least one blade. The tool may be configured to mix and crush food in the food preparation container.

[0014] Status information is information about the status of food, a portion of food, or an apparatus or functional component used for food preparation. Status information relates to food preparation. Specifically, status information refers to information determined during food preparation. Status information may include, for example, the temperature, rotational speed, settings, or operating parameters of utensils, especially auxiliary devices.

[0015] Specifically, receiving status information regarding food preparation is also performed using a receiving unit of the kitchen appliance. This status information can be received wirelessly. Receiving status information means receiving information about the status. The kitchen appliance is configured to use the status information in the food preparation process. Specifically, the control unit of the kitchen appliance processes the status information. The status information can be further displayed or output in another way. For example, the charging status can be displayed on the display of the kitchen appliance. The charging status can be used to control parameters that affect the food preparation process. These control parameters can relate to the process of the kitchen appliance and / or the process of another appliance.

[0016] Auxiliary devices are used to determine and transmit information about the state. For example, an auxiliary device is a thermometer that measures the temperature inside the food and / or the food preparation container as state information and wirelessly transmits the corresponding data. However, it is not excluded that the auxiliary device may also have functional components for performing the food preparation process.

[0017] In one embodiment, the thermometer includes two temperature sensors. A certain distance may exist between these two temperature sensors. For example, one temperature sensor may be located at the tip of the thermometer. The other temperature sensor may be located at the midpoint of the thermometer or between the midpoint and the other end of the thermometer. If the tip of the thermometer is inserted into the food, one temperature sensor can measure the internal temperature of the food, and the other temperature sensor can measure the external temperature of the food, typically the temperature within the food preparation container. Therefore, improved and reproducible cooking results can be achieved. Both measured temperatures can be used to control the heating of the food preparation container.

[0018] The auxiliary device is a battery-powered electrical appliance configured to work in conjunction with kitchen appliances during food preparation. Specifically, the auxiliary device is separate from the kitchen appliances. This auxiliary device assists the kitchen appliances in food preparation. Specifically, the auxiliary device is a remote device that can be connected to the kitchen appliances via data technology. Specifically, the auxiliary device is sized such that it can be positioned within the oven during food preparation, and particularly at least partially within the food. The auxiliary device may be an oven thermometer. The size of the auxiliary device can also be configured such that it can be positioned within the food preparation container of the kitchen appliances to monitor the preparation of the food within the container. In this respect, it is not excluded that the auxiliary device partially protrudes from the opening of the food preparation container and (if applicable) partially from the lid opening of the food preparation container.

[0019] A battery-powered device is a device that requires current and / or voltage for at least one function and has at least one battery for providing current and / or voltage. Specifically, the battery is required to acquire and / or transmit data related to state information. The state of charge of a battery-powered auxiliary device refers to the state of charge of the auxiliary device's battery. Therefore, charging an auxiliary device means charging the auxiliary device's battery. The battery in the sense of this invention is particularly a rechargeable battery. However, non-rechargeable batteries are not excluded.

[0020] The state of charge (SCC) is an indication of the current amount of charge a battery has, for example, as a relative proportion of the total charge capacity or as an absolute value. Receiving the SCC typically refers to receiving data containing information about the state of charge. In other words, a receiving unit is used to receive information about the state of charge. The receiving unit can be an analog or digital receiving unit. The SCC can be information about the remaining or depleted portion of the battery capacity, or information about the absolute value of the remaining or depleted battery capacity of an auxiliary device.

[0021] Specifically, a control unit is used to control the various processes or food preparation procedures used in food preparation. The received status information about the food preparation process can be used by auxiliary devices. The control unit can be configured to control the processes of other devices. The control unit can be configured to set the operating parameters of various functional components. Specifically, kitchen appliances are configured to set operating parameters taking into account the status information about food preparation received from the auxiliary devices. In other words, the auxiliary devices can provide information that affects the food preparation process. For example, kitchen appliances can be configured to determine the amount of time required for the cooking process to be completed based on the temperature measured inside the food.

[0022] In one implementation, the control unit is configured to take into account the received state of charge to determine the remaining usage period of the auxiliary device.

[0023] The remaining usage period of an auxiliary device is the period during which the auxiliary device remains available in a given charging state. Specifically, it refers to a specific indication of time. The remaining usage period in the sense of this invention can be reduced by an absolute value or a relative proportion compared to the calculated remaining usage period to account for any measurement inaccuracies and to maintain a safety margin.

