Cover plate for cooking device

Abstract

A cooking apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, a cooking device includes a base having a recessed cavity disposed in a top surface. The cooking device may also include a heating element disposed within the recessed cavity of the base. The first bracket may be positioned on the base, and the cooking plate may be positioned on a top surface of the base. A cover assembly may be provided and may include a cover plate configured to be removably positioned over the cooking plate. The cover plate may include a plurality of through holes disposed therein. The second bracket may be positioned on the cover plate, and it may be configured to be coupled to the first bracket such that the cover assembly is connected to and rotatable relative to the base.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 18 / 156,066, filed on January 18, 2023, entitled "Cover for Cooking Device," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] A cover plate for use with a cooking apparatus is provided. Background Art

[0004] Various systems and methods for preventing grease from escaping cooking surfaces (such as metal pot lid screens) are known. These systems typically include a fine mesh that, while preventing grease and food particles from escaping the cooking surface, also excessively traps moisture generated by the cooking process. Excessive moisture capture leads to undesirable results because certain cooking processes (such as searing meat at high temperatures) require that moisture be removed from the cooking space to allow a searing effect, rather than a steaming effect, to occur. Existing cooking devices are typically designed to prevent grease and food particles from escaping, and achieve this at the expense of moisture removal. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A cover plate and a cooking device for use therewith are provided.

[0006] In one embodiment, a cooking device is provided that has a base including a recessed cavity disposed in a top surface. The cooking device may further include a heating element disposed within the recessed cavity of the base. A first bracket may be positioned on the base, and a cooking plate may be positioned on the top surface of the base. A cover assembly may be provided and may include a cover plate configured to be removably positioned over the cooking plate. The cover plate may include a plurality of through-holes disposed therein. A second bracket may be positioned on the cover plate and may be configured to couple to the first bracket such that the cover assembly is connected to the base and rotatable relative to the base.

[0007] The base can have various configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the first bracket can include at least one slot. The second bracket can include at least one protrusion configured to be removably positioned within the at least one slot of the first bracket.

[0008] In another embodiment, a gap may be formed between a cooking plate disposed on the base and the heating element. In another embodiment, the cooking plate may include a grease collector formed within the cooking plate. In another embodiment, the base may include a second recess configured to receive the grease collector of the cooking plate when disposed on the base.

[0009] The cover plate can also have various configurations. In one embodiment, the cover plate can have a first region having a first design pattern of through holes and a second region having a second design pattern of through holes. The first region can have a greater percentage of open surface above the cooking plate than the second region. In another embodiment, the percentage of open surface above the cooking plate created by the through holes can be in the range of 10% to 30%. In another embodiment, the cover plate can include at least one spacer configured to prevent the cover plate from contacting the cooking plate. In another embodiment, the through holes can be configured to allow moisture generated by the cooking process occurring on the cooking plate to pass through the cover plate while preventing food particles and grease from passing through the cover plate.

[0010] In yet another embodiment, a cover assembly is provided that includes a cover plate configured to be removably positioned over a cooking plate. The cover plate may include a plurality of through-holes disposed therein. A bracket may be positioned on a rear surface of the cover plate, and the bracket may be configured to rotatably connect the cover plate to a base of a cooking device to position the cover plate over the cooking plate in the base. The through-holes may be configured to allow moisture generated by a cooking process occurring beneath the cover plate to pass through the cover plate while preventing food particles and grease from passing through the cover plate.

[0011] The cover assembly can have various configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the cover plate can include a first region having a first design pattern of through-holes and a second region having a second design pattern of through-holes. In some aspects, the first region can have a greater percentage of open surface above the cooking plate than the second region. In another embodiment, the percentage of open surface above the cooking plate created by through-holes can range from 10% to 30%. In another embodiment, the through-holes can have a width ranging from 3 mm to 8 mm. In another embodiment, the cover plate can include at least one non-abrasive spacer.

[0012] In another embodiment, a cooking device is provided that has a base including a first recessed cavity configured in a top surface and a second recessed cavity configured in the top surface. A heating element can be positioned within the first recessed cavity. A first bracket can be positioned on a rear surface of the base. The cooking device may further include a cover plate having a second bracket positioned on a rear surface of the cover plate. The second bracket may be configured to cooperate with the first bracket to rotatably connect the cover plate to the base. The cover plate may further include a plurality of through holes configured therein. The first cooking plate may be configured to be positioned on the top surface of the base, and the second cooking plate may be configured to be positioned on the top surface of the base. The second cooking plate may have a configuration that is different from that of the first cooking plate.

