Cooking method using cooking equipment, controller and cooking equipment

Abstract

The present invention provides a method of cooking using a cooking apparatus (100) comprising an oven (110) comprising a cooking chamber (105) comprising a cooking support (135) inside the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber comprising a plurality of heating elements (115, 125), and an oven door (130) separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking apparatus, the plurality of heating elements includes a first heating element (115) positioned below the cooking support to heat the cooking support (135) and a second heating element (125) positioned in an upper region inside the cooking chamber (105) to heat the interior of the cooking chamber, wherein the method comprises: selectively energizing at most one of the plurality of heating elements (115, 125) at any time; and operating in a sequential heating mode, where the sequential heating mode comprises advancing across one or more predetermined heating phases, each predetermined heating phase comprising alternately energizing the first heating element (115) and the second heating element (125). A corresponding cooking appliance (100) is also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electric pizza ovens, in particular to an electric pizza oven having a cooking chamber suitable for heating to a temperature above 350°C. Background Art

[0002] Pizza ovens are commonly used to cook baked goods, particularly pizza. These ovens are designed to provide the extremely high cooking temperatures required to fully cook dough products and impart a characteristic smoky or charred flavor. Before cooking any food, the oven must be preheated to the required high temperature. Reaching and maintaining temperatures exceeding 350°C presents significant technical challenges, as some materials, components, and heating procedures that work well at lower temperatures are unsuitable.

[0003] A pizza oven typically includes a pizza stone, which serves as a cooking support with an upper (cooking) surface on which the pizza is cooked. It is important to heat the pizza stone to a high temperature in order to cook the pizza base while also protecting the stone from damage. It is also desirable to heat the air inside the oven to cook the pizza toppings. Thus, the temperature inside the oven is heated to the desired temperature. Furthermore, it is desirable to maintain the desired temperature after heating. This is particularly important in electric pizza ovens, as opening the cooking chamber door can cause heat loss from the oven.

[0004] It is also desirable to provide the user of the pizza oven with information about the cooking process and, if desired, enable the user to interact with the oven to control the cooking process.

[0005] It is in this context that the present disclosure was conceived. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for cooking using a cooking device is provided. The cooking device includes an oven, the oven including a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber including a cooking support within the cooking chamber. The cooking chamber includes a first heating element positioned below the cooking support to heat the cooking support, and a second heating element positioned in an upper region within the cooking chamber to heat the interior of the cooking chamber. The method generally includes energizing at most one of the first heating element or the second heating element at any one time.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, a cooking device is provided that includes an oven, the oven including a cooking chamber and an oven door that separates the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber including a cooking support within the cooking chamber. The cooking chamber includes a first heating element positioned below the cooking support to heat the cooking support, and a second heating element positioned in an upper region within the cooking chamber to heat the interior of the cooking chamber. The cooking device includes a heating controller configured to energize at any time at most one of the first heating element or the second heating element.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for cooking using a cooking apparatus is provided. The cooking apparatus includes an oven, the oven including a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking apparatus, the cooking chamber including a cooking support within the cooking chamber. The cooking chamber includes a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements including a first heating element positioned below the cooking support to heat the cooking support, and a second heating element positioned in an upper region of the cooking chamber to heat the interior of the cooking chamber. The method generally includes energizing no more than one of the plurality of heating elements at any one time.

[0009] Thus, the first heating element directly heats the cooking support. The second heating element directly heats the air above the cooking support and, to a lesser extent, the upper surface of the cooking support. During use, the cooking support is heated from both sides. The temperature of the cooking surface (i.e., the top of the cooking support) must be carefully regulated to ensure a good pizza cooking result.

[0010] The oven can be (i.e., be configured as) a portable oven. For example, the oven can be smaller and / or lighter than a conventional oven, allowing a user to easily move the oven. The oven can be equipped with legs, feet, casters, rollers, wheels and / or oven stands, allowing the oven to be stably positioned on the floor or on an interior surface, such as a table or countertop, during use. The oven can include legs extending from the base of the housing. The (i.e., outer) housing of the oven can be (i.e., thermally) insulated, allowing a user to stably manipulate one or more exterior portions of the oven during use.

[0011] The oven may be a pizza oven. A pizza oven is an oven configured to cook one or more pizzas. The pizza oven may be an electric pizza oven. Electric pizza ovens may be suitable for home use by individuals or non-commercial users. The cooking chamber may be configured to cook one or more pizzas at a temperature of at least 300°C, at least 350°C, at least 400°C, or at least 450°C. The size and dimensions of the cooking chamber may also be designed for cooking one or more pizzas. A cooking chamber configured to cook one or more pizzas typically has a (e.g., internal) length and / or (e.g., internal) width that is (i.e., substantially) greater than the (e.g., internal) vertical height of the cooking chamber.

[0012] The cooking chamber is typically inside the oven, that is, the cooking chamber is an internal cooking chamber. The cooking chamber may define a (e.g., designated) opening for entering the cooking chamber. The housing may define a (e.g., designated) opening for entering the cooking chamber, such as an opening aligned with the cooking chamber opening. The opening may be a food receiving opening configured to allow access to the cooking chamber. The cooking chamber and / or the housing may each include (e.g., be defined by) one or more walls. The housing and the cooking chamber may (e.g., in addition to the opening) include a top, a base, a left side, a right side, and a rear portion. An interior space may be defined between the housing (e.g., a wall of the housing) and the cooking chamber (e.g., a wall of the cooking chamber).

[0013] The interior of the cooking chamber can be defined (i.e., at least partially defined) by two or more opposing inner walls. For example, the interior of the cooking chamber can be defined by two or more opposing transverse inner walls. The two or more opposing transverse inner walls are typically substantially vertical walls. The cooking chamber can be defined by the two or more opposing transverse inner walls and a rear inner wall. The rear inner wall typically faces the open food-receiving end of the cooking chamber. The two or more transverse inner walls typically extend between the rear inner wall of the cooking chamber and the food-receiving opening. The interior of the cooking chamber can be defined by two inner walls that form a top (i.e., a top surface) and a base (i.e., a bottom surface).

[0014] The opening of the housing is typically located at the front of the oven. In practice, the front of the oven can be defined as the portion of the oven through which the cooking chamber is accessible when the oven door is open. In other words, the oven (and optionally the cooking chamber) can be understood as comprising a front portion (e.g., half) and a rear portion (e.g., half), wherein the front portion is closer to the opening and door, and the rear portion is further away from the opening and door.

[0015] The oven door is typically movable between a closed position, in which the cooking chamber (i.e., the interior of the cooking chamber) is sealed (i.e., at least partially sealed) from the outside environment (i.e., the exterior of the oven), and an open position, in which the cooking chamber (i.e., the interior of the cooking chamber) is accessible from the outside (i.e., from outside the oven). The oven door may be hingedly attached to the oven, such that moving the oven door between the open and closed positions includes rotating the oven door about the hinge.

[0016] The oven door can be configured to close the opening. The oven door and the housing can together define a first enclosed space (e.g., a cooking chamber is retained within the first enclosed space), and optionally, the oven door and the cooking chamber can together define a second enclosed space (e.g., a space within the cooking chamber). When the oven door is in the open position, a user can generally access the food receiving opening (e.g., to provide, inspect, or remove food from the cooking chamber). The oven door can include a window. The window can be made of one or more transparent materials. The window can be made of glass.

[0017] The cooking support may include an upper surface (referred to herein as the cooking surface) facing the second heating element. During use, the cooking support may be positioned within the cooking chamber. The cooking support may be positioned above the base (i.e., bottom surface) of the cooking chamber. The cooking surface is typically a surface on which food may be placed during cooking. The food may be placed directly on the cooking surface, or the food may be placed in a container and the container may be placed on the cooking surface. The cooking support may have a high thermal shock resistance and therefore be able to withstand temperatures of up to 850°C without damage (e.g., cracking). The cooking support may radiate and conduct heat evenly. The cooking support may be a pizza stone configured to cook pizza.

[0018] The oven may include one or more heat sources. The first heating element and the second heating element may be electric heat sources. The first heating element may be configured to heat the interior of the cooking chamber (e.g., the cooking support), and the second heating element may be configured to heat the interior of the cooking chamber (e.g., the air in the cooking chamber). The first heating element and the second heating element may be configured to heat the interior of the cooking chamber via at least one of the following: radiation, conduction, or convection. The first heating element and the second heating element may be wire, ceramic, or semiconductor heating elements.

[0019] The first heating element may be positioned below the cooking support. The first heating element may be positioned between the cooking support and the base of the cooking chamber. The first heating element may be positioned on a side of the cooking support opposite the cooking surface on which food is placed during cooking. The first heating element may be mounted to the base of the cooking chamber. The first heating element may be mounted between the base of the cooking chamber and the cooking support so that it does not directly contact the base of the cooking chamber or the cooking support. Alternatively, the heating element may be mounted between the base of the cooking chamber and the cooking support so that it directly contacts at least one of the base of the cooking chamber and the cooking support. The first heating element may be less than 3 mm, less than 5 mm, or less than 10 mm from the cooking support.

