Household appliance system

Abstract

In order to provide a system according to the preamble having improved properties in terms of operating comfort, a domestic appliance system (10a) is proposed, which has at least one control unit (12a) which is set up, in an operating state, to check at least sectionally automatically whether an external unit (14a) for operating at least one domestic appliance (16a) is arranged in an operating range (18a) and to enable operation of the domestic appliance (16a) by means of the external unit (14a) for the case that the external unit (14a) is arranged within the operating range (18a).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a home appliance system according to claim 1 and a method for operating the home appliance system according to claim 15. Background Technology

[0002] A household appliance system is known from the prior art, comprising a control unit, a household appliance, and an external unit. The external unit is configured to operate the household appliance via an operation signal. In operation, upon receiving an operation signal from the external unit, the control unit checks whether the external unit is positioned within the operating range, and whether operation of the household appliance via the external unit is legally permitted. If the control unit determines that the external unit is positioned within the operating range during the check, the control unit outputs an operation request to confirm the external unit's placement; more precisely, this operation request is re-output for each subsequent operation signal. The control unit enables operation of the household appliance via the external unit when both the external unit and the operation input confirming the external unit's placement within the operating range are present. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The objective of this invention is, in particular, but not limited to, providing a system according to the preamble that has improved characteristics in terms of operational comfort. This objective is achieved according to the invention by the features of claims 1 and 15, while advantageous embodiments and extensions of the invention can be learned from the dependent claims.

[0004] In one aspect of the invention, a home appliance system is proposed, the home appliance system having at least one control unit, the at least one control unit being configured to: automatically check, at least segment by segment, whether an external unit for operating at least one home appliance is arranged within the operating range during operation; and, if the external unit is arranged within the operating range, enable operation of the home appliance via the external unit.

[0005] This design approach offers a high degree of operational comfort. Specifically, it avoids the direct transmission of operation signals from an external unit to the appliance, which necessitates manual confirmation by the operator, thus minimizing operational overhead. Furthermore, it enables comfortable, quick, and / or uncomplicated operation of the appliance via an external unit.

[0006] In other aspects of the invention, which may be considered independently or in conjunction with other aspects of the invention, a home appliance system is proposed having at least one control unit configured to be guided by at least one characterization process and, after the characterization process is completed, configured to enable operation of at least one home appliance by at least one external unit.

[0007] This design allows for a high degree of operational comfort. In particular, it provides precise and / or accurate operation of household appliances, as calibration eliminates inaccuracies and / or ensures that operation of appliances via an external unit is only possible if predefined specifications are met.

[0008] "Household appliance system" should be understood in particular as a system having at least one household appliance object and / or at least one household appliance accessory object, and the system may additionally have at least one kitchen object and / or at least one other structural unit, the at least one kitchen object / the at least one other structural unit being constructed differently from the household appliance object and / or different from the household appliance accessory object. "Household appliance object" should be understood in particular as at least a part of a household appliance, especially a sub-component, the household appliance being particularly a cooking appliance, advantageously an induction cooking appliance, particularly advantageously a cooktop and preferably an induction cooktop. "Household appliance accessory object" should be understood in particular as an object specifically designed for use and / or operation with a household appliance, and / or the object being particularly constructed as at least one accessory part and / or at least one set of accessory parts for a household appliance. "Kitchen object" should be understood in particular as an object specifically designed for use and / or operation and / or arrangement in a kitchen, more precisely, specifically designed for processing and / or handling and / or storing at least one type of food.

[0009] "Household appliance" should be understood in particular as an electrical device having at least one household appliance control unit for controlling and / or regulating at least one household appliance function and / or at least one main household appliance function. Particularly advantageously, the household appliance is a white goods appliance, specifically designed for performing housework.

[0010] For example, a household appliance may have at least one refrigeration appliance, and may be advantageously configured as such. In particular, a household appliance configured as a refrigeration appliance may, for example, have and / or be configured as at least one freezer and / or at least one icebox and / or at least one refrigerator and / or at least one freezer compartment and / or at least one combined unit. A household appliance configured as a refrigeration appliance may, for example, be provided for storing and / or storing and / or cooling food and / or refrigerated goods, such as, for example, storing and / or storing and / or cooling beverages and / or meat and / or fish and / or milk and / or dairy products.

[0011] For example, alternatively or additionally, the household appliance may have at least one cleaning appliance, and may be specifically configured as a cleaning appliance. Household appliances specifically configured as cleaning appliances may, for example, have and / or be configured as at least one dryer and / or at least one washing machine and / or at least one dishwasher. For example, household appliances specifically configured as cleaning appliances may be equipped for cleaning, for example, dishes and / or clothes and / or rooms and / or furniture.

[0012] For example, alternatively or additionally, the household appliance may, in particular, have at least one cooking appliance, and advantageously may have at least one induction cooking appliance, and / or may be constructed as a cooking appliance, and advantageously may be constructed as an induction cooking appliance. For example, a household appliance constructed particularly as a cooking appliance may have and / or be constructed as at least one oven and / or at least one microwave oven and / or at least one grill and / or at least one steaming appliance. For example, the oven may be a stovetop and / or a baking oven. Advantageously, in particular, alternatively or additionally, a household appliance constructed particularly as a cooking appliance may, in particular, have at least one cooktop surface and advantageously at least one induction cooktop surface, and / or may be constructed as a cooktop surface and advantageously constructed as an induction cooktop surface.

[0013] In particular, the household appliance has a household appliance control unit, which is specifically configured to be at least partially and advantageously at least largely integrated into the household appliance. "Control unit" should be understood in particular as an electrical and / or electronic unit that controls and / or regulates at least one device function and / or at least one main device function in operation. The control unit advantageously has at least one computing unit, and advantageously, in addition to the computing unit, the control unit has at least one storage unit in which at least one control and / or regulation program is advantageously stored, said control and / or regulation program being configured for implementation via the computing unit.

[0014] The control unit controls and / or regulates, particularly automatically, the operation of household appliances, especially via external units, during operation. Specifically, the control unit for control and / or regulation enables and / or prevents the operation of household appliances via external units during operation.

[0015] The statement "an object is 'at least partially' integrated into other objects" should be understood in particular as meaning that the object has at least one object element integrated into other objects, and in particular, in addition to this object element, the object may have at least one other object element that may be arranged outside and / or separately from other objects. "At least most" should be understood in particular as a proportion of at least 70%, especially at least 80%, advantageously at least 90%, and preferably at least 95%, especially a mass proportion and / or a volume proportion.

[0016] "Automatic" should be understood, in particular, as self-reliant and / or in the absence of operational intervention and / or in the absence of operational inputs for verification. For example, operational intervention is an operator activity combined with verification, and / or, in particular, any type of operator activity distinct from the transmission of operational signals.

[0017] The statement that "the control unit is configured to automatically check, at least segmentally, whether the external unit for operating at least one household appliance is arranged within the operating range during operation" should be understood in particular as follows: during operation, the control unit automatically checks whether the external unit for operating the household appliance is arranged within the operating range for a period of at least 2 minutes, especially at least 3 minutes, advantageously at least 5 minutes, particularly advantageously at least 10 minutes, preferably at least 15 minutes, and particularly preferably at least 20 minutes. In particular, the control unit automatically checks during operation a number of operating signals, especially those directly succeeding each other in time: said number is at least two, especially at least three, advantageously at least five, particularly advantageously at least ten, preferably at least fifteen, and particularly preferably at least twenty.

[0018] "Operating signal" should be understood in particular as an electrical and / or electronic signal configured for operating, such as activating and / or deactivating and / or changing at least one function and / or main function of a household appliance. Operating signal is particularly distinct from confirmation signal used to confirm the implementation of a previously transmitted operating signal.