[0013] The cooking device can have various configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the first cooking plate can include a first grease collector formed within the first cooking plate, and the second cooking plate can include a second grease collector formed within the second cooking plate. In another embodiment, the second recessed cavity can be configured to receive the first grease collector when the first cooking plate is positioned on the base, and can be configured to receive the second grease collector when the second cooking plate is positioned on the base. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a cooking device having a lid assembly coupled thereto;

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of the cooking device showing the lid assembly in an open configuration;

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of a cooking device;

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a top perspective view of the cooking device with the cover assembly and cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0019] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 A detailed perspective view of a stand for a cooking device;

[0020] Figure 5B yes Figure 1 a detailed cross-sectional view of the rotational connection between the cover assembly and the base;

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 a top perspective view of a cooking device with a cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 a bottom perspective view of a cooking plate;

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 a top perspective view of the cooking device with the cover assembly removed from the cooking device;

[0024] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A rear perspective view of a cooking device;

[0025] Figure 10is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a cooking plate removed from a cooking device;

[0026] Figure 11 Removed from cooking unit Figure 1 a top perspective view of a cover assembly;

[0027] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 a bottom perspective view of the cover assembly;

[0028] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 A detailed perspective view of the bracket of the cover assembly;

[0029] Figure 14 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a cover assembly;

[0030] Figure 15 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of the cooking device showing the lid assembly in a removed configuration;

[0031] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 a top perspective view of the cooking device with the cover assembly removed from the cooking device;

[0032] Figure 17 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of a cover assembly;

[0033] Figure 18 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a cooking device having a lid assembly coupled thereto;

[0034] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 a front perspective view of the cooking device with the cover assembly and cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0035] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 a rear perspective view of the cooking device with the cover assembly and cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0036] Figure 21 yes Figure 18 a detailed rear perspective view of a stand of a cooking device with the cover assembly removed from the cooking device;

[0037] Figure 22 yes Figure 18 A detailed front perspective view of a temperature sensor assembly of a cooking device;

[0038] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 a detailed rear perspective view of a temperature sensor assembly;

[0039] Figure 24 yes Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of a cooking device;

[0040] Figure 25 yes Figure 18 a front perspective view of the cooking device with the cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0041] Figure 26 yes Figure 18 a rear perspective view of the cooking device with the cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0042] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 a bottom perspective view of a cooking plate;

[0043] Figure 28 Removed from cooking unit Figure 18 a bottom perspective view of the cover assembly; and

[0044] Figure 29 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a cooking device having a lid assembly coupled thereto;

[0045] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 a front perspective view of the cooking device with the cover assembly and cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0046] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 a front perspective view of the cooking device with the cooking plate removed from the cooking device;

[0047] Figure 32 yes Figure 31 A partial bottom perspective view of a cooking plate;

[0048] Figure 33 yes Figure 29 A cross-sectional view of a cooking device;

[0049] Figure 34 Removed from cooking unit Figure 29 a bottom perspective view of the cover assembly; and

[0050] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 A perspective cross-sectional view of a cover assembly.

[0051] Note that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the present invention is limited solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in conjunction with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0053] Typically, when searing foods such as proteins, moisture is released from the food. In addition to the released moisture, fat and other food particles may be released onto the cooking surface, where the fluid and particles may splash out of the cooking volume and onto surrounding support surfaces. While it is desirable to prevent fluids such as grease and food particles from leaving the cooking volume, it is also necessary to release moisture from the cooking volume to allow for a searing effect on the food rather than a steaming effect, which could result in an undesirable food texture.

[0054] Therefore, a cooking device is provided having a cover plate that addresses the above-mentioned problems by including through holes that are large enough to drain moisture from the cooking volume during the cooking process, but still sufficiently retain grease and food particles.

[0055] Figures 1 to 3 One embodiment of a cooking device 100 is illustrated, which is operable to prepare food and is suitable for use on a support surface, such as a countertop. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the lid assembly disclosed herein can be used with any cooking device, and the illustrated device is provided merely as an example of a device for use with a lid assembly. As shown, the cooking device 100 generally includes a base 102, a cooking plate 104, and a lid assembly 106. As explained in detail below, the base 102, cooking plate 104, and lid assembly 106 can be connected together to form the cooking device 100.

[0056] The base 102 can have various configurations, but in the illustrated embodiment, it is configured to be positioned on a support surface, such as a work surface. Figure 4 As depicted, the base 102 has a generally rectangular configuration and includes an upper surface 108 and a lower surface 109. A raised portion 110 positioned around an outer edge 111 of the base 102 is configured on the upper surface 108. The raised portion 110 may be formed on or integral with the upper surface 108 and may be configured to support a cooking plate above the upper surface 108. Figure 3 As shown, when the cooking plate is deployed on the base 102, a gap G is formed between the upper surface 108 of the base 102 and the bottom surface of the cooking plate.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, the lower surface 109 of the base 102 may include features that help position the base on a support surface, such as a countertop. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower surface 109 includes legs 103 disposed at the four corners of the base 102 to provide stability to the base 102 when placed on the support surface. The legs 103 may extend downwardly from the base 102 to elevate the base 102 off the support surface to prevent damage to the support surface during the cooking process. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the legs may be positioned at various locations and may have various other configurations, or that in other embodiments, the base may include other support features or may not need to include any support features.

