Wet bulb sensor device for household oven

Abstract

The invention relates to a wet-bulb sensor device (1) for a household oven (2), comprising at least the following components:-a basin (3) for water (4), which is open upwards in operation, the water level (5) of which is formed in operation; an inlet port (6) for water (4) for filling the basin (3); -a temperature sensor (7), which, in operation, is partially immersed in the water (4) in the basin (3); -a controller (8) with an adjusting device (9) for setting, in operation, a predetermined height of the water level (5). The wet bulb sensor device (1) is characterized in particular in that, in operation, the inlet port (6) is arranged below a predetermined water level (5) in the earth's gravitational field (10). Pressure-controlled constant water levels can be achieved by means of the wet bulb sensor device proposed herein.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a wet-bulb sensor device for a domestic oven, a steam generating device comprising such a wet-bulb sensor device for a domestic oven, a domestic oven for heating food comprising such a steam generating device, a method for operating such a wet-bulb sensor device, and a computer program and a computer program product, each of which is used to perform such a method.

[0002] For many domestic ovens, it is desirable to record the wet bulb temperature, which is the lowest temperature that can be achieved by direct evaporative cooling. This is particularly advantageous in the context of steam ovens. In one embodiment this involves a stove, and in another embodiment it involves a microwave oven of the type commonly used in homes by non-professionals.

[0003] In order to detect the wet bulb temperature, it is necessary to provide a certain amount of water (a small amount) in a domestic oven and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the water and / or the temperature of the immediate environment above the water level. For this purpose, a basin and a temperature sensor preferably partially immersed in water are provided. For this purpose, it is necessary to keep the water level constant in a small area.

[0004] At present, an electrical controller is usually provided for this purpose, which receives its input via a temperature sensor, which detects, for example, a temperature above the boiling point of water. Then it is clear that the water in the basin or excess water has evaporated. Water must therefore be added. Overflowing of the basin is often accepted, as the amount is small enough not to significantly affect the cooking result and does not cause damage to the oven.

[0005] On this basis, the present invention is based on the task of at least partially overcoming the disadvantages of the prior art. The features according to the invention are derived from the independent claim(s), advantageous embodiments of which are indicated in the dependent claim(s). The features of the claims can be combined in any technically reasonable manner, whereby for this purpose also features from the explanations in the following description and from the drawings, which include additional embodiments of the invention.

[0006] The present invention relates to a wet-bulb sensor device for a household oven, the wet-bulb sensor device comprising at least the following components:

[0007] - a basin for water which is open upwards during operation, the water level of which is established during operation;

[0008] - an inlet port for water for filling the basin;

[0009] - a temperature sensor which, during operation, is partially immersed in the water in the basin;

[0010] - A controller having regulating means for setting a predetermined height of the water level during operation.

[0011] The wet-bulb sensor device is particularly characterized in that, in operation, the inlet port is arranged below the predetermined water level in the Earth's gravitational field.

[0012] As used herein, spatial directions refer to intended use in operation, wherein the orientation of anything towards the earth's gravitational field is referred to as the top, and the user side of anything, i.e. the side that the user is expected to reach (e.g. via the door of a domestic oven), is referred to as the front, with the rear side being the least accessible side (usually intended for at least one connection and / or oriented towards a wall). In some applications, such as hobs or domestic ovens with hobs, one (or possibly more) user side is the top side. Side or lateral elements are arranged between the front and rear and extend along the earth's gravitational field (usually referred to as the left or right), but are therefore not arranged below or above between the front and rear. It should be noted that connections are usually not provided at the rear or not solely at the rear, but are alternatively or additionally provided at the sides, bottom and / or top.

[0013] Unless expressly stated to the contrary, ordinal numbers used in the foregoing and following descriptions are for the purpose of clear distinction only and do not reflect any order or ranking of the predetermined components. An ordinal number greater than one does not imply that another such component must exist.

[0014] The wet-bulb sensor device proposed here has a basin which is open at the top and can be filled with water during operation. In addition, a temperature sensor is provided which is partially immersed in the water, wherein the temperature sensor is preferably fixed and therefore has a constant orientation relative to the water level. Preferably, the temperature sensor is not only arranged to detect the temperature in the water in the basin, but also to detect the temperature above the water level immediately adjacent to the water in the basin. In order to be able to adjust this water level, an inlet port for filling with water (i.e., mainly for refilling with water during operation) is provided. In addition, in order that the water level can be maintained accurately (i.e., within a small fluctuation range), a controller is provided. By means of its adjustment device, during operation, the water can be adjusted to a predetermined liquid level, which is therefore designed for the spatial relationship with the above-mentioned temperature sensor.

[0015] It should be noted that the term "temperature sensor" is used here to refer only to a specific part of the sensor device which is actually arranged to measure a variable. This means that the sensor in this context is a sensor in the control engineering sense, rather than a sensor device with reinforcing elements, cables, connections and possible insulation (as is commercially available). However, the temperature sensor is preferably part of such a (temperature) sensor device. In one embodiment, the temperature sensor comprises two or more independent sensing elements, wherein, very preferably, each of these sensing elements is completely immersed in the water (i.e. below the water level) or completely above the water level in operation.