[0024] This implementation scheme enables the acquisition of relevant information regarding the use of auxiliary devices, allowing for adjustments to the food preparation process—if necessary. This prevents malfunctions of the auxiliary devices and further improves the reproducibility of food preparation. Specifically, the kitchen appliances are configured to output the remaining usage time to the user. This can be achieved, in particular, by utilizing the output unit of the kitchen appliances.

[0025] In one embodiment, the kitchen appliance is configured to set at least one operating parameter of the tool and / or heating element based on recipe steps. Alternatively or otherwise, the kitchen appliance is configured to output at least one piece of information to the user based on recipe steps.

[0026] In other words, the control unit has access to the recipe and can operate one of the functional components in a manner defined by a particular recipe step. Preferably, the recipe includes several recipe steps. Some of these recipe steps specifically include processes such as heating, pulverizing, and / or mixing food.

[0027] A recipe is a dataset that defines several recipe steps. Each recipe step contains one or more control parameters for one or more functional components of a kitchen utensil and / or at least one additional utensil. In particular, the recipe step contains information about the duration for which each functional component will operate. In this document, the control parameters included in the recipe step may be, for example, the temperature, rotation speed, processing duration, start or end time, or start or end conditions of the food preparation process. Specifically, a control unit is configured to set the operating parameters of the functional components using the control parameters stored in the recipe steps. The recipe step may specify a combination of several processes to be performed. For example, stirring and heating may be performed simultaneously in a food preparation container. Furthermore, several processes may be performed simultaneously in different devices.

[0028] Specifically, the control unit is configured to determine and provide output of operating parameters and / or start-up information. The information to be output may include signals, alarms, instructions, and / or indications of content related to the food preparation operation. The information may be output to a device within the apparatus used for food preparation, such as an auxiliary device. This device may include a display, on which the information may subsequently be displayed. Alternatively or additionally, the information may be output via a mobile phone with an app, suitable for this purpose, pre-installed. At least one device in the apparatus used, such as the auxiliary device, may display the status of the auxiliary device. For example, the status indication may be given via the mobile phone. The status indication may include the charging status of the auxiliary device's battery. The status indication may include, for example, the maximum possible operating time of the auxiliary device before its battery needs to be recharged to continue operation.

[0029] Kitchen appliances may have output units. These output units can be configured to visually output information in a user-understandable form, such as instructions for processing recipe steps. Alternatively or additionally, kitchen appliances may have output units for acoustically outputting information such as alarm signals and / or notification sounds. Information output is typically performed by means of output units.

[0030] Information output based on recipe steps specifically relates to the processing of recipe steps. For example, the output unit is configured to display instructions to the user for manually performing steps or portions of a recipe. Adding ingredients to a food preparation container is such an instruction. This addition can be automatically identified, for example, by means of an integrated scale, or confirmed by the user, for example, by means of an input unit. This implementation makes the results of food preparation particularly reproducible because the standardization of the operations to be performed reduces individual influence.

[0031] In one implementation, the control unit is configured to determine whether the recipe can be fully processed using the charging status of the auxiliary device.

[0032] The control unit determines whether the recipe on which the current food preparation process is based can be fully processed. Therefore, it determines whether the current food preparation process can be completed without modification or as planned. Specifically, kitchen appliances are configured to output information to the user corresponding to the determined result. Typically, the result of determining whether the recipe can be fully processed using the charging state is either: the recipe can be fully processed using the charging state (positive decision), or the recipe cannot be fully processed using the charging state (negative decision).

[0033] In one implementation, the control unit may also consider a risk zone where a positive decision is determined through calculation, but this decision is close to the limit of a negative decision. In this case, the control unit is also configured to make a negative decision as a result of determining whether the recipe can be fully processed using the charging state, or to determine a third result according to which the complete processing of the recipe is critical (risk decision). Specifically, the control unit is configured to determine, in the case of a negative decision or a risk decision, that the complete processing of the recipe cannot be guaranteed using the charging state of the auxiliary device. In this way, all cases in which the complete processing of the recipe using the charging state is impossible or critical (i.e., not guaranteed) are considered. This further improves the reproducibility of the results because possible measurement errors, inaccuracies in predictions, deviations from the planned sequence of recipe steps, deviations in the quantity and / or quality of the food to be prepared, etc., are taken into account.