[0019] "Operating range" should be understood in particular as a spatial area within which the operation of the household appliance via an external unit is permitted, and especially in compliance with legal regulations. For example, the operating range may be predefined, and more precisely, in terms of size and / or shape, for instance, unrelated to this construction scheme and / or this layout. Especially in terms of size and / or shape, the operating range is advantageously related to this construction scheme and / or this layout.

[0020] Advantageously, particularly in terms of size and / or shape, the operating range is limited to the room, especially to the size and / or shape and / or configuration of the room in which the household appliances are arranged. The operating range may be particularly related to the furniture arrangement in the room in which the household appliances are arranged. For example, the following extreme values ​​and / or characteristics of the operating range may be predefined: these extreme values ​​and / or characteristics, especially in the case of very large rooms, may limit and / or define the operating range.

[0021] For example, starting with a household appliance, the operating range may extend within at least one maximum distance from the appliance. For example, the maximum distance from the appliance may be predefined by the extreme values ​​and / or characteristics of the operating range. In particular, alternative or additional locations, through a room, especially through the room's inherent construction scheme and / or layout, may define and / or give the maximum distance from the appliance.

[0022] When the external unit is located within the operating range, during operation, especially based on the results of at least section-by-section automatic checks, the control unit enables operation of the household appliance, particularly through the external unit. Conversely, when the external unit is located outside the operating range, especially based on the results of at least section-by-section automatic checks, the control unit prevents operation of the household appliance through the external unit.

[0023] Especially when the external unit is located outside the operating range, and especially based on the results of at least segment-by-segment automatic checks, in operation, the control unit may, for example, prevent operation of the home appliance via the external unit when the external unit is located outside the operating range, and enable monitoring of the home appliance via the external unit when the external unit is located within at least one monitoring range.

[0024] "Monitoring range" should be understood in particular as a spatial area within which operation of household appliances via external units is prohibited, and where monitoring of household appliances via external units is permitted only, and especially in accordance with legal requirements. "Monitoring" of household appliances should be understood in particular as supervising them while avoiding operational intervention (especially passively and advantageously optically). When monitoring household appliances via external units, it is particularly impossible and / or prohibited to transmit operating signals and / or operating instructions. In particular, monitoring of household appliances is limited to optical supervision and / or optical inspection. In particular, the monitoring range is arranged adjacent to and advantageously contiguous with the operating range. Advantageously, the monitoring range surrounds the operating range, and especially is arranged around the operating range.

[0025] The statement "the control unit is set to 'enable' operation of the household appliance via an external unit" should be understood in particular as meaning that the control unit, in operation, enables and / or allows operation of the household appliance via an external unit. The statement "the control unit is set to 'prevent' operation of the household appliance via an external unit" should be understood in particular as meaning that the control unit, in operation, prevents and / or inhibits and / or blocks operation of the household appliance via an external unit.

[0026] The statement “the control unit is configured to ‘guide’ via at least one characterization process” should be understood in particular as, in the operational state, especially by means of at least one output via at least one output unit and / or via at least one operator interface, the control unit requests at least one action and / or outputs at least one piece of information, and / or the control unit automatically performs and / or initiates the characterization steps required for performing the characterization process in the operational state.

[0027] The statement that “the control unit automatically ‘initiates’ the characteristic steps required for performing the characteristic process during operation” should be understood in particular as that the control unit automatically controls and / or regulates at least one other unit during operation, which performs and / or implements the characteristic steps required for performing the characteristic process according to the control and / or regulation of the control unit.

[0028] The “characterization process” should be understood in particular as a process that sets up a method for characterizing at least one characteristic variable and / or at least one object, which is important and / or plays at least one role in the operation of a household appliance via an external unit. For example, the object to be characterized might be an external unit and / or a household appliance and / or an operating range and / or a monitoring range. The characteristic variable to be characterized might be, for example, a parameter and / or characteristic of the characterizing object. For example, the characteristic variable to be characterized might be a spacing, particularly the spacing between the household appliance and the external unit, and / or it might be a distance, particularly the distance between the household appliance and the external unit, and / or it might be a layout, particularly the layout of the room in which the household appliance is located, and / or it might be a signal strength, particularly the signal strength of the operating signal, and / or it might be a relative orientation, particularly the relative orientation between the household appliance and the external unit.

[0029] For example, the characterization process may be configured to measure at least one characteristic in order to minimize the deviation of the measured characteristic from at least one reference value of that characteristic. For example, the characteristic may be spatial extension, such as the spatial extension of a spatial region and advantageous operating range. In particular, alternatively or additionally, the characteristic may be, for example, the signal strength, particularly electrical and / or electronic, and may be the signal strength of at least one electrical and / or electronic signal and advantageously operating signal.

[0030] Advantageously, the characterization process includes at least one signal calibration process, which is specifically configured for calibrating at least one signal of an external unit. Advantageously, the characterization process includes at least one range definition process, which is specifically configured for defining at least the aforementioned operating range.

[0031] In particular, the control unit is configured to perform a characterization process prior to the operation of the household appliance, and to use the characterization process as the basis for subsequent operations. During operation, the control unit performs the characterization process prior to the operation of the household appliance, and uses the characterization process as the basis for subsequent operations, particularly those involving operation of the household appliance via an external unit.

[0032] In operation, particularly in terms of time, the control unit performs a characterization process before operating the household appliance via an external unit. Specifically, in operation, the control unit enables operation of the household appliance via the external unit only after the characterization process is complete. Advantageously, in operation, the control unit performs at least a segment-by-segment automatic check only after the characterization process is complete.

[0033] For example, during operation, especially during the process of first activating a home appliance and / or during the process of first connecting an external unit to a home appliance, the control unit performs a characterization process. During operation, the control unit may repeatedly, particularly for a given external unit, perform at least the aforementioned signal calibration process over time.

[0034] Home appliance systems, in particular, have at least one operator interface, through which the control unit is guided in operation, particularly through a characteristic process. The operator interface is specifically configured for interaction between the device (in which the operator interface is at least partially integrated) and the operator. Specifically, the operator interface is configured for inputting and / or outputting at least one operating parameter and / or at least one piece of information, more precisely, in a tactile and / or acoustic and / or optical manner.

[0035] For example, the operator interface may be at least partially, and especially at least largely, and advantageously fully integrated into an external unit. Alternatively or additionally, the operator interface may be at least partially, and especially at least largely, and advantageously fully integrated into a household appliance.

[0036] "Setting up" should be understood in particular as specifically programming, designing and / or equipping. Setting up an object for a specific function should be understood in particular as the object performing and / or implementing the specified function in at least one application state and / or runtime state.

[0037] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to consider at least one distance measurement between the external unit and at least one point of the household appliance during automatic checks. Specifically, in operation, the control unit considers at least one distance measurement between the external unit and at least one point of the household appliance during automatic checks. In operation, the control unit determines the spatial distance between the external unit and the point of the household appliance using the distance measurement. In operation, based on the distance measurement, and especially based on the result of the characterization process, the control unit may determine whether the external unit is arranged within the operating range; and especially based on the determination result, the control unit may enable and / or prevent operation of the household appliance through the external unit. For example, in operation, the control unit may consider, especially only consider, at least one distance measurement between the external unit and the point of the household appliance, especially a single point, during automatic checks. In operation, the control unit may, for example, consider at least two points, especially at least three points, advantageously at least five points, particularly advantageous at least ten points, preferably at least fifteen points, and particularly preferably multiple points, between the external unit and the household appliance. This enables, in particular, precise statements about the arrangement of external units within the operating range, thereby enabling and / or conveniently enabling and / or disabling the operation of household appliances via external units.

[0038] In operation, the control unit may perform spacing measurement, for example, by means of time measurement, in which the control unit specifically detects the duration required for the light signal to travel the distance between the home appliance and the external unit. Preferably, the control unit is configured to perform spacing measurement by means of at least one signal strength measurement. In particular, the control unit performs spacing measurement in operation by means of at least one signal strength measurement. In the case of signal strength measurement, the control unit specifically determines the signal strength of at least one signal at the external unit and (especially the same) signal at the home appliance. In operation, specifically based on the signal strength at the external unit and at the home appliance, the control unit determines a decrease in signal strength, and determines the spacing between the external unit and the home appliance, especially the spacing between that point between the external unit and the home appliance, by means of the decrease in signal strength. In this way, the spacing between the external unit and the home appliance can be determined with particular precision, thereby enabling low-tolerance operation during automatic checks.