[0016] Although in the prior art it was considered uncritical whether the temperature sensor is completely submerged or only wetted with water, it has been recognized in this respect that such an operating mode leads to unfavorable control behavior or even to a user being dissatisfied with the cooking result and / or the cooking experience. For example, there are considerable fluctuations between the measurements taken so far while being submerged and the measurements taken until the evaporation of the wetting is complete, since a temperature above the boiling point of water is reached after the event of evaporation of all the water, and the controller cannot react before this point in time. Since the boiling point also varies with the current air pressure, this temperature is not precisely determined.

[0017] Therefore, it is proposed here that the inlet port for water is arranged below the predetermined water level. This means that there is a predetermined pressure at the inlet port, which can be detected and therefore can determine very accurately whether the water level has changed. The pressure is therefore determined by the structure and can be permanently implemented in the controller or its regulating device. In one embodiment, the water level in the basin can be transferred to a controller chamber located in the maintenance compartment of the oven. According to the principle of communicating vessels, the water level in the basin and the water level in the controller chamber are the same. In this arrangement, the controller can measure and / or adjust the water level in the controller chamber, and this water level will be the same in the basin. This controller chamber can be suitable for hosting the controller in a maintenance compartment, which is thermally separated from the oven cavity in which the basin is present. This advantageously allows the controller to be placed in an environment that will have a lower temperature than the cavity oven, so that cheap (e.g., plastic) materials can be used for the controller.

[0018] If different operating modes of the wet-bulb sensor device are desired (e.g. measurements without partial immersion (herein referred to as dry measurements) or conversely measurements with a fully immersed temperature sensor (herein referred to as immersed measurements)), this can also be adjusted by detecting the pressure with the aid of the regulating device (or indirectly via another (pressure) sensor which communicates the sensed value as input value to the regulating device), i.e. to correspond to a lower or higher water level.

[0019] When referring to in operation or in an operational situation herein, this refers neither to a dry measurement nor to an immersed measurement, but rather to a partially immersed and therefore very accurate measurement of the wet bulb temperature. However, at least in one embodiment, both or at least one of these non-operational measurements (dry measurement and fully immersed measurement) may be performed.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment of the wet-bulb sensor device it is further provided that the controller comprises a supply port and that the regulating device is formed by a float and a corresponding sealing seat which can be closed by means of the float,

[0021] Wherein, the supply port and the inlet port are connected to each other in a communicating manner, and the sealing seat is arranged at a predetermined height of the water level.

[0022] In this embodiment, a particularly simple mechanical pressure measurement for simultaneously detecting and adjusting the water level is proposed. For this purpose, the controller comprises a float, by which the valve for water of the inlet port is formed together with a corresponding sealing seat. The supply port is communicatively connected to a water source, such as a water tank (e.g. as part of a domestic oven) or a so-called household wall port. Further, the supply port is communicatively connected to the inlet port.

[0023] The communicating connection is created via one or more corresponding lines which are concealed from the environment (in technical terms, i.e. have sufficiently low leakage) and are therefore suitable for conducting water. Usually, a port (i.e. here an inlet port and a supply port) represents a technical element which can be connected to a separate technical element in a (water) conducting and sealed manner. Alternatively, such a connection is integrated into another component and is merely a theoretically considered passage at a certain location in the water supply system.

[0024] In this embodiment, the physical relationships explained below apply, which are also shown in Figure 3 First, the water pressure must be determined via the water column, for example using a water tank:

[0025] (1.1)p r =ρ w ·g·h r ,

[0026] Among them, ρ r is the water pressure provided by the water tank, ρ w is the density of water, g is the acceleration constant due to gravity and h r is the height of the water (i.e., water column) measured at the current fill level of the tank. Alternatively, the water pressure p r Determined by a wall port or via a throttle valve via a pipe connection such as a domestic oven.

[0027] The supply force F generated on the floating bodyr Depends on exposure to this water pressure p r The area of ​​(e.g., the diameter of a spherical segment of a sphere), i.e., the vector component oriented transversely to the Earth's gravity field. Thus, we have:

[0028] (1.2)F r =A O ·p r ,

[0029] Among them, F r is the supply force acting on the float, and A O is the area of ​​the opening perpendicular to the Earth's gravitational field. For example, if the area of ​​the opening is circular, then:

[0030] (1.3)

[0031] Among them, d O is the diameter of the circular area of ​​the opening.

[0032] At the set water level, the regulating device should be able to overcome the supply force F by pressing the float from below against the water column (by buoyancy). r To press the float and close the corresponding sealing seat. Therefore, a corresponding large reaction force should be generated.

[0033] This buoyancy F b is determined as follows:

[0034] (1.4)F b =V b ·ρ w ·K b ,

[0035] Among them, K b is the percentage of the float submerged in water and V b is its volume, which for a spherical float is determined as follows:

[0036] (1.5)

[0037] Among them, d b is the diameter of the spherical float.

[0038] In addition, the mass of the floating body should be considered, which is known or can be easily calculated from its volume and density or as the sum of the various densities of each corresponding partial volume with constant density. Multiplying the mass of the floating body by the gravitational acceleration thus yields the gravitational force F w , from the buoyancy F b Subtract the gravity from the supply force F or add the gravity to the supply force F r Added, the following therefore applies to the closed state of the regulating device:

[0039] (1.6)(F r +F w ) <F b .