[0034] In one embodiment, the kitchen appliance is configured to determine whether a recipe can be fully processed during operation of the auxiliary device and / or in standby or power-saving mode of the auxiliary device. In another embodiment, the kitchen appliance is configured to determine whether a recipe can be fully processed during charging of the auxiliary device.

[0035] Specifically, the kitchen appliances are configured to determine, before or at the start of the food preparation process, whether the charging status of the auxiliary devices (if applicable) is sufficient to fully process the recipe. This allows for pre-planning of the anticipated food preparation process, increasing user-friendliness. In one embodiment, the kitchen appliances are configured to determine again, during the food preparation process and / or after the completion of the recipe steps, whether the charging status of the auxiliary devices is sufficient to fully process the recipe. This ensures that any action is based on up-to-date information. In this way, deviations in determinations performed at different points in time can be compensated for.

[0036] In another embodiment, the control unit is configured to perform one or more of the following steps to determine whether the recipe can be fully processed using the charging state of the auxiliary device: The control unit may consider the received charging state to determine the remaining usage time of the auxiliary device. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may determine the expected usage time of the auxiliary device. In doing so, the control unit considers the digital recipe, such as at least one recipe step, and in particular several or all recipe steps that still need to be processed. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may compare the remaining usage time of the auxiliary device with the expected usage time of the auxiliary device.

[0037] The expected usage period is the period during which the auxiliary equipment is needed to fully prepare the food. In one embodiment, at least one recipe step is considered to determine the expected usage period of the auxiliary equipment. In particular, the expected duration of one or more recipe steps is considered. In one embodiment, only or primarily the recipe steps requiring the auxiliary equipment may be considered.

[0038] For example, information about the duration of future recipe steps involving the use of auxiliary devices in cooking food can be considered to determine the required operating time for the auxiliary devices. Similarly, several or all of the recipe steps to be processed in the recipe upon which the current food preparation process is based can be considered. For instance, it can be considered that the auxiliary device, i.e., an external thermometer, is not needed in some subsequent recipe steps, and therefore the auxiliary device can remain in an energy-saving mode, so that its state of charge does not decrease or only decreases slightly during these recipe steps.

[0039] This allows for the precise determination of the expected usage periods of the auxiliary devices. Therefore, measures are taken only for those situations where they are absolutely necessary. In short, this enables reproducible cooking results and offers exceptional user-friendliness.

[0040] The comparison between the remaining usage time of the auxiliary device and its expected usage time includes, for example, a comparison of a specific duration, expressed in minutes. If the expected usage time is longer than the remaining usage time, the recipe cannot be fully processed using the auxiliary device's charging status.

[0041] This implementation requires less technical work and is particularly advantageous for auxiliary devices, such as thermometers, whose energy requirements are at least temporarily constant over time.

[0042] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to perform one or more of the following steps to determine whether the charging state of the auxiliary device can fully process the recipe: The control unit may determine the charging state of the auxiliary device required to process the recipe. In doing so, at least one recipe step, especially several steps that still need to be processed, and, for example, all recipe steps, may be taken into consideration. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may determine whether the recipe can be fully processed and / or whether the complete processing of the recipe can be guaranteed. In doing so, the received charging state of the auxiliary device and the required charging state of the auxiliary device may be taken into consideration. In other words, the determination herein is not based on the expected and remaining usage duration, i.e., the time span, but on the required and actual charging state. Similarly, it may be based on the current and required amount of energy. This is particularly advantageous for auxiliary devices whose energy demand varies over time.

[0043] In one implementation, the kitchen appliance is configured to output information to the user if the charging status of the auxiliary device makes it impossible or cannot ensure the complete processing of the recipe. As mentioned above, the situation where complete processing cannot be ensured specifically includes all cases where complete processing is impossible or critical. In this way, the user can take measures themselves to continue the food preparation process, such as loading the auxiliary device. This improves the reproducibility of the results.

[0044] Specifically, the user's information includes an indication that the assistive device needs charging. This indication may include information about how long charging will take so that recipes can be prepared subsequently. Therefore, the control unit can be configured to determine this information. Such output typically occurs at a certain time interval after using the assistive device and / or before using it. For example, a request may be output to connect the assistive device to a power source for charging, possibly by taking the assistive device to a charging location, such as a charging station. Connecting to a power source includes all technically available options for charging the battery, including wireless charging. Alternatively, the information may include an indication that the assistive device's battery is ready for replacement.

