Cooking device, method and components thereof

Abstract

An apparatus includes a housing (1002) having a cooking chamber (1034), a first chamber and a second chamber formed in the housing, the cooking chamber (1034) including an inner top wall (1044) and an inner bottom wall (1038); a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber (1034) and configured to emit microwaves into the second chamber; an air movement device (1068) positioned within the first chamber; a heating element (1070) positioned within the first chamber; and a mode agitator (1060) positioned within the second chamber, where the top inner wall (1044) includes at least one aperture configured to cause a heated airflow generated by the air movement device (1068) and the heating element (1070) to enter the cooking chamber (1034), and the lower bottom wall (1038) includes a microwave permeable material configured to cause microwaves to enter the cooking chamber (1034) from the second chamber.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to PCT application PCT / CN2024 / 114608, entitled “Cooking device, method and parts thereof”, filed on August 26, 2024, and PCT application PCT / US24 / 36903, entitled “Cooking device, method and parts thereof”, filed on July 5, 2024, which claims priority to U.S. application 63 / 512,523, entitled “Cooking device, method and parts thereof”, filed on July 7, 2023, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] A countertop cooking system and method of using the same are provided that includes one or more convection and radiant heating elements in combination with a microwave heating element. Background Art

[0004] Conventional microwave cooking systems typically include a microwave source (i.e., a magnetron) that directs microwave energy toward food disposed in a cooking compartment in the microwave cooking system. The microwave energy heats water molecules in the food, causing the water molecules to turn into vapor. Since conventional microwave ovens only include a microwave source, the air in the microwave oven is relatively cool, which causes the water vapor to condense once the microwaves are no longer absorbed by the food. This rapid condensation of the water vapor means that moisture remains on the surface of the food, which causes undesirable reheating or cooking results because there is no evaporation device to remove the moisture generated during the microwave treatment. Summary of the invention

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber, a first chamber, and a second chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber comprising an inner top wall and an inner bottom wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the second chamber; an air movement device positioned within the first chamber; a heating element positioned within the first chamber; and a pattern agitator positioned within the second chamber, wherein the top inner wall comprises at least one hole configured to allow heated airflow generated by the air movement device and the heating element to enter the cooking chamber, and the lower bottom wall comprises a microwave permeable material configured to allow microwaves to enter the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the first chamber is positioned vertically above the cooking chamber.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the second chamber is positioned vertically below the cooking chamber.

[0008] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the inner top wall includes a plurality of holes configured to allow the heated airflow to pass therethrough.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the pattern agitator is configured to deflect microwaves emitted to the second chamber before the microwaves enter the cooking chamber through the inner bottom wall.

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the first chamber is vertically aligned with the second chamber.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the first chamber is defined by the inner upper wall and a radiation shield positioned radially outward from the heating element.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the second chamber is defined by the lower inner wall and a radiation shield positioned radially outward from the mode stirrer.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein a waveguide is positioned between the microwave source and the second chamber, and an outlet of the waveguide passes through the radiation shield.

[0014] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the microwave source is positioned within a third chamber that is disposed adjacent to the cooking chamber, the first chamber, and the second chamber.

[0015] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner wall having holes therein; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves; a waveguide having an inlet and an outlet, the waveguide configured to receive microwaves from the microwave source via the inlet and emit microwaves into the cooking chamber via the outlet; an air moving device positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to generate an airflow; and a heating element positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow through the holes in the inner wall, wherein the holes in the inner wall are positioned on a first side of the cooking chamber and the outlet of the waveguide is positioned on a second side of the cooking chamber, the first side being opposite to the second side.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the first side is a top side of the cooking chamber.

[0017] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the second side is a bottom side of the cooking chamber.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the inner wall includes a plurality of holes to allow the heated air flow to pass through the inner wall and into the cooking chamber.

[0019] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the heating element is positioned radially outward from the air moving device.

[0020] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein a microwave permeable material is positioned between an outlet of the waveguide and the cooking chamber.

[0021] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein a mode stirrer is positioned between an outlet of the waveguide and the microwave permeable material.

[0022] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the mode stirrer is vertically aligned with the hole in the inner wall.

[0023] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the air moving device is vertically aligned with a portion of the mode agitator.

[0024] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the air moving device is vertically aligned with an outlet of the waveguide.

[0025] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber, a first chamber, and a second chamber formed therein; a microwave source positioned within the first chamber and configured to emit microwaves; a waveguide having a first section and a second section, the second section being angled relative to the first section, wherein an inlet is positioned at the first section and an outlet is positioned at the second section; a microwave-impermeable sheet separating the cooking chamber from the first chamber; and a microwave-permeable sheet separating the cooking chamber from the second chamber, wherein the inlet is connected to the microwave source for receiving the emitted microwaves, and the outlet is connected to the second chamber to emit the microwaves into the second chamber.

[0026] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the first segment is a vertical segment adjacent to the microwave impermeable sheet.

[0027] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the second segment is a horizontal segment extending parallel to the microwave permeable sheet.

[0028] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the first segment is positioned perpendicular to the second segment.

[0029] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the inlet is positioned at a distal end of the first segment.

[0030] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the outlet is positioned at a distal end of the second segment.

[0031] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the second segment extends below the cooking chamber and the second chamber.

[0032] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the first chamber is positioned adjacent to the cooking chamber in a side-by-side configuration.

[0033] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the second chamber is positioned below the cooking chamber.

[0034] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein a mode stirrer is positioned within the second chamber.

[0035] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the mode stirrer is positioned between an outlet of the waveguide and the microwave permeable sheet.

[0036] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein a drive shaft of the mode stirrer passes through the waveguide.

[0037] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber, the cooking chamber including an inner wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to directly cook food in the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an airflow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; a radiation shield having a top wall positioned axially outward of the heating element and a first side wall extending from the top wall, the first side wall having a first width and a first depth, the first side wall being positioned radially outward of the heating element; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for inserting the food into the container and a second side wall having a second width and a second depth, wherein the first width of the first side wall corresponds to the second width of the second side wall so that the heated airflow is aligned with the second width as the heated airflow passes along the first side wall.

[0038] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the first width is substantially the same as the second width.

[0039] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the first depth is substantially the same as the second depth.

[0040] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the first side wall of the radiation shield is positioned at an angle within a range of 10 degrees to 80 degrees with the top wall.

[0041] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein an edge of the first sidewall is vertically aligned with an edge of the second sidewall.

[0042] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the second side wall is horizontally spaced apart from an inner wall of the cooking chamber.

[0043] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container comprising: a top opening for inserting food into the container; a first side protrusion extending outward from the top opening and configured to contact a first track within a cooking device to support the container; a second side protrusion extending outward from the top opening and opposite to the first side protrusion and configured to contact a second track within the cooking device to support the container; a rear lip extending outward from the top opening, the rear lip being positioned at an angle between 10 degrees and 80 degrees relative to the first side protrusion; a front lip extending outward from the top opening; a side wall connected to the top opening and extending around the top opening; a bottom wall connected to the side wall; and a cooking volume formed within the container between the side wall and the bottom wall.

[0044] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container wherein the rear lip extends to a rear wall of the cooking device when the container is positioned within the cooking device.

[0045] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container wherein the front lip extends to a front wall of the cooking device when the container is positioned within the cooking device.

[0046] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container wherein the rear lip is configured to contact a protrusion extending from a side wall of the cooking device to prevent linear removal of the container from the cooking device.

[0047] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container wherein the front lip includes a channel configured to allow a user to grasp the container.

[0048] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container wherein a crisper tray is configured to be positioned within the cooking volume.

[0049] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container, wherein a cross-sectional area on the container is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of ​​a cooking chamber of the cooking device.

[0050] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container, wherein the container is formed of a microwave permeable material.

[0051] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container, wherein a cooking volume of the container forms a sub-cooking volume within a cooking chamber of the cooking device.

[0052] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a container wherein the sub-cooking volume has a volume that is less than half the volume of a cooking chamber of the cooking device.

[0053] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a front surface and an opening positioned on the front surface; a first bracket extending outwardly from the front surface, the front surface having a first connection point and a channel extending inwardly to the first bracket; a door rotatably connected to the housing to selectively cover the opening; a second bracket positioned within the door, the door having a second connection point and a lug extending from the second bracket; a cooking chamber formed within the housing, wherein the cooking chamber is configured to be accessed through the opening and to cook food directly in the cooking chamber; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air moving device positioned within the housing; and a heating element positioned within the housing, wherein the first bracket is rotatably connected to the second bracket via the first connection point and the second connection point, and the lug is configured to be disposed within the channel and against the first bracket when the door is rotated to a maximum open position.