[0040] Compared with the mathematical balance, the volume V of the floating body b or diameter d b Preferably, it is enlarged in order to absorb dynamic effects such as turbulence, deformation of the float and / or the corresponding sealing seat, surface tension of the wetting water, which can counteract or effectively prevent closing. It should be taken into account here that the height difference (h diff ) and / or the changed water column height (h r ) may be affected and, in this case, must be recalculated. It should be noted that the floating body has an almost arbitrary geometry and is not necessarily designed to float freely, but is preferably guided (eg pivotable) and / or supported.

[0041] For example, the corresponding sealing seat diameter d O is 2 mm [two millimeters], the height of the water column h r The diameter d of the spherical hollow plastic float used is 200 mm [two hundred millimeters]. b The spherical float is 16 mm [sixteen millimeters] thick, the shell is 0.7 mm [seven tenths of a millimeter] thick and is filled with air, with the float 60% [sixty percent] submerged in the pool side of the controller. In this embodiment, a suitable diameter d of the spherical float is b In this embodiment, the appropriate diameter d of the corresponding sealing seat is between five millimeters and twenty millimeters. O Between one millimeter and five millimeters.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment of the wet-bulb sensor device it is further provided that a position sensor is integrated into the regulating device, wherein a movement of the float out of the closed position can be detected by means of the position sensor.

[0043] The position sensor is for example an angle sensor in the support of the tiltable floating body, whereby in one embodiment only one of the extreme positions can be detected. Alternatively or additionally, the position sensor comprises for example an electrical, magnetic and / or capacitive contact sensor or a distance sensor, whereby in one embodiment only one stop position, i.e. one extreme position, can be detected.

[0044] For example, if such movement of the floating body can be detected, feedback can be given on an error condition.

[0045] According to another aspect, a steam generating device for a domestic oven is provided, the steam generating device comprising at least the following components:

[0046] - a steam generator having an oven-side steam inlet;

[0047] - a wet bulb sensor device according to any one of the preceding claims; and

[0048] - a water supply system for the basin of the steam generator and the wet-bulb sensor device,

[0049] Therein, in operation, the controller of the wet bulb sensor device is simultaneously arranged for setting a predetermined height of the water level of the steam generator using the same regulating means.

[0050] In this embodiment, the wet bulb sensor device can be controlled together with the steam generator or the water level of the steam generator via a common controller. The controller is a structural unit and / or comprises a single regulating device. In one embodiment, the float and the corresponding sealing seat are the only regulating devices for the steam generator and the wet bulb sensor device.

[0051] For example, a steam generator is equipped with an evaporator and a parallel branch line, in which the same water level is set in both. Due to evaporation, the water level must be readjusted continuously. The steam inlet is an opening into the oven chamber of a domestic oven, or can be connected to such an opening or to a sleeve connected to such an opening.

[0052] In an advantageous embodiment of the steam generating device it is further provided that the basin of the wet-bulb sensor device and the predetermined water level of the steam generator are identical.

[0053] In this advantageous embodiment, a particularly simple controller can be used, for example with a float as regulating device, without additional throttling elements or cascade segments.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment of the steam generating device it is further provided that the water supply system comprises a first supply line towards an inlet port of the basin of the wet-bulb sensor device and a second supply line towards the steam generator,

[0055] The first supply line has a greater flow resistance than the second supply line.

[0056] It is proposed here that the flow resistance is smaller (e.g. the diameter is correspondingly larger) towards the steam generator and larger (e.g. the diameter is correspondingly smaller) towards the wet-bulb sensor device (e.g. the diameter is correspondingly smaller) (e.g. by means of different diameters of the lines). This is to achieve that under dynamic conditions, due to the usually significantly larger or more frequent water demands in the steam generator, more of the supplied water is directed to the steam generator than to the wet-bulb sensor device when the controller is turned on. In one embodiment, a throttle valve, preferably a pinch throttle valve, is arranged in the first supply line (leading to the wet-bulb sensor device), which throttle valve is professionally set during factory assembly or initial startup.

[0057] It should be noted that in the more demanding reversal mode of operation of the wet bulb sensing device, the flow resistance of these lines is correspondingly reversed.

[0058] In an advantageous embodiment of the steam generating device, it is further provided that the steam generating device is lockably connected to the overflow port which communicates via the discharge valve.

[0059] In order to avoid the malfunction of overfilling the steam generating device and / or to discharge the water in the steam generating device in an operationally necessary manner, a discharge valve is proposed. In the former case, this is, for example, pressure-controlled, preferably passively via a corresponding float. In the latter case, the discharge valve can be opened or closed additionally or alternatively manually or electronically.

[0060] Preferably, the overflow port is communicatively connected to an overflow tank or house port (eg a waste pipe or siphon), or to a pipe carrying fluid in a tray positioned in the bottom of the oven cavity.

[0061] It is further provided in an advantageous embodiment of the steam generating device that the controller is formed according to the embodiments described above.

[0062] Particularly advantageous here is a controller having a float and a corresponding sealing seat as described above, whereby quite preferably the water level of both the steam generator and the wet-bulb sensor device or its basin is identical.