[0045] In one implementation, the kitchen appliance is configured to determine during the charging process whether the charging state is sufficient to perform one or more specific recipe steps. If, during charging, it is determined that a higher charging state than initially expected is required, for example due to a change in the planned order of the recipe steps, a corresponding message can be output during charging.

[0046] If, during charging, it is determined that the time to the planned start of use of the auxiliary device is insufficient to reach a adequate state of charge, the planned use of, for example, the corresponding recipe step can be delayed by the time difference, plus a buffer time (if applicable). Once the state of charge is sufficient, the corresponding output can be provided to the user. Alternatively or additionally, the recipe steps can be changed automatically. In particular, after each recipe change, it is determined again that the charging state of the auxiliary device can fully process the recipe.

[0047] In one implementation, the kitchen appliance is configured to suggest modified or alternative recipes if the charging status of the auxiliary device makes it impossible or impossible to ensure the complete processing of the recipe. Specifically, the kitchen appliance, typically a control unit, has access to a variety of recipes and selects the appropriate recipe based on the charging status. Thus, the user can be proactively guided to select a recipe that produces reproducible results. Modified recipes are particularly modified to reduce the preparation time. This reduction may be limited to processes requiring the use of the auxiliary device.

[0048] In another embodiment, the kitchen appliance is configured to change the start time of a future process for food preparation when it is determined that the charging status of the auxiliary device is not feasible or cannot guarantee the complete processing of the recipe. Specifically, this refers to a future process of the current recipe. This change implies, for example, a change regarding the order of recipe steps predefined in the recipe, preferably an immediate change.

[0049] The charging state of the auxiliary device, particularly the received charging state, i.e., the current charging state of the auxiliary device. Typically, the start time is delayed to allow sufficient time for the auxiliary device to charge. The change of start time can be accomplished by instructing the user to execute the process or subsequent recipe steps at the changed time. In one embodiment, the execution of at least one subsequent recipe step can be delayed. In another embodiment, the order of at least two subsequent recipe steps can be changed. Specifically, the kitchen appliance is configured to determine the duration required to raise the charging state of the auxiliary device, thereby ensuring the complete processing of the recipe. In particular, the kitchen appliance is configured to use the determined duration to modify the start time of a future process.

[0050] According to this implementation, the control unit can determine, for example, that an eight-minute charging process will result in a sufficient state of charge for the thermometer to be used in the subsequent cooking process. During cooking, an external thermometer will be used to monitor the internal temperature of the food. In this case, the kitchen appliance can delay the cooking process by eight minutes to allow the thermometer to reach a sufficient state of charge simultaneously.

[0051] Specifically, before or during the food preparation process, it is determined whether the charging status of the auxiliary device can ensure the complete processing of the recipe. Specifically, the control unit is configured to determine the required duration and / or change the start time. This implementation allows the food preparation process to be automatically adjusted when the charging status is insufficient. Also in this case, reproducible food preparation becomes possible.

[0052] In another embodiment, the kitchen appliance is configured to activate a fast charging mode of the auxiliary device when it is determined that the charging status of the auxiliary device is not feasible or cannot ensure the complete processing of the recipe.

[0053] The system can issue a command to the user to connect the auxiliary device to a power source for charging, enabling wired or wireless charging of the auxiliary device's battery. Specifically, to activate a fast charging mode, a corresponding command is sent to the auxiliary device and / or its charging station, causing the auxiliary device to charge rapidly in response to the command. The kitchen appliance may include a transmitting unit for sending the corresponding command.

[0054] If the fast charging mode is executed for the predetermined duration, a command to terminate the fast charging mode and / or terminate charging can be sent to the auxiliary device and / or the charging station of the auxiliary device after the predetermined duration ends. Similarly, kitchen appliances can receive the charging status again after charging begins, especially during charging, and compare it with the desired charging status. Such updates can be performed at regular time intervals. Of course, this approach can also be used in normal charging mode. Once the desired charging status is reached, the corresponding information can be output to the user. In this way, the food preparation process can resume immediately upon reaching the desired charging status.