[0020] The second heating element may be positioned within the interior and upper region of the cooking chamber. The second heating element may be positioned near the top surface (i.e., ceiling) of the cooking chamber. The second heating element may be positioned above the cooking support and above the cooking surface. The second heating element may be mounted to the top interior surface of the cooking chamber. The second heating element may not be in direct contact with the top surface of the cooking chamber. The second heating element may be positioned greater than 700 mm, greater than 800 mm, or greater than 900 mm from the cooking surface.

[0021] The first heating element and the second heating element can be configured to heat the cooking chamber to a temperature of at least 400°C. The oven may be suitable for use at temperatures exceeding (e.g., up to) 350°C, such as up to 450°C, 500°C, or 550°C. The first heating element and the second heating element can heat the interior of the cooking chamber over a temperature range from room temperature (e.g., 29°C) to a temperature of up to at least 350°C, 400°C, 450°C, or 500°C. Using a controlled heating method to heat the interior of the cooking chamber is particularly helpful when the cooking chamber has a temperature exceeding 350°C. The oven may include a heating controller configured to thermostatically regulate the temperature within the cooking chamber, thereby maintaining the temperature at a set point. The set point (e.g., a target temperature) can be at least 400°C, 450°C, or 500°C. In an example, the set point (e.g., the target temperature) can be 400°C ± 5°C.

[0022] The heating controller may include one or more processors. The controller may include a non-transitory computer-readable memory storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, may cause the heating controller to operate the first heating element and the second heating element and their duty cycles, as described herein. The one or more processors may be located in a single unit. In other examples, where the one or more processors are multiple processors, the heating controller may be distributed, that is, at least one of the multiple processors may be located separately from at least another processor of the multiple processors. The heating controller may be configured to receive at least one input from one or more components of the oven (e.g., a temperature sensor). The heating controller may be configured to transmit at least one output to at least one of: the first heating element and the second heating element. Typically, the cooking device includes the heating controller, but in other examples, the heating controller may be separately provided from the cooking device and in wireless data communication with the cooking device.

[0023] The first heating element may be provided to heat the cooking support.The first heating element may be provided in a lower region of the cooking chamber.

[0024] The cooking device may include one or more additional heating elements. The one or more additional heating elements are typically heating elements in addition to the first and second heating elements of the plurality of heating elements. That is, the total number of heating elements may be three, in which case there is one additional heating element, or the total number of heating elements may be four, in which case there are two additional heating elements. The one or more additional heating elements may be controlled independently of each other. The one or more additional heating elements may be controlled independently of the first and second heating elements forming the plurality of heating elements. The one or more additional heating elements may be controlled differently from the first and second heating elements in that the one or more additional heating elements may be continuously energized. The one or more additional heating elements may be part of a plurality of heating elements such that only one of the first, second and one or more additional heating elements is energized at any one time. The one or more additional heating elements may be positioned within the cooking chamber.

[0025] Energizing only the first heating element or only the second heating element at any one time may include energizing only one heating element at a time. The method may include operating the heating elements such that the first heating element heats the cooking support or the second heating element heats air within the cooking chamber, typically near the top of the cooking chamber. Each heating element may be configured to consume a maximum power rating in wattage when powered. For example, the maximum power rating in wattage of the first and second heating elements may be 1600W.

[0026] Advantageously, energizing only one heating element at a time not only complies with the maximum allowable current ratings in many power supply systems, it also allows for better temperature control within the oven since heat can be directed to the desired area within the cooking chamber.

[0027] The method may include controlling the first and second heating elements independently of each other. That is, control of the first heating element may not affect control of the second heating element. Alternatively, the method may include controlling the first and second heating elements in dependence on each other. That is, control of the first heating element may affect control of the second heating element. For example, only one heating element may be directly controlled, and the other heating element may be controlled based on the directly controlled heating element.

[0028] The method may comprise selectively energising at most one of the plurality of heating elements at any one time.Advantageously, the selective energising of the first and second heating elements allows for better control of the temperature within the cooking chamber.

[0029] The method may comprise selectively energising at most one of the plurality of heating elements at any one time based on a measured temperature within the cooking chamber and / or based on a user input. Typically, the method may comprise determining whether to energise a heating element based on the measured temperature and / or the user input. Typically, the method may comprise determining which of a first heating element and a second heating element to energise based on the measured temperature and / or the user input. Typically, the method may comprise determining which heating element to energise using stored instructions defining which heating element to energise for a given measured temperature and / or a particular user input. Changing which heating element is energised may comprise switching a power source to the heating element. Changing which heating element is energised may comprise switching.

[0030] Advantageously, selectively energizing the first and second heating elements based on the measured temperature allows for more automated control of the temperature within the cooking chamber and faster response to temperature changes within the cooking chamber, thereby improving cooking efficiency and quality. Advantageously, selectively energizing the first and second heating elements based on user input allows the user to control the temperature within the cooking chamber, thereby improving user interaction and enhancing cooking efficiency and quality.

[0031] The method may include operating in a sequential heating mode.The sequential heating mode may progress through one or more predetermined heating stages, each predetermined heating stage comprising alternatingly energizing the first heating element and the second heating element.

[0032] Accordingly, the present invention therefore extends to an aspect of providing a method for cooking using a cooking apparatus, the cooking apparatus comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking apparatus, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support within the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber comprising a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper region within the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber, wherein the method comprises: selectively energizing at most one of the plurality of heating elements at any time; and operating in a sequential heating mode, wherein the sequential heating mode comprises advancing through one or more predetermined heating stages, each predetermined heating stage comprising alternatingly energizing the first heating element and the second heating element.

[0033] Another aspect of the present invention provides a cooking device, comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support inside the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber comprising a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper area inside the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber, the oven comprising a heating controller, the heating controller being configured such that at any time, at most one heating element of the plurality of heating elements is energized, and the heating controller being configured to control the oven to operate in a sequential heating mode, wherein the sequential heating mode comprises the heating controller controlling the oven to advance through one or more predetermined heating stages, each predetermined heating stage comprising alternatingly energizing the first heating element and the second heating element.

[0034] Typically, the predetermined heating phase is a pre-programmed sequence for controlling when power is supplied to which heating elements. That is, the cooking device may switch the heating elements, and the method may comprise switching the heating elements in a sequential heating mode.

[0035] Advantageously, alternating the power supply to the first and second heating elements achieves an optimal balance between the temperature of the cooking support and the temperature within the cooking chamber. When the sequential heating mode is used as the heating mode, this ensures that the temperature of the cooking support and the air within the cooking chamber are optimized for cooking food within the oven, such as the first pizza. If too much heat is applied to the second heating element, the oven may reach the target temperature before the cooking support is heated to the appropriate temperature. Conversely, if too much heat is applied to the first element, the cooking support may overheat before the temperature of the air within the cooking chamber reaches the target temperature. Furthermore, alternating the power supply to the heating elements prevents cracking of the cooking support.

[0036] Advancing from one predetermined heating stage to the next predetermined heating stage may include gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element from its initial duty cycle. Advancing from one predetermined heating stage to the next predetermined heating stage may include gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element from its initial duty cycle. The duty cycles of the first and second heating elements may correspond to the percentage of time that the respective heating elements are energized. Typically, the initial duty cycle of the first and second heating elements is 50%.

[0037] Each of the one or more predetermined heating phases may correspond to a predetermined ratio of the time during the heating phase that the first heating element is energized to the time during which the second heating element is energized in order for the measured temperature to reach a corresponding predefined heating phase-related threshold. Each predetermined heating phase may correspond to a different predetermined ratio. A heating phase may also be referred to herein as a "balance" or "setup." A sequential heating mode may include multiple (e.g., four, five, or six) heating phases.

[0038] The term "duty cycle" is a known term that refers to the percentage of time that an electrical device is turned on over a period of time. In the context of the present invention, the "duty cycle" of a respective heating element is intended herein to refer to the percentage of time that the respective heating element is energized over a certain time period. Since the first heating element and the second heating element are not operated simultaneously, the sum of the duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element cannot exceed 100%, but may be less than or equal to 100%. The time period may be determined by a predetermined heating phase of operation of the cooking device, as described below. The method of operating in a sequential heating mode may include energizing each heating element for a certain time period, the time period corresponding to the duty cycle percentage of the total time period of each predetermined heating phase.

[0039] The initial duty cycle of the first heating element and the initial duty cycle of the second heating element can be different or the same. The initial duty cycle of the first heating element can be a maximum of 70%, 50%, or 30%. The initial duty cycle of the second heating element can be a maximum of 70%, 50%, or 30%. The sum of the duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element can be 100%.

[0040] Gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element from the initial duty cycle of the first heating element may include decreasing the duty cycle of the first heating element. Gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element from the initial duty cycle of the second heating element may include increasing the duty cycle of the second heating element.

[0041] Gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element from the initial duty cycle of the first heating element may include increasing the duty cycle of the first heating element. Gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element from the initial duty cycle of the second heating element may include decreasing the duty cycle of the second heating element.

[0042] Advancing from one predetermined heating stage to the next predetermined heating stage may include incrementally decreasing the duty cycle of the first heating element from an initial duty cycle of the first heating element. Advancing from one predetermined heating stage to the next predetermined heating stage may include incrementally increasing the duty cycle of the second heating element from an initial duty cycle of the second heating element. Advancing from one predetermined heating stage to the next predetermined heating stage may include maintaining the duty cycle of the first heating element or the second heating element.

[0043] Typically, the method may comprise alternatingly energising the first and second heating elements in each heating phase by energising both heating elements at some point in time within each heating phase but not simultaneously.