[0039] For example, during operation, the control unit may consider at least one signal strength measurement of an operating signal transmitted from the household appliance to an external unit during automatic checks. Preferably, the control unit is configured to consider at least one signal strength measurement of an operating signal transmitted from an external unit to the control unit during automatic checks. In particular, during automatic checks, the control unit considers at least one signal strength measurement of an operating signal transmitted from an external unit to the control unit. This allows for optimized operation of the household appliance via the external unit, as the signal strength measurement can be performed under the same conditions as the operation of the household appliance via the external unit.

[0040] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to compare the operating signal with at least one operating signal reference range, and enable operation of the home appliance via an external unit if the operating signal is positioned within the operating signal reference range. Specifically, in operation, the control unit compares the operating signal with at least one operating signal reference range, and enables operation of the home appliance via an external unit if the operating signal is positioned within the operating signal reference range. For example, the home appliance system may have at least one database, in which the operating signal reference range may be registered and / or stored. For example, the control unit may obtain the operating signal reference range from the database and / or from at least one network, such as, for example, a local network and / or a regional network and / or an international network. For example, the control unit may have at least one storage unit, in which the operating signal reference range may be registered and / or stored. "Operating signal reference range" should be understood in particular as a range of values ​​that has and / or is pre-given a reference range and / or a desired range for the operating signal. In operation, the control unit enables operation of the home appliance via an external unit only if the operating signal is positioned within the operating signal reference range. This ensures, in particular, exceptionally high safety standards, which in particular meet and / or comply with legal requirements, and, additionally, allows for the highest possible and / or maximum operational comfort.

[0041] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to automatically and repeatedly check over time whether the external unit for operating the household appliance is located within the operating range. In operation, the control unit automatically and repeatedly checks over time whether the external unit for operating the household appliance is located within the operating range. "Repeatedly and repeatedly over time" should be understood as repeating at regular time intervals. Advantageously, the control unit automatically checks whether the external unit for operating the household appliance is located within the operating range at time intervals of up to 300 seconds, especially up to 100 seconds, advantageously up to 50 seconds, particularly advantageously up to 30 seconds, preferably up to 10 seconds, and particularly preferably up to 5 seconds. In particular, the automatic and repeated checks over time are triggered automatically and / or by an inherent setting. This, in particular, can prevent unintentional operation of the household appliance via the external unit, which is located outside the operating range, thereby providing a safe and / or comfortable installation solution.

[0042] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to automatically check whether the external unit used to operate the household appliance is arranged within the operating range based on at least one motion characteristic variable of the external unit. Specifically, in operation, the control unit automatically checks whether the external unit used to operate the household appliance is arranged within the operating range based on at least one motion characteristic variable of the external unit. In particular, the automatic check based on the motion characteristic variable of the external unit is an external trigger for performing the automatic check and / or a trigger acting from the outside. For example, the motion characteristic variable of the external unit might be a characteristic variable that defines and / or marks and / or characterizes the motion of the external unit and / or the positional change of the external unit and / or the acceleration of the external unit. Alternatively or additionally, especially when the motion characteristic variable is less than a motion characteristic variable threshold, the control unit might abandon the automatic check of whether the external unit used to operate the household appliance is arranged within the operating range, and especially due to the lack of motion, the control unit might process the operation of the household appliance via the external unit as previously configured. This allows for a re-examination, especially in the case of movement of the external unit, to determine whether the external unit used to operate the household appliance is located within the operating range. This, in particular, can rule out operation of the household appliance via an external unit outside the operating range.

[0043] Home appliance systems, in particular, include at least one sensor unit configured to detect at least a motion characteristic variable of an external unit. In operation, the control unit detects the motion characteristic variable of the external unit, particularly by means of the sensor unit. "Sensor unit" should be understood in particular as a unit having at least one detector for detecting at least a motion characteristic variable, and the unit is particularly configured to output a value indicating the motion characteristic variable, wherein the motion characteristic variable is advantageously a physical and / or chemical variable. For example, the sensor unit may actively detect the motion characteristic variable in operation, such as by generating and emitting measurement signals, particularly electrical and / or optical measurement signals. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor unit may passively detect the motion characteristic variable in operation, such as by detecting at least a change in at least one characteristic of at least one sensor component and / or detector. For example, the sensor unit may have at least one accelerometer and / or at least one gyroscope and / or at least one inertial sensor and / or at least one step counter and / or at least one pedometer.

[0044] In particular, the control unit is configured to determine the layout of the external unit relative to the household appliance at least partially based on motion characteristic variables. In operation, the control unit determines the layout of the external unit relative to the household appliance at least partially based on the motion characteristic variables. The statement "the control unit determines the layout of the external unit relative to the household appliance 'at least partially' based on motion characteristic variables in operation" should be understood in particular as meaning that, in operation, the layout of the external unit relative to the household appliance is determined solely based on the motion characteristic variables, or based on both the motion characteristic variables and at least one other characteristic variable. Other characteristic variables might, for example, be the original layout of the external unit relative to the household appliance and / or the original position of the external unit.

[0045] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to repeatedly and automatically output at least one operation request to confirm the arrangement of an external unit within the operating range, more specifically, via an operator interface. In particular, during operation, the control unit repeatedly and automatically outputs at least one operation request to confirm the arrangement of an external unit within the operating range, more specifically, via an operator interface. During operation, the control unit outputs the operation request to confirm the arrangement of an external unit within the operating range at time intervals of at least 5 minutes, especially at least 1 minute, advantageously at least 15 minutes, particularly advantageously at least 20 minutes, preferably at least 25 minutes, and particularly preferably at least 30 minutes, more specifically, via an operator interface. This, in particular, ensures high security and / or optimal compliance with and / or satisfaction of legal requirements.

[0046] For example, in operation, the control unit may maintain the duration between two, especially time-sequential, operation requests, at least substantially constant and advantageously constant, more precisely, in particular, the duration independent of the time interval from the characterization process. Preferably, the control unit is configured to change the duration between at least two, especially time-sequential, operation requests, according to the time interval from the characterization process, such as by decreasing or advantageously increasing the duration. In operation, the control unit changes the duration between at least two, especially time-sequential, operation requests, according to the time interval from the characterization process. For example, in operation, the control unit may decrease the duration between at least two, especially time-sequential, operation requests, according to the time interval from the characterization process, in order to take into account, in particular, possible aging and / or changes in the feature variables characterized in the characterization process. Advantageously, in operation, the control unit increases the duration between at least two, especially time-sequential, operation requests, according to the time interval from the characterization process, more precisely, based on machine learning of the control unit in operation. "Change" should be understood in particular as increasing and / or decreasing. This, in particular, allows for high flexibility.

[0047] For example, a home appliance system may have at least an external unit, which may be configured as an electrical device. For example, the external unit may be configured as a computer and / or as other home appliances. Preferably, the home appliance system has, in particular, at least an external unit configured as a mobile device. "Mobile device" should be understood in particular as electrical and / or electronic devices, which are designed for carrying and / or movement, especially due to their weight and / or size, and more precisely, for carrying and / or movement during operation and / or persistently. The mobile device particularly has at least one mobile device control unit configured to control and / or regulate at least one mobile device function and / or at least one mobile device main function. The mobile device main function is particularly distinct from operating at least one other device from a remote operating range spaced apart from said other device. The mobile device may, for example, be a mobile phone and / or a cell phone and / or a smartphone and / or a laptop and / or a tablet. In particular, the mobile device is distinct from a remote operating device whose main function is particularly to operate at least one other device from a remote operating range spaced apart from said other device. This enables flexible operation of home appliances via external units. In particular, operation of home appliances via external units can be performed using equipment already available to the operator, thereby achieving low cost and / or a low number of devices for the operator.