[0054] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the channel is positioned inboard of the first connection point.

[0055] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the door is capable of opening at an angle greater than 100 degrees relative to the front surface.

[0056] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device wherein the lug extends upwardly from the second bracket.

[0057] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the door is configured to rotate to an open position such that the door fully opens an opening in a front surface of the housing.

[0058] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus wherein the first bracket extends into the door.

[0059] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method comprising: positioning a food product within a cooking volume of a container; positioning the container in a first position within the cooking chamber of a cooking device; actuating a first cooking mode, wherein the food product is heated using a first cooking process; actuating a second cooking mode, wherein the food product is heated using a second cooking process, the first cooking process being different from the second cooking process.

[0060] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method wherein the first cooking process is a microwave cooking process.

[0061] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method wherein the second cooking process is a forced convection cooking process.

[0062] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method further comprising, prior to actuating the second cooking mode, positioning the container at a second position within a cooking chamber of the cooking device.

[0063] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method wherein the second location is vertically above a first location within the cooking chamber.

[0064] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method wherein, during the second cooking process, the second position causes a sub-cooking space within the cooking chamber to become the first cooking volume by reducing heat loss from the cooking volume into the cooking chamber.

[0065] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method wherein, in the second position, the container is directly adjacent to a top wall of a cooking chamber.

[0066] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method wherein the container is formed of a microwave permeable material.

[0067] Therefore, there is a need for a cooking system that incorporates the speed and efficiency of a microwave oven while producing a sufficient Maillard reaction on the food. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0069] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking system according to the subject matter described herein;

[0070] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A rear perspective view of a cooking system;

[0071] Figure 3 With the door open Figure 1 A front perspective view of a cooking system;

[0072] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 4-4;

[0073] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 5-5;

[0074] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a waveguide and a mode stirrer within a cooking system;

[0075] Figure 7 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 7-7;

[0076] Figure 8 This is when the mode mixer is removed. Figure 6 A stereogram of an outlet of a waveguide;

[0077] Fig. 9 With the side panel removed Figure 1 A front perspective view of a cooking system;

[0078] Fig.10 With the top panel removed Figure 1 A front perspective view of a cooking system;

[0079] Fig.11 is in accordance with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A front perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking container for use with a cooking system;

[0080] Fig.12 yes Fig.12 A rear perspective view of a cooking container;

[0081] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A side view of a cooking container;

[0082] Fig.14 is partially inserted into Figure 1 In the cooking system Fig.12 a three-dimensional image of a cooking container;

[0083] Fig.15 Among them, the positioning Fig.12 Cooking container Figure 1 A front cross-sectional view of a cooking system;

[0084] Fig.16 Among them, the positioning Fig.12 Cooking container Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of a cooking system;

[0085] Fig.17 Among them, the positioning Fig.12 Cooking container Figure 1 A top cross-sectional view of a cooking system;

[0086] Fig.18 yes Fig.12 Cooking containers and Figure 1A detailed side view of a side wall of a cooking system;

[0087] Fig.19 is in accordance with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A front perspective view of an embodiment of a stand for use with a cooking system;

[0088] Fig. 20 is partially inserted into Figure 1 In the cooking system Fig.19 A three-dimensional diagram of a bracket;

[0089] Fig.21 Among them, the positioning Fig.19 The bracket Figure 1 A front perspective view of a cooking system;

[0090] Fig. 22 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking chamber having a movable support that can be used with a cooking chamber according to the subject matter described herein. Figure 1 Cooking system for use with;

[0091] Fig.23 With the stand in the extended position Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of a cooking chamber;

[0092] Fig.24 With the bracket in the retracted position Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of a cooking chamber;

[0093] Fig.25 With the stand in the extended position Fig. 22 A detailed perspective view of the top of the cooking chamber;

[0094] Fig.26 With the bracket in the retracted position Fig. 22 A detailed perspective view of the top of the cooking chamber;

[0095] Fig. 27 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking container for use with a cooking system;

[0096] Fig.28 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A front perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking container for use with a cooking system;

[0097] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 A side perspective view of a cooking container;

[0098] Fig.30 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1A perspective view of an embodiment of a stand for use with a cooking system;

[0099] Fig.31 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a stand for use with a cooking system;

[0100] Fig.32 can be used in conjunction with Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a stand for use with a cooking system;

[0101] Fig.33 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking system according to the subject matter described herein;

[0102] Fig.34 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a gear assembly for use with a cooking system;

[0103] Fig.35 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a wheel assembly for use with a cooking system;

[0104] Fig.36 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 a side view of an embodiment of a door for use with a cooking system;

[0105] Fig.37 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking system according to the subject matter described herein;

[0106] Fig.38 It is along Fig.37 A cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 38-38;

[0107] Fig.39 It is along Fig.37 A top cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 39-39;

[0108] Fig.40 With the shell removed Fig.37 A top perspective view of a cooking system;

[0109] Fig.41 yes Fig.37 An independent perspective view of a cooking system with a drive system;

[0110] Fig.42 It is along Fig.37 A cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 42-42;

[0111] Fig.43There is no container in the cooking volume Fig.42 A cross-sectional view of a cooking system;

[0112] Fig.44 yes Fig.42 A detailed view of a container;

[0113] Fig.45 yes Fig.44 A detailed view of a container;

[0114] Fig.46 It is along Fig.37 A cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 46-46;

[0115] Fig.47 It is along Fig.37 A cross-sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 47-47;

[0116] Fig.48 yes Fig.37 An isolated perspective view of a mode agitator and an inner cover of a cooking system;

[0117] Fig.49 yes Fig.48 An isolated perspective view of a reflective cover of a cooking system;

[0118] Fig.50 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A top perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking container for use with a cooking system;

[0119] Fig.51 yes Fig.50 A bottom perspective view of a cooking container;

[0120] Fig.52 yes Fig.50 A side perspective view of a cooking container;

[0121] Fig.53 A crisper tray is located in it. Fig.50 A top perspective view of a cooking container;

[0122] Fig.54 yes Fig.53 A three-dimensional image of a fresh-keeping tray;

[0123] Fig.55 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A top perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking container for use with a cooking system;

[0124] Fig.56 yes Fig.55 A bottom perspective view of a cooking container;

[0125] Fig.57 can be used in conjunction with the subject matter described herein Figure 1 A top perspective view of an embodiment of a tray for use with a cooking system;

[0126] Fig.58 yes Fig.57 A bottom perspective view of a cooking container;

[0127] Fig.59 yes Figure 1 The upper door hinge of the cooking system is in the closed position along Figure 1 A detailed cross-sectional view taken along line 59-59 in FIG.

[0128] Fig.60 yes Fig.59 A top view of the upper door hinge;

[0129] Fig.61 yes Fig.59 A three-dimensional view of the upper door hinge;

[0130] Fig.62 yes Figure 1 The lower door hinge of the cooking system is in the closed position along Figure 1 A detailed cross-sectional view is taken along line 62-62;

[0131] Fig.63 yes Fig.62 A bottom view of the lower door hinge;

[0132] Fig.64 yes Fig.62 A perspective view of the lower door hinge;

[0133] Fig.65 is in the open position Fig.59 A three-dimensional view of the upper door hinge;

[0134] Fig.66 yes Fig.65 A top view of the upper door hinge;

[0135] Fig.67 yes Fig.65 A three-dimensional view of the upper door hinge;

[0136] Fig.68 is in the open position Fig.62 A perspective view of the lower door hinge; and

[0137] Fig.69 yes Fig.68 Bottom view of the lower door hinge.

[0138] It should be noted that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, and therefore should not be considered to limit the scope of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0139] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, principles of manufacture and use of the devices disclosed herein, and methods. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and the scope of the present invention is limited only by the claims. Features illustrated or described in connection with an exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0140] Traditional countertop cooking systems such as air fryers typically consist of a heating element and a fan positioned above the top of the cooking cavity. Due to the slow nature of convective heat exchange, these types of cooking devices may take a relatively long amount of time to cook or reheat food. Since food absorbs microwaves, water vapor is generated in the food, microwaves can be used to cook or reheat food relatively quickly. However, after the cooking process, microwaves keep the food moist due to the condensed water vapor remaining on and in the food. Although the basic function of a microwave oven is to heat food by dielectric heating (i.e., directly acting microwaves absorbed in the food), the present disclosure includes a microwave oven that includes additional multiple cooking capabilities such as a crisping (or browning) function or a grilling function, thereby being able to prepare various types of food items and provide new cooking effects. Such additional multiple cooking capabilities typically require additional components, such as a browning plate or a grilling element.