[0044] The method may include incrementally changing the duty cycle of at least one of the first heating element and the second heating element when changing from operating in one heating phase to operating in a next heating phase. The method may include changing the duty cycle of at least one of the first heating element and the second heating element in increments of 1%, 5%, 10%, or 20%. The method may include incrementally decreasing the duty cycle of the first heating element from an initial duty cycle of the first heating element in increments of 5% per heating phase. The method may include incrementally increasing the duty cycle of the second heating element from an initial duty cycle of the second heating element in increments of 5% per heating phase.

[0045] The method may include advancing through one or more predetermined heating stages based on predefined heating stage-related thresholds. Typically, the predefined heating stage-related thresholds are upper temperature thresholds associated with each heating stage and / or predetermined time periods associated with each heating stage. The method may include measuring a temperature within the cooking chamber. The method may include advancing through each heating stage based on the measured temperature corresponding to the upper temperature threshold associated with the corresponding heating stage.

[0046] The predefined heating phase-related threshold value can generally have different values ​​for each heating phase, such that each heating phase has a corresponding predefined heating phase-related threshold value. The method of operating in a sequential heating mode can include operating in one of the one or more predefined heating phases at any time. The cooking device can advance from one predefined heating phase to the next predefined heating phase when the predefined heating phase-related threshold value for the corresponding heating phase is reached (e.g., achieved, satisfied).

[0047] The method may comprise sequentially advancing through the predetermined heating stages by operating in a first heating stage until a predefined first heating stage associated threshold is reached, then operating in a second heating stage until a predefined second heating stage associated threshold is reached, and so on.

[0048] The upper temperature threshold may refer to a threshold representing the upper limit of a temperature range corresponding to each heating stage within the sequential heating mode. The upper temperature threshold for each heating stage may be predefined. Typically, the method includes advancing from a predetermined heating stage to the next heating stage upon reaching the corresponding upper temperature threshold for the heating stage. The method may include determining when reaching the corresponding upper temperature threshold for each heating stage based on the upper temperature threshold corresponding to the current heating stage as determined by measuring the internal temperature of the oven.

[0049] The method may comprise detecting data indicative of temperature and determining the temperature inside the cooking chamber based on the data indicative of temperature.The method may comprise measuring the temperature of air inside the cooking chamber, and / or the temperature of the cooking support and / or the cooking surface.

[0050] The cooking device may include a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature inside the cooking chamber. The temperature sensor may be located within the cooking chamber. The temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of the air inside the cooking chamber and / or the temperature of the cooking support and / or the cooking surface. For example, the temperature sensor may be located in close proximity to the first heating element, the second heating element, the cooking support, or in particular the cooking surface. The temperature sensor may be located at the rear, base, side wall, or top of the cooking chamber. The temperature sensor may be located near the oven door. The cooking device may include multiple temperature sensors located at different locations within the cooking chamber. The temperature sensor may be configured to transmit data indicating the temperature inside the cooking chamber or the measured temperature to a heating controller of the cooking device.

[0051] Typically, the method may include determining whether the measured temperature corresponds to an upper temperature threshold for each heating stage. The method may include determining that the corresponding upper temperature threshold for each heating stage has been reached based on the measurement of the oven internal temperature corresponding to the upper temperature threshold for the current heating stage. The method may include continuously measuring the temperature inside the cooking chamber and continuously comparing the measured temperature inside the cooking chamber to the upper temperature threshold. In other words, progressing from one heating stage to the next in the sequential heating mode may be entirely temperature-dependent.

[0052] Typically, the method may include measuring the temperature inside the cooking chamber at regular intervals. Typically, the method may include comparing the measured temperature inside the cooking chamber to an upper temperature threshold at regular intervals. At the end of the total time period of one cycle of each heating phase (i.e., the time period of the duty cycle of the first heating element and the second heating element), the controller may determine whether the measured temperature corresponds to (i.e., is equal to or greater than) the upper temperature threshold temperature of the phase. If so, the sequence proceeds to the next heating phase. If the measured temperature is less than the upper temperature threshold temperature of the phase, the method may include repeating one cycle of the heating phase (i.e., the time period of the duty cycle of the first heating element and the second heating element). That is, advancing from one heating phase to the next in the sequential heating mode may depend on both time and temperature.

[0053] The cooking device may be configured to operate in a sequential heating mode according to the measured temperature. The sequential heating mode may be initiated when the measured temperature inside the cooking chamber is equal to or greater than a lower limit of a sequential heating mode temperature range, or when a predefined time period has expired.

[0054] Advantageously, measuring the temperature inside the cooking chamber allows for real-time monitoring of the temperature inside the cooking chamber, thereby improving automatic control of the cooking chamber temperature and thereby improving cooking efficiency and quality.

[0055] The method may include advancing through one or more predetermined heating stages based on a predetermined time period associated with each heating stage. The predetermined time period associated with each heating stage may be the time period of one cycle of the heating stage (i.e., the time period of the duty cycle of the first heating element and the second heating element), or the time period of a set number of cycles of the heating stage. In other words, the method may include advancing from one heating stage to the next heating stage based on the expiration of the predetermined time period. In this way, advancing from one heating stage to the next heating stage in the sequential heating mode may be entirely time-dependent.

[0056] The predetermined time period associated with each heating stage may be the time period over which the temperature inside the oven is expected to rise from a lower temperature to a higher temperature. The time period for operation in each heating stage may be known in advance (ie, calculated and pre-programmed into the heating controller).

[0057] The time that the cooking device operates in each heating phase can be predetermined based on known characteristics. The time that the cooking device operates each heating element in each heating phase can be predetermined based on known characteristics. The known characteristics can include at least one of the following: the (e.g., specific) thermal capacity of the cooking support, the (e.g., specific) thermal capacity of the air inside the cooking chamber, the (e.g., specific) thermal capacity of other materials forming the cooking device (e.g., the oven housing, the glass in the oven door), the power of the first heating element, and the power of the second heating element. Since the upper temperature threshold of the heating phase is also known, it can be determined how long the cooking device needs to operate in each heating phase to reach the upper temperature threshold of the corresponding heating phase.

[0058] As an example, it can be determined that a predetermined time period (e.g., 100) seconds associated with the first heating phase will be required to raise the temperature inside the cooking chamber from a predefined sequential heating mode lower threshold (e.g., 35°C) to an upper temperature threshold associated with the first heating phase (e.g., 100°C). The first heating phase can include a 50% duty cycle for the first heating element and a 50% duty cycle for the second heating element. Thus, the first heating element will be energized for a total of 50 seconds of operation of the cooking device in the first heating phase, and the second heating element will be energized for a total of 50 seconds of operation of the cooking device in the first heating phase. Because the two heating elements cannot be energized at the same time, they are energized alternately. The first heating element may be energized for a continuous period of 50 seconds, and the second heating element may then be energized for a continuous period of 50 seconds. The first heating element may be energized for a continuous period of 10 seconds, and the second heating element may then be energized for a continuous period of 10 seconds. This can be repeated five times so that during the predetermined time period associated with the first heating phase of the cooking device operating in the first heating phase, the total time period for which the first heating element is energized is 50 seconds and the total time period for which the second heating element is energized is 50 seconds. The consecutive time periods for the first and second heating elements do need to be equal. For example, the first heating element can be energized for 25 seconds, the second heating element can be energized for 50 seconds, and then the first heating element can be energized again for 25 seconds. When the predetermined time period associated with the first heating phase has expired, the method can proceed to operation in the second heating phase. In this way, the transition from one heating phase to the next is independent of the measured temperature.

[0059] At the end of a predetermined time period associated with the first heating stage, the temperature inside the cooking chamber can be measured and compared to an upper temperature threshold for the first heating stage. If the measured temperature is equal to or greater than the upper temperature threshold for the first heating stage, the method can include advancing to the next heating stage. In this manner, advancing from one heating stage to the next is dependent on the time period during which the measured temperature corresponds to (i.e., is greater than or equal to) the upper temperature threshold for each heating stage and also depends on the duty cycle of the first and second heating elements.

[0060] The method may include operating in a sequential heating mode according to a target temperature.

[0061] The target temperature may generally correspond to a temperature selected by a user. The target temperature may be selected directly or indirectly by the user. For example, the user may directly select the target temperature using user input indicating a desired final temperature inside the cooking chamber. Alternatively, the user may indirectly select the target temperature using user input indicating the food to be cooked (e.g., pizza, pie, meat, etc.). The cooking device may then determine the target temperature based on the food to be cooked. The cooking device may receive the user input via a user interface of the cooking device. The user interface may include an input device, such as a rotatable knob, a button, a key, a touch screen, or a microphone. Other types of user input are also contemplated.

[0062] Typically, the method includes operating in a sequential heating mode for a first predetermined period of time; and / or measuring a temperature inside the cooking chamber and operating the oven in the sequential heating mode based on the measured temperature.

[0063] The method may further include operating in the sequential heating mode for a first predetermined period of time, wherein the temperature of the oven interior is expected to reach the target temperature.

[0064] The method may include measuring a temperature inside the cooking chamber and operating the oven in a sequential heating mode until the measured temperature corresponds to a target temperature.