[0063] According to another aspect, a domestic oven for heating food is proposed, the domestic oven comprising at least the following components:

[0064] - a cavity, which can be closed by a user-side door, for holding the food to be heated;

[0065] - a temperature control device for adjusting the temperature in the cavity;

[0066] a wet-bulb sensor device according to an embodiment as described above or a steam generating device according to an embodiment as described above, wherein the temperature detected by means of its temperature sensor can be used as an input value for the temperature control device; and

[0067] - a water source for supplying water to the wet-bulb sensor device in operation,

[0068] Therein, preferably, the control unit of the domestic oven or a component of the control unit is arranged to communicate with an external computer.

[0069] The domestic oven is for example a steam oven, a baking oven and / or a microwave oven, whereby preferably the steam cooking function is integrated into the latter two ovens by means of a steam generating device according to the embodiments described above. In operation, a door leading to the cavity is provided at the front and / or at the top, which door is accessible to and can be opened by the user, wherein climatic conditions can be set in the cavity, i.e. generally an elevated temperature and / or elevated humidity compared to the environment. For this purpose, the cavity and / or the door are preferably thermally insulated relative to the environment. It should be noted that the domestic oven proposed here is designed with an integrated door or without a (i.e., separate) door.

[0070] The wet bulb sensor device is arranged to detect the wet bulb temperature as indicated above, wherein the basin or its opening (oriented upwards during operation) and a temperature sensor are arranged in the cavity for this purpose.

[0071] Preferably, in addition to dry temperature detection, the temperature detected by means of a wet bulb sensor device can also be used as an input value for the temperature control device or integrated into a corresponding control loop. The temperature and / or relative humidity as set point is specified directly or indirectly (e.g., via a program) by the user.

[0072] Furthermore, the domestic oven comprises a water source, whereby in one embodiment the water source is formed as a water tank or alternatively by a connection for a common house port (e.g. together with a pipe). Preferably, the setting of the predetermined water level is set only by means of the controller, whereby the water source is then communicatively connected to the basin or its inlet port only via the controller, e.g. to a supply port of the controller. This means that when the controller is switched off, the communicative connection is interrupted.

[0073] It should be noted that the water source is preferably further arranged to supply water to the steam generator.

[0074] It is further provided in an advantageous embodiment of the domestic oven that the water source is formed by a water tank which, in operation, is arranged above the controller in the Earth's gravitational field and is communicatively connected via the controller to the inlet port.

[0075] By means of a water tank, a flexible arrangement is possible in a home kitchen. By arranging the water tank above the controller, the water column can be easily arranged, as described above. In addition, such a top mounted water tank is easily accessible to the user for refilling.

[0076] It is further provided in an advantageous embodiment of the domestic oven that the regulating device comprises a vent port which is communicatively connected to the water tank by means of a vent line which is connected to the water tank above a predetermined maximum filling level.

[0077] Such a vent line prevents the creation of air cushions within the controller chamber itself which could impair the correct behavior of the float.In one embodiment, the predetermined maximum fill level of the tank is set by means of an instruction to the user, for example via a marker or a float.

[0078] In an advantageous embodiment, the domestic oven is capable of communicating with external entities, for example via the so-called Internet of Things [IoT]. This helps, for example, to assist a user in front of the domestic oven when cooking or in an error situation. This also helps, for example, to assist a user as a service provider to be informed remotely that an error situation has occurred and / or that a part will soon need to be replaced. The external computer is preferably part of a so-called cloud and / or a local device of the service provider.

[0079] It is further provided in an advantageous embodiment of the domestic oven that the water tank is connected to an overflow line at a predetermined maximum filling level.

[0080] Preferably, the overflow line is connected to an overflow port of the steam generating device, preferably downstream of the connection side of the discharge valve according to the embodiments described above.

[0081] It is proposed here, for example, to provide a skimmer-type overflow orifice or an overflow valve so that overfilled water is discharged from the water tank via an overflow line so that the water tank can be filled (at least not permanently) over and above the maximum fill level.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment, the steam generating device is provided with a discharge valve as described above. The overflow line of the water tank is preferably connected to a common line or a common overflow port downstream of the discharge valve in the discharge direction. Preferably, the overflow port is connected in a communicating manner to an overflow tank or a house port (e.g. a waste water line or a siphon or the inside of a cavity) to discharge liquid above the oven tray.

[0083] According to another aspect, a method for operating a wet bulb sensor device according to an embodiment as described above is proposed, wherein upon detecting by means of the position sensor that a predetermined movement of the float away from the sealing position continues for a period exceeding a predetermined refilling period, a communication signal is output by the position sensor and / or the processor,

[0084] Wherein, in response to the communication signal, the user receives at least one of the following instructions via the user machine interface:

[0085] - a water source communicatively connected to the inlet port is to be filled or is to be connected, respectively, or a corresponding source valve is to be opened;

[0086] - the temperature detected by means of the temperature sensor is wrong; and

[0087] The steam generator of the steam generating device, preferably according to the embodiments described above, is not adequately supplied.

[0088] This method can be used to notify a user of an error in a wet bulb sensor device or its water supply. Alternatively or additionally, a service provider can be notified of the error in the manner of the Internet of Things [IoT] and an assessment can be made as to what needs to be done or arrangements can be made (e.g. as part of a fixed service contract) to correct the error. The service provider then has the status of the user of the wet bulb sensor device or the domestic oven, whereby in the latter case additional errors can be determined, preferably remotely.