[0055] Specifically, the kitchen appliances are configured to determine the duration required to raise the charging status of the auxiliary device, ensuring the complete processing of the recipe. In this way, a fast charging mode can be executed within the determined time period. Before the charging process begins, an instruction can be output to the user that charging must be performed within the specific duration. Therefore, the user can be informed of the specific duration.

[0056] This implementation scheme ensures that the auxiliary device has sufficient charge for operation during use. This prevents malfunctions and thus ensures that the food preparation results are particularly reproducible.

[0057] Specifically, the kitchen appliance includes a transmitting unit connected to the control unit, which can transmit information to be output to the user to a portable device such as a smartphone. This can be accomplished alternatively or additionally by means of the output unit of the kitchen appliance.

[0058] In another embodiment, kitchen appliances are configured to influence the processing of recipe steps based on the recipe and / or received information. For example, kitchen appliances may be configured to influence the operation of tools and / or heating elements based on the recipe and / or received information.

[0059] In one implementation, kitchen appliances are configured to influence the operation or charging of auxiliary devices based on recipes and / or received information.

[0060] Specifically, the operation is influenced by causing the kitchen appliance to send corresponding commands to auxiliary devices or other appliances. This feature is particularly evident in the sending unit. For example, if the auxiliary device is not needed in one or more subsequent recipe steps, the kitchen appliance can be configured to switch the auxiliary device to an energy-saving mode. The kitchen appliance can be configured to switch the auxiliary device back to normal operation when it is needed in one or more subsequent recipe steps. Normal operation may include continuously or periodically acquiring and / or transmitting data about status information.

[0061] In one implementation, kitchen appliances are configured to influence the operation of auxiliary devices or another appliance based on recipes and / or received information.

[0062] Specifically, kitchen appliances are configured to influence the operation of auxiliary devices based on recipes. For example, at the start of the cooking process, the auxiliary device's operating state can be activated, enabling it to receive and send status information. For example, at the end of the cooking process, a standby mode can be activated. Similarly, normal charging or fast charging modes can be activated or deactivated by corresponding commands given to the auxiliary device and / or its charging station.

[0063] Specifically, kitchen appliances are configured to influence the operation of at least one other appliance according to a recipe. Therefore, kitchen appliances can issue appropriate commands before the process begins. For example, a cooking process can be performed in a connected oven, and the kitchen appliance can issue a command to preheat the oven at an appropriate time. Alternatively or supplementarily, operating parameters can be changed in this manner before and / or during the process.

[0064] The operation of other utensils can be influenced based on the received information. For example, subsequent recipe steps can be postponed and / or their order changed. Similarly, the process allocation for a particular utensil can be altered. For instance, if an oven is needed for a cooking process that has already been postponed, sauce can be kept warm in a food preparation container in a kitchen utensil instead of in the oven.

[0065] Specifically, the kitchen appliance may include a sending unit for sending commands to auxiliary devices and / or additional appliances for controlling the process. Sending commands for controlling the process means, in particular, sending control parameters and / or operating parameters based on recipes accessible to the kitchen appliance. The auxiliary device and / or additional appliance particularly have a corresponding receiving device for receiving commands and / or a control unit for implementing the commands, i.e., for example, for transmitting corresponding operating parameters to at least one functional component of the auxiliary device and / or additional appliance. For example, the additional appliance may be another kitchen appliance, and the information may be information related to the food preparation process of the kitchen appliance. Here, the additional appliance may feature, for example, tools for mixing and / or pulverizing food in a food preparation container and / or heating elements for heating food in a food preparation container. In particular, the kitchen appliance is configured to monitor and / or control the operation of the auxiliary device and / or additional appliance.

[0066] In another embodiment, the kitchen appliance is configured to output information about how many more times a particular recipe can be executed using the received state of charge. Specifically, the kitchen appliance is configured to access multiple digital recipes and, for several recipes, particularly for each recipe within a recipe set, output information about how many more times the corresponding recipe can be executed using the received state of charge. The kitchen appliance may be configured to allow a user to select a recipe via an input unit and output information about that recipe via an output unit.

[0067] In one implementation, the kitchen appliance is configured to suggest one or more recipes that can be performed using the received state of charge. Therefore, one or more recipes are suggested, ensuring that the corresponding one or more foods can be prepared without first needing to recharge.