[0058] like Figure 4 As further shown, the base 102 can include a first cavity 112 and a second cavity 114. Both the first cavity 112 and the second cavity 114 can be recessed into the upper surface 108 of the base 102. The first cavity 112 can have a generally rectangular configuration extending along substantially the entire width of the base 102. A heating element 116 can be disposed within the first cavity 112 and can be configured to generate heat to enable cooking on a cooking plate disposed on the base 102, as described in greater detail below. In one embodiment, the heating element 116 can be a cal-rod having an "S-shaped" bend along the length and width of the recessed cavity 112 to ensure even heat distribution to the cooking plate. However, other types of heating elements, such as coils and combustion-type heating elements, can be used and are considered within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, a bracket 118 can be disposed within the cavity 112 to support the heating element 116 within the cavity 112.

[0059] Similar to the first cavity 112, the second cavity 114 is also recessed into the base 102. In one aspect, the second cavity 114 is configured to receive a grease trap for a cooking plate, as will be described in detail below. While the first cavity 112 and the second cavity 114 are shown as separate and distinct cavities, in one aspect, the first cavity 112 and the second cavity 114 can be a single recessed cavity in the base 102.

[0060] To control the heat generated by the heating element 116, a temperature sensor 120 can be disposed within the base 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensor 120 is disposed between the first cavity 112 and the second cavity 114 and is centrally located along the width of the base 102. Although the temperature sensor 120 is shown as being located in a centrally located position, the temperature sensor 120 can be disposed at various other locations on the base 102. The temperature sensor 120 can be configured to extend upward beyond the upper surface 108 so as to contact a cooking plate disposed on the base 102. The temperature sensor 120 is configured to measure the temperature of the cooking plate when the heating element 116 is activated. In one aspect, the temperature sensor 120 can be a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor or a thermostat. In another aspect, the temperature sensor 120 can be spring-biased upward to ensure contact with the cooking plate.

[0061] In addition to using the temperature sensor 120 to control the heating element 116, a control panel 122 can be configured on the front surface 127 of the base 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the control panel 122 includes a user interface 124 and an input portion 126. The user interface 124 can be configured to display readings from the temperature sensor 120 and / or different operating modes when the cooking device 100 is in use. The input portion 126 can be configured to allow the user to input different cooking parameters based on the desired cooking program, such as increasing or decreasing the temperature of the heating element 116. The input portion 126 can have various configurations, such as a rotatable dial or button for inputting different parameters. In one aspect, the control panel 122, the temperature sensor 120, and the heating element 116 can all be communicatively coupled to a control unit (not shown), which receives input from the control panel 122 and the temperature sensor 120 and then controls the power input to the heating element 116 based on the input.

[0062] As described above, the base 102 can include a bracket 130 that is positioned opposite the control panel 122 in the illustrated embodiment. Specifically, the bracket 130 is configured on the rear surface 128 of the base 102. The bracket 130 can be a separate component from the base 102, or can be integral with the base 102. The bracket 130 can extend upward from the base 102 above the upper surface 108. The illustrated bracket 130 is a U-shaped member that includes protrusions 132, 134 configured on opposite sides of the bracket 130. Each protrusion 132, 134 can include a groove 136, 138 formed therein, respectively. The grooves 136, 138 can both correspond to portions of the bracket configured on the cover assembly, which will be described in more detail below. As Figure 5AAs shown, the groove 136 includes a circular cavity 150 and straight wall sections 152, 154. The diameter of the curved wall section 150 can be greater than the distance between the straight wall sections 152, 154. The groove 138 can have the same configuration, as shown in FIG. Figure 5B shown.

[0063] As described above, the base 102 is configured to support the cooking plate 104 so that the heating element 116 can generate heat to the cooking plate 104. Figures 6 to 9 As depicted, the cooking plate 104 can be configured to provide a cooking surface for food. The illustrated cooking plate 104 is generally rectangular and configured to rest atop the base 102, such that the heating element 116 is positioned below a cooking surface 160. The cooking plate 104 generally includes a cooking surface 160 sized to correspond to the dimensions of the base 102 and the heating element 116. In one aspect, the cooking surface 160 can include ribs 162 disposed along the cooking surface 160. Sidewalls 164, 166, and a rear sidewall 168 can surround the cooking surface 160. The sidewalls 164, 166, and 168 extend upward from the cooking surface 160 to retain food particles and grease on the cooking plate 104 during the cooking process. In one embodiment, the cooking surface 160 can be angled away from the rear sidewall 168 toward a grease collector 170. The grease collector 170 can be disposed at the front of the cooking plate 104, opposite the rear sidewall 168. The grease catcher 170 can include an opening 172 that extends substantially along the entire width of the cooking plate 104. The grease catcher 170 is configured to receive runoff fluids and food particles generated during the cooking process to reduce smoke generation on the cooking plate 104 by moving these fluids and food particles away from the cooking surface 160 and the heating element 116. A lip 174 can be configured on the front edge of the cooking plate 104 and can be configured to help contain grease, fluids, and food particles within the cooking plate 104. The lip 174 can extend along the entire width of the grease catcher opening 172 and can be integral with the cooking plate 104.

[0064] like Figure 7As further shown, support ribs 176 may be configured on the bottom surface 175 of the cooking plate 104. The support ribs 176 may generally contour the cooking surface 160 and may partially extend downward into the recessed cavity 112 of the base 102. The support ribs 176 may be configured to provide rigidity to the cooking plate 104 to prevent warping during the cooking process using the cooking plate 104. Additionally, a sensor contact 178 may be configured on the bottom surface 175 of the cooking plate 104. The sensor contact 178 is configured between the grease collector 170 and the support ribs 176 and is positioned at a location corresponding to the location of the temperature sensor 120 in the base 102. The sensor contact 178 is configured to provide a specific location for the temperature sensor 120 to contact the cooking plate 104.