[0089] The processor is preferably a general purpose processor (e.g. a central processing unit, CPU) or a microprocessor, a RISC processor, a GPU and / or a DSP. Preferably, the processor is integrated into a control unit of the associated household oven or is its only processor. The communication signal is an analog or digital signal which can be read by the processor, assigned unambiguously and / or processed by means of a corresponding electronic architecture in an anti-aliasing manner. In one embodiment, the communication signal is a short-time voltage change, for example as a so-called beacon. In one embodiment, the communication signal is implemented with more extensive information, for example with a header and an information part.

[0090] Preferably, the processor can access internal and / or external data storage. The (data) storage is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD, SSD, HHD) or a solid-state (non-volatile) memory, such as a ROM memory or a flash memory [Flash EEPROM]. The storage means usually comprise a plurality of separate physical units or are distributed over a large number of independent devices, so that access thereto is made via (data) communication (e.g. packet data service). The latter is a decentralized solution, whereby the memories and processors of a large number of independent computing units are used instead of or in addition to a (single unitary) central onboard computer.

[0091] In one embodiment, the user-machine interface is a screen on (ie integrated into or at) the domestic oven or an external (preferably mobile) terminal device, such as a smartphone.

[0092] If a water tank or a connected house port (e.g. by means of a source valve, such as a safety tap in the home kitchen or house in question) is closed or not supplied with water (e.g. due to construction), or if the pipes in the home oven itself are damaged (e.g. having a leak and / or are blocked), an output is given to the user to fill or to connect a water source connected to the inlet port, or to open the corresponding source valve.

[0093] Preferably, the error situations listed here also indicate an insufficient supply of a (preferably current) steam generator of the steam generating device.

[0094] In an advantageous embodiment of the method it is further provided that a wet-bulb sensor device is used in a domestic oven according to the embodiment described above,

[0095] wherein, moreover, a filling sensor is integrated in the water tank, by means of which a predetermined minimum filling level of the water tank can be detected during operation,

[0096] Therein, when the water tank is filled above the predetermined minimum filling level and when the communication signal is output to the user via the user-machine interface by means of a position sensor or a processor of the adjusting device of the wet-bulb sensor device, the following indication is output: there is an error in the controller of the wet-bulb sensor device.

[0097] This method may be used to notify a user of an error in a water tank related to a wet bulb sensor device or its water supply. Alternatively or additionally, as explained above, a service provider may be notified of an error in accordance with the Internet of Things [IoT].

[0098] In this embodiment, it is possible to automatically determine whether there is an error in the water supply within the system consisting of the water tank and the wet bulb sensor device and preferably the steam generator. That is, if the filling sensor detects that the filling is sufficient, i.e. above the minimum filling level, and at the same time the above-mentioned position sensor transmits a communication signal, the connection with the controller is impaired. Therefore, refilling the water tank will not provide any remedy for the error situation according to the communication signal of the position sensor. This is a maintenance situation and, for example, an immediate notification or indication to a service provider according to the IoT is possible without the knowledge or perception of the owner of the damaged domestic oven in question.

[0099] According to another aspect, a computer program or a computer program product is proposed, which comprises a computer program code, which is executable on at least one computer so as to cause the at least one computer to perform a method, preferably according to the embodiments described above, wherein at least one of the computers:

[0100] - integrated in a domestic oven, preferably as a control unit or as a component of a control unit; and / or

[0101] - is arranged to communicate with a control unit of a domestic oven.

[0102] The computer includes one or more processors, such as a general-purpose processor (e.g., a central processing unit, CPU) or a microprocessor, a RISC processor, a GPU and / or a DSP. The computer has, for example, additional elements, such as a memory interface. Alternatively or additionally, these terms represent a device that can preferably use a standardized programming language (such as C++, JavaScript or Python) to execute a provided or embedded computer program and / or control and / or access data storage devices and / or other devices (such as input interfaces and output interfaces). The term "computer" also refers to multiple processors or multiple (sub) computers that are interconnected and / or communicate in other ways and can share one or more other resources (such as (data) storage devices).

[0103] In one embodiment, the computer program may be partially or completely executed on a server or server unit of the cloud system, a mobile terminal device (e.g., a smart phone), and / or at least one unit of a computing device. The term "server or server unit" is used herein to refer to a computer that provides data and / or operating services or services to one or more other computing devices or computers to form a cloud system.

[0104] It should be noted that in one embodiment, the method is variable with the aid of an algorithm based on so-called deep learning or machine learning, preferably as an alternative or complementary filter to the Kalman filter. Such machine learning algorithms or deep learning algorithms are known, for example, from the field of speech recognition or speech processing and face recognition and are characterized by the fact that they are based on data sets that cannot be adequately controlled by humans and / or on rules that are only inadequately known or not known at all. Such algorithms are trivial in the smallest sense compared to finite element algorithms, but are due to the fact that the task is unsolvable for humans or is solvable only with an unreasonable expenditure of time. Known algorithms or suitable program libraries are, for example Keras and Cognitive Toolkit.

[0105] For example, the method learns how a wet bulb sensor device, a water tank, a steam generating device and / or a domestic oven behaves (preferably under the influence of user behavior) and outputs corresponding modified control variables.