[0065] In some examples, the cooking device may operate in a sequential heating mode within a sequential heating mode temperature range. A target temperature (e.g., set by a user) may be greater than an upper limit of the sequential heating mode temperature range. In this case, the method may include operating in the sequential heating mode for a first predetermined time period, the first predetermined time period corresponding to an estimated time required for the temperature inside the oven to reach the upper limit of the sequential heating mode temperature range. The method may include measuring the temperature inside the cooking chamber and operating the oven in the sequential heating mode until the measured temperature corresponds to the upper limit of the sequential heating mode.

[0066] The upper temperature threshold of the predetermined heating stage may have a value within the range of the sequential heating mode.

[0067] Changing the energized heating element may correspond to switching the heating element, and wherein advancing from one heating stage to the next heating stage comprises adjusting a switching frequency of the heating element.

[0068] Each heating stage may have a predetermined switching frequency within a given time period. For example, in the first heating stage, the number of switches within a given time period (e.g., 100 seconds) may be 9 switches. Between each switch, one heating element may be energized continuously for the switching time period. For example, a switching frequency of 9 within a given time period of 100 seconds may correspond to each of the first and second heating elements being energized continuously for a switching time of 10 seconds. When the measured temperature corresponds to an upper temperature threshold of a given heating stage or a predetermined time period associated with a given heating stage expires, the switching frequency within the same given time period may increase. For example, when the measured temperature corresponds to 100°C (i.e., the upper limit of the first heating stage), the switching frequency within a given time period (e.g., 100) seconds may increase to 18. This corresponds to each of the first and second heating elements being energized continuously for a switching time of 5 seconds.

[0069] Advantageously, increasing the number of switching cycles allows for an appropriate energy balance between the cooking support and the air within the cooking chamber. The cooking support is typically heated from below, which loads the support with heat, which gradually passes through the thickness of the cooking support and reaches the cooking surface. Secondly, the cooking surface is heated from above via a second heating element. It's desirable to avoid heating the cooking surface too quickly from one side, as this requires time to absorb heat and then recharge during each heating phase. Therefore, by increasing the number of switching cycles within a heating phase, there are more opportunities to apply heat to the stone and air within each heating phase, and the heating process is more efficient.

[0070] The method may include operating the oven in an initial mode prior to the sequential heating mode, wherein operating in the initial mode includes energizing only the first heating element. The cooking device may be configured to operate in the initial mode, wherein only the first heating element is energized. In this manner, maximum power may be used to heat the cooking support. The initial mode may be a start-up mode initiated when the oven is turned on, or may be a start-up mode initiated when a user sets a target temperature (i.e., a final temperature).

[0071] Advantageously, the initial mode maximizes heat transfer to the cooking support, raising the cooking support to a suitable cooking temperature in a short period of time. However, it may be desirable to reduce the heat applied to the cooking support after a period of time to avoid damage to the cooking support due to overheating (e.g., cracking of the pizza stone). Furthermore, in the initial mode, the air temperature within the cooking chamber gradually increases.

[0072] Typically, the first heating element may have a 100% duty cycle only in the initial mode and in response to a first user input (described below). Typically, the first heating element may have a maximum duty cycle of 50% in all other operating modes of the cooking device except the initial mode. Advantageously, limiting the duty cycle of the first heating element to a maximum of 50% in most operating modes of the cooking device reduces the risk of overheating and potential cracking of the cooking support.

[0073] The method may include operating in the initial mode for a second predetermined period of time; and / or measuring a temperature inside the cooking chamber and operating the oven in the initial mode based on the measured temperature.

[0074] The second predetermined time period may be a time period during which the temperature inside the oven is expected to reach a lower limit of the temperature range of the sequential heating mode.

[0075] Typically, the method may include operating in the initial mode while the measured temperature corresponds to the initial mode temperature range (e.g., within the initial mode temperature range), such as any temperature below the upper limit of the initial mode temperature range (e.g., 35°C). Typically, the method includes measuring the temperature inside the cooking chamber continuously or at regular intervals, and operating within the initial mode temperature range based on the measured temperature. The regular intervals may correspond to a time period of one cycle of the initial mode, the time period being up to 20 seconds, up to 30 seconds, up to 50 seconds, or up to 100 seconds. The time period of one cycle of the initial mode may be preprogrammed. The initial mode temperature range is typically independent of the target temperature. In the initial operating mode, there is typically no switching.

[0076] The method may include operating the oven in a second heating element only mode after the sequential heating mode, wherein operating in the second heating element only mode includes energizing only the second heating element.

[0077] Typically, the method includes operating in the second heating element only mode at a maximum target temperature that falls outside the sequential heating mode temperature range. Typically, there is no switching in the second heating element only mode. Typically, the maximum allowable target temperature is within the temperature range in which the second heating element only mode occurs (i.e., the second heating element only mode temperature range). In the second heating element only mode, the duty cycle of the first heating element can be 0%, and the duty cycle of the second heating element can be 100%.

[0078] Advantageously, the second heating element only mode allows for maximum heat transfer to the air inside the cooking chamber to increase the temperature of the air inside the cooking chamber without significantly increasing the temperature of the cooking support.

[0079] The method may include operating the oven in the second heating element only mode based on a third predetermined time period; and / or measuring a temperature inside the cooking chamber and operating the oven in the second heating element only mode based on the measured temperature.

[0080] The third predetermined time period may be a time period in which the temperature inside the oven is expected to rise from the upper limit of the sequential heating mode temperature range to the target temperature.

[0081] Typically, the method may include operating in the second heating element only mode when the measured temperature is greater than the upper limit of the sequential heating mode temperature range. Typically, the method includes measuring the temperature inside the cooking chamber continuously or at regular intervals, and operating between the upper limit of the sequential heating mode temperature range and a target temperature based on the measured temperature. The regular interval may correspond to a time period of one cycle of the initial mode, which may be up to 20 seconds, up to 30 seconds, up to 50 seconds, or up to 100 seconds. The time period of one cycle of the second heating element only mode may be preprogrammed. In the second heating element only mode, there is typically no switching, as the second heating element is always powered.

[0082] In the second heating element only mode, there may be a period of time when the second heating element is not energized. In this case, no heating element is energized.

[0083] The initial mode, the sequential heating mode, and the second heating element only mode may be part of a heating cycle of the oven. The cooking device may operate only in the initial mode during the heating cycle. During the heating cycle, the user may not be able to adjust the balance to ensure that the oven heats the air and cooking support to the desired temperature as quickly as possible.

[0084] The method of any preceding embodiment, comprising operating in an intermittent mode once a target temperature is reached, wherein the intermittent mode comprises a sequence of energizing only the first heating element, energizing only the second heating element, and energizing neither the first heating element nor the second heating element, in any order. The method may include operating in the intermittent mode according to the target temperature.

[0085] When the measured temperature corresponds to the target temperature or a time period during which the temperature inside the cooking chamber is expected to correspond to the target temperature has elapsed, the cooking device may be configured to operate in an intermittent mode, wherein the intermittent mode includes a sequence of energizing the first heating element, energizing the second heating element, and energizing neither the first heating element nor the second heating element in any order. In some examples, the sequence may include at least two of the following: energizing the first heating element, energizing the second heating element, and energizing neither the first heating element nor the second heating element.

[0086] Advantageously, the period of time during which both the first and second heating elements are not energized allows for more accurate maintenance of the temperature inside the cooking chamber and the temperature of the cooking support for cooking. That is, the intermittent mode allows for maintaining a target temperature inside the cooking chamber.

[0087] In intermittent mode, the sum of the duty cycles of the first and second heating elements may not be equal to 100%. In this case, the remaining time period is spent with both heating elements off. The intermittent mode may include intermittent mode stages. Each intermittent mode stage may include a ratio of time when the first heating element is energized, the second heating element is energized, and both the first and second heating elements are not energized. Each intermittent mode stage may correspond to a different predetermined ratio.

[0088] The method may include operating in a predetermined heating phase of the sequential heating mode, or even in a heating phase of the second heating element only mode (i.e., 100% duty cycle of the second heating element and 0% duty cycle of the first heating element) once the measured temperature corresponds to the target temperature. This may be another way to maintain the target temperature so that the food is cooked at the desired temperature.

[0089] Controlling the first and second heating elements once the target temperature is reached may be referred to as a cooking cycle. Advantageously, a cooking cycle ensures optimal cooking support and cooking chamber air temperatures during the cooking process, thereby ensuring the best possible cooking result.

[0090] That is, the method may include operating in a specific intermittent mode phase based on the target temperature. The method may include determining a corresponding intermittent mode phase based on the target temperature. Advantageously, selecting the intermittent mode phase based on the target temperature allows for an appropriate heating element energization sequence to be used to maintain the target temperature. For example, a higher target temperature may correspond to an intermittent mode phase in which the ratio of time spent with both heating elements off is lower than the total ratio of time spent with the heating elements on.

[0091] Once the measured temperature reaches the target temperature, the user can adjust the duty cycle of at least one of the first and second heating elements via user input. Furthermore, the user can adjust the duty cycle as long as the measured temperature does not drop by more than the reheating amount (e.g., 100° C.) during the cooking cycle. Advantageously, this allows the user to adjust the duty cycle of the first and second heating elements even if the measured temperature still drops when the oven door is opened to place food in the oven (e.g., to push a pizza in).