[0065] In addition to the cooking plate 104, an additional second cooking plate 204 may be used with the base 102. Figure 10 As depicted, second cooking plate 204 is similar to cooking plate 104, and therefore similar components will not be described in detail. Second cooking plate 204 includes a cooking surface 260, sidewalls 264 and 266, a rear sidewall 268, a grease collector 270, a grease collector opening 272, a lip 274, a bottom surface 275, and support ribs 276. However, unlike cooking plate 104, cooking surface 260 of second cooking plate 204 is smooth and does not include any ribs. Cooking surface 260 may also be covered in a non-stick coating. If a user desires to use second cooking plate 204 instead of cooking plate 104, the user can remove cooking plate 104 from base 102 and place second cooking plate 204 on base 102.

[0066] In addition to users who want to replace cooking plates, users may also desire to prevent food particles and fluids from escaping the cooking device 100 during the cooking process. Therefore, the cover assembly 106 can be provided on the base 102. Figures 11 to 13 As depicted, the cover assembly may include a cover plate 180 and a bracket 182. The cover plate 180 may have a generally rectangular configuration and may be configured to be positioned over the cooking plate 104 to cover the entire length and width of the cooking plate 104, as shown. Figure 1As shown. The cover plate 180 may include two side walls 184 and 186, a front side wall 188, and a rear side wall 190, each of which may extend downward from the cover plate 180. A handle 193 may be provided on the front side wall 188 and may be configured to allow the user to raise and lower the cover assembly 106 during the cooking process without injuring themselves. In addition to preventing food particles and fluids from escaping the cooking plate 104, the cover plate 180 may also be configured to allow moisture generated during the cooking process to escape the cooking volume between the cooking plate 104 and the cover plate 180, thereby ensuring that food cooked on the cooking plate 104 is seared and not steamed due to excess moisture. To ensure that moisture can escape the cooking plate 104, the cover plate 180 may include a central section 192 having a plurality of through-holes 194. The central section 192 may be stamped into the cover plate 180 to help increase the rigidity of the cover plate 180. The through-holes 194 may be configured within the central section 192 such that food particles and grease are adequately retained by the cover plate 180 while allowing moisture to pass through the through-holes 194 .

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the through holes 194 can have a width in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm and preferably in the range of 3 mm to 8 mm. Additionally, the pitch (e.g., the distance from the center of one through hole to the center of an adjacent through hole) can be in the range of 5 mm to 15 mm and preferably 8 mm. Such distances and through hole sizes can allow sufficient moisture to be drained from the cooking volume while still accommodating a large amount of fluid and food particles generated during the cooking process. Additionally, while the through holes 194 are depicted as circular, different shapes such as ovals, squares, slots, diamonds, etc. can be used and should be considered within the scope of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, due to the through holes 194, the percentage of open surface in the central region 192 is in the range of 10% to 30%, and preferably between 15% and 20%, and preferably 18%. Thus, in use, due to the specific size and spacing of the through holes 194, the cover plate 180 covers the cooking plate 104 (e.g., Figure 1 ) with the cover plate 180 in the raised position and not covering the cooking plate 104 (as shown Figure 2 Temperature gradients between the times shown) are minimized to ensure consistent cooking in either the raised or closed position of the cover 180.

[0068] Although the cover 180 Figures 11 to 13 As depicted in FIG. 1 , a single hole design pattern is depicted across the entire central section 192, but multiple hole design patterns may be used on a single cover plate. Figure 14As depicted, lid assembly 306 may include a lid plate 380 having more than one hole design pattern thereon. Lid assembly 306 is substantially similar to lid assembly 106, and therefore, similar components will not be described in detail. Lid plate 380 includes spacers 396 and handles 393 disposed around an outer edge, as well as brackets 382 for securing lid assembly 306 to base 102. Central section 392 includes a first region 310 having a plurality of through-holes 312 and a second region 320 having a plurality of through-holes 322. As depicted, more through-holes 322 are positioned in second region 320 than in first region 310. Consequently, moisture can escape more easily from second region 320 than from first region 310. This can allow for two distinct cooking zones on cooking plate 104, where a moisture-rich environment is desirable. For example, the area of ​​the cooking plate 104 positioned below the second zone 320 can be used to sear food, while the area of ​​the cooking plate 104 positioned below the first zone 310 can be used to melt cheese on the food because the additional moisture will help melt the cheese. Although only two zones are depicted on the cover plate 380, additional zones with additional moisture retention properties may be used and should be considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0069] As mentioned above, the cooking plate can be covered in a non-stick coating to help release food during the cooking process. In one aspect, the non-stick coating can be resistant to scratching by metal utensils (including the cover plate 180). To ensure that the cover plate 180 does not scratch the cooking plate 104, spacers 196 are disposed around the four corners of the cover plate 180. The spacers 196 can be made of a non-abrasive material that is also heat-resistant, such as silicone or rubber. Therefore, when the cover plate 180 is in the closed position, the spacers 196 are the spacers that contact the cooking plate 104 to prevent the cover plate 180 from scratching the cooking plate 104.