[0106] According to another aspect, a computer program product is provided on which a computer program code is stored. For example, as described above, the computer program code can be executed on a computer, for example as part of a computer program. The computer program product on which the computer program code is stored is, for example, a medium, such as a RAM, ROM, SD card, memory card, flash memory card or disk. Alternatively, the computer program product is stored on a server and is downloadable. Once the computer program is readable via a read-out unit (e.g., a drive and / or an installation program), the computer program code contained therein and the method contained therein can be executed by a computer or communicated with a plurality of computer-based devices, for example, as described above.

[0107] The invention described above is explained in detail below with respect to the relevant technical background and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show preferred embodiments. The invention is in no way limited by the purely schematic drawings, which should be noted to be dimensionally inaccurate and not suitable for defining dimensional relationships. In which:

[0108] Figure 1 : A schematic cross-sectional view showing a possible embodiment of a wet-bulb sensor device having a controller with a float as part of a regulating device;

[0109] Figure 2 : The rear view shows a household oven with a steam generating device;

[0110] Figure 3 : A schematic diagram showing the control of the water level in the basin of the wet bulb sensor device with the help of a float;

[0111] Figure 4 : An advantageous controller with a pivoting float is demonstrated;

[0112] Figure 5 : A system depiction of a steam generating apparatus having a wet bulb sensing device and a common controller with a float is shown; and

[0113] Figure 6 :Shows the basis Figure 5 The steam generating device of a domestic oven is on the rear side.

[0114] Figure 1A possible embodiment of a wet bulb sensor device 1 is schematically shown in a cross-sectional view, the wet bulb sensor device having a controller 8 with a float 12 as part of a regulating device 9. In operation, the basin 3 is open at the top in the earth's gravity field 10 and is arranged in the cavity 24 of the domestic oven 2. The basin 3 is filled to a predetermined water level 5. The temperature sensor 7 is oriented parallel to the water level 5 (i.e. transverse to the orientation of the earth's gravity field 10). In one embodiment, the water level 5 is allowed to fluctuate due to the size of the temperature sensor 7 (i.e. a predetermined maximum deviation 35). The temperature sensor 7 is communicatively connected to a processor 33 (not shown here) via a cable 36. The basin 3 is supplied with water 4 via an inlet port 6, wherein the inlet port 6 is arranged below the (minimum) water level 5 and is communicatively connected to the controller 8 via a (first) supply line 19.

[0115] A controller 8 is arranged between the inlet port 6 and the supply port 11, by means of which the water level 5 in the basin 3 is regulated (completely) passively (i.e. without energy supply from the outside). For this purpose, the controller 8 comprises a regulating device 9, which in turn consists of a float 12 and a corresponding sealing seat 13. The float 12 is shown here in a separated position, so that the water 4 can flow out of the supply port 11 from the source pipeline 37 towards the inlet port 6. This has been explained previously. Here (purely optionally) a position sensor 14 is further arranged on the regulating device 9, which is arranged to output a communication signal when the float 12 leaves the sealing position. For example, the position sensor 14 is formed here by a magnet on the float 12 and a magnetic field sensor at or near the sealing seat 13. It should be noted that the controller 8 is preferably arranged outside the cavity 24 and is particularly preferably thermally insulated from thermal radiation from the cavity 24 or its walls.

[0116] exist Figure 2 In the figure, a domestic oven 2 with a steam generating device 15 is shown in a spatial rear view, the water supply system 18 of the steam generating device including a water tank 27. The cavity 24 is enclosed by its side walls, rear wall, top wall and bottom wall, and can be closed at the front by a front mounted door 23 (indicated by a dotted line). The domestic oven 2 is, for example, an oven with a steam cooking function.

[0117] A water tank 27 is arranged above the cavity 24 as a water source 26. By means of a source line 37, a controller 8 (hidden here, for example, Figure 3 The steam generator 16 is supplied directly from a water source 26 via a (separate) second supply line 20. The steam generator 16 is arranged to generate steam and discharge it into the chamber 24 via a steam inlet 17. In this embodiment, the (purely optional) second supply line 20 is separate and is simultaneously designed as a source line 37, wherein a supply valve 38 (purely optionally, electronically controlled) is provided here.

[0118] Purely optionally, a processor 33 is shown here, which is communicatively connected to the controller 8 (e.g., according to Figure 1 The processor 33 is for example part of a controller of a domestic oven 2 and preferably also comprises a temperature control device for the temperature in the cavity 24 (here in the oven control unit 25). In this particular embodiment, the mobile device 39 is communicatively (wirelessly) connected to the processor 33 and displays the warning on its user-machine interface 34 (here a touch display) in a manner understandable to the user (e.g. a service provider).