[0141] Embodiments of the cooking systems and methods described herein advantageously provide a system that can rapidly reheat and / or cook using microwaves while also providing crisping and browning characteristics to remove water vapor from foods resulting from microwave processing to produce a more desirable finished food product.

[0142] Figure 1-Figure 5A cooking system 1000 according to the subject matter described herein is depicted. In some aspects, the cooking system 1000 may include a housing 1002 including a door 1004, legs 1006, and a control panel 1008. The housing 1002 may be formed by external panels connected together to form a rectangular box including a cooking chamber 1034 in the housing 1002. The front panel 1040 includes a rectangular opening configured to allow a user to access the cooking chamber 1034. The rear panel 1024 of the housing 1002 includes exhaust vents 1026, 1027 positioned at the top of the rear panel 1024 and exhaust vents 1028 positioned at the sides of the rear panel. The locations of the exhaust vents 1026, 1028 correspond to the electrical components and heating elements contained within the housing 1002, which will be discussed in more detail below. The exhaust vents 1026, 1027, 1028 may include a plurality of holes through the rear panel 1024.

[0143] The housing 1002 can be supported on a support surface via legs 1006. The legs 1006 extend from the bottom surface of the housing 1002 and provide an air gap between the support surface and the housing 1002. The air gap can be an isolation gap between the bottom surface of the housing 1002 and the support surface and reduces heat transfer to the support surface during cooking operations. The legs 1006 can be cylindrical and positioned within a range near the corners of the housing 1002.

[0144] The door 1004 is movably and rotatably connected to the housing 1002 so as to selectively close the opening of the cooking volume 1034. The door 1010 may be rectangular in shape and sized to correspond to the size of the opening into the cooking chamber 1034. The door 1004 may be connected to the side edge of the housing 1002 via a hinge system. The door 1004 includes a frame 1010 and a transparent sheet 1012. The frame 1010 supports the transparent sheet 1012, which allows a user to observe the food in the cooking chamber 1034 during the cooking process. The seal 1030 may be positioned on the inner side of the frame 1010 and is configured to contact and seal with the front wall 1040 of the housing 1002. Positioned on the door 1010 is a latch 1032 extending outwardly from the door 1010. The latch 1032 is configured to pass through a hole in the front wall 1040 and selectively connect to a corresponding latch feature contained in the housing 1010. The latch 1032 is designed to keep the door 101 closed during the cooking process. A release button 1014 is positioned on the exterior of the housing 1002 for a user to actuate to release the latch 1032 on the door 1010 from the housing 1002.

[0145] The control panel 1008 is positioned at the front of the housing 1002. In one aspect, the control panel 1008 is positioned adjacent to the door 1004 in a side-by-side configuration. The control panel 1008 may include a display 1016, input buttons 1018, an input dial 1020, and an input dial 1022. The user may use the inputs to control the heating elements and the cooking process occurring within the cooking chamber 1034. The display 1016 may be configured to provide visual and audio feedback to the user during preparation for the cooking process or during the cooking process. For example, the display 1016 may notify the user to place a container within the cooking volume to a specific location within the cooking volume for a specific cooking program (i.e., placing the container near the forced convection heating element). The inputs 1018, 1020, 1022 are communicatively connected to a control unit (not shown), which is also connected to the heating elements, air movement devices, and mode agitators within the housing 1002, which will be described in more detail below. The inputs may be used to allow the user to input a specific cooking program or combination of cooking programs. In one aspect, a user can select a microwave cooking process and an air fry cooking process using a single input on the control panel. The combination cooking process will alternate microwave cooking and forced convection cooking to both cook items quickly and produce the proper Maillard reaction in the food.

[0146] The cooking chamber 1034 is configured to receive food for a cooking process. The cooking chamber 1034 includes side walls 1036 and 1047, a bottom wall 1038, a top wall 1044, and a rear wall 1046. The door 1004 forms the last side of the cooking chamber 1034 when in a closed position, sealing the cooking chamber 1034 for a cooking process. The bottom wall 1038 separates the cooking chamber 1034 from the lower chamber 1039. In one aspect, the bottom wall is formed of a mica sheet, which allows microwaves to pass from the lower chamber 1039 into the cooking chamber 1034. The top wall 1044 separates the cooking chamber 1034 from the upper chamber 1065. In one aspect, the top wall 1044 may include a plurality of holes that allow heated air to pass through the top wall 1044 and enter the cooking chamber 1034 during a forced convection cooking process (i.e., air frying).

[0147] like Figure 4-Figure 5As shown, side wall 1036 includes track 1037, and side wall 1047 includes track 1047. Tracks 1037, 1047 are formed in side walls 1036, 1046 by a stamping process that integrally forms tracks 1037, 1047 into side walls 1036, 1046. Tracks 1037, 1047 extend from a rear portion of cooking chamber 1034 to a front portion of cooking chamber 1034. In one aspect, tracks 1037, 1047 include a top edge 1076 that contacts a tray or container used within cooking chamber 1034. Tracks 1037, 1047 can include a plurality of identically shaped tracks along different heights within cooking chamber 1034. In one aspect, track 1036 also includes a protrusion 1072 formed in side wall 1036. As described in more detail below, protrusion 1072 is configured to act as a stop when a user pulls a tray or container into and out of cooking chamber 1034. Protrusion 1072 includes an angled surface 1074 and corresponds to a channel 1078 formed in track 1037. Channel 1078 is located vertically below protrusion 1072 and establishes a curved edge along the straight edge 1076 of track 1036. Track 1047 has the same features as described above with respect to track 1037.

[0148] The side chamber 1048 is positioned adjacent to the cooking chamber 1034. The side chamber 1048 extends from the bottom to the top of the housing 1002 and from the front to the back of the housing 1002. The side chamber 1048 houses most of the electrical components, including a magnetron 1050 for generating microwaves. Fig. 9 As shown, the side chamber 1048 includes a cooling fan 1092, which is positioned adjacent to the exhaust vent 1028 in the rear panel 1024 of the housing 1002. The cooling fan 1092 is configured to draw hot air from the magnetron and electrical components in the side chamber 1048 and exhaust the hot air through the exhaust vent 1028. Also positioned in the side chamber 1048 is a waveguide 1054 for guiding microwaves generated by the magnetron 1050 into the cooking chamber 1034.

[0149] like Figure 6-Figure 8 As shown, the waveguide 1054 extends from the side chamber 1048 to the lower chamber 1039. The waveguide includes a vertical section 1080 and a horizontal section 1082. The vertical section 1080 includes an inlet configured to receive microwaves generated by the magnetron 1050. The microwaves propagate downward along the vertical section 1080 and then enter the horizontal section 1082. The waveguide 1054 is formed of a microwave blocking material such as metal, and is used to guide the microwaves without allowing the microwaves to be emitted from the waveguide except at the outlet 1088. The outlet 1088 is positioned at the horizontal section 1082, and the microwaves from the waveguide 1054 are emitted into the lower chamber 1039.

[0150] The lower chamber 1039 is positioned vertically below the cooking chamber 1034 and is defined by the lower wall 1038 and the radiation shield 1090. The mode agitator 1060 is positioned within the lower chamber 1039 and is configured to interact with the microwaves emitted from the outlet 1088. The radiation shield 1090 reflects the microwaves from the lower chamber 1039 upward, through the lower wall 1038, and into the cooking chamber 1034.