[0070] To allow the cover assembly 106 to move between the open and closed configurations relative to the cooking plate 104, a bracket 182 can be positioned on the rear sidewall 190 of the cover plate 180. The bracket 182 can be secured to the cover plate 180 via rivets 198, or in other embodiments, it can be welded or otherwise attached to the cover plate. In one aspect, the cover plate 180 can be removably connected to the bracket 182. The bracket 182 can extend downwardly from the cover plate 180 and can include two protrusions 199, 200 configured on each side of the bracket 182. Figure 13 As depicted, the protrusion 199 may have a cylindrical configuration with two curved surfaces 199c, 199d and two flat surfaces 199a, 199b disposed on opposite sides of the curved surfaces 199c, 199d. Although not shown, the protrusion 200 may have the same configuration.

[0071] The straight surfaces 199a, 199b and the curved surfaces 199c, 199d allow for a pivotal connection between the lid assembly 106 and the base 102 while also allowing the lid assembly 106 to be removed from the base 102 when the lid assembly 106 is at a particular angle relative to the base 102, such as for cleaning. Figures 15 and 16 106 is depicted in the removed position relative to the base 102. When the cover assembly 106 is at the appropriate angle, such as Figure 15 As shown, the straight sections 199a, 199b are aligned with the straight wall sections 142, 144 of the groove 138 in the base. The straight section of the protrusion 200 is also aligned with the straight wall sections 152, 154 of the groove 134. Therefore, when the cover assembly 106 is in the removal position, the cover assembly 106 can be lifted vertically upward in the removal direction RD (as shown in FIG. Figure 16 138). With the straight sections 199a, 199b aligned with the straight wall sections 142, 144 of the slot 138, the protrusion 199 can pass through the slot 138. Simultaneously, the protrusion 199 can pass into the slot 136, thereby allowing the lid assembly 106 to be removed from the base 102. To connect the lid assembly 106 to the base 102, the process can be reversed by aligning the lid assembly 106 at the appropriate angle and inserting the protrusions 199, 200 into the slots 136, 138. When the lid assembly 106 is in the fully closed or fully open position, the curved surfaces 199c, 199d prevent the protrusion 199 from passing through the gap between the straight wall sections 142, 144.

[0072] Although the cover 180 is depicted as being permanently secured to the bracket 182, embodiments are also provided in which the cover is removable from the bracket. Figure 17 As depicted, a cover assembly 206 having a cover plate 280 that is removable from a bracket 282 can be used. Cover assembly 206 is similar to cover assembly 106, and therefore similar components will not be described in detail. Cover assembly 206 includes a cover plate 280 having a central section 292 and a plurality of through-holes 294. Bracket 282 also includes protrusions 297, 299 that operate in a manner similar to protrusions 199, 200 of bracket 182. Bracket 282 allows assembly 206 to be removed from the base, but also allows cover plate 280 to be removed from bracket 282. Cover plate 280 is connected to bracket 282 by a clamp mechanism (not shown) that can be actuated by a lever 283. Lever 283 is configured on the rear portion of bracket 282 and can slide within a track 284 to release cover plate 280 from bracket 282. To reinsert cover plate 280 into bracket 282, the user can slide bracket 282 back onto cover plate 280. Removing the cover plate 280 from the bracket may allow for additional cleaning of the cover plate 280 .

[0073] Figures 18 to 28Another embodiment of a cooking device 400 is illustrated, which is operable to prepare food and is suitable for use on a support surface. Cooking device 400 is similar to cooking device 100, and therefore similar components will not be described in detail. Cooking device 400 generally includes a base 402, a cooking plate 404, and a lid assembly 406. As explained in detail below, base 402, cooking plate 404, and lid assembly 406 can be connected together to form cooking device 400.

[0074] Figures 19 to 21 The illustrated base 402 is similar to the base 102 and has a generally rectangular configuration and includes an upper surface 408 and a lower surface 409. The upper surface 408 of the outer edge 411 of the base 402 may include a protrusion 410 that may be configured to support a cooking plate above the upper surface 408.

[0075] The base 402 may include a bracket 430 that is similar to the bracket 130 and is disposed on the rear surface 128 of the base 102. Figures 19 to 21 As shown, bracket 430 includes protrusions 432, 434 configured on opposite sides of bracket 430, similar to protrusions 132, 134. Protrusions 432, 434 can include grooves 436, 438 formed therein, respectively. Additionally, bracket 430 can include protrusions 439, 440 extending outward from bracket 430. Protrusions 439, 440 can extend parallel to upper surface 408 of base 402 and correspond to retaining features configured on cooking plate 404, as described in detail below. Protrusions 439, 440 can be formed from a non-abrasive material, such as rubber or silicone, to prevent cooking plate 404 from being scratched when inserted into base 402.