[0119] Figure 3 A schematic diagram is shown of the control of the water level 5 in the basin 3 of the wet-bulb sensor device 1 by means of a float 12. For components and mutual relationships not explicitly described here, reference is made to the description of the components without excluding generality. Figure 1 Here, with Figure 1 In comparison, a float 12 of a different shape, here a spherical shape, and a vent port 28 are shown, which has a vent line 29 leading to a water tank 27. A source line 37 is connected below the water tank 27. Between the minimum filling height 30 and the maximum filling height 31 there is an actual tank water level, at which a water column 40 (i.e. its height) is determined. Depending on the body diameter 41 of the float 12 and the opening diameter 42 of the corresponding sealing seat 13 or the supply port 11, the balance is set at the water level 5 shown. Due to the buoyancy of the float 12 and the relative alignment with the corresponding sealing seat 13, there is a height difference 43 between the water level 5 of the basin 3 and the lower end of the water column 40. The minimum filling level 30 is ensured, for example, via a filling sensor (not shown here), which is, for example, connected in a communicative manner to a sensor such as the one shown. Figure 2 The processor 33 shown, and via this processor, the filling sensor issues a warning to the user-machine interface 34. Here, the maximum filling height 31 is ensured via an overflow line 32 at the water tank 27. Alternatively, the maximum filling height 31 is controlled via a maximum water filling sensor. Preferably, the same sensor that measures the minimum filling height 30 in the water tank is also able to measure the maximum filling height 31. When the maximum filling height 31 is reached, in one embodiment, the oven will issue an audible and / or visual indication in order to warn the user to stop pouring water. In the case where the filling heights 30, 31 are controlled electronically, the overflow line 32 is only an emergency measure if the user ignores the "water tank is full" alarm and keeps pouring water. In this case, preferably, the excess water will be directed to a discharge outlet in the cavity.

[0120] Figure 4An advantageous controller 8 is shown with a pivoting float 12. The float 12 is supported by a pivot bearing and can be pivoted out of the position shown when the float floats in such a way that the lateral connection 44, i.e. the supply port 11, is closed in cooperation with the corresponding sealing seat 13. The lines can be connected via the lower connection 45, for example for the first supply line 19 and / or the second supply line 20 (compare Figure 2 , Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 The ventilation line 29 can be connected via the upper connector 46 and the ventilation port 28 .

[0121] Figure 5 A system depiction of a steam generating device 15 with a wet bulb sensor device 1 and a common controller 8 with a float 12 is shown. Purely for the sake of clarity and without excluding generality, the wet bulb sensor device 1 is schematically designed, for example, as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, with Figure 4 8 is shown. A parallel return line 47 is here associated with the steam generator 16, which leads to a common droplet separation chamber 48. The steam enters upward into the cavity and the water droplets will return to the water circuit by means of the return line 47. The generated steam is introduced into the cavity 24 (not shown here) of the domestic oven 2 via the steam inlet 17.

[0122] The wet bulb sensor device 1 and the steam generator 16 are supplied with water 4 via a common water supply system 18 with a single (common) controller 8. Again, purely for the sake of clarity and without excluding generality, a water tank 27 is shown as a water source 26 for generating a predetermined supply pressure via a water column 40, the water source 26 being connected to a pressure-forming wall formed alternatively or additionally by water pressure. For details thereof, reference is made to the previous description and Figure 3 . The controller 8 is supplied with water 4 via the supply port 11 by means of the source line 37. When the water level 5 of the wet-bulb sensor device 1 and the steam generator 16 (here purely optionally, identical) is reached, the float 12 floats up and the supply port 11 is then closed. The water 4 which floats the float 12 is connected in communication with the wet-bulb sensor device 1 by means of the first supply line 19 and is connected in communication with the steam generator 16 via the second supply line 20. Thus, a desired water level 5 is set in the basin 3 of the wet-bulb sensor device 1 and in the steam generator 16. This also lies in the purely optional return line 47, which branches off from the second supply line 20 or more precisely serves as a branch (droplet fluid comes from above) into the second supply line.

[0123] The second supply line 20 is also connected to an overflow port 22, in which a discharge valve 21 is inserted, which can be opened and closed (manually or electronically), or even throttled, i.e. a determinable (controllable) flow rate is achieved. For example, a safety sensor (not shown here) is integrated in the steam generator 16 for this purpose.

[0124] Figure 6 It shows that Figure 5 The domestic oven 2 of the steam generating device 15 is shown at the rear side in practical use. This embodiment corresponds to Figure 5 However, here, in addition, a vent line 29 from the controller 8 and an overflow line 32 from the water tank 27 are provided, for example, as in Figure 3 As shown in the schematic diagram in . It can be seen from this figure that the water supply system 18 of the steam generating device 15 can be compactly integrated into the installation space provided for the domestic oven 2.

[0125] Pressure-controlled constant water level can be achieved through the wet-bulb sensor device proposed in this paper.

[0126] List of Reference Numerals

[0127] 1 Wet bulb sensor device 36 cable

[0128] 2 Home Oven 37 Source Line

[0129] 3 Basin 38 Supply Valve

[0130] 4 Water 39 Mobile Devices

[0131] 5 Water level 40 water column

[0132] 6 Inlet port 41 Body diameter

[0133] 7 Temperature sensor 42 opening diameter

[0134] 8 Controller 43 Height Difference

[0135] 9 Adjustment device 44 Side sleeve

[0136] 10 Earth's gravity field 45 Casing

[0137] 11 Supply port 46 Upper casing

[0138] 12 Float 47 Return line

[0139] 13 Sealing seat 48 Droplet separation chamber

[0140] 14 Position Sensor

[0141] 15 Steam generating equipment

[0142] 16 Steam generator

[0143] 17 Steam inlet

[0144] 18 Water supply system

[0145] 19 First supply line

[0146] 20 Second supply line

[0147] 21 Drain valve

[0148] 22 Overflow port

[0149] 23 doors

[0150] 24 Cavity

[0151] 25 Control Unit

[0152] 26 Water Source

[0153] 27 Water Tank

[0154] 28 Ventilation port

[0155] 29 Ventilation line

[0156] 30 Minimum filling height

[0157] 31 Maximum filling height

[0158] 32 Overflow line

[0159] 33 Processor

[0160] 34 User Machine Interface

[0161] 35 Maximum deviation

Claims

1. A wet bulb sensor device (1) for a domestic oven (2), the wet bulb sensor device comprising at least the following components: - a basin (3) for water (4) which is open upwards during operation and in which the water level (5) is established during operation; - an inlet port (6) for water (4) for filling the basin (3); - a temperature sensor (7) which, during operation, is partially immersed in the water (4) in the basin (3); - a controller (8) with a regulating device (9) for setting a predetermined height of the water level (5) during operation, It is characterized in that In operation, the inlet port (6) is arranged below the predetermined water level (5) in the earth's gravitational field (10).