[0151] Mode stirrer 1060 includes a rotating body that deflects microwaves emitted from outlet 1088. Mode stirrer 1060 is positioned above outlet 1088 in a vertical direction. In one aspect, mode stirrer 1060 is a durable (sustainability) disc formed of metal, which includes features that help to further deflect microwaves. These features include holes 1084 and protrusions 1086. The shape of hole 1084 can be rectangular and can be asymmetric on mode stirrer 1060. Protrusion 1086 is a raised portion of mode stirrer 1060. The mode stirrer rotates via a motor 1056 positioned below lower chamber 1039 in a vertical direction. In one aspect, motor 1056 is a BLDC motor with a reduced vertical profile. The drive shaft 1058 of motor 1056 passes upward through radiation shield 1090 and is connected to mode stirrer 1060. As the pattern stirrer 1060 rotates, the microwaves emitted from the outlet 1088 are spread in the cooking chamber 1034. Due to the asymmetric design of the pattern stirrer 1060, the microwaves are spread in the cooking chamber 1034 in a random pattern, so that the food in the cooking chamber 1034 is cooked more evenly.

[0152] An upper chamber 1062 is formed within housing 1002 to contain a forced convection cooking element that compensates for the microwave cooking element during combination cooking. Upper chamber 1062 is defined by top wall 1044 and radiation shield 1065. Fig.101065. As shown, the radiation shield 1065 can include an outlet 1096 connected to the exhaust vent 1026 on the rear wall 1024 of the housing 1002. In addition, the exhaust vent 1027 exhausts air from the upper chamber 1062. The heating element 1070 is positioned within the radiation shield 1065 and is configured to emit thermal energy to heat the forced air flow above the heating element 1070. In one aspect, the heating element 1070 is a heating rod (cal-rod), a carbon fiber heating element, a quartz heating element, or any other suitable heating element. The air moving device 1068 is positioned radially inward of the heating element 1070 within the radiation shield 1065. The air moving device 1068 can be a centrifugal fan that directs air radially outward through the heating element 1070. The motor 1064 is positioned vertically above the radiation shield 1065 and includes a drive shaft 1066 that extends downward through the radiation shield to connect to the air moving device 1068. The air moving device 1068 is rotated via the motor 1064, which may be a BLDC motor with a reduced vertical profile.

[0153] Although food can be placed anywhere in the cooking chamber 1034 for microwave cooking process, during forced convection cooking process, it is advantageous to reduce the size of the cooking volume. In order to establish a sub-cooking volume in the cooking chamber 1034, a separate cooking container can be used. Figure 11-13 A cooking vessel 1100 is depicted that is configured to be used during a forced convection cooking process within a cooking volume 1034. Since the vessel is made of a non-microwave blocking material such as glass or plastic, the cooking vessel 1100 can also be used during a microwave cooking process.

[0154] The container 1100 includes side lugs 1102, 1103 disposed on opposite sides of the container 1100 and extending from the rear of the container 1100 to the front of the container 1100. A rear lip 1104 is formed along the rear edge of the container and extends upward from a horizontal plane where the side lugs 1102, 1103 are aligned. A front lip 1106 is formed along the front edge of the container 1100 and includes a handle 1120 and a grip channel 1122 for a user to easily grasp and handle the container 1100. In one aspect, the handle 1120 may include a cool touch surface in the form of an insulated handle. A cooking volume 1108 is formed in the container 1100 and is defined by side walls 1112, 1113, 1114, 1116 and a bottom wall 1110. The container 1100 may be square or rectangular in shape and is designed to limit heat loss from the cooking volume 1108 into the cooking chamber 1034 during a forced convection cooking process.

[0155] Figure 14-18The container 1100 is shown in the cooking chamber 1034. The container 1100 can slide along any of the tracks 1037, 1047 in the cooking chamber 1034 to position the container at the appropriate level in the cooking chamber 1034. In one aspect, the container 1100 is placed on the uppermost track 1037, 1047 to place the container directly adjacent to the top wall 1044. Fig.17 As shown, the envelope of the container 1100 is substantially identical to the cross-sectional shape of the cooking chamber 1034. Due to this dimensional similarity, with the side tabs 1102, 1103 resting on the rails 1037, 1047, and the rear lip 1104 and front lip 1106 extending to the rear wall and door within the cooking chamber 1034, the upper portion of the cooking chamber 1034 is substantially sealed, which contains the heated airflow generated by the air moving device 1068 and the heating element 1070. This greatly improves the efficiency of the air frying process as heat losses throughout the cooking volume 1108 are minimized compared to the situation where the entire cooking chamber 1034 must be heated by forced convection airflow. In addition, the radiation shield 1065 is designed so that it deflects the heated airflow downward into the cooking volume 1008. The edges of the radiation shield that deflect the airflow are vertically aligned with the side walls 1112, 1113, 1114, 1116 of the container 1100. Airflow is depicted by arrows AF1, which illustrate torus airflow circulating through cooking volume 1108. Container 1110 may act as a divider to reduce the volume of air that needs to be circulated by the air moving device, increasing the efficiency of the forced convection cooking process.

[0156] As described above, the side wall 1036 includes the protrusion 1072. Fig.18 As shown, the rear lip 1104 contacts the edge 1074 of the protrusion 1072 to prevent the container 1100 from being accidentally removed from the cooking chamber 1034. The user must rotate the container 1100 upward to allow the rear lip 1104 to pass through the gap between the channel 1078 and the protrusion 1072.

[0157] Figure 19-21A rack 1200 configured for use with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The rack 1200 includes an outer body 1204 that forms an outer boundary of the rack 1200. Extending between the outer bodies 1204 are rails 1202 that are in a parallel configuration. A handle 1206 is positioned at a front edge of the outer body 1204 and is configured to allow a user to easily slide the rack 1200 into and out of the cooking chamber 1034. The rack 1200 also includes insulators 1208, 1210 positioned on the outer body 1204 to insulate a conductive portion of the rack 1200 from a conductive portion of the cooking chamber 1034. Due to the nature of microwave cooking, sparks may occur between two conductive surfaces within a microwave oven during a microwave cooking process. Additionally, an insulator 1212 is provided on the handle 1206 to assist a user in controlling the rack 1200 when operating the rack 1200 via the handle 1206. As shown in FIG. Figure 20-21 As shown, the rack 1200 can be inserted into the cooking volume 1034 and supported by the rails 1037, 1047. The rack 1200 can be positioned at different heights within the cooking chamber 1034 using the rails 1037, 1407. In one aspect, the rack 1200 can be used to support containers within the cooking chamber 1034, and can also be used to create a double-layer cooking chamber where multiple cooking containers can be used, with one cooking container resting on the bottom surface 1038 of the cooking chamber 1034 and one cooking container resting vertically above the rack 1200.

[0158] Figure 22-Figure 26 One aspect of a tray system 1250 for use in the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The tray system 1250 includes a support 1260 positioned within a cooking chamber 1255. The cooking chamber 1255 is formed by a top wall 1252, a side wall 1254, a side wall 1256, and a bottom wall 1258. The support 1260 is configured to move vertically and horizontally within the cooking chamber 1255 to seal a container 1270 to the top wall 1253 along an upper surface 1272 of the container 1270. The support 1260 is slidably connected to arms 1266, 1268 at points 1262, 1264 on either side of the support 1260. Additionally, the arms 1266, 1268 are connected to the side walls 1254, 1256 at points 1274, 1275. As shown in FIG. Figure 23-Figure 24As shown, the container 1270 can be slid along the arms 1266, 1268 to partially remove the container 1270 from the cooking chamber 1255. In addition, during a forced convection cooking process, the container 1270 can be slid back into the cooking cavity 1255 on the support 1260 to place the container 1270 against the seal 1282 positioned on the top wall 1252. The seal 1282 surrounds the opening 1253 that allows heated air to flow into the container 1270. The heated air flow generated by the air moving device 1278 (rotated by the motor 1276) and the heating element 1280 is contained within the container 1270 by having the upper surface 1272 of the container 1270 contact the seal 1282. This sealing configuration improves efficiency in the case of a forced convection cooking process.

[0159] Fig. 27 One aspect of a cooking container 1300 for use with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The cooking container 1300 includes a side wall 1302 that surrounds a cooking volume 1304. A protruding lip 1306 extends around the side wall 1302 and provides a mounting point for wiring 1308. The wiring 1308 extends under the lip 1306 and is connected to the container 1300 by a clip 1312. The wiring 1308 includes a bent section 1310 that will interact with a protrusion on the side wall of the cooking volume to prevent accidental removal of the container 1300 from the cooking volume. In addition, the wiring 1308 will rest directly on the track of the cooking volume to position the container 1300 within the cooking volume.