[0076] In addition to the protrusions 439, 440, the base 402 also includes retaining protrusions 447, 448 disposed within the cavity 414 of the base 402. Figure 20 and Figure 24 4. The retaining projections 447, 448 are angled bodies that extend into the cavity 414 and correspond to the projections on the cooking plate 404, which will be described in detail below. The retaining projections 447, 448 extend through apertures in the base 402 and into the cavity 414, thereby allowing the retaining projections 447, 448 to move horizontally relative to the base 402. To actuate the retaining projections 447, 448, a slider 449 disposed on the front of the base 402 can be actuated by the user, thereby moving the retaining projections 447, 448 within the aperture in the base 402. In some embodiments, the base 402 does not include the retaining projections 447, 448 or the slider 449. In these embodiments, the weight of the cooking plate 404 is sufficient to retain the cooking plate 404 on the base 402.

[0077] To control the heat generated by the heating element 416 within the base 402, a temperature sensor 420 can be disposed within the base 402. In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensor 420 is disposed between the first cavity 412 and the second cavity 414 and is centrally located along the width of the base 402, similar to the temperature sensor 120. The temperature sensor 420 can be configured to extend upwardly beyond the upper surface 408 so as to contact the cooking plate 404 disposed on the base 402. The temperature sensor 120 is configured to measure the temperature of the cooking plate 404. In one aspect, the temperature sensor 420 can be a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor or a thermostat.

[0078] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As depicted, temperature sensor 420 is disposed on a bracket 421 on the lower surface 409 of base 402. Bracket 421 is connected to lower surface 409 of base 402 via springs 423. Springs 423 are disposed at three points around bracket 421 and extend upward from lower surface 409, thereby biasing temperature sensor 420 vertically and allowing movement relative to base 402. Therefore, when cooking plate 404 is placed on base 402, temperature sensor 420 is biased into cooking plate 404, ensuring sufficient contact between temperature sensor 420 and cooking plate 404. This configuration ensures that temperature sensor 420 accurately reads the temperature of cooking plate 404 because temperature sensor 420 is in close contact with cooking plate 404. While compression springs are shown, any type of spring member may be used to bias temperature sensor 420 relative to base 402.

[0079] In addition to using a temperature sensor 420 to control the heating element 416, a control panel 422 may be configured on the front surface 427 of the base 402, similar to the control panel 122. Figure 22 In the illustrated embodiment depicted in FIG, the control panel 422 includes an input dial 426. The input dial 426 can be configured to allow a user to input different cooking parameters based on a desired cooking program, such as increasing or decreasing the temperature of the heating element 416 via a temperature reading from the temperature sensor 420. In one aspect, the control panel 422, the temperature sensor 420, and the heating element 416 can all be communicatively coupled to a control unit (not shown) that receives input from the control panel 422 and the temperature sensor 420 and then controls the power input to the heating element 416 based on the rotational position of the input dial 426.

[0080] The input dial 426 is mechanically connected to the temperature sensor 420 and is configured to change the temperature threshold of the temperature sensor 420. Figure 22 and Figure 23As shown, a linkage 429 is disposed between the input dial 426 and the temperature sensor 420. When a user rotates the input dial 426, the temperature threshold of the temperature sensor 420 (where the temperature sensor 420 will send an input to deactivate the heating element 416) can be raised or lowered to control the temperature of the cooking plate 404. Specifically, the linkage 429 includes a dual universal pivot joint so that rotation of the input dial 426 will not change the vertical height of the temperature sensor 420, ensuring that sufficient contact is maintained between the cooking plate 404 and the temperature sensor 420.

[0081] As described above, the base 402 is configured to support the cooking plate 404 so that the heating element 416 can generate heat to the cooking plate 404. The cooking plate 404 is similar to the cooking plate 104, and thus similar components will not be described in detail. Figures 24 to 27 As depicted, the illustrated cooking plate 404 is generally rectangular and is configured to rest on top of the base 402 so that the heating element 416 is disposed below the cooking surface 460. In one aspect, the cooking surface 460 can include ribs 462 disposed along the cooking surface 460. In another aspect, the cooking surface can be flat and not include ribs. A lip 474 can be disposed on the front edge of the cooking plate 404 and can be configured to help contain grease, fluids, and food particles within the cooking plate 404. Channels 475 are disposed on either end of the lip 474 to allow a user to pour any particles or fluids collected by the grease catcher 470 from the cooking plate 404 after a cooking process.

[0082] The retaining protrusions 464, 466 are arranged on the rear side wall 468 of the cooking plate 404. Figure 26 As depicted, retaining tabs 464, 466 extend horizontally outward from rear sidewall 468 and correspond to tabs 439, 440 of bracket 430. Retaining tabs 464, 466 are L-shaped and, when in contact with tabs 439, 440, prevent both vertical and lateral movement of cooking plate 404 when deployed on the base. Retaining tabs 464, 466 may be integral with cooking plate 404.

[0083] like Figure 27 As further shown, support ribs 476 can be configured on the bottom surface 475 of the cooking plate 104. Additionally, sensor contacts 478 can be configured on the bottom surface 475 of the cooking plate 404. Figure 27 Also depicted are retaining protrusions 465 and 467 disposed on the oil collector 470 .