[0048] Furthermore, it is suggested that the external unit be configured to transmit at least one identification signal to the household appliance when it is operated, particularly along with and / or advantageously in addition to the operation signal. In operation, the external unit transmits at least one identification signal to the household appliance. For example, the external unit may transmit the identification signal along with the operation signal, such as as a modulated signal and / or as a signal integrated into the operation signal. In operation, the external unit also transmits the identification signal in addition to the operation signal, such as as a signal independent of and / or separate from the operation signal. This, in particular, enables simple identification of the external unit, thereby enabling fast and / or error-free and / or accurate operation of the household appliance via the external unit.

[0049] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to distinguish different external units from each other when operating household appliances, based on identification signals. Specifically, during operation, the control unit distinguishes different external units from each other based on identification signals. This allows for the differentiation of different external units in a simple and / or safe manner, thereby enabling easy and / or simple and / or uncomplicated construction solutions.

[0050] For example, the control unit may, in particular, be at least partially, advantageously at least largely, and especially advantageously fully integrated into an external unit. Preferably, the household appliance system has, in particular, at least the following household appliance in which the control unit is at least partially, advantageously at least largely, and especially advantageously fully integrated. This, in particular, allows for a compact design and / or low component diversity.

[0051] For example, the household appliance may be configured as a cleaning appliance and / or a cooling appliance. Advantageously, the household appliance is configured as a cooking appliance, and in particular as a sensor-operated cooking appliance. Preferably, the household appliance is configured as a cooktop, and in particular as a sensor-operated cooktop. This allows for a high degree of operational comfort, especially when cooking and / or preparing food.

[0052] Furthermore, it is suggested that the characterization process includes at least one signal calibration process, which is configured to calibrate at least one signal of the external unit. In particular, the signal calibration process is configured to calibrate the operating signal of the external unit. The signal to be calibrated is, in particular, the operating signal. For example, alternatively or additionally, the signal to be calibrated may be, in particular, an identification signal. In particular, the signal of the external unit can be calibrated by means of the signal calibration process. In operation, the control unit calibrates the signal of the external unit, in particular, by means of the signal calibration process. This, in particular, enables low error sensitivity and / or optimal signal strength when operating the home appliance via the external unit, thereby providing, in particular, comfortable operation of the home appliance via the external unit. For example, based on the signal calibration process, different layout ranges may be defined, which in particular may define the layout of the external unit relative to the home appliance, thereby optimally implementing and / or complying with legal regulations. The layout range may, for example, be the operating range and / or the monitoring range.

[0053] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to consider at least one orientation of the external unit relative to the home appliance during signal calibration. Specifically, during operation, the control unit considers at least one orientation of the external unit relative to the home appliance during signal calibration. "Orientation of the external unit relative to the home appliance" should be understood in particular as the orientation and / or orientation of the external unit relative to the home appliance. This allows for precise and / or reliable operation of the home appliance, regardless of its orientation, thereby providing high operational comfort. More precisely, regardless of its orientation, it allows for optimal assessment of whether the external unit is within the operating range, thereby ensuring high safety standards.

[0054] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to consider at least one distance between the external unit and the household appliance during the signal calibration process. Specifically, during operation, the control unit considers at least one distance between the external unit and the household appliance during the signal calibration process. This, in particular, enables optimized calibration of the signal from the external unit, thereby allowing for precise and / or reliable operation of the household appliance via the external unit.

[0055] For example, the control unit might be configured to consider at least one direction when guided through the signal calibration process: the external unit is positioned relative to the household appliance in said at least one direction. In particular, during operation, the control unit considers at least one direction when guided through the signal calibration process: the external unit is positioned relative to the household appliance in said at least one direction. This, in particular, allows for a significantly higher level of operational comfort.

[0056] Furthermore, it is suggested that the characterization process includes at least one range definition process, which is configured to define at least one operating range within which the household appliance can be operated by an external unit. In particular, the operating range can be defined by means of the range definition process. In operation, the control unit defines the operating range, in particular, by means of the range definition process. Wherein, the operation of the household appliance can be restricted to an optimally defined operating range, thereby achieving, in particular, high safety, advantageously by complying with legal regulations. In particular, the operating range can be calibrated and / or measured in a safe and / or optimal and / or error-resistant and / or stable manner and method.

[0057] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit be configured to consider at least one layout of the room in which the household appliances are arranged when guided through the scope definition process. The “layout” of the room should be understood in particular as the room’s floor plan and / or the room’s furnishings and / or the arrangement of the room’s furnishings. The “furnishings” of the room should be understood in particular as furniture and / or several pieces of furniture and / or equipment and / or household appliances and / or decorative items. In this way, the operating scope can be optimally adapted to the existing conditions of the room, thereby enabling a highly flexible and / or perfectly adapted operating scope.

[0058] For example, a home appliance system may have at least one range sensor unit, which may be configured to detect at least one layout of a room and advantageously detect at least said layout of the room, and said at least one range sensor unit may, in particular, be at least partially and advantageously at least largely arranged on and / or integrated into the home appliance. In particular, the control unit may take the detected layout into account when guided through the range definition process. Preferably, the control unit is configured to, when guided through the range definition process, in particular via an operator interface, output at least one layout of a room from a directory of selected layouts and advantageously output at least one layout of the room in which the home appliance is arranged. When guided through the range definition process, in particular via an operator interface, the control unit outputs at least one layout of a room from a directory of selected layouts and advantageously outputs at least one layout of the room in which the home appliance is arranged. For example, the layout directory may be registered and / or stored in a database. Alternatively or additionally, the layout directory may be registered and / or stored in the storage unit of the control unit. Advantageously, the layout catalog has at least two, especially at least three, advantageously at least four, particularly advantageous at least six, preferably at least ten, and particularly preferably multiple different layouts, each distinguished from the other in at least one characteristic. This provides optimal operational comfort, especially when considering most possible layouts simultaneously. In particular, providing and / or outputting a layout catalog for selection is considered meaningful because the number of layouts is finite and / or because most layouts on the market are similarly constructed and / or based on the same fundamental principles and / or basic layouts.

[0059] For example, the layout catalog may be centrally managed, such as by registering and / or storing it in a database. The layout catalog may be scalable, particularly through a control unit, and more precisely, by adding at least one other layout to the catalog. In particular, the control unit may register and / or store other layouts in a database and / or in a storage unit, and advantageously, make them available to other operators. Preferably, the control unit is configured to add at least one other layout of the room to the catalog based on at least one operational input, particularly via an operator interface. Specifically, in operation, the control unit adds at least one other layout of the room to the catalog based on at least one operational input, particularly via an operator interface. For example, the operational input may include at least one manual input, particularly via an operator interface, where the operator, particularly by moving and / or inserting and / or positioning the room's floor plan and / or furnishings, designs the other layouts, particularly freely and / or flexibly. For example, alternatively or additionally, the operational input may include at least one optical input, particularly via an operator interface, wherein the control unit detects the other layouts, particularly based on the operational input, using a range sensor unit, and adds the other layouts to the layout catalog. Alternatively or additionally, the operational input may include at least one data-based input, particularly via an operator interface, wherein the control unit analyzes at least one image and / or record and / or photograph and / or video, particularly recorded by the operator, and determines the other layouts based on the analysis, and adds the other layouts to the layout catalog. This allows for high flexibility and / or enables an optimal range definition process for any conceivable configuration, thereby enabling optimal operation of the home appliance via an external unit, particularly for any layout.