[0092] The method may include measuring a temperature inside the cooking chamber, and if the measured temperature drops from a target temperature by more than the reheating amount, the method includes operating in one of an initial mode, a sequential heating mode, or a second heating element only mode based on the measured temperature and the target temperature. If the measured temperature drops from the target temperature by more than the reheating amount, the cooking device may be configured to operate in one of the initial mode, the sequential heating mode, or the second heating element only mode based on the measured temperature.

[0093] For small drops in temperature (e.g., less than 100° C.), operation of the oven in intermittent mode will cause the interior of the cooking chamber (air and cooking support) to rise to return to the target temperature. Unless the user changes the duty cycle of the first heating element and / or the second heating element via user input, the intermittent mode phase in which the cooking device is operating when the measured temperature corresponds to the target temperature generally remains the same regardless of the temperature dropping all the way to the reheat amount (e.g., 100° C.).

[0094] If the measured temperature drops from the target temperature during the cooking process by a reheating amount or more (e.g., 100°C or more), the cooking device may operate in one of an initial mode, a sequential heating mode, or a second heating element only mode. The cooking device may operate in a heating phase or operating mode in which the temperature range corresponds to the measured temperature and progress through the heating phases and / or modes until the target temperature is measured within the cooking chamber. This process may occur automatically once the measured temperature is less than the target temperature by an amount exceeding the reheating amount. For example, if the sequential mode range is 80°C to 300°C and the measured temperature drops from the target temperature of 350°C to 100°C, the method may include operating in the sequential heating mode to 300°C, followed by operating in the second heating element only mode until the measured temperature corresponds to 350°C. Once the measured temperature again corresponds to the target temperature, the method may include operating in the intermittent mode.

[0095] The method may include receiving user input to control at least one of the following: a first heating element and a second heating element. The cooking device may be configured to receive user input to control at least one of the following: a first heating element and a second heating element. The method may include energizing the first heating element or the second heating element based on the user input. The method may include determining which heating element to energize based on the user input. The first heating element and the second heating element may be controlled based on the user input because the duty cycle of the first heating element and the second heating element may be adjusted based on the user input. As described above, the user interface may include an input device, such as a rotatable knob, a button, a key, a touch screen, or a microphone. Other types of user input and user input devices are also contemplated.

[0096] The method may include receiving a first user input and operating in an initial mode based on the first user input, optionally operating in the initial mode for up to a maximum predetermined initial mode time period based on the user input. The cooking device may be configured to receive the first user input. The first user input may cause the cooking device (e.g., an oven) to energize only the first heating element. In other words, the cooking device may operate in the initial mode (in which the duty cycle of the first heating element is 100%) based on the first user input. However, the cooking device may operate in the initial mode for a maximum predetermined time period, which is independent of the measured temperature or the target temperature. In other words, when the cooking device operates in the initial mode during a heating cycle, the time when the initial mode occurs depends on the measured temperature. In contrast, when the cooking device operates in the initial mode in response to the first user input, the time when the initial mode occurs is independent of the measured temperature or the target temperature. The maximum predetermined time period may be 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, or 60 seconds. This operating mode may be referred to as an "enhanced mode." In another example, once the measured temperature within the cooking chamber corresponds to the target temperature, the oven may return to operating in the intermittent mode. The first user input may only be entered if the measured temperature is less than the target temperature by an amount exceeding the reheating amount.

[0097] Advantageously, this allows the temperature of the cooking support to be increased as quickly as possible (ie, the cooking support is "recharged"). The maximum predetermined time period is provided to avoid overheating of the cooking support.

[0098] The user can terminate the cooking device from energizing only the first heating element before the maximum predetermined initial mode time period expires. When the cooking device terminates operation in boost mode, it can return to operating in an intermittent mode phase to maintain the target temperature. Operation in boost mode can be inhibited for a period corresponding to the time when boost mode was activated, or for a period corresponding to the maximum predetermined initial mode time period.

[0099] In general, the method may include receiving a balance control user input via a user input element associated with a visual indication, wherein the visual indication includes a balance indicator indicating a ratio of duty cycles of a first heating element and a second heating element. The method may include changing the visual indication based on the second balance control user input.

[0100] Accordingly, the present invention extends to an aspect of providing a method for cooking using a cooking device. The cooking device includes an oven, the oven including a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber including a cooking support within the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber including a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements including a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper region within the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber. The method includes selectively energizing at most one of the plurality of heating elements at any time; and receiving a balance control user input via a user input element associated with a visual indication, wherein the visual indication includes a balance indicator indicating a ratio of duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element. The method includes changing the visual indication based on the second balance control user input.

[0101] According to another aspect of the present invention, a cooking device is provided, comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support within the cooking chamber. The cooking chamber comprises a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper region within the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber. The oven comprises a heating controller configured such that at any time, at most one of the plurality of heating elements is energized. The oven comprises a user input element configured to receive a balance control user input associated with a visual indication. The visual indication may comprise a balance indicator indicating a ratio of duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element. The heating controller may be configured to change the visual indication based on the balance control user input.

[0102] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for cooking using a cooking device is provided, the cooking device comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support within the cooking chamber. The cooking chamber comprises a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support to heat the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper region within the cooking chamber to heat the interior of the cooking chamber, wherein the oven comprises a user interface comprising a user input element associated with a visual indication for receiving user input. The method comprises selectively energizing at most one of the plurality of heating elements at any time; and controlling a duty cycle of the second heating element, and optionally controlling a duty cycle of the first heating element, based on the received user input, wherein the duty cycles of the first and second heating elements correspond to the percentage of time that the respective heating elements are energized.

[0103] According to another aspect of the present invention, a cooking device is provided, the cooking device comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support inside the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber comprising a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper area inside the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber, wherein at any time, at most one of the plurality of heating elements is energized, wherein the oven comprises a user interface comprising a user input element associated with a visual indication for receiving user input, wherein a duty cycle of the second heating element and optionally a duty cycle of the first heating element is controlled based on rotation of a knob, wherein the duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element correspond to the percentage of time that the respective heating elements are energized.

[0104] When the cooking device is in use, the user can usually access the user input element.The user input element can be located on the oven door and / or on the oven housing (ie, the oven body).

[0105] The balance control user input may indicate a desired ratio of duty cycles for the first and second heating elements. The method may include adjusting at least one of the duty cycles of the first and second heating elements based on the received balance control user input. Advantageously, by controlling the duty cycle of the second heating element and / or the duty cycle of the first heating element based on the received balance control user input, the user can adjust the temperature within the cooking chamber during cooking. This allows the user to better control the cooking process and also improves cooking quality and efficiency.

[0106] Typically, the visual indication conveys information to the user regarding oven operation. Typically, the visual indication changes visually in response to a balance indicator. Typically, the balance indicator indicates which heating element has a greater duty cycle. The visual indication can also be provided independently of the balance control user input. For example, the visual indication can be provided based on the operating mode and / or heating phase of the cooking device during a heating cycle. Advantageously, the visual indication conveys information regarding the duty cycles of the first and second heating elements in a user-friendly and convenient manner.

[0107] The user input element may include a rotatable knob. The balance indicator may include a plurality of lights. The plurality of lights may form an arc of at least 120° around the user input element.

[0108] The user input element can be part of a user interface, which can include multiple input devices. For example, the user interface can include multiple knobs. The user interface can include a first knob for balancing user input, allowing the user to control the second heating element and, optionally, the duty cycle of the first heating element. The user interface can include a second knob for the user to select a target temperature. The user interface can include a third knob for the user to use as a timer for the cooking device.

[0109] However, the user input element may alternatively comprise a button, a slider or a touch screen.Other forms of user input elements are also contemplated.

[0110] The plurality of lights may be a plurality of LEDs. The method may include determining which subset of the plurality of lights to illuminate based on a balance control user input received via the user input element. The subset of the plurality of lights may indicate a comparison of duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element, as the position of the subset of the plurality of lights around the knob indicates a ratio of the duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element.

[0111] Typically, the subset of the plurality of lights can form an arc of at least 60°, at least 80°, at least 100°, at least 120°, at least 140°, or at least 160°. When the subset of the plurality of lights that is illuminated varies based on the duty cycle of the first heating element and the second heating element selected by the user, the arc can appear to move around the user input element (e.g., a knob).

[0112] The user input element can be moved to multiple equilibrium positions in a first direction and a second direction. Typically, the first direction and the second direction are both located in directions away from a neutral position of the user input element. The method typically includes, for each equilibrium position in the first direction away from the neutral position, adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element by a first amount compared to the duty cycle of the first heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position. The method typically includes, for each equilibrium position in the first direction away from the neutral position, adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element by a second amount compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position. The first amount and the second amount can be equal to 5%. The user input element can be moved to multiple equilibrium positions in the first direction and the second direction. Typically, the first direction and the second direction are both located in directions away from the neutral position of the user input element. The heating controller can be configured to, for each equilibrium position in the first direction away from the neutral position, adjust the duty cycle of the first heating element by the first amount compared to the duty cycle of the first heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position. The heating controller may be configured to, for each equilibrium position in the first direction away from the neutral position, adjust the duty cycle of the second heating element by a second amount compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position. The first amount and the second amount may be equal to 5%.