[0084] The retaining protrusions 465, 467 are angled bodies that extend outwardly from the grease collector 470 and correspond to the retaining protrusions 447, 448 in the base 402. The retaining protrusions 465, 467 are rigidly fixed to the cooking plate 404. Figure 24 As depicted, when the cooking plate 404 is disposed on the base 402, the retaining protrusions 465, 467 are disposed below the retaining protrusions 447, 448, thereby locking the cooking plate 404 to the base 402. Figure 24 As shown, the retaining protrusion 466 is disposed below the protrusion 440 of the bracket 430. Both connections prevent the cooking plate 404 from being removed from the base 402 without actuating the slide 449 to release the retaining protrusions 447, 448 from the retaining protrusions 465, 467.

[0085] The user may also desire to prevent food particles and fluids from escaping the cooking device 400 during the cooking process. Therefore, a cover assembly 406 may be provided on the base 402. The cover assembly 406 is similar to the cover assembly 106, and therefore similar components will not be described in detail. Similar to how the cover assembly 106 is removed from the base 102 as described in detail above, the cover assembly 406 may be removed from the base 402. Figure 24 and Figure 28 As depicted, the cover assembly 406 may include a top cover plate 480, a front cover plate 481, and a bracket 482. The front cover plate 481 includes an inner surface 485 that terminates at an edge 486 and is configured to direct splattered fluid and grease within the cooking device 400 into the grease collector 470. Figure 24 As shown, the inner surface 485 is disposed vertically above the oil catcher 470 , thereby allowing any fluid contacting the inner surface 485 to drip off the edge 486 to be collected within the oil catcher 470 .

[0086] Figures 29 to 35 Another embodiment of a cooking device 500 is illustrated, which is operable to prepare food and is suitable for use on a support surface. Cooking device 500 is similar to cooking devices 100 and 400, and therefore similar components will not be described in detail. Cooking device 500 generally includes a base 502, a cooking plate 504, and a lid assembly 506. As explained in detail below, base 502, cooking plate 504, and lid assembly 506 can be connected together to form cooking device 500.

[0087] Figure 29 、 Figure 30 and Figure 33The base 502 shown in FIG4 is similar to bases 102 and 402 and has a generally rectangular configuration and includes an upper surface 508 and a lower surface 509. The upper surface 508 includes a lip 513 positioned around an outer edge 511 of the base 502. In some embodiments, the lip 513 extends along three edges of the base 502 and terminates in a grease catcher. The lip 513 is configured to prevent any liquid or grease that may escape the cooking plate 504 from entering the base 402 and directly contacting the heating element 516 within the base 502. The lip 513 can be integral with the upper surface 508 or can be separately attached to the upper surface 508.

[0088] As described above, the base 502 is configured to support the cooking plate 504 so that the heating element 516 can generate heat to the cooking plate 504. The cooking plate 504 is similar to the cooking plates 104 and 404. Figures 31 to 32 As depicted, the illustrated cooking plate 504 is generally rectangular and is configured to rest on top of the base 502 so that the heating element 516 is disposed below the cooking surface 560. In some embodiments, the cooking surface 560 can include ribs disposed along the cooking surface 560. In some embodiments, the cooking surface 560 can be flat and not include ribs, such as Figure 31 A lip 574 can be configured on the front edge of the cooking plate 504 and can be configured to help contain grease, fluids, and food particles within the cooking plate 504. Channels 575 are configured at either end and in the middle of the lip 574 to allow a user to pour any particles or fluids collected by the grease catcher 570 from the cooking plate 504 during and after a cooking process.

[0089] Channel 564 is configured on the bottom surface of cooking plate 504. Channel 564 is complementary to lip 513 and extends along three edges along the outer periphery of cooking plate 504, terminating at grease collector 570. Channel 564 may be integral with cooking plate 504. Figure 33 As shown, the channel 564 will prevent grease from traveling along the bottom surface of the cooking plate 504 and entering the base 502. The channel 564 forces any fluid or grease that slides along the cooking plate 504 to drop and drip onto the upper surface 508 of the base 502. Once on the upper surface 508, the lip 513 will prevent the grease from contacting the heating element 516.

[0090] The user may also desire to prevent food particles and fluids from escaping the cooking device 500 during the cooking process. Therefore, a cover assembly 506 may be disposed on the base 502. The cover assembly 506 is similar to the cover assemblies 106 and 406. Similar to how the cover assembly 106 is removed from the base 102 as described in detail above, the cover assembly 506 may be removed from the base 502. Figures 34 to 35As depicted, the cover assembly 506 may include a top cover plate 580, a front cover plate 581, and a bracket 582. The front cover plate 581 includes an inner surface 585 that terminates at an edge 586 and is configured to direct splashing fluid and grease within the cooking device 500 into the grease collector 570. Figure 33 As shown in FIG, inner surface 585 is disposed vertically above oil catcher 570 , thereby allowing any fluid contacting inner surface 585 to drip and fall off edge 586 to be collected within oil catcher 570 .