[0068] Another aspect of the invention is a system for a kitchen appliance and a battery-powered auxiliary device for preparing food in a food preparation container. The kitchen appliance includes tools for mixing or pulverizing food in the food preparation container and / or a heating element for heating the food in the food preparation container. The kitchen appliance has a receiving unit for receiving the charging status of the battery-powered auxiliary device and a control unit for processing the received charging status. Specifically, the kitchen appliance is configured to receive status information regarding food preparation from the battery-powered auxiliary device and use this status information in the food preparation process. All the features, embodiments, and effects of the aforementioned kitchen appliance are also applicable to this system.

[0069] In this system implementation, the battery-powered auxiliary device is a thermometer. Specifically, the thermometer can be wirelessly connected to the kitchen appliance. For this purpose, a wireless link such as Bluetooth can be used.

[0070] In one embodiment, the system includes a charging station for charging the auxiliary device. Specifically, the charging station includes a receiving unit for receiving commands and a control device connected to the receiving unit for controlling the charging process of the auxiliary device. The commands may be commands sent by a kitchen appliance sending unit to initiate charging or fast charging mode for the auxiliary device.

[0071] Another aspect of the invention is a method for operating a kitchen utensil. The kitchen utensil includes tools for mixing or pulverizing food in a food preparation container and / or a heating element for heating the food in the food preparation container. A receiving unit of the kitchen utensil receives the charging status of a battery-powered auxiliary device. A control unit of the kitchen utensil processes the received charging status. Specifically, the kitchen utensil is configured to receive status information regarding food preparation from the battery-powered auxiliary device and to use this status information in the food preparation process.

[0072] Another aspect of the invention is a computer program product. This computer program product includes commands that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method described according to the preceding claims. In particular, the computer can be a control device for controlling kitchen appliances.

[0073] All features, implementation schemes, and effects of the aforementioned kitchen appliances and systems are accordingly applicable to the method and the computer program product.

[0074] Computer program products can be executed by a control device, particularly a control device for controlling kitchen appliances. The control device is preferably a digital device for control. The control device can be a control unit included in the kitchen appliance according to the foregoing aspects of the invention. However, the control device can be included in an auxiliary device or can be separate. For example, a portable device such as a smartphone can be used as a control device. It is sufficient if the control device is connected to the auxiliary device in a manner that allows or enables the control device to receive charging status and status information (if applicable) from the auxiliary device.

[0075] Another aspect of the invention is a kitchen appliance having at least one functional component for preparing food in a food preparation container. The kitchen appliance is configured to receive information about food preparation, particularly the measured temperature, from an auxiliary device, i.e., an external thermometer. The functional component is, in particular, a tool for mixing and / or pulverizing food in the food preparation container and / or a heating element for heating food in the food preparation container. The kitchen appliance may include a receiving unit for receiving the state of charge of the auxiliary device's battery, and is particularly configured to take into account the received state of charge to determine information for continuing the food preparation process. All the features, embodiments, and effects of the aforementioned kitchen appliance are accordingly applicable to this aspect of the invention.

[0076] Another aspect of the invention is a system of kitchen appliances and auxiliary devices, namely, an external thermometer. The kitchen appliance includes at least one functional component for preparing food in a food preparation container. The kitchen appliance is configured to receive information about food preparation from the auxiliary device, particularly the measured temperature. The functional component is, in particular, a tool for mixing and / or pulverizing food in the food preparation container and / or a heating element for heating food in the food preparation container. The kitchen appliance may include a receiving unit for receiving the state of charge of the auxiliary device's battery, and is particularly configured to take into account the received state of charge to determine information for continuing the food preparation process. All the features, embodiments, and effects of the aforementioned kitchen appliance are accordingly applicable to this aspect of the invention.

[0077] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise stated, features of the exemplary embodiments may be combined with the claimed subject matter individually or in multiple forms. The scope of the claims is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0078] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a kitchen appliance according to the invention, which is part of a system according to the invention, is shown, illustrating a partial cross-section through a food preparation container. Detailed Implementation

[0079] Figure 1A kitchen utensil 1 is shown for performing a food preparation process in a food preparation container 2. A heating element 6 is provided for heating food 20. A rotatable tool 9 is provided for crushing and / or mixing food 20, which is coupled to a drive 11 via an axis (not shown), particularly through an opening in the bottom of the food preparation container 2. A housing 27 of the kitchen utensil surrounds the drive 11 and provides a receiver 29 for the food preparation container 2. The kitchen utensil 1 has a control unit 10 for individually controlling functional components, such as the heating element 6, the tool 9, or the drive 11, particularly based on recipe steps. Measuring sensors, such as a temperature sensor 28, are provided for detecting operating conditions. The control unit 10 may have a processor 21 and a memory 22. Weight sensors 8 may be disposed in the legs of the kitchen utensil 1, through which the housing 27 rests on a base 30. A contact sensor 7 may be disposed on the food preparation container 2 or the lid 3.