[0113] The first direction may be clockwise, and the second direction may be counterclockwise, or vice versa. The first direction may be right, and the second direction may be left. The intermediate position may correspond to a predefined center position of the user input element. The equilibrium position may correspond to predetermined positions of the user input element on either side of the intermediate position. The intermediate position may correspond to a 50% duty cycle for both the first heating element and the second heating element. For each equilibrium position in the first direction, the duty cycle of the second heating element may be adjusted by a second amount (e.g., 5% or 10% of a predetermined total time period, or a predetermined amount, such as 5 seconds, 10 seconds) compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element at the intermediate position. For each equilibrium position in the first direction, the duty cycle of the first heating element may be adjusted by a first amount (e.g., 5% or 10% of a predetermined total time period, or a predetermined amount, such as 5 seconds, 10 seconds) compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element at the intermediate position. For each equilibrium position in the second direction, the duty cycle of the second heating element can be adjusted by a second amount (e.g., 5% or 10% of the predetermined total time period, or a predetermined amount, such as 5 seconds or 10 seconds) compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element at the intermediate position. For each equilibrium position in the second direction, the duty cycle of the first heating element can be adjusted by a first amount (e.g., 5% or 10% of the predetermined total time period, or a predetermined amount, such as 5 seconds or 10 seconds) compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element at the intermediate position. However, the duty cycle of the first heating element can remain the same.

[0114] The equilibrium position of the rotatable knob may correspond to discrete sectors of rotation. The one or more discrete sectors may each be up to 15°, up to 18°, up to 20°, or up to 25°.

[0115] Adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element by a first amount, compared to the duty cycle of the first heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position, may include reducing the duty cycle of the first heating element by a first amount. Adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element by a second amount, compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position, may include increasing the duty cycle of the second heating element by a second amount. For each equilibrium position in the second direction away from the neutral position and beyond the lower equilibrium position, the method may include increasing the duty cycle of the first heating element by a third amount, compared to the duty cycle of the first heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position. For each equilibrium position in the second direction away from the neutral position, the method may include not providing power to the second heating element. Typically, the third amount is equal to 5%. The heating controller may be configured to adjust the duty cycle of the first heating element by the first amount, compared to the duty cycle of the first heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position, by reducing the duty cycle of the first heating element by the first amount. The heating controller can be configured to adjust the duty cycle of the second heating element by a second amount, compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position. For each equilibrium position in the second direction away from the neutral position and beyond the lower equilibrium position, the heating controller can be configured to increase the duty cycle of the first heating element by a third amount, compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element when the user input element is in the neutral position. For each equilibrium position in the second direction away from the neutral position, the heating controller can be configured to not provide power to the second heating element. The third amount can be equal to 5%.

[0116] That is, when the user moves the user input element in a first direction to a rest position, the duty cycle of the first heating element can be reduced to reduce the amount of time the bottom heating element is energized within a given time period, and the duty cycle of the second heating element can be increased to increase the amount of time the upper heating element is energized within the same given time period. In this case, the first amount and the second amount can be equal.

[0117] When the user input element is in a balanced position relative to the neutral position in a first direction, the cooking device can adjust the duty cycle of the first and second heating elements in a manner that is intuitive to the user. This means that the user may desire that a change in the duty cycle of one heating element match a change in the duty cycle of the other heating element. The cooking device achieves this matching by changing the duty cycles of the first and second heating elements by the same amount, so that the first and second amounts are equal. In this way, by rotating the knob clockwise, the second heating element is energized for a longer period of time within a given time period, while the first heating element is energized for a shorter period of time within the same given time period. Advantageously, this improves the usability of the cooking device, as the user can control the cooking device as needed to increase the temperature of the air inside the oven at a higher rate than the temperature of the cooking support. However, in some cases, it may be desirable to prevent the user from being able to adjust the duty cycle of a particular heating element.

[0118] The method may include, for each equilibrium position away from the middle position in the second direction, increasing the duty cycle of the first heating element by a first amount compared to the duty cycle of the first heating element when the user input element is in the middle position. The method may include, for each equilibrium position away from the middle position in the second direction, decreasing the duty cycle of the second heating element by a second amount compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element when the user input element is in the middle position. The heating controller may be configured to, for each equilibrium position away from the middle position in the second direction, increase the duty cycle of the first heating element by the first amount compared to the duty cycle of the first heating element when the user input element is in the middle position. The heating controller may be configured to, for each equilibrium position away from the middle position in the second direction, decrease the duty cycle of the second heating element by the second amount compared to the duty cycle of the second heating element when the user input element is in the middle position.

[0119] That is, when the user moves the user input element in the second direction to the equilibrium position, the duty cycle of the first heating element can be increased to increase the amount of time that the bottom heating element is energized in a given time period, and the duty cycle of the second heating element can be decreased to reduce the amount of time that the upper heating element is energized in the same given time period.

[0120] For each equilibrium position in the second direction away from the intermediate position and beyond the lower equilibrium position, the method may comprise not changing the duty cycle of the second heating element. Typically, the third amount is equal to 5%.

[0121] Typically, the lower equilibrium position is a threshold on the knob above which no further rotation results in power being supplied to the second heating element. The duty cycle of the first heating element may be increased to a maximum of 50%.

[0122] When the user input element is in a balanced position in the second direction and exceeds the lower balanced position, the cooking device can adjust the duty cycle of the first heating element without changing the duty cycle of the second heating element. In this way, controlling the duty cycle when the user input element is adjusted in the second direction may not be reasonable for the user but is optimized to avoid damage to the cooking device. The cooking device can achieve this by changing the duty cycle of the first heating element by a third amount without changing the duty cycle of the second heating element or providing power to the second heating element. Advantageously, this improves the user's ability to control the temperature, thereby reducing the temperature inside the cooking chamber while preventing overheating and potential damage to the cooking support.

[0123] Typically, because the maximum duty cycle of the first heating element is 50% (unless the cooking device is operating in initial mode or boost mode), the duty cycle of the first heating element may be reduced in discrete amounts but may not be increased to a duty cycle greater than 50%.

[0124] It will be appreciated that an electric pizza oven is one that is powered by electricity. For example, an electric pizza oven may be one that has one or more electric heating members (e.g., electric heating elements).

[0125] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a controller configured to perform a method according to any of the methods described herein.

[0126] The cooking device may include a controller configured to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0127] The controller may include one or more processors. The controller may include a non-transitory computer-readable memory storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, may cause the controller to cause the oven to operate as described herein. The one or more processors may be located in a single unit. In other examples, where the one or more processors are a plurality of processors, the controller may be distributed, that is, at least one of the plurality of processors may be located separately from at least one other of the plurality of processors. The controller may be configured to receive at least one input from one or more components of the oven (e.g., a temperature sensor). The controller may be configured to transmit at least one output to at least one of: a first heating element and a second heating element. Typically, the cooking device includes a controller, but in other examples, the controller may be separate from the cooking device and in wireless data communication with the cooking device. The controller may be a "primary controller" where the cooking device also includes an additional controller (e.g., a secondary controller or microcontroller).

[0128] It will be appreciated that any of the features described above in relation to the device may also be

[0129] The steps of the method may be performed in the order described herein, or in some cases in another order. In some cases, one or more steps of the method may be performed simultaneously. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0130] Example embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0131] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a cooking device according to aspects of the present invention;

[0132] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a cooking device according to aspects of the present invention;

[0133] Figure 3 A flow chart showing a method according to an aspect of the present invention is shown;

[0134] Figure 4 A flow chart showing a method according to an aspect of the present invention is shown;

[0135] Figure 5 A flow chart showing a method according to an aspect of the present invention is shown;

[0136] Figures 6 to 8 shows a user interface according to aspects of the present invention;

[0137] Figure 9 A flow chart showing a method according to an aspect of the present invention is shown;

[0138] Figure 10 A flow chart illustrating a method according to an aspect of the present invention; and

[0139] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a controller according to aspects of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0140] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cooking device 100 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. Specifically, Figure 1The front of the cooking device 100 is shown. The cooking device 100 includes an oven 110, which includes a housing or body 120 and an oven door 130. The oven 110 includes feet 140 on a base. The oven door 130 includes a handle 150 and a window 160. The oven door 130 also includes a knob 170, which serves as a user input element for controlling the duty cycle of the heating elements within the oven interior (i.e., the cooking chamber) and for the user to enter balance control user input. The oven door 130 also includes a knob 180 for selecting a target temperature and a knob 190 for selecting a cooking device on time. The oven door 130 includes a button 195, which is a user input device and can be used to initiate a "boost mode". The cooking device 100 includes a heat controller 175 for controlling the heating elements inside the oven 110. For illustrative purposes, Figure 1 The heating controller is shown on the outside of the oven door 130. However, it is understood that the heating controller is located inside the oven door 130, or may be located inside the oven enclosure 120. The heating controller 175 controls the duty cycle of the heating elements.

[0141] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cooking device 100 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. Specifically, Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 The interior of the cooking device 100 in the oven 110 is accessible when the oven door 130 is open. Inside the cooking chamber 105, a first heating element 115 (also referred to as a bottom heating element) is provided near the bottom of the cooking chamber 105 for heating a cooking support 135 (particularly a cooking surface 136). Near the top of the cooking chamber 105, a second heating element 125 is provided for heating the air within the cooking chamber 105. The cooking support 135 is supported by a shelf (not shown) so that the cooking support 135 is not in direct contact with the first heating element 115. The oven 110 also includes a temperature sensor 145 located in the rear wall of the cooking chamber 105. The temperature sensor 145 is configured to measure the temperature inside the cooking chamber 105. The temperature sensor 145 may also be located elsewhere, such as at the top of the cooking chamber. The oven door 130 is connected to the oven 110 via a hinge 155.