[0091] In some embodiments, the top cover 580 includes a lip 590 extending from the rear edge of the top cover. Figures 33 to 35 As shown, lip 590 extends horizontally outward from top cover plate 580 along the entire width of top cover plate 590. When lid assembly 506 is in the closed position, lip 590 is vertically aligned with cooking plate 504 so that any grease from fluid accumulated on top cover plate 508 will flow along lip 590 and fall into cooking plate 504. Additionally, when lid assembly 506 is in the open position, lip 590 collects any fluid that may flow down top cover plate 580.

[0092] Certain exemplary embodiments have been described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of structure, function, manufacture, and use of the systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, apparatus, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the invention is limited solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in conjunction with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. In addition, in this disclosure, components of the same name in embodiments generally have similar features, and therefore, in a particular embodiment, the various features of each component of the same name may not necessarily be fully set forth.

[0093] Approximating language, as used throughout the specification and claims herein, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that can be permitted to vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Thus, a value modified by one or more terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially" is not limited to the precise value specified. In at least some cases, approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument used to measure the value. Unless context or language indicates otherwise, range limitations may be combined and / or interchanged herein and throughout the specification and claims, and such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein.

[0094] Those skilled in the art will understand other features and advantages of the present invention based on the above embodiments. Therefore, unless indicated by the appended claims, this application is not limited by the contents that have been specifically shown and described. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0095] What is sought to be protected is:

Claims

1. A cooking device comprising: a base comprising a recessed cavity configured in the top surface; a heating element disposed within the recessed cavity of the base; a first bracket located on the base; a cooking plate positioned on the top surface of the base; as well as A cover assembly, the cover assembly comprising: a cover plate configured to be removably positioned over the cooking plate, the cover plate having a plurality of through-holes disposed therein, and A second bracket is located on the cover plate, the second bracket being configured to couple to the first bracket such that the cover assembly is connected to the base and is rotatable relative to the base.

2. The cooking device of claim 1, wherein the first bracket comprises at least one slot. 3 . The cooking device of claim 2 , wherein the second bracket includes at least one protrusion configured to be removably positioned within the at least one slot of the first bracket. 4 . The cooking device of claim 1 , wherein a gap is formed between the cooking plate disposed on the base and the heating element.

5. The cooking device of claim 1, wherein the cover plate includes a first region and a second region, the first region having a first design pattern of through holes and the second region having a second design pattern of through holes.

6. The cooking device of claim 5, wherein the first zone has a greater percentage of open surface above the cooking plate than the second zone.

7. The cooking device of claim 1, wherein the percentage of open surface above the cooking plate created by the through holes is in the range of 10% to 30%.

8. The cooking device of claim 1, wherein the cover plate includes at least one spacer configured to prevent the cover plate from contacting the cooking plate.

9. The cooking device of claim 1, wherein the through-holes are configured to allow moisture generated by a cooking process occurring on the cooking plate to pass through the cover plate while preventing food particles and grease from passing through the cover plate.

10. The cooking device of claim 1, wherein the cooking plate includes a grease collector formed within the cooking plate.

11. The cooking device of claim 10, wherein the base includes a second recess configured to receive the grease collector of the cooking plate when disposed on the base.

12. A cover assembly comprising: a cover plate configured to be removably positioned over the cooking plate, the cover plate having a plurality of through-holes disposed therein; as well as a bracket positioned on the rear surface cover plate, the bracket being configured to rotatably connect the cover plate to a base of a cooking device having a cooking plate to position the cover plate above the cooking plate; The through holes are configured to allow moisture generated by a cooking process occurring beneath the cover plate to pass through the cover plate while preventing food particles and grease from passing through the cover plate.

13. The cooking device of claim 12, wherein the cover plate includes a first region and a second region, the first region having a first design pattern of through holes and the second region having a second design pattern of through holes.

14. The cooking device of claim 13, wherein the first region has a greater percentage of open surface above the cooking plate than the second region.

15. The cooking device of claim 12, wherein the percentage of open surface above the cooking plate created by the through holes is in the range of 10% to 30%.

16. The cooking device of claim 12, wherein the through hole has a width in the range of 3 mm to 8 mm.

17. The cooking device of claim 12, wherein the cover plate includes at least one non-abrasive spacer.

18. A cooking device comprising: a base comprising a first recessed cavity configured in a top surface and a second recessed cavity configured in the top surface; a heating element disposed within the cavity of the first recess; a first bracket positioned on a rear surface of the base; a cover plate including a second bracket positioned on a rear surface of the cover plate and configured to cooperate with the first bracket to rotatably connect the cover plate to the base, the cover plate having a plurality of through holes configured therein; a first cooking plate configured to be positioned on a top surface of the base; as well as A second cooking plate is configured to be positioned on the top surface of the base, the second cooking plate having a different configuration than the first cooking plate.

19. The cooking device of claim 18, wherein the first cooking plate includes a first grease collector formed in the first cooking plate, and the second cooking plate includes a second grease collector formed in the second cooking plate.

20. The cooking device of claim 19, wherein the second recessed cavity is configured to receive the first grease collector when the first cooking plate is positioned on the base and is configured to receive the second grease collector when the second cooking plate is positioned on the base.

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