[0080] A lid 3 may be provided for sealing the food preparation container 2. The lid may have a locking device 23. It can be switched between a locked and unlocked state by means of a pivoting movement 24. The lid 3 may include a lid opening 12 for adding ingredients or food to the food preparation container 2, which is mainly covered by the lid 3.

[0081] Through a user interface 24, including, in particular, a touchscreen display 4 and / or buttons 5, the user can receive information and instructions from the control unit 10 and provide input to the control unit 10. The user interface 24 thus serves as both an input and output unit. Preferably, the control unit 10 accesses a recipe with several recipe steps, which the user and the kitchen appliance 1 can use the user interface 24 to practice to prepare food 20. For this purpose, the kitchen appliance 1 is configured to output information to the user based on the recipe steps via the user interface 24. Based on one or more operating parameters, the control unit 10 ensures that food 20 is heated, pulverized, and / or mixed in a desired manner in the food preparation container 2. In this way, the food preparation process can be controlled and / or monitored.

[0082] On the right, an auxiliary device 40, namely a wireless thermometer 41, is schematically shown. The thermometer 41 is used to monitor the internal temperature of the food 50 to be prepared, which is exemplarily represented here as roasted chicken. The thermometer 41 is configured such that its tip 46 is placed inside the chicken and monitors the internal meat temperature from the inside during roasting. The thermometer 41 also includes (not shown) a temperature sensor disposed in the region of the tip 46, and a transducer for generating an electrical signal in response to the detected temperature.

[0083] The thermometer 41 includes a battery 42 for powering electrical and / or electronic components. The thermometer 41 also includes a transmitting unit 44 for transmitting information wirelessly. The transmitting unit 44 transmits signals regarding the state of food preparation, specifically information about the measured temperature. The transmitting unit 44 also transmits information about the charging state of the battery 42. The transmitting unit 44 may be configured, for example, to transmit signals via Bluetooth.

[0084] The second temperature sensor can be located in the upper part of the thermometer, for example, in... Figure 1 The battery 42 shown and Figure 1 Between the transmitting units 44 shown.

[0085] Battery 42 can be positioned in the middle of thermometer 41, such as Figure 1 As shown. However, the battery 42 can also be advantageously positioned at the tip 46 of the thermometer 41. If the tip 46, i.e., the pointing end of the thermometer 41, is inserted into food, the battery 42 is thus protected from overheating.

[0086] Data connection 35 is schematically shown by an arrow. This data connection is used to transmit the information from the auxiliary device 40 to the kitchen appliance 1. The kitchen appliance 1 has a receiving unit (not shown) configured to receive information transmitted via connection 35 regarding the measured temperature and the charging status of the battery 44 of the auxiliary device 40.

[0087] Kitchen appliance 1 is configured to receive status information and the charging status of the battery-powered auxiliary device 40. Kitchen appliance 1 is also configured to process the received information regarding the charging status via control unit 10. For example, control unit 10 can determine the remaining usage time of thermometer 41 and / or whether the current charging status of thermometer 41 is sufficient to complete the recipe. If this is not the case, or if the complete processing of the recipe cannot be guaranteed, corresponding information can be output to the user via user interface 24. In this case, the start time of future processes, such as subsequent recipe steps, can also be adjusted. Specifically, the start time can be delayed so that the battery 42 is fully charged before the start of each process to ensure the complete processing of the recipe.

[0088] Before or at the start of the food preparation process, the user interface 24 can indicate which devices, such as auxiliary devices 40, are needed. Once a charging status is received, the remaining usage time can be displayed. If the user selects a recipe, it can be indicated whether the charging status of auxiliary devices 40 is sufficient to fully process the recipe. If not, it can be shown how long the auxiliary devices need to be charged before the recipe can be prepared. Alternative or modified recipes can also be displayed or suggested.