[0142] Figure 3 A flow chart of a method 300 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. The method includes selectively energizing only the first heating element 115 or only the second heating element 125 at any time 310. When each heating element 115, 125 is energized, it consumes a maximum power corresponding to the rated power of the heating element. The method also includes operating in a sequential heating mode. In the sequential heating mode, the first heating element 115 and the second heating element 125 are controlled so that only one heating element is energized at any time.

[0143] Sequential heating mode involves progressing through a series of heating stages. When temperature sensor 145 measures each upper threshold temperature (i.e., the upper limit of each heating stage's range), or when a predefined time period has elapsed, the oven progresses through the heating stages by moving from one heating stage to the next. The method includes determining (or the controller determines) the time period required for each heating stage to reach the upper threshold temperature based on the ranges and thresholds shown in the table above. The temperature reading within the cooking chamber is determined by the controller using data from the temperature sensor. The method includes determining (or the controller determines) the current temperature reading from temperature sensor 145.

[0144] Table 1 below shows exemplary operating modes and heating phases for a cooking device. Operating modes and heating phases may be referred to generally by "setting number." As previously discussed, the percentage of available time spent with a particular heating element turned on or not turned on is referred to as the duty cycle.

[0145]

[0146] Table 2 below shows exemplary temperature thresholds for sequentially advancing through the five heating stages that form the sequential heating mode and the second heating element only mode (labeled as setting number 7).

[0147]

[0148] For example, the user sets the target temperature to 400°C using knob 180. Cooking device 100 begins operating in initial mode (setting number 1), in which bottom heating element 115 is the only heating element energized for the entire duration of operation in initial mode. Temperature sensor 145 measures a temperature of 35°C in cooking chamber 105 (i.e., the upper limit of the initial mode temperature range). Cooking device 100 begins operating in sequential heating mode. Specifically, cooking device 100 begins operating in the first heating phase of sequential heating mode (setting number 2), with top heating element 125 energized for 50% of the duration of the first heating phase and bottom heating element 115 energized for 50% of the duration of the first heating phase. It is known that for each heating phase, the time required for the temperature in cooking chamber 105 to rise from the lower limit to the upper limit of the temperature range is 30 seconds. Therefore, top heating element 125 is energized for 15 seconds, and bottom heating element 115 is energized for 15 seconds. This occurs at 7.5-second intervals, although it should be understood that other intervals may also be used. When temperature sensor 145 measures the upper temperature threshold associated with the first heating phase (either as one measurement in a set of continuous measurements or as measurements taken at regular intervals), or when a predetermined time period associated with the first heating phase expires, cooking device 100 begins operating in the second heating phase (setting number 3), in which the duty cycle of top heating element 125 increases by 10% and the duty cycle of bottom heating element 115 decreases by 10%. This sequence continues until temperature sensor 145 measures a temperature of 349°C (i.e., the upper limit of the sequential heating mode temperature range), or until the first predetermined time period for heating the cooking chamber through the sequential heating mode temperature range has elapsed. Cooking device 100 then begins operating in the second heating element-only mode, in which top heating element 125 is the only heating element energized for the duration of the second heating element-only mode. In this operating mode, temperature sensor 145 measures a temperature of 400°C inside cooking chamber 105.

[0149] For another example, the user sets the target temperature to 400°C using knob 180. The cooking device 100 begins operating in initial mode (setting number 1), in which bottom heating element 115 is the only heating element energized for the entire duration of operation in initial mode. No switching occurs in this mode. Temperature sensor 145 measures a temperature of 35°C in cooking chamber 105 (i.e., the first maximum threshold for initial mode). The cooking device 100 begins operating in sequential heating mode. In this example of sequential heating mode, while the amount of time required to move from the lower limit to the upper limit of the temperature range for each stage is unknown, the number of switching cycles within each heating stage and the switching period are known. Therefore, the cooking device 100 begins operating in the first heating stage of sequential heating mode, in which the switching frequency of the heating elements is predetermined to be 3 during a given 30-second period. In this example, the first and second heating elements have the same switching period (although in other cases, the switching periods of the heating elements may differ). Thus, in the first heating phase, the first heating element is energized for 7.5 seconds, followed by a first switch to energize the second heating element for 7.5 seconds, a second switch to energize the first heating element for 7.5 seconds, and a third switch to energize the second heating element for 7.5 seconds. This process continues until the measured temperature corresponds to the upper limit of the temperature range for the first heating phase, at which point the cooking device 100 begins operating in the second heating phase, in which the switching frequency increases. In this example, the number of switches per 30 seconds in the second heating phase is six. This sequence continues until the temperature sensor 145 measures a temperature of 349°C (i.e., the second maximum threshold for sequential heating mode). The cooking device 100 begins operating in the second heating element-only mode, in which the top heating element 125 is the only heating element energized for the duration of the second heating element-only mode. In this operating mode, the temperature sensor 145 measures a temperature of 400°C inside the cooking chamber 105.

[0150] Figure 4 A flow chart of a method 400 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. Method 400 includes the optional step of measuring 410 the temperature inside cooking chamber 105. Method 400 includes operating 420 in an initial mode. Operating 420 in initial mode involves energizing only first heating element 115 to heat cooking support 135. Method 400 also includes operating 430 in a sequential heating mode. Operating 430 in sequential heating mode involves operating in one of the one or more heating stages described above. Operating in one heating stage involves alternatingly energizing first heating element 115 and second heating element 125.

[0151] The method 400 includes the optional method step of operating 440 in a second heating element only mode in which only the second heating element 125 is energized. This may occur if the user sets a target temperature that is above the upper limit of the sequential heating mode temperature range.

[0152] Method 400 includes operating in intermittent mode 460, which involves controlling the first heating element 115 and the second heating element 125 in a sequence of energizing the first heating element 115, energizing the second heating element 125, and then energizing neither the first heating element nor the second heating element. This sequence can occur in any order. In intermittent mode, the first heating element 115 always has a 50% duty cycle, with only the duty cycle of the second heating element 125 varying. The intermittent mode includes intermittent mode phases corresponding to settings 8 through 11 shown in Table 1. In setting 12, the top heating element 125 is not energized at all, while the bottom heating element 115 has a maximum duty cycle of 50% and neither heating element is energized for the remainder of the time.

[0153] In some other examples, the heating phases of the sequential heating mode can be used to maintain heat inside the oven 110. The following table contains examples of heating phases in which the cooking device will operate based on the target temperature once the measured temperature inside the cooking chamber 105 reaches the target temperature. In this example, the user uses the knob 180 to set the target temperature in increments of 25°C (or 50°F), from a minimum of 150°C (or 250°F) to a maximum of 450°C (or 850°F). In this example, once the target temperature is reached, the heating phase corresponds to a predetermined duty cycle, but the heating phase can also correspond to a predetermined number of switching times.

[0154] Table 3 below shows examples of which heating stages may correspond to target temperatures for cooking food once the target temperature is reached.

[0155] Target temperature (℃ / ℉) Set the number Heating stage 150℃、175℃、200℃ / 250℉、300℉、350℉ 2 First 225℃、250℃ / 400℉、450℉ 3 second 275℃、300℃ / 500℉、550℉ 4 third 325℃、350℃ / 600℉、650℉ 5 fourth 375℃、400℃ / 700℉、750℉ 6 fifth 425℃、450℃ / 800℉、850℉ 7 sixth

[0156] Using the above example, the cooking device would operate in the fifth heating stage (setting number 6) to maintain a target temperature of 400°C.

[0157] Figure 5 A flow chart of a method 500 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. The method 500 includes receiving 510 a first user input. The first user input is received in the form of a button 195. The method 500 includes energizing 520 only the first heating element 115 in response to the user pressing the button 195. In effect, this is the same as the operation in the initial mode of the heating cycle.

[0158] Figures 6 to 8A user interface according to aspects of the present invention is shown. The user interface includes a knob 170 for controlling the duty cycle once the target temperature is reached. Knob 170 is surrounded by a plurality of lights 171 (shown as circles). A subset of lights 172 (shown as black circles) illuminates to indicate a comparison of the duty cycle of one heating element to another. Light subset 172 includes 10 lights out of a total of 20. Light subset 172 forms an arc around the circle. Figure 6 The knob 170 is shown in a neutral position represented by indicator 173. In the neutral position, the duty cycles of the first heating element 115 and the second heating element 125 are equal, and the subset of lights 172 is shown as being centered in the arc formed by all of the lights 171. When the knob is rotated counterclockwise, the subset of lights 172 moves counterclockwise, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in . Figure 7 The knob 170 is shown in a counterclockwise equilibrium position relative to a neutral position 173. When the knob is rotated clockwise, the light subset 172 moves clockwise, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown in . Figure 8 The knob 170 is shown in a rest position relative to a neutral position 173 in a clockwise direction. Figures 6 to 8 A lower equilibrium position 174 is shown. If a user rotates knob 170 beyond lower equilibrium position 174, first heating element 115 and second heating element 125 may be controlled differently than if knob 170 were not rotated to lower equilibrium position 174.