[0160] Figure 28-Figure 29 One aspect of a cooking vessel 1320 for use with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The cooking vessel 1320 includes a side wall 1322 that surrounds a cooking volume 1324. A protruding lip 1326 extends around the side wall 1322 and provides a mounting point for wiring 1328. The wiring 1328 extends under the lip 1326 and the handle 1332. The wiring 1328 will rest directly on the track of the cooking volume to position the vessel 1320 within the cooking volume.

[0161] Fig.30One aspect of a cooking rack 1400 for use with a cooking system 1000 is illustrated. Rack 1400 includes a body 1402 that forms an outer boundary of rack 1400. A handle 1412 may be positioned at a front edge of body 1402. Track 1404 extends across body 1402 and is flat and in a parallel configuration. Positioned adjacent to track 1404 is track 1406 that includes indent 1408. Indent 1408 is configured to support a container resting on rack 1400 such that the container does not slide along rack 1400, but rather is recessed into indent 1408 using a corresponding feature on the bottom of the container (not shown). Positioned in the middle of rack 1400 is track 1410 that is flat and in a parallel configuration. Note that any track of rack 1400 may include an indent to hold a container thereon.

[0162] Fig.31 One aspect of a cooking rack 1420 for use with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The rack 1420 includes a body 1422 that forms an outer boundary of the rack 1420. A handle 1432 can be positioned at a front edge of the body 1422. A track 1424 extends across the body 1422 and is flat and in a parallel configuration. Positioned adjacent to the track 1424 is a track 1426 that includes a recess 1428. The recess 1428 is configured to support a container resting on the rack 1420 so that the container does not slide along the rack 1420, but rather is recessed into the recess 1428 using a corresponding feature on the bottom of the container (not shown). Positioned in the middle of the rack 1420 is a track 1430 that is flat and in a parallel configuration. It is noted that any track of the rack 1420 can include a recess to support a container thereon.

[0163] Fig.32One aspect of a cooking rack 1440 for use with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The rack 1440 includes a body 1442 that forms an outer boundary of the rack 1440. A handle 1451 can be positioned at a front edge of the body 1442. A track 1444 extends across the body 1442 and is flat and in a parallel configuration. Positioned adjacent to the track 1444 is a track 1452 that includes a horizontal recess 1454. Positioned adjacent to the track 1452 is a track 1446 that includes a recess 1448. The recesses 1448, 1454 are configured to support a container resting on the rack 1440 so that the container does not slide along the rack 1440, but rather is recessed into the recess 1448 and horizontally restrained by the recess 1454 using corresponding features on the bottom of the container (not shown). Positioned in the middle of the rack 1440 is a track 1450 that is flat and in a parallel configuration. Note that any rail of the rack 1440 may include a recess to support a container thereon.

[0164] Fig.33 One aspect of the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. Since the chamber 1062 including the heating element is in close proximity to the chamber 1048 including the sensitive electrical components, a barrier 1460 may be positioned between the two chambers 1062, 1048. The barrier 1048 may be thermally insulated to prevent heated air from leaking from the chamber 1062 to the chamber 1048. The barrier 1460 is positioned within the housing 1002 and will be configured to prevent heat transfer from the chamber 1062 to the chamber 1048 across itself.

[0165] Fig.34 A gear system 1500 is illustrated for reducing the vertical profile of a motor that rotates a mode agitator. The gear system 1500 includes a motor 1504 having a drive shaft 1506. A gear 1508 is positioned on the drive shaft 1506 and is configured to transmit rotational energy from the drive shaft 1506 to a gear 1510. A drive shaft 1512 is positioned on the gear 1510 and transmits rotational energy from the gear 1510 to a mode agitator 1514. The mode agitator 1514 is positioned below the cooking chamber 1502. By using the gear system 1500, the vertical profile can be reduced because the motor 1504 does not need to be directly below the mode agitator to rotate the mode agitator 1514.

[0166] Fig.35A pulley system 1520 is illustrated for reducing the vertical profile of the motor that rotates the mode agitator. The pulley system 1520 includes a motor 1524 having a drive shaft 1526. A pulley 1528 is positioned on the drive shaft 1526 and is configured to transmit rotational energy from the drive shaft 1526 to the pulley 1530 via a belt 1529 wrapped around the pulleys 1528, 1530. A drive shaft 1532 is positioned on the pulley 1530 and transmits rotational energy from the pulley 1530 to the mode agitator 1534. The mode agitator 1534 is positioned below the cooking chamber. By using the pulley system 1520, the vertical profile can be reduced because the motor 1524 does not need to be directly below the mode agitator to rotate the mode agitator 1534.

[0167] Fig.36 One aspect of a door 1600 is illustrated for use with the cooking system 1000. As previously described, the cooking system 1000 may use a button located on a front surface of the cooking system to open a door connected to the cooking system. Fig.36 A release button 1602 is depicted positioned on the side of the door 1600. The button 1602 is configured to release an arm 1604 from an internal latch within the housing of the cooking system. By placing the button 1602 on the door, the release mechanism can be completely configured within the door, saving space within the housing of the cooking system.

[0168] Figure 37-Figure 40 An embodiment of a cooking system 100 according to the subject matter described herein is depicted. In some embodiments, the cooking system 100 can include a housing 102 including a cooking volume 104, an inner container 106, an upper volume 108, and a side volume 110. A door 132 can be movably and rotatably configured on the housing 102 to selectively close the cooking volume 104.

[0169] In one aspect, the cooking volume 104 is the main cooking chamber into which food is inserted for the cooking process. The cooking volume 104 is formed by an inner shell 105 within the housing 102 and can function as a shield against microwaves and heat, as will be described in more detail below. An air gap can be positioned around the inner shell 105 and the housing 102 to isolate the cooking volume 104 from the housing 102 in terms of heat transfer.

[0170] Figure 42-Figure 44A cross-sectional view of the cooking system 100 is illustrated, showing a more detailed view of the cooking volume 104 and components. As shown, the cooking volume 104 can include a tray 502 that is configured to separate the cooking volume 104 into an upper cooking volume 512 and a lower cooking volume 514. In one aspect, a user of the cooking system may desire to place two food items in the cooking volume 104, and thus separate each item by using the tray 502. The upper cooking volume 512 can be used for either food item or container 106. For example, Fig.43 The cooking volume 104 is illustrated with the container 106 removed and the upper cooking volume 512 exposed. When the container is removed, the fan 130 can provide circulating air throughout the cooking volume 104. In one aspect, when the fan 130 circulates air, the circulated air can reach both the food placed on the tray 502 and the upper cooking volume 512, and the food placed in the lower cooking volume 514 can be cooked evenly.

[0171] The top surface defining the cooking volume 104 is an inner top wall 109. The inner top wall 109 separates the upper volume 108 from the cooking volume 104. The upper volume 108 is disposed within the housing 102 and is vertically positioned above the cooking volume 104. As described in more detail below, the inner top wall 109 has a plurality of holes disposed therein and is configured to allow airflow from the upper volume 108 into the cooking volume 104. The inner top wall 109 may also protect the components within the upper volume 108 from food splashes that may be generated during the cooking process. The inner top wall 109 may be made of a metal material and may also include a single hole or a plurality of holes 111 disposed in a particular pattern to facilitate airflow from the upper volume 108 to the cooking volume 104. As described in more detail below, the pattern in which the holes 111 are disposed may correspond to the size of the opening of the inner container 106.

[0172] Fig.38 and Figure 45-Figure 47 A perspective view of the side volume 110 of the cooking system 100 is drawn. The side volume 110 is separated from the cooking volume 114 by a side wall 616. Fig.46 As shown, the side volume 110 can include a magnetron 620 positioned adjacent to the rear wall 604 of the side volume 110. The magnetron 620 is configured as a microwave source to emit electromagnetic waves to the cooking volume 104. In order to guide the microwaves from the magnetron 620 to the cooking volume 104, a waveguide 617 is positioned within the side volume 110. The waveguide 617 is a metal conduit that contains and guides the microwaves from the magnetron 620 to the cooking volume 104. In one aspect, the waveguide 617 is positioned on the side wall 616, has an inlet at the magnetron 620, and has an outlet at a hole in the side wall 616.

[0173] The mode stirrer 702 is positioned adjacent to the hole in the side wall 616, such as Fig.48 The pattern stirrer 702 is configured to randomly distribute microwaves from the microwave assembly 120 within the cooking volume 104 to ensure uniform heating during a cooking process using microwaves. As described in more detail below, the pattern stirrer 702 can be rotated about a central axis to enhance the distribution of microwave energy throughout the cooking volume 104.