Claims

1. A kitchen utensil (1) for preparing food (20, 50) in a food preparation container (2), the kitchen utensil having a tool (9) for mixing or pulverizing the food (20, 50) in the food preparation container (2) and a heating element (6) for heating the food (20, 50) in the food preparation container (2), wherein the kitchen utensil (1) is configured to receive status information about food preparation from a battery-powered auxiliary device (40) and use the status information in the food preparation process, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) has a receiving unit for receiving the charging status of the battery-powered auxiliary device (40) and a control unit (10) for processing the received charging status, wherein the control unit (10) is configured to take into account the received charging status to determine the remaining usage period of the auxiliary device (40).

2. The kitchen appliance (1) according to claim 1, wherein the kitchen appliance (1) is configured to output the remaining usage time to the user.

3. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to set at least one operating parameter of the tool (9) or the heating element (6) based on recipe steps and / or to output at least one piece of information to the user based on recipe steps.

4. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The control unit (10) is configured to determine whether the recipe can be fully processed using the charging state of the auxiliary device (40).

5. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to output corresponding information to the user.

6. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, To determine whether the charging state of the auxiliary device (40) is sufficient to process the recipe completely, the control unit (10) is configured to... - The remaining usage period of the auxiliary device (40) is determined by taking into account the received charging status; - Consider the recipe to determine the expected usage period of the auxiliary device (40); and / or - Compare the remaining usage period of the auxiliary device (40) with the expected usage period of the auxiliary device (40).

7. The kitchen utensil (1) according to any one of claims 4-6, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to output information to the user if the charging status of the auxiliary device (40) cannot ensure the complete processing of the recipe, and / or The kitchen appliance (1) is characterized in that if the complete processing of the recipe cannot be ensured by utilizing the charging state of the auxiliary device (40), a modified or alternative recipe is suggested.

8. The kitchen utensil (1) according to any one of claims 4-6, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to change the start time of a future process for preparing food (20, 50) when it determines that the charging state of the auxiliary device (40) cannot ensure the complete processing of the recipe.

9. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to determine the time period required to improve the charging state of the auxiliary device (40), thereby ensuring the complete processing of the recipe and using the determined time period to change the start time of the future process.

10. The kitchen utensil (1) according to any one of claims 4-6, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to activate a fast charging mode of the auxiliary device (40) when it determines that the charging status of the auxiliary device (40) cannot ensure the complete processing of the recipe.

11. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to determine the time period required to improve the charging status of the auxiliary device (40), thereby ensuring the complete processing of the recipe.

12. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to influence the processing of recipe steps based on the recipe and / or the information received.

13. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to influence the operation or charging of the auxiliary device (40) based on the recipe and / or the information received.

14. The kitchen utensil (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The kitchen appliance (1) is configured to output information about how many more times a particular recipe can be executed using the received state of charge.

15. A system comprising a kitchen utensil (1) for preparing food (20, 50) in a food preparation container (2) and a battery-powered auxiliary device (40), wherein the kitchen utensil (1) comprises a tool (9) for mixing or pulverizing the food (20, 50) in the food preparation container (2) and / or a heating element (6) for heating the food (20, 50) in the food preparation container (2), wherein, The kitchen appliance (1) has a receiving unit and a control unit (10), the receiving unit being used to receive the charging status of the battery-powered auxiliary device (40), and the control unit being used to process the received charging status, wherein the control unit (10) is configured to take into account the received charging status to determine the remaining usage period of the auxiliary device (40).

16. The system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The battery-powered auxiliary device (40) is a thermometer (41).

17. The system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The thermometer (41) can be wirelessly connected to the kitchen appliance (1).

18. A method for operating kitchen utensils (1), wherein, The kitchen appliance (1) includes a tool (9) for mixing or crushing food (20, 50) in a food preparation container (2) and / or a heating element (6) for heating the food (20, 50) in the food preparation container (2), wherein the charging status of the battery-powered auxiliary device (40) is received by means of a receiving unit of the kitchen appliance (1), and the received charging status is processed by means of a control unit (10) of the kitchen appliance (1), wherein the control unit (10) is configured to take into account the received charging status to determine the remaining usage period of the auxiliary device (40).

19. A computer program product comprising commands that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method according to claim 18.

20. The computer program product according to claim 19, wherein the computer is a control device for controlling kitchen utensils (1).

Images