[0060] Furthermore, it is suggested that the control unit, when guided by the scope definition process, especially via an operator interface, outputs at least one operation request, transmitting at least one confirmation signal from at least one sub-region of the room to the control unit via an external unit. Specifically, when guided by the scope definition process, especially via an operator interface, the control unit outputs at least one operation request, transmitting at least one confirmation signal from at least one sub-region of the room to the control unit via an external unit. The sub-region of the room is particularly located within the room, and is particularly constructed as a part and / or segment of the room, and is thus particularly smaller than the room. For example, the sub-region of the room may be a location within the room, and / or may be a nearby area within the room. For example, when viewed perpendicularly to the floor of the room, the nearby area of ​​an object in the room may have a distance from the object such that the distance is a maximum of 25%, particularly a maximum of 20%, advantageously a maximum of 15%, particularly advantageously a maximum of 10%, preferably a maximum of 5%, and particularly preferably a maximum of 3% of the maximum extension of the wall defining the boundary of the room. The sub-region of the room may advantageously be a prominent area of ​​the room. When guided by the scope definition process, the control unit considers, in particular, at least two, advantageously at least three, particularly advantageous at least four, preferably at least five, and particularly preferably at least six sub-zones of the room. Specifically, when guided by the scope definition process, the control unit considers a maximum of thirty, particularly a maximum of twenty-five, advantageously a maximum of twenty, particularly advantageously a maximum of fifteen, preferably a maximum of twelve, and particularly preferably a maximum of ten sub-zones of the room. This, in particular, allows for a precise and / or optimal definition of the operating range, thereby providing, in particular, high operational comfort and / or optimal operation of the household appliances via external units.

[0061] Furthermore, it is suggested that the sub-area is a corner area within a room. The "corner area" of a room should be understood in particular as the area near the corner of the room and / or the area near the corner of a furnishing placed within the room, especially the area near the corner of a single furnishing placed within the room. In this way, the operating range can be optimally defined, thereby enabling safe and / or reliable and / or comfortable operation of household appliances via external units.

[0062] For example, when guided through a range definition process, particularly with the aid of an operator interface, the control unit may output at least one operation request for inputting a room layout and / or at least one variable and / or at least one area extension of the room. Advantageously, when guided through a range definition process, the control unit automatically, more precisely, in particular based on the selection of the layout and / or based on a confirmation signal, determines the room layout and / or at least one dimension and / or at least one area extension of the room.

[0063] In particular, the control unit is configured to automatically determine sub-zones based on the selected room layout. Specifically, during the range definition process, the control unit automatically determines the sub-zones based on the selected room layout. This, in particular, provides high comfort for the operator and reduces the time and effort required for the operator to select sub-zones.

[0064] For example, in operation, the control unit may perform a range definition process prior to the signal calibration process. Preferably, the control unit is configured to perform the signal calibration process prior to the range definition process. In operation, the control unit performs the signal calibration process prior to the range definition process. This allows the process to be implemented in an optimized sequence, thereby allowing the operating range to be optimally defined based on previously performed signal calibrations.

[0065] In particular, the household appliances of the household appliance system according to the present invention, especially the cooktop of the household appliance system according to the present invention, can achieve a particularly high level of operational comfort.

[0066] A method for operating a home appliance system according to the invention can further enhance operational comfort, wherein, during operation, at least segment by segment, an automatic check is performed to determine whether an external unit for operating at least one home appliance is arranged within the operating range, and if the external unit is arranged within the operating range, operation of the home appliance via the external unit is enabled.

[0067] A method for operating a home appliance system according to the invention can, in particular, provide improved and / or optimized operational comfort, wherein the method is guided by at least one characterization process, and after the characterization process is completed, operation of at least one home appliance is enabled by at least one external unit.

[0068] In this context, the household appliance system should not be limited to the applications and implementations described above. In particular, in order to perform the functions described in this invention, the household appliance system may have a number that deviates from the number of individual elements, components, and units mentioned in this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0069] Other advantages are apparent from the following description of the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are illustrated. The drawings, description, and claims collectively encompass a number of features. These features will be appreciated individually by those skilled in the art, and can be combined into other meaningful combinations.

[0070] Figure 1A schematic top view illustrates a home appliance system that includes home appliances, a control unit, an operator interface, a sensor unit, and external units.

[0071] Figure 2 The following diagram illustrates a parameter representing the signal strength of the signal transmitted by the external unit relative to the household appliance.

[0072] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the operator interface in the running state.

[0073] Figure 4 The operator interface in other operating states is illustrated in the diagram.

[0074] Figure 5 The operator interface in other operating states is illustrated in the diagram.

[0075] Figure 6 The operator interface in other operating states is illustrated in the diagram.

[0076] Figure 7 The operator interface in other operating states is illustrated in the diagram.

[0077] Figure 8 The operator interface in other operating states is illustrated in the diagram.

[0078] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the operator interface in other operating states, and

[0079] Figure 10 A diagram illustrating a method for operating a home appliance system is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0080] Figure 1 An exemplary household appliance system 10a is shown, which is particularly configured as an induction-type household appliance system. The household appliance system 10a has, in particular, at least one, and advantageously exactly one, household appliance 16a. The household appliance 16a is specifically constructed and / or configured, and / or adapted to the household appliance system 10a.

[0081] For example, household appliance system 10a may be configured as a cleaning appliance system and / or as a refrigeration appliance system. In particular, household appliance 16a may be configured as a cleaning appliance, such as a dryer and / or a washing machine and / or a dishwasher. Alternatively or additionally, household appliance 16a may be configured as a refrigeration appliance, such as a refrigerator and / or a freezer.

[0082] Advantageously, the household appliance system 10a is configured as a cooking appliance system, and particularly advantageously as an induction cooking appliance system. For example, the household appliance 16a may be configured as an oven and / or a microwave oven and / or a grill and / or a steaming appliance. For example, the oven may be a stove and / or a baking oven.

[0083] In this embodiment, the household appliance system 10a is advantageously configured as a cooking system, and particularly advantageously as a sensor-operated cooking system. Advantageously, the household appliance 16a is configured as a cooktop, and particularly advantageously as a sensor-operated cooktop.

[0084] Household appliance 12a has, in particular, at least one and advantageously exactly one electrical panel 30a. Specifically, in operation, the electrical panel 30a constitutes at least a portion of at least one appliance housing, in particular at least one appliance outer shell, advantageously at least a portion of household appliance 16a. In operation, the electrical panel 30a is specifically configured with at least one visible side and / or visible surface, particularly facing at least one operator. In operation, the electrical panel 30a is specifically arranged facing the operator.

[0085] In this embodiment, the electrical panel 30a is specifically configured as a support plate. For example, the electrical panel 30a may be configured as a stovetop and / or a work surface, particularly as a kitchen work surface. Especially for the purpose of heating the cooking appliance 32a, the electrical panel 30a is specifically provided for supporting the cooking appliance 32a.

[0086] The electrical panel 30a is defined in particular as at least one, and advantageously exactly one, cooking surface 34a. The cooking surface 34a is in particular the surface of the electrical panel 30a facing the operator, and below said surface, in at least one operating state, at least one heating unit (not shown) is arranged.

[0087] The household appliance 16a has, in particular, at least one, and advantageously at least the aforementioned heating unit. In this embodiment, the household appliance 16a has, for example, at least two, in particular at least four, advantageously at least eight, particularly advantageous at least twelve, preferably at least sixteen, and particularly preferably multiple heating units. Advantageously, the heating units are arranged in a matrix, and especially for the flexible definition and / or formation of heating zones, the heating units can be combined, particularly by means of at least one household appliance control unit 38a. Hereinafter, only one heating unit is described exemplarily.

[0088] The heating unit is specifically constructed as an induction heating unit. In its installation position, the heating unit is specifically positioned below the cooking utensil plate 30a. The heating unit is specifically configured to heat the cooking utensil 32a, which is mounted on top of the heating unit, from the cooking utensil plate 30a.