[0174] The mode stirrer 702 may be circular in shape and may also be flat in a single plane or include a bent protrusion extending axially from the plane of rotation. In one aspect, the mode stirrer may include a first slot 704 and a second slot 706, wherein the first slot 704 and the second slot 706 are configured to randomly scatter microwaves from the magnetron 620 throughout the cooking volume 104. The slots 704, 706 may be rectangular in shape and include a protrusion extending axially from the edges of the slots 704, 706 into the cooking volume 104.

[0175] like Fig.49 As shown, the mode agitator 702 is coupled to an electric motor 710 positioned in the side volume 110 and through the waveguide 614. A drive shaft extends through the waveguide 614 and is non-rotatably connected to the mode agitator 702 so as to convert the rotational motion from the motor 710 to the mode agitator 702. In one aspect, the mode agitator 702 can rotate continuously during a cooking mode in which the microwave assembly 120 is in operation and emits microwaves into the cooking volume 104. In one aspect, the mode agitator 702 can rotate at a single speed during the cooking operation. Additionally, in one aspect, the mode agitator 702 can change its rotation speed depending on the cooking process. Figure 4 As shown, the mode stirrer is positioned on the side wall 616 behind the mica sheet 614. The mica sheet 614 allows microwaves to pass through and enter the cooking volume 104 while keeping the mode stirrer 702 hidden from the user's view.

[0176] When in operation for a cooking process, heat is generated within the side volume 110 due to the magnetron 620 and the motor 405 disposed within the side volume 110. To help exhaust excess heat within the side volume 110, the side volume 110 may include a fan 608 positioned on the top wall 606 powered by the motor 609. In addition, the motor 405 includes the fan 606. Further, as shown in FIG. Fig.47 As shown, the side volume 110 may include a side wall 616 configured with ventilation holes 618 .

[0177] Disposed within the upper volume 108 is an air moving device 130 (ie, a fan). The air moving device 130 is configured to generate an air flow into the cooking volume 104 during a convection heating process. In one aspect, the air moving device 130 may be a radial fan that generates a radially outward air flow. Fig.39 As shown, the fan 130 inside the upper volume 108 can be surrounded by a reflective cover 302. When the fan 130 is turned on, the reflective cover 302 can redirect the radial airflow from the fan and direct the airflow downward through the holes 111 of the top inner wall 109 and into the cooking volume 104.

[0178] The air moving device 130 may be connected to a belt drive system 304 to provide power to the air moving device 103 while allowing the height of the housing 102 to be reduced compared to conventional air fryers. Fig.40 As shown, the belt drive system 304 may be connected at a first point of the upper volume 108 and may be connected at a second point of the side volume 110 . Fig.41 A perspective view of a belt drive system 304 configured to circulate air in a container 106 is drawn. At a first point A of the upper volume 108, the belt 310 can be coupled to a first gear 402 or pulley. At a second point B of the side volume 110, the belt 310 can be connected to a second gear 404 or pulley. The first gear 402 and the second gear 404 can be designed with components that allow speed matching between the motor 405 and each corresponding gear 402, 404. For example, the first gear 402 and the second gear 404 can be configured with the same diameter to allow a 1:1 gear ratio during fan operation. This configuration can provide minimal power loss when operating the cooking system 100. In addition, the direct drive configuration can allow the fan 130, and therefore the motor, to generate minimal noise, which will be described in more detail below. However, different gear ratios can be used between the gears 402, 404, and should be considered within the scope of the present disclosure. In one aspect, the gears 402, 404 can include gear teeth positioned on the periphery of each gear. Additionally, the belt 310 may include corresponding teeth that mesh with the teeth of the gears 402 , 404 to help prevent the belt 310 from slipping relative to the gears 402 , 404 in an operational state.

[0179] Gear 402 is connected to fan 130 via a drive shaft that extends downwardly through the inner shell of cooking volume 104 in a vertical direction. Belt 310 is configured to drive fan 130 to rotate and generate air circulation within the container. In one aspect, belt 310 can be constructed of synthetic rubber to allow for extended use in cooking system 100. For example, the cooking system can operate at high temperatures, and therefore, the belt can be constructed of urethane and polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or nylon fibers. In one aspect, a gear train or multiple gears can be used instead of a belt.

[0180] In order to generate a heated airflow for a convection cooking process, a heating element 140 is positioned adjacent to the fan 130 to heat the airflow generated by the fan 130. The heat source 140 can be a radiant or convection heat source combined with the fan 130, which can generate a heated airflow that can travel from the upper volume 108 to the cooking volumes 104, 114. In one aspect, the heating element 140 is a heating rod, tungsten alloy, carbon fiber, or any other suitable heating source. In one aspect, the heating element 140 can be positioned around the fan 130 in the same horizontal plane and radially offset. In one aspect, the heating element 130 can be cycled on and off during the cooking process according to the desired temperature or cooking method (i.e., air frying, baking, roasting).

[0181] The cooking system 100 can adapt to the user's selection, depending on the size of the food item, and therefore the choice of using either of the two groups of container 106 and heating element 140 or cooking volume 104 and microwave assembly 120. For example, when food is placed in container 106, cooking system 100 can actuate heating element 140 independently of microwave assembly 120, and vice versa. As will be explained in more detail below, if the user desires to heat food via container 106, cooking system 100 can deactivate microwave assembly 120 to save energy used by cooking system 100 during operation.

[0182] The inner container 106 may also include a cooking volume 114 where food may be positioned to receive microwave, radiant, and / or convective heat. In one aspect, the container 106 may be metal, glass, or a suitable polymer that allows microwaves to pass through. The container 106 may be held on the top inner surface of the cooking volume 104 by a bracket 123 having a channel 124 extending downwardly from the inner top wall 109. Fig.42 As shown, when the container 106 is placed inside the upper cooking volume 512, the container 106 is positioned directly adjacent to the fan 130 and the heating element 140. Due to this adjacent and proximate relationship, as shown by airflow AF, the airflow from the fan 130 and the heating element 104 is substantially contained within the container 106. This also prevents overheated airflow from reaching the lower cooking volume 514. In one aspect, this can allow the heat generated by the heating element 140 to be retained inside the cooking volume of the container 106. For example, when the container 106 is placed inside the upper cooking volume, the channel 124 provides support for the container through the outer lip 516 of the container 106. See Fig.44 and Fig.45 , the outer lip 516 can be shown as resting in the channel 124. In one aspect, the support provided by the channel 124 can serve as a guide when placing the container 106 inside the upper cooking volume 512. In some embodiments, such as Fig.45As shown, when the container 106 is placed inside the upper cooking volume 512, an outlet 520 can be provided between the outer lip 516 and the channel 124. The outlet 520 allows the cooking volume 114 to be ventilated during the convection cooking process. For example, when the fan 130 circulates air around the container 106, the internal temperature and internal pressure will increase during the operation of the cooking system 100. The outlet 520 can provide sufficient space for the hot air to exit the container 106 and enter the cooking volume 104. This helps to improve the operating efficiency of the convection cooking process because most of the heated airflow remains in the cooking volume 114.

[0183] Since the cooking device 100 has both a convection cooking system and a microwave cooking system, multiple cooking processes can be performed within the device. The first cooking process may include heating the food in the cooking volume 104 using only microwaves. In addition, the second cooking process may include generating a convection airflow to further heat and cook the food in the volumes 104, 114. The container 106 and the cooking volume 114 can be designed to have an optimal volume to enhance the cooking process during operation. In one aspect, the container 106 can be configured to have an internal volume in the range of 0.10 cubic feet to 0.15 cubic feet and specifically 0.13 cubic feet. In one aspect, the container 106 can be configured to have an internal volume in the range of 0.18 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet and specifically 0.20 cubic feet. When the fan 130 circulates the hot air from the heating element 140 into the container 106, the heat concentration inside the volume 114 can be increased at a faster rate than the cooking volume 104 due to the smaller size of the volume 114. In one aspect, the cooking volume 104 can be configured to have an interior volume in the range of 0.70 cubic feet to 0.90 cubic feet, and specifically 0.80 cubic feet. In one aspect, the cooking volume 104 can be configured to have an interior volume in the range of 1.0 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet, and specifically 1.1 cubic feet. In one aspect, the ratio of the cooking volume 104 to the volume 114 is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:1. Specifically, the ratio can be 5.50:1 or 6.15:1.