2. The wet-bulb sensor device (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The controller (8) comprises a supply port (11), and the regulating device (9) is formed by a float (12) and a corresponding sealing seat (13) which can be closed by means of the float (12), The supply port (11) and the inlet port (6) are connected to each other in a communicating manner, and the sealing seat (13) is arranged at a predetermined height of the water level (5).

3. The wet-bulb sensor device (1) according to claim 2, wherein: A position sensor (14) is integrated into the adjusting device (9), wherein a movement of the float (12) out of the closed position can be detected by means of the position sensor (14).

4. A steam generating device (15) for a domestic oven (2), the steam generating device comprising at least the following components: - a steam generator (16) having an oven-side steam inlet (17); - A wet bulb sensor device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; and - a water supply system (18) for the steam generator (16) and the basin (3) of the wet-bulb sensor device (1), in, In operation, the controller (8) of the wet bulb sensor device (1) is simultaneously arranged for setting a predetermined height of the water level (5) of the steam generator (16) using the same regulating device (9).

5. The steam generating device (15) according to claim 4, wherein: The basin (3) of the wet bulb sensor device (1) and the predetermined water level (5) of the steam generator (16) are the same.

6. The steam generating device (15) according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein: The water supply system (18) comprises a first supply line (19) towards an inlet port (6) of a basin (3) of the wet bulb sensor device (1) and a second supply line (20) towards the steam generator (16), The first supply line (19) has a greater flow resistance than the second supply line (20).

7. The steam generating device (15) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The steam generating device (15) is lockably connected to an overflow port (22) communicating via a discharge valve (21).

8. The steam generating device (15) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein: The controller (8) is formed according to claim 2.

9. A domestic oven (2) for heating food, the domestic oven comprising at least the following components: - a cavity (24) which can be closed by a user-side door (23) for holding the food to be heated; - a temperature control device (25) for adjusting the temperature in the cavity (24); - a wet-bulb sensor device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 or a steam generating device (15) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the temperature detected by means of its temperature sensor (7) can be used as an input value of the temperature control device (25) in order to determine environmental data such as humidity in the cooking cavity; and a water source (26) for supplying water (4) to the wet-bulb sensor device (1) in operation, Therein, preferably, the control unit (25) of the domestic oven (2) or a component of the control unit (25) is arranged to communicate with an external computer.

10. The domestic oven (2) according to claim 9, wherein: The water source (26) is formed by a water tank (27) which, in operation, is arranged above the controller (8) in the earth's gravitational field (10) and is communicatively connected to the inlet port (6) via the controller (8).

11. The domestic oven (2) according to claim 10, wherein: The regulating device (9) comprises a vent port (28) which is communicatively connected to the water tank (27) by means of a vent line (29) which is connected to the water tank (27) above a predetermined maximum filling level (31).

12. A domestic oven (2) according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein: The tank (27) is connected to an overflow line (32) at a predetermined maximum filling level (31), Preferably, the overflow line (32) is connected to the overflow port (22) of the steam generating device (15). Preferably downstream of the connection side of the discharge valve (21) according to claim 7.

13. A method for operating a wet bulb sensor device (1) according to claim 3, wherein: When the position sensor (14) detects that the float (12) moves from the sealing position for a predetermined period of time exceeding a predetermined refilling period, the position sensor (14) and / or the processor (33) outputs a communication signal, In response to the communication signal, the user receives at least one of the following instructions via the user machine interface (34): - the water source (26) communicatively connected to the inlet port (6) is to be filled or connected, respectively, or the corresponding source valve is to be opened; - the temperature detected by means of the temperature sensor (7) is wrong; and - Insufficient supply of the steam generator (16) of the steam generating device (15) according to any one of claims 4 to 8.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The wet-bulb sensor device (1) is used in a domestic oven (2) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, in addition, a filling sensor is integrated in the water tank (27), by means of which a predetermined minimum filling level (30) of the water tank (27) can be detected during operation, When the water tank (27) is filled above the predetermined minimum filling level (30) and when the float (12) is in the separated position, a communication signal is output to the user via a user machine interface (34) by means of a position sensor (14) or a processor (33) of the adjustment device (9) of the wet-bulb sensor device (1), and the following indication is output: an error exists.

15. A computer program or a computer program product, the computer program or the computer program product comprising computer program code, the computer program code being executable on at least one computer in such a way as to cause the at least one computer to execute a preferred The method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein At least one of these computers: - integrated in a domestic oven (2), preferably as a control unit (25) or as a component of a control unit (25); and / or - is arranged to communicate with a control unit (25) of a domestic oven (2).

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