[0159] Figure 9 A flow chart of a method 900 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. The method 900 includes selectively energizing only the first heating element or only the second heating element at any time 910. The method 900 includes a user rotating the knob 170 to a rest position to select a setting number indicating a desired ratio between the duty cycles of the first heating element 115 and the second heating element 125. The method 900 then includes changing 930 the appearance of the visual indication by illuminating different subsets of lights 172 in response to the user rotating the knob 170.

[0160] Figure 10A flow chart of a method 1000 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. Method 1000 includes receiving 1010 a balance control user input corresponding to moving knob 170 to a desired equilibrium position. The duty cycle of top heating element 125 and, optionally, bottom heating element 115 is controlled based on the equilibrium position of knob 170. In use, when a user turns 1010 knob 170, heating controller 175 determines the angle of rotation of knob 170 and, therefore, the equilibrium position of the knob, and illuminates 920 a subset of lamps 172 that form an arc with the same angle as the rotation of knob 170. Thus, the position of lamp arc subset 172 provides information to the user regarding the duty cycle of bottom heating element 115 and top heating element 125. In method steps 1020 and 1030, the duty cycle of at least first heating element 115 is changed, and in some cases, the duty cycle of second heating element 125 is also changed. Method 1000 includes adjusting 1020 the duty cycle of the first heating element 115 for each clockwise equilibrium position, in this example, the adjustment is a decrease by 5% (i.e., a first amount). Method step 1030 includes adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element 125 for each clockwise equilibrium position by 5% (i.e., a second amount), in this example, the adjustment is an increase.

[0161] The method 1000 may include increasing the duty cycle of the first heating element 115, for example, by 5% (i.e., a third amount), for each counterclockwise equilibrium position further counterclockwise than the lower equilibrium position 174. When the knob 170 is rotated beyond the lower equilibrium position 174, the method 1000 may include not providing power to the second heating element 125, such that the duty cycle of the second heating element 125 is zero. In other examples, the duty cycle of the second heating element 125 may be maintained such that for each equilibrium position beyond the lower equilibrium position 174, the duty cycle of the second heating element 125 does not change.

[0162] The user can rotate knob 170 one arc before the heating cycle is complete. Until the heating cycle is complete, heating controller 175 will not control the duty cycle of the top heating element, and optionally the bottom heating element (i.e., perform associated method steps 1020, 1030). In this way, user control is "locked out" until oven 110 is heated to the target temperature. Once the heating cycle is complete, i.e., the temperature measured by temperature sensor 145 reaches the target temperature, heating controller 175 controls the duty cycle of the heating elements. Thus, knob 170 can be used to set a desired duty cycle after initial heating and, if desired by the user, can also change the duty cycle after initial heating. Heating controller 175 can also not ignite lamp arc subset 172 (i.e., perform associated method step 920) until the heating cycle is complete.

[0163] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a controller according to aspects of the present invention is shown. Controller 1110 represents heating controller 175 and may also represent a main controller. Controller 1110 includes one or more processors 1120 and non-transitory computer-readable memory 1130. Non-transitory computer-readable memory 1130 stores instructions that, when executed by one or more processors 1120, cause the operation of the methods described herein. One or more processors 1120 calculate the timing of the duty cycles of the first and second heating elements. Controller 1110 is part of cooking device 100. Controller 1110 exchanges and / or transmits data and / or control signals 1125 with other components 1140 of the cooking device. In this example, controller 1110 receives data indicating measured temperatures from temperature sensor 145 and transmits control signals to energize first and second heating elements 115, 125, and other components 1140 of cooking device 100. Controller 1110 causes the first and second heating elements to operate in all operating modes and heating phases. Alternatively, the controller 1110 may be separated from the cooking apparatus 100 or distributed between the cooking apparatus 100 and a device external to the cooking apparatus 100. The controller 1110 may exchange and / or transmit data and / or control signals with components external to the cooking apparatus 100.

Claims

1. A method of cooking using a cooking device, the cooking device comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support inside the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber comprising a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper region of the interior of the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber, wherein the method comprises: selectively energizing at most one heating element of the plurality of heating elements at any time; as well as Operating in a sequential heating mode, wherein the sequential heating mode comprises advancing through one or more predetermined heating stages, each predetermined heating stage comprising alternatingly energizing the first heating element and the second heating element.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein advancing from one predetermined heating stage to the next heating stage comprises gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element starting from an initial duty cycle of the first heating element, and gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element starting from an initial duty cycle of the second heating element, optionally wherein the duty cycles of the first heating element and the second heating element correspond to a percentage of time that the respective heating elements are energized, optionally wherein the initial duty cycle of the first heating element and the initial duty cycle of the second heating element are 50%.

3. The method of any preceding claim, wherein gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element starting from an initial duty cycle of the first heating element comprises decreasing the duty cycle of the first heating element, and gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element starting from an initial duty cycle of the second heating element comprises increasing the duty cycle of the second heating element.

4. A method according to any preceding claim, comprising advancing through one or more predetermined heating stages according to a predefined heating stage-related threshold, optionally wherein the predefined heating stage-related threshold is an upper temperature threshold associated with each heating stage and / or a predetermined time period associated with each heating stage, optionally wherein the method comprises measuring the temperature inside the cooking chamber and advancing through each heating stage according to the measured temperature corresponding to the upper temperature threshold associated with the respective heating stage.

5. A method according to any preceding claim, comprising operating in the sequential heating mode according to a target temperature.

6. A method according to any preceding claim, comprising: operating in said sequential heating mode for a first predetermined period of time; and / or The temperature inside the cooking chamber is measured, and the oven is operated in the sequential heating mode according to the measured temperature.

7. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein changing the heating element that is energised corresponds to switching the heating element, and wherein advancing from one heating phase to the next comprises adjusting a switching frequency of the heating element.

8. A method according to any preceding claim, comprising operating the oven in an initial mode prior to the sequential heating mode, wherein operating in the initial mode comprises energising only the first heating element.

9. The method according to claim 8, comprising: operating in said initial mode for a second predetermined period of time; and / or The temperature inside the cooking chamber is measured, and the oven is operated in the initial mode according to the measured temperature.

10. A method according to any preceding claim, comprising operating the oven in a second heating element only mode following the sequential heating mode, wherein operating in the second heating element only mode comprises energising only the second heating element.

11. The method according to claim 10, comprising: operating the oven in the second heating element only mode according to a third predetermined time period; and / or The temperature inside the cooking chamber is measured, and the oven is operated in the second heating element only mode based on the measured temperature.

12. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the initial mode, the sequential heating mode and the second heating element only mode are part of a heating cycle of the oven.

13. A method according to any preceding claim, comprising operating in an intermittent mode once a target temperature is reached, wherein the intermittent mode comprises a sequence of energising only the first heating element, energising only the second heating element, and energising neither the first heating element nor the second heating element, in any order, optionally comprising operating in the intermittent mode according to the target temperature.

14. The method of claim 13 , comprising measuring a temperature inside the cooking chamber, and if the measured temperature drops from the target temperature by more than a reheating amount, the method comprising operating in one of the initial mode, the sequential heating mode, or the second heating element only mode based on the measured temperature and the target temperature.

15. A method according to any preceding claim, comprising receiving a first user input and operating in the initial mode in dependence on the first user input, optionally comprising operating in the initial mode for up to a maximum predetermined initial mode time period in dependence on the user input.

16. A controller configured to perform the method according to any preceding claim.

17. A cooking device, comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support inside the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber comprising a plurality of heating elements, the plurality of heating elements comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper area inside the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber, the oven comprising a heating controller, the heating controller being configured to energize at any time at most one of the plurality of heating elements, and the heating controller being configured to control the oven to operate in a sequential heating mode, wherein the sequential heating mode comprises the heating controller controlling the oven to advance through one or more predetermined heating stages, each predetermined heating stage comprising alternately energizing the first heating element and the second heating element.

18. The cooking apparatus of claim 17 , wherein the heating controller is configured to control the oven to advance from one predetermined heating stage to a next predetermined heating stage by gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the first heating element starting from an initial duty cycle of the first heating element and gradually adjusting the duty cycle of the second heating element starting from an initial duty cycle of the second heating element.

19. The cooking apparatus of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the heating controller is configured to control the oven: operating in the sequential heating mode for a first predetermined period of time; and / or The temperature inside the cooking chamber is measured, and the oven is operated in the sequential heating mode according to the measured temperature.

20. The cooking apparatus of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the heating controller is configured to operate the oven in a second heating element only mode after the sequential heating mode, wherein when operating in the second heating element only mode, the heating controller is configured to energize only the second heating element.

21. The cooking apparatus of claim 20, wherein the heating controller is configured to control the oven: operating in said second heating element only mode according to a third predetermined time period; and / or The temperature inside the cooking chamber is measured, and the oven is operated in the second heating element only mode based on the measured temperature.

22. A method of cooking using a cooking device, the cooking device comprising an oven, the oven comprising a cooking chamber and an oven door separating the cooking chamber from an external environment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber comprising a cooking support inside the cooking chamber, the cooking chamber comprising a first heating element positioned below the cooking support for heating the cooking support and a second heating element positioned in an upper region inside the cooking chamber for heating the interior of the cooking chamber, wherein the method comprises energizing at any time at most one of the first heating element or the second heating element.

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