[0184] Figure 50-Figure 52One aspect of a cooking container 1700 to be used with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The container 1700 is substantially identical to the container 1100, and therefore identical components will not be described in detail. The container 1700 includes side lugs 1702, 1703 disposed on opposite sides of the container 1700 and extending from the rear of the container 1700 to the front of the container 1700. A protrusion 1717 is disposed on the underside of the side lugs 1702, 1703 and is configured to align with a recess (not shown) on the rails 1037, 1047 of the cooking system 1000 to secure the container 1700 in a secured position within the cooking chamber 1034. A rear lip 1704 is formed along the rear edge of the container and extends upwardly from the horizontal plane in which the side lugs 1702, 1703 are aligned. A front lip 1706 is formed along the front edge of the container 1700 and includes a handle 1720 and a gripping channel 1722 for a user to easily grasp and manipulate the container 1700. A cooking volume 1708 is formed in the container 1700 and is defined by side walls 1712, 1713, 1714, 1716 and a bottom wall 1710. The container 1700 may be square or rectangular in shape and is designed to limit heat loss from the cooking volume 1708 into the cooking chamber 1034 during a forced convection cooking process.

[0185] Figure 53-Figure 54 A freshness tray 1750 is shown for use with the container 1100. The freshness tray can be disposed within the cooking volume 1108 of the container 1100. The freshness tray 1750 includes a top surface 1751 including a plurality of holes 1752 positioned in the top surface 1751. The holes 1752 allow heated airflow to pass under food placed on the surface 1751 during forced convection processing. Legs 1754 are positioned at the corners of the freshness tray 1750 to create a gap between the bottom wall 1110 and the surface 1751. In addition, a curved edge 1756 is disposed on the freshness tray 1750 to match the shape of the cooking volume 1108.

[0186] Figure 55-Figure 56One aspect of a cooking container 1800 to be used with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The container 1800 is substantially identical to the container 1100, and thus identical components will not be described in detail. The container 1800 includes side lugs 1802, 1803 disposed on opposite sides of the container 1800 and extending from the rear of the container 1800 to the front of the container 1800. A rear lip 1804 is formed along the rear edge of the container and extends upwardly from the aligned horizontal plane of the side lugs 1802, 1803. A front lip 1806 is formed along the front edge of the container 1800 and includes a handle 1820 and a gripping channel 1822 for a user to easily grasp and manipulate the container 1800. A cooking volume 1808 is formed in the container 1800 and is defined by side walls 1812, 1813, 1814, 1816 and a bottom wall 1810. The shape of the container 1800 can be square or rectangular, and due to the need to reduce the overall volume in order to establish a heated airflow of sufficient velocity and temperature for air frying, the container 1800 is designed to limit heat loss from the cooking volume 1808 into the cooking chamber 1034 during the forced convection cooking process.

[0187] Figure 57-Figure 58 A rack 1850 configured to be used with the cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The rack 1850 includes an outer body 1854 that forms the outer boundary of the rack 1850. Extending between the outer body 1854 are rails 1852 in a parallel configuration. A handle 1862 is positioned at the front edge of the outer body 1854 and is configured to allow a user to easily slide the rack 1850 into and out of the cooking chamber 1034. The rack 1850 also includes insulators 1858 positioned on the outer body at the front corners and insulators 1860 positioned on the outer body 1854 at the rear corners to insulate the conductive portions of the rack 1850 from the conductive portions of the cooking chamber 1034. This is due to the nature of microwave cooking, and sparks may occur between two conductive surfaces within a microwave oven during a microwave cooking process.

[0188] Figure 59-Figure 69 One aspect of a hinge system for use with a cooking system 1000 is illustrated. The hinge system includes a bracket 1900 positioned within a housing 1002. The bracket 1900 extends outwardly from the housing 1002 toward and into the door 1004. The bracket 1900 includes a channel 1902 positioned within the bracket 1900 and a hole (not shown) that allows a pin 1908 to pass through. A corresponding bracket 1904 is positioned in the door 1004 and includes a hole (not shown) for receiving the pin 1908. Since both brackets 1900, 1904 receive the pin 1908, a pivot connection is formed between the housing 1002 and the door 1004 at these connection points. The bracket 1904 includes a lug 1906 extending from the bracket 1904 and is configured to be received within the channel 1902.

[0189] The hinge system also includes a bracket 1920. Bracket 1920 is positioned at a lower portion of housing 1002 than hinge 1900. Bracket 1920 is substantially the same as bracket 1900 and includes a channel 1922. Bracket 1924 is positioned within door 1004 at a lower position than bracket 1904 and includes a lug 1926.

[0190] like Figure 59-Figure 64 As shown, when the door 1004 is in the closed position, the lugs 1906, 1926 are configured on the outside of the brackets 1902, 1922. Specifically, the lugs 1906, 1926 are not included in the channels 1902, 1922. When the door 1004 moves to the open position, the lugs 1906, 1926 rotate around the pins 1908, 1928 and enter the channels 1902, 1922. Once the lugs 1906, 1926 abut against the brackets 1902, 1922, the door 1004 will not open further. The lugs 1906, 1926 and the channels 1902, 1922 are designed so that the door can be fully opened to clear the opening into the cooking chamber 1034, allowing the user to easily remove the container or the rack from the cooking chamber through the opening. In one aspect, the door 1004 can be opened at least 110 degrees before being stopped by the lugs 1906, 1926.

[0191] Certain exemplary implementations will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, principle of manufacture and use of the device disclosed herein, and methods. One or more examples of these implementations are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-restrictive exemplary implementations, and the scope of the present invention is limited only by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with an exemplary implementation may be combined with the features of other implementations. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0192] In addition, in the present disclosure, the same named components of the implementations generally have the same features, so in a specific implementation, it is not necessary to fully elaborate on every feature of each of the same named components. In addition, in the description of the disclosed systems, devices and methods, linear or circular dimensions are used, and such dimensions are not intended to limit the types of shapes that can be used in conjunction with such systems, devices and methods. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that for any geometric shape, dimensions equivalent to such linear and circular dimensions can be easily determined. The size and shape of the systems and devices and their components can be based at least on the anatomical structure of the subject in which the systems and devices will be used, the size and shape of the components in which the systems and devices will be used, and the methods and procedures in which the systems and devices will be used. In addition, the terms "approximately" and "substantially" are defined as ranges based on manufacturing variations and variations in temperature and other parameters.

[0193] Approximate language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that may be permitted to vary without causing a change in the basic function to which it is related. Therefore, values ​​modified by one or more terms such as "approximately," "roughly," and "substantially" are not limited to the precise values ​​specified. In at least some instances, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the above values. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and / or interchanged, and unless the context or language indicates otherwise, such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein.

[0194] In the above description and claims, phrases such as "at least one" or "one or more" may appear after the conjunction list of elements or features. The term "and / or" may also appear in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implied or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it is used, this phrase is intended to represent any element or feature listed alone or any element or feature combined with any other described element or feature. For example, the phrases "at least one of A and B", "one or more of A and B" and "A and / or B" are intended to represent "single A, single B or A and B together" respectively. The same explanation is also intended to be used for a list containing three or more items. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B and C", "one or more of A, B and C" and "A, B and / or C" are intended to represent "single A, single B, single C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together" respectively. In addition, the term "based on" used in the above and claims is intended to represent "based at least in part" so that unquoted features or elements are also allowed.

[0195] Those skilled in the art will appreciate other features and advantages of the present invention based on the above implementation. Therefore, the present application is not limited by the content that has been specifically shown and described, unless indicated by the attached claims. All publications and references cited herein are clearly incorporated by quoting their entire contents.

[0196] What is required is:

Claims

1. A device comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber, a first chamber, and a second chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall and an inner bottom wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the second chamber; an air moving device positioned within said first chamber; a heating element positioned within the first chamber; as well as a mode stirrer positioned within the second chamber, wherein the top inner wall includes at least one hole configured to allow heated airflow generated by the air moving device and the heating element to enter the cooking chamber, and the lower bottom wall includes a microwave permeable material configured to allow microwaves to enter the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The first chamber is positioned vertically above the cooking chamber.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The second chamber is positioned vertically below the cooking chamber.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The inner top wall includes a plurality of apertures configured to allow passage of the heated airflow.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The pattern stirrer is configured to deflect the microwaves emitted to the second chamber before the microwaves enter the cooking chamber through the inner bottom wall.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The first chamber is aligned with the second chamber in a vertical direction.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The first chamber is defined by the inner upper wall and a radiation shield positioned radially outward from the heating element.