[0089] The home appliance system 10a has, in particular, at least one and advantageously exactly one external unit 14a. The external unit 14a and the home appliance 16a are, in particular, different objects from each other. For example, the external unit 14a may be configured as a computer. In this embodiment, the external unit 14a is configured as a mobile device. In particular, the external unit 14a is configured as a mobile phone and / or a smartphone and / or a mobile phone. Alternatively, for example, the external unit 14a may be configured as a tablet computer and / or a laptop computer.

[0090] The household appliance system 10a has, in particular, at least one, and advantageously exactly one, operator interface 36a. The operator interface 36a is specifically configured for inputting and / or selecting operating parameters, such as, for example, at least one heating power and / or at least one heating power density and / or at least one heating zone and / or at least one temperature and / or at least one device parameter of a device function. The operator interface 36a is specifically configured for outputting, in particular, to the operator, for example, the value of at least one operating parameter and / or at least one piece of information and / or at least one operation request.

[0091] For example, the operator interface 36a may be at least partially, especially at least largely, and advantageously fully integrated into the external unit 14a. Alternatively or additionally, the operator interface 36a may be at least partially integrated into the external unit 14a, and may also be at least partially integrated into the household appliance 16a. In this embodiment, the operator interface 36a is advantageously at least partially, particularly advantageously at least largely, and preferably fully integrated into the household appliance 16a.

[0092] The household appliance 16a has, in particular, at least one, and advantageously exactly one, household appliance control unit 38a. In operation, the household appliance control unit 38a controls and / or regulates, in particular at least one household appliance function and advantageously at least one main household appliance function. The household appliance control unit 38a is specifically configured to perform actions and / or change settings based on operating parameters input via the operator interface 36a. In operation, the household appliance control unit 38a specifically controls and / or regulates the energy delivery to the heating unit.

[0093] The household appliance system 10a has, in particular, at least one, and advantageously exactly one, control unit 12a. In operation, the control unit 12a controls and / or regulates the operation of the household appliance 16a via an external unit 14a.

[0094] For example, control unit 12a may be at least partially, especially at least largely, and advantageously fully integrated into external unit 14a. Alternatively or additionally, control unit 12a may be at least partially integrated into external unit 14a, and may also be at least partially integrated into household appliance 16a. In this embodiment, control unit 12a is advantageously at least partially, particularly advantageously at least largely, and preferably fully integrated into household appliance 16a.

[0095] In particular, the control unit 12a includes a household appliance control unit 38a. In particular, the control unit 12a and the household appliance control unit 38a are constructed as a single unit.

[0096] The control unit 12a and the external unit 14a are specifically configured for wireless communication. In particular, the external unit 14a and the home appliance 16a are configured for wireless communication. For example, in operation, the external unit 14a and the home appliance 16a may communicate with each other via ultrasound and / or sound waves and / or near-field communication and / or radio technology. In particular, when communicating via ultrasound and / or sound waves, the communication between the external unit 14a and the home appliance 16a may be particularly limited to the area within room 26a, because sound waves may experience strong attenuation due to walls.

[0097] During operation, the control unit 12a automatically checks, at least segment by segment, whether the external unit 14a for operating the household appliance 16a is arranged within the operating range 18a. In this embodiment, the control unit 12a automatically checks whether the external unit 14a for operating the household appliance 16a is arranged within the operating range 18a over a time period of at least 5 minutes, especially at least 1 minute, advantageously at least 15 minutes, particularly advantageously at least 20 minutes, preferably at least 25 minutes, and particularly preferably at least 28 minutes.

[0098] exist Figure 1 The diagram exemplarily illustrates an operating range 18a. Specifically, a household appliance 16a is arranged within the operating range 18a. Especially when viewed from a main extending plane perpendicular to the floor of room 26a, the operating range 18a extends at least partially around the household appliance 16a, which is arranged within the room 26a.

[0099] In particular, when the external unit 14a is arranged within the operating range 18a, especially when the household appliance 16a can be operated through the external unit 14a based on legal regulations, the control unit 12a enables operation of the household appliance 16a through the external unit 14a when the external unit 14a is arranged within the operating range 18a during operation.

[0100] In particular, during operation, the control unit 12a prevents operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a when the external unit 14a is located outside the operating range 18a and thus has a greater distance from the household appliance 16a compared to when the external unit 14a is located within the operating range 18a.

[0101] In the case where the external unit 14a is located outside the operating range 18a but within the monitoring range 20a, the control unit 12a prevents the operation of the household appliance 16a through the external unit 14a during operation, and enables the monitoring of the household appliance 16a through the external unit 14a.

[0102] In particular, the monitoring range 20a is arranged adjacent to the operating range 18a, and is advantageously adjacent to the operating range 18a in a direction away from the household appliance 16a. Advantageously, the monitoring range 20a at least partially surrounds the operating range 18a, and is arranged at least partially around the operating range 18a.

[0103] In cases where the external unit 14a is located outside the operating range 18a and outside the monitoring range 20a, the control unit 12a prevents the operation of the household appliance 16a and the monitoring of the household appliance 16a through the external unit 14a during operation.

[0104] During automatic checks, the control unit 12a specifically considers at least one distance measurement between the external unit 14a and at least one point of the household appliance 16a. In particular, during automatic checks, the control unit 12a specifically performs distance measurement between the external unit 14a and the household appliance 16a, and / or at least initiates distance measurement.

[0105] In this embodiment, the spacing measurement is specifically configured as a signal strength measurement. Specifically, during automatic checks, the control unit 12a performs a spacing measurement of the point between the external unit 14a and the household appliance 16a using at least one signal strength measurement. In the signal strength measurement, the control unit 12a specifically detects and / or determines the signal strength of at least one signal transmitted by the external unit 14a.

[0106] In particular, during automatic checks, the control unit 12a considers at least one signal strength measurement of at least one operating signal transmitted from the external unit 14a to the household appliance 16a. In operation, particularly based on the signal strength measurement, the control unit 12a enables or prevents operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a.

[0107] Specifically, based on a comparison between an operation signal received, particularly from external unit 14a, and at least one operation signal reference range, control unit 12a makes a decision to enable and / or prevent operation of household appliance 16a via external unit 14a. In particular, during operation, control unit 12a compares the operation signal received, particularly from external unit 14a, with at least one operation signal reference range.

[0108] The control unit 12a has at least one storage unit 40a. In particular, the storage unit 40a stores and / or registers at least the aforementioned operating signal reference range.

[0109] In operation, especially when the operation signal 18a is positioned within the operation signal reference range, the control unit 12a enables operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a. In operation, especially when the operation signal 18a is positioned outside the operation signal reference range, the control unit 12a prevents operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a.

[0110] In particular, the control unit 12a automatically checks repeatedly over time during operation whether the external unit 14a for operating the household appliance 16a is arranged within the operating range 18a. In this embodiment, the control unit 12a automatically checks whether the external unit 14a for operating the household appliance 16a is arranged within the operating range 18a at time intervals of up to 300 seconds, up to 100 seconds, up to 50 seconds, up to 30 seconds, up to 10 seconds, and up to 5 seconds.

[0111] In particular, in addition to performing automatic checks repeatedly over time, the control unit 12a automatically checks, during operation, whether the external unit 14a used to operate the household appliance 16a is arranged within the operating range 18a based on at least one motion characteristic variable of the external unit 14a. During operation, the control unit 12a detects and / or determines, in particular, the motion characteristic variable of the external unit 14a using at least one sensor unit 22a.

[0112] The household appliance system 10a has, in particular, at least one and advantageously exactly one sensor unit 22a. The sensor unit 22a is specifically configured to detect motion characteristic variables of the external unit 14a. In operation, in particular, according to the operation of the control unit 12a, the sensor unit 22a detects the motion characteristic variables of the external unit 14a.

[0113] In this embodiment, the sensor unit 22a is advantageously at least partially, particularly advantageously at least most, and preferably fully integrated into the external unit 14a.

[0114] In operation, the control unit 12a determines, at least partially, the layout of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a based on motion characteristic variables. In operation, the control unit 12a determines the layout of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a based both on the motion characteristic variables and the original layout of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a.

[0115] In particular, based on legal requirements, and advantageously to comply with those requirements, the control unit 12a automatically and repeatedly outputs at least one operation request during operation, particularly via the operator interface 36a, to confirm that the external unit 14a is arranged within the operating range 18a. In this embodiment, during operation, the control unit 12a outputs an operation request, particularly via the operator interface 36a, at intervals of at least substantially 30 minutes to confirm that the external unit 14a is arranged within the operating range 18a.

[0116] Control unit 12a is specifically configured to guide operation via at least one characterization process. In operation, control unit 12a guides the operator, particularly, via the characterization process. Specifically, after the characterization process is completed, control unit 12a is configured to enable operation of household appliance 16a via external unit 14a. In operation, the characterization process is performed by control unit 12a prior to operation of household appliance 16a via external unit 14a.

[0117] In operation, the control unit changes the duration between at least two operation requests based on the time interval from the characterization process, particularly for confirming that the external unit 14a is arranged within the operating range 18a. In this embodiment, based on the time interval from the characterization process, and more precisely, based on optimization and / or improvements (particularly due to machine learning and / or increased efficiency) in determining whether to prevent and / or enable operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a, the control unit 12a increases the duration between two operation requests in operation, particularly for confirming that the external unit 14a is arranged within the operating range 18a.

[0118] In particular, prior to operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14, the control unit 12a guides the operator, especially through a characterization process, during operation. This characterization process is specifically designed to characterize at least one feature variable and / or at least one object that is important and / or plays at least a central role in the operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a.

[0119] In this embodiment, the characterization process specifically includes setting at least one signal for characterizing the external unit 14a, particularly the external unit 14a, advantageously at least one operating signal for the external unit 14a, and / or setting a signal for characterizing the operating range 18a.

[0120] In particular, for each external unit 14a, the characterization process includes, in particular, at least one and advantageously exactly one signal calibration process. Specifically, the signal calibration process is configured to calibrate at least one signal of the external unit 14a, advantageously calibrating at least one operating signal of the external unit 14a. In operation, the control unit 12a calibrates the signal of the external unit 14a, particularly during the signal calibration process, advantageously calibrating the operating signal of the external unit 14a.

[0121] In particular, during operation, the control unit 12a performs a signal calibration process using a subsequent formula:

[0122]

[0123] In the formula, RSSI refers specifically to the received signal strength of the signal transmitted by the external unit 14a. In particular, the signal strength RSSI describes the signal strength of the signal transmitted by the external unit 14a when the external unit 14a is at a distance d relative to the household appliance 16a.

[0124] In particular, n is a dimensionless variable that, especially in free space, may take a value of at least substantially 2. In this formula, d specifically indicates the distance of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a. Specifically, d0 indicates a defined distance of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a, which may specifically take a value of at least substantially 1 meter. Xσ is a variable that characterizes background noise, and whose average may specifically take a value of at least substantially zero.

[0125] Parameter A is particularly related to the construction scheme and / or type of external unit 14a. In particular, during signal calibration, control unit 12a determines parameter A in order to calibrate external unit 14a in particular.

[0126] During signal calibration, particularly with the aid of operator interface 36a, control unit 12a outputs at least one operation request to position external unit 14a at a distance d0 relative to household appliance 16a. For example, particularly with the aid of operator interface 36a, control unit 12a may guide the positioning of external unit 14a at a distance d0 relative to household appliance 16a. For example, particularly with the aid of operator interface 36a, control unit 12a may output at least one piece of information and / or at least one indication. For example, during guidance through the signal calibration process, particularly with the aid of operator interface 36a, control unit 12a may output at least one direction in which external unit 14a should move, and / or output the position where external unit 14a should be positioned.

[0127] For example, alternative or additional ground, during the signal calibration process, the control unit 12a may use near-field communication to support, for example, the placement of the external unit 14a at a distance d0 relative to the home appliance 16a, such as by means of at least one tag 48a and / or by means of at least one mark, which may be, in particular, at least largely integrated into the home appliance 16a.

[0128] For example, alternatively or additionally, during signal calibration, the control unit 12a may use at least one optical signal to support, in particular, arranging the external unit 14a at a distance d0 relative to the household appliance 16a. For example, the household appliance system 10a may have at least one light source 50a, which may be at least largely integrated into the household appliance 16a. The control unit 12a may be configured to control and / or adjust the light source 50a. Specifically, during signal calibration, the control unit 12a may output at least one, particularly focused, e.g., red, light beam, and may output, in particular at least one, operational request to arrange the external unit 14a at the center of the beam, and in particular to cause the external unit 14a to move parallel to the beam for an extended period until the external unit 14a is arranged at the desired distance relative to the household appliance 16a.

[0129] When guided by the signal calibration process, the control unit 12a takes into account at least one distance between the external unit 14a and the household appliance 16a. In particular, when the external unit 14a is arranged at a distance d0 relative to the point of the household appliance 16a, the control unit 12a determines a parameter A characteristic of the external unit 14a and calibrates the external unit 14a in particular.

[0130] In operation, the control unit 12a stores, in particular, the calibration of the external unit 14a for later use, especially when operating the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a. Especially immediately following the characterization process, the control unit 12a uses the result of the characterization process, particularly the signal calibration process, as the basis for at least one communication with the external unit 14a, such as with the control unit 12a and / or with the household appliance 16a, advantageously using the calibrated value of parameter A as the basis for at least one communication with the external unit 14a, such as with the control unit 12a and / or with the household appliance 16a.

[0131] In particular, in addition to taking into account the distance of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a, the control unit 12a takes into account at least one orientation of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a when guiding the signal calibration process.

[0132] For example, during operation, the control unit 12a may separately store the results of the signal calibration process for each orientation of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a. In particular, alternatively or additionally, the control unit 12a may store at least one maximum value and / or at least one minimum value and / or at least one average value of the results of the signal calibration process for each orientation of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a.

[0133] When operating the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a, the control unit 12a determines the distance (specifically referred to as d in the above formula) of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a based on the detection of the signal strength (specifically referred to as RSSI in the above formula) of the signal transmitted by the external unit 14a, and especially based on the result of the signal calibration process, and especially based on the parameter A transmitted by the control unit 12a.

[0134] Figure 2 An exemplary diagram is shown below: In this diagram, parameters characterizing the signal strength of the signal transmitted by the external unit 14a are plotted relative to the distance of the external unit 14a to the household appliance 16a. Specifically, in... Figure 2 In the diagram, parameters representing the signal strength transmitted by the external unit 14a are plotted on the vertical axis 42a. Figure 2 In particular, the distance between the external unit 14a and the household appliance 16a is plotted on the horizontal axis 44a.

[0135] Especially in Figure 2 Two curves are plotted to assign to two distinct external units 14a, which may differ in at least one characteristic and, for example, may have different types and / or different construction schemes. Specifically, the external units 14a are arranged at the same distance relative to the household appliance 16a. Figure 2 In particular, it can be known that during operation, especially based on the signal calibration process, the control unit 12a determines the distance of the external unit 14a, which has a difference of up to 0.2 meters 46a, thereby enabling optimal operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a and / or particularly high accuracy in determining the distance of the external unit 14a relative to the household appliance 16a.

[0136] In particular, besides the signal calibration process, the characterization process includes at least one, and advantageously exactly one, range definition process. Specifically, the range definition process is configured to define an operating range 18a within which the household appliance 16a is operable via the external unit 14a. In operation, the control unit 12a, particularly during the range definition process, defines the operating range 18a within which the household appliance 16a is operable via the external unit 14a.

[0137] When guided by the range definition process, the control unit 12a takes into account at least one layout 24a of room 16a in which the household appliance 16a is arranged. In particular, when guided by the range definition process, the control unit 12a defines the operating range 18a according to the layout 24a of room 16a in which the household appliance 16a is arranged.