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The second chamber is defined by the lower inner wall and a radiation shield positioned radially outward from the mode stirrer.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein: A waveguide is positioned between the microwave source and the second chamber, and an outlet of the waveguide passes through the radiation shield.

10. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The microwave source is positioned within a third chamber that is disposed adjacent to the cooking chamber, the first chamber, and the second chamber.

11. An apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber comprising an inner wall having a hole therein; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves; a waveguide having an inlet and an outlet, the waveguide being configured to receive microwaves from the microwave source via the inlet and emit the microwaves into the cooking chamber via the outlet; an air moving device positioned outside of the cooking chamber and configured to generate an air flow; as well as a heating element positioned outside of the cooking chamber and configured to heat the airflow to produce a heated airflow through the apertures of the inner wall, wherein the hole in the inner wall is positioned on a first side of the cooking chamber and the outlet of the waveguide is positioned on a second side of the cooking chamber, the first side being opposite to the second side.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein The first side is a top side of the cooking chamber.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein: The second side is a bottom side of the cooking chamber.

14. The device according to claim 11, wherein: The inner wall includes a plurality of holes to allow the heated air flow to pass through the inner wall and into the cooking chamber.

15. The device according to claim 11, wherein The heating element is positioned radially outward from the air moving device.

16. The device according to claim 11, wherein A microwave permeable material is positioned between the outlet of the waveguide and the cooking chamber.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein: A mode stirrer is positioned between the outlet of the waveguide and the microwave permeable material.

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein: The mode stirrer is vertically aligned with the hole in the inner wall.

19. The device according to claim 17, wherein: The air moving device is vertically aligned with a portion of the mode agitator.

20. The device according to claim 11, wherein The air moving device is vertically aligned with the outlet of the waveguide.

21. An apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber, a first chamber, and a second chamber formed therein; a microwave source positioned within the first chamber and configured to emit microwaves; a waveguide having a first section and a second section, the second section being angled relative to the first section, wherein an inlet is located at the first section and an outlet is located at the second section; a microwave impermeable sheet separating the cooking chamber from the first chamber; as well as a microwave permeable sheet separating the cooking chamber from the second chamber, The inlet is connected to the microwave source for receiving the emitted microwaves, and the outlet is connected to the second chamber for emitting the microwaves into the second chamber.

22. The device according to claim 21, wherein The first section is a vertical section adjacent to the microwave impermeable sheet.

23. The device according to claim 22, wherein: The second section is a horizontal section extending parallel to the microwave permeable sheet.

24. The device according to claim 21, wherein The first segment is positioned perpendicular to the second segment.

25. The device according to claim 21, wherein The inlet is positioned at a distal end of the first section.

26. The device according to claim 25, wherein The outlet is positioned at a distal end of the second section.

27. The device according to claim 21, wherein The second section extends below the cooking chamber and the second chamber.

28. The device according to claim 21, wherein The first chamber is positioned adjacent to the cooking chamber in a side-by-side configuration.

29. The device according to claim 28, wherein The second chamber is positioned below the cooking chamber.

30. The device according to claim 21, wherein A mode stirrer is positioned within the second chamber.

31. The device according to claim 30, wherein The mode stirrer is positioned between the outlet of the waveguide and the microwave permeable sheet.

32. The device according to claim 30, wherein: The drive shaft of the mode stirrer passes through the waveguide.

33. An apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber, the cooking chamber including an inner wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to directly cook food in the cooking chamber; an air moving device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an air flow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to produce a heated airflow; a radiation shield having a top wall positioned axially outward of the heating element and a first side wall extending from the top wall, the first side wall having a first width and a first depth, the first side wall being positioned radially outward of the heating element; as well as a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container comprising a top opening for inserting the food into the container and a second sidewall having a second width and a second depth, Wherein, the first width of the first side wall corresponds to the second width of the second side wall, so that the heated airflow is aligned with the second width when the heated airflow passes along the first side wall.

34. The device according to claim 33, wherein The first width is substantially the same as the second width.

35. The device according to claim 34, wherein The first depth is substantially the same as the second depth.

36. The device according to claim 33, wherein The first side wall of the radiation shield is positioned at an angle with the top wall in a range of 10 degrees to 80 degrees.

37. The device according to claim 33, wherein: An edge of the first side wall is aligned with an edge of the second side wall in a vertical direction.

38. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein: The second side wall is horizontally spaced apart from an inner wall of the cooking chamber.

39. A container comprising: a top opening for inserting food into the container; a first side protrusion extending outwardly from the top opening and configured to contact a first track within the cooking device to support the container; a second side protrusion extending outwardly from the top opening and opposite the first side protrusion and configured to contact a second track within the cooking device to support the container; a rear lip extending outwardly from the top opening, the rear lip being positioned at an angle between 10 and 80 degrees relative to the first side protrusion; a front lip extending outwardly from the top opening; a side wall connected to the top opening and extending around the top opening; a bottom wall connected to the side walls; as well as A cooking volume is formed within the container between the side walls and the bottom wall.

40. The container of claim 39, wherein: The rear lip extends to a rear wall of the cooking device when the container is positioned within the cooking device.

41. The container of claim 39, wherein: The front lip extends to a front wall of the cooking device when the container is positioned within the cooking device.

42. The container of claim 39, wherein: The rear lip is configured to contact a protrusion extending from a side wall of the cooking device to prevent linear removal of the container from the cooking device.

43. The container of claim 39, wherein: The front lip includes a channel configured to allow a user to grasp the container.

44. The container of claim 39, wherein: A freshness tray is configured to be positioned within the cooking volume.

45. The container of claim 39, wherein: The cross-sectional area of ​​the container is substantially the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the cooking chamber of the cooking device.

46. ​​The container of claim 39, wherein: The container is formed from a microwave permeable material.

47. The container of claim 39, wherein: The cooking volume of the container forms a sub-cooking volume within the cooking chamber of the cooking device.

48. The container of claim 47, wherein: The sub-cooking volume has a volume that is less than half the volume of the cooking chamber of the cooking device.

49. An apparatus comprising: a housing having a front surface and an opening positioned on the front surface; a first bracket extending outwardly from the front surface, the front surface having a first connection point and a channel extending inwardly to the first bracket; a door rotatably connected to the housing to selectively cover the opening; a second bracket positioned within the door, the door having a second connection point and a lug extending from the second bracket; a cooking chamber formed in the housing, wherein the cooking chamber is configured to be accessed through the opening and to cook food directly in the cooking chamber; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air moving device positioned within the housing; as well as a heating element positioned within the housing, The first bracket is rotatably connected to the second bracket via the first connection point and the second connection point, and the lug is configured to be disposed in the channel and abut against the first bracket when the door is rotated to a maximum open position.

50. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein: The channel is positioned inboard of the first connection point.

51. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein: The door is capable of opening at an angle greater than 100 degrees relative to the front surface.

52. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein: The lug extends upwardly from the second bracket.

53. The device of claim 49, wherein the door is configured to rotate to an open position such that the door fully opens an opening in a front surface of the housing.

54. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein: The first bracket extends into the door.

55. A method comprising: positioning the food within the cooking volume of the container; positioning the container in a first position within the cooking chamber of a cooking device; actuating a first cooking mode in which the food product is heated using a first cooking process; A second cooking mode is activated wherein the food product is heated using a second cooking process, the first cooking process being different from the second cooking process.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein: The first cooking process is a microwave cooking process.

57. The method of claim 55, wherein: The second cooking process is a forced convection cooking process.

58. The method of claim 55, further comprising, prior to actuating the second cooking mode, positioning the container in a second position within the cooking chamber of the cooking device.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein: The second position is located vertically above the first position in the cooking chamber.

60. The method of claim 58, wherein: The second position enables the sub-cooking space within the cooking chamber to become the first cooking volume by reducing heat losses from the cooking volume into the cooking chamber during the second cooking process.

61. The method of claim 58, wherein: In the second position, the container is directly adjacent to the top wall of the cooking chamber.

62. The method of claim 55, wherein: The container is formed from a microwave permeable material.

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