[0138] During the scope definition process, particularly with the aid of operator interface 36a, control unit 12a advantageously outputs from a catalog of layouts 24a to be selected, at least one layout 24a of a room 26a in which household appliances 16a are arranged (see...). Figure 3 In this embodiment, during the scope definition process, the control unit 12a outputs, in particular, multiple layouts 24a of rooms 26a, in which household appliances 16a are arranged, from a catalog of layouts 24a for selection. Figure 3 The example shows the selection of six different layouts 24a.

[0139] In particular, during the scope definition process, the control unit 12a outputs at least one operation request, especially via the operator interface 36a, for selecting layout 24a from the output selections of layout 24a. During the scope definition process, especially based on the selection of layout 24a, the control unit 12a selects the selected layout 24a and uses the selected layout 24a as the basis for the scope definition process thereafter.

[0140] exist Figure 4 The example shown is layout 24a selected from the catalog of layout 24a. Similarly, in... Figure 5 Until Figure 9 The text exemplifies other layouts 24a from the catalog of layouts 24a. However, the description applies equally to all layouts 24a, therefore, the following discussion only pertains to layouts 24a. Figure 4 The layout shown is 24a.

[0141] During the scope definition process, the control unit 12a outputs at least one operation request, particularly via the operator interface 36a, to transmit at least one confirmation signal from at least one sub-area 28a of room 26a to the control unit 12a via the external unit 14a. In cases of multiple objects, only one object is given a reference numeral in each of these figures.

[0142] In this embodiment, when guided by the range definition process, the control unit 12a outputs at least one operation request, particularly via the operator interface 36a, to transmit at least one confirmation signal from each of the multiple sub-areas 28a of the room 26a to the control unit 12a via the external unit 14a.

[0143] In particular, during the scope definition process, the control unit 12a determines the number of sub-regions 28a of room 26a based on the layout 24a of room 26a. In the following description, only one of the sub-regions 28a will be specifically mentioned.

[0144] Subregion 28a of room 26a is particularly a prominent area of ​​room 26a. Advantageously, subregion 28a of room 26a is a angular region within room 26a.

[0145] During the range definition process, the control unit 12a outputs, in particular, the selected layout 24a via the operator interface 36a, and in particular, marks the sub-region 28a. For example, during the range definition process, before transmitting an acknowledgment signal, the control unit 12a may output and / or mark, for example, the sub-region 28a using a different symbol than the one immediately following the transmission of the acknowledgment signal. For example, during the range definition process, before transmitting an acknowledgment signal, the control unit 12a may output and / or mark the sub-region 28a using an X symbol, and immediately after transmitting the acknowledgment signal, output and / or mark the sub-region 28a using a checkmark symbol.

[0146] For example, when guided by a range definition process, control unit 12a may simultaneously output the two symbols at least segment by segment, such as simultaneously outputting the two symbols in two side-by-side images of the selected layout 24a, as in this example. Figure 4 As shown in the diagram. For example, alternatively or additionally, the control unit 12a may output symbols and / or layout 24a in a time-staggered manner.

[0147] In particular, the control unit 12a completes the range definition process by transmitting a confirmation signal, especially a final confirmation signal for the last sub-region 28a to be confirmed.

[0148] In operation, the control unit 12a performs a signal calibration process, particularly prior to the range definition process, so as to achieve an optimal definition of the operating range 18a.

[0149] In the method for operating the household appliance system 10a, particularly in at least one booting step 52a, booting is performed by at least one characterization process (see reference). Figure 10In particular, in the signal calibration step 54a, the signal calibration signal is guided by the external unit 14a, which is a sub-step of the guiding step 52a. In this method, particularly in the range definition step 56a following the signal calibration step 54a, which is a sub-step of the guiding step 52a, the method is guided by defining an operating range 18a within which the household appliance 16a can be operated by the external unit 14a.

[0150] After the characterization process is completed, especially in at least one operation step 58a, in particular, the operation of the household appliance 16a is enabled through the external unit 14a, more specifically, the operation of the household appliance 16a is enabled through the external unit 14a by checking whether the external unit 14a is arranged within the operation range 18a.

[0151] In particular, during the inspection step 60a, which is a sub-step of the operation step 58a, the system automatically checks, at least segment by segment, whether the external unit 14a for operating the household appliance 16a is located within the operating range 18a. Specifically, in the enabling step 62a, which is a sub-step of the operation step 58a, operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a is enabled if the external unit 14a is located within the operating range 18a. And specifically, in the blocking step 64a, which is a sub-step of the operation step 58a, operation of the household appliance 16a via the external unit 14a is prevented if the external unit 14a is located outside the operating range 18a.

[0152] Figure Labels

[0153] 10. Home Appliance Systems

[0154] 12 Control Units

[0155] 14 External Units

[0156] 16. Home Appliances

[0157] 18 Operating Scope

[0158] 20 Monitoring range

[0159] 22 sensor units

[0160] 24 Layout

[0161] Room 26

[0162] 28 sub-regions

[0163] 30 Electrical Board

[0164] 32 Cooking utensils

[0165] 34. Stove

[0166] 36 Operator Interface

[0167] 38 Home appliance control units

[0168] 40 storage units

[0169] 42. Vertical axis

[0170] 44. Horizontal axis

[0171] 46 poor

[0172] 48 tags

[0173] 50 light sources

[0174] 52. Guiding Steps

[0175] 54 Signal Calibration Steps

[0176] 56. Range Definition Steps

[0177] 58 Operating Steps

[0178] 60 Inspection Steps

[0179] 62 Enable Steps

[0180] 64. Preventing steps.

Claims

1. A household appliance system having at least one control unit (12a), the at least one control unit (12a) being configured to: automatically check, at least segment by segment, whether an external unit (14a) for operating at least one household appliance (16a) is arranged within an operating range (18a) during operation; and, for the case where the external unit (14a) is arranged within the operating range (18a), enable operation of the household appliance (16a) via the external unit (14a), wherein the control unit is configured to change the duration between at least two operation requests based on a time interval from a characterization process.

2. The household appliance system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to, during automatic inspection, take into account at least one distance measurement between the external unit (14a) and at least one point of the household appliance (16a).

3. The household appliance system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to perform the spacing measurement by means of at least one signal strength measurement.

4. The household appliance system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to, during automatic checks, take into account at least one signal strength measurement of at least one operating signal transmitted from the external unit (14a) to the household appliance (16a).

5. The household appliance system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to: compare the operation signal with at least one operation signal reference range; and enable operation of the household appliance (16a) via the external unit (14a) when the operation signal is arranged within the operation signal reference range.

6. The household appliance system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to repeatedly and automatically check over time whether the external unit (14a) for operating the household appliance (16a) is arranged within the operating range (18a).

7. The household appliance system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to automatically check, based on at least one motion characteristic variable of the external unit (14a), whether the external unit (14a) for operating the household appliance (16a) is arranged within the operating range (18a).

8. The household appliance system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to repeatedly and automatically output at least one operation request over time to confirm that the external unit (14a) is arranged in the operation range (18a).

9. The household appliance system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit (12a) is configured to guide through at least one characterization process, and after the characterization process is completed, to enable operation of the household appliance (16a) through the external unit (14a).

10. The household appliance system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... The external unit (14a) is configured as a mobile device.

11. The household appliance system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... The household appliance (16a) at least partially integrates the control unit (12a).

12. The household appliance system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The household appliance (16a) is constructed as a stovetop.

13. A household appliance of the household appliance system (10a) according to claim 11.

14. The household appliance according to claim 13, characterized in that, The household appliance in question is a stovetop.

15. A method for operating a household appliance system (10a) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: during operation, at least segment by segment, an external unit (14a) for operating at least one household appliance (16a) is automatically checked to see if it is arranged within an operating range (18a); and, for cases where the external unit (14a) is arranged within the operating range (18a), operation of the household appliance (16a) is enabled via the external unit (14a).

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