Cooking equipment

Abstract

A cooking apparatus includes: a housing having a front surface and an opening positioned on the front surface; a door rotatably connected to the housing to selectively cover the opening; a cooking chamber formed within the housing, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall, wherein the cooking chamber is configured to be accessed through the opening; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing; a heating element positioned within the housing; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein in a first cooking mode the container is spaced apart from the inner top wall, and in a second cooking mode the container is positioned directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] Based on 35 U.S.C. 119(e), this application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 512,523, filed July 7, 2023, entitled “Cooking Apparatus, Method and Components thereof,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] A countertop cooking system comprising one or more convection and radiant heating elements combined with a microwave heating element is provided, as well as a method for using the countertop cooking system. Background Technology

[0004] Traditional microwave cooking systems typically include a microwave source (i.e., a magnetron) that directs microwave energy to the food within the cooking compartment. The microwave energy heats the water molecules in the food, converting them into steam. Because traditional microwave units consist only of the microwave source, the air inside is relatively cold, causing condensation to form once the microwaves are no longer being absorbed by the food. This rapid condensation means that moisture remains on the food's surface because there is no means of evaporation to remove the moisture generated during the microwave process, leading to undesirable reheating or cooking results. Utility Model Content

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a cooking apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall; a heating element positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein, in a first cooking mode, the container is spaced apart from the inner top wall, and in a second cooking mode, the container is positioned directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the cooking chamber includes a support positioned on at least one of the side walls or the inner top wall.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the container includes a protrusion extending outward from the container and configured to abut against the support in a second cooking mode.

[0008] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the inner top wall includes at least one orifice.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in a first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in the second cooking mode, the air movement device and the heating element generate a heated airflow that enters directly into the container.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the container is partially sealed to the inner top wall to reduce the loss rate of the heated airflow from the container to the cooking chamber.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the container abuts against the shelf in the second cooking mode to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0014] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the microwave source is located in a second chamber configured adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0015] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an airflow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; a support positioned within the cooking chamber; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein and a protrusion extending outward from the container, wherein the protrusion of the container contacts the support to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the support surrounds the container on a first, second, and third side.

[0017] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the support is positioned on at least one of the inner top wall or side wall of the cooking chamber.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the inner top wall includes a plurality of perforations to allow the heated airflow to pass through the inner top wall and enter the cooking chamber.

[0019] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in a first cooking mode, the container is spaced apart from the inner top wall and the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

[0020] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in a second cooking mode, the container is positioned directly adjacent to the inner top wall, and the air movement device and heating element direct the heated airflow directly into the container.

[0021] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the support is horizontally spaced from the side wall of the cooking chamber.

[0022] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the container is partially sealed to the inner top wall to reduce the loss rate of the heated airflow from the container to the cooking chamber.

[0023] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

[0024] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the container abuts against the shelf in the second cooking mode to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0025] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a front surface and an opening positioned on the front surface; a door rotatably connected to the housing to selectively cover the opening; a cooking chamber formed within the housing having a first volume, wherein the cooking chamber is configured to be accessed through the opening and to directly cook food therein; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing; a heating element positioned within the housing; and a container having a second volume and selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein the first volume is larger than the second volume.

[0026] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the first volume is in the range of 0.7 cubic feet to 0.9 cubic feet.

[0027] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the first volume is 0.8 cubic feet.

[0028] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the second volume is in the range of 0.10 cubic feet to 0.15 cubic feet.

[0029] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the second volume is 0.13 cubic feet.

[0030] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the first volume is in the range of 1.0 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet.

[0031] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the first volume is 1.1 cubic feet.

[0032] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the second volume is in the range of 0.18 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet.

[0033] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the second volume is 0.20 cubic feet.

[0034] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:1.

[0035] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is 5.50:1.

[0036] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is 6.15:1.

[0037] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which a microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber in a first cooking mode.

[0038] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in a second cooking mode, the air movement device and heating element direct heated airflow directly into the container.

[0039] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber having a first height and a first width therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to cook food directly therein; an air movement device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an airflow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; and a container having a second height and a second width and being selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing the food therein, wherein the first height is at least twice the second height.

[0040] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the cooking chamber comprises a first volume ranging from 0.7 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet.

[0041] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the container includes a second volume in the range of 0.10 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet.

[0042] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:1.

[0043] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

[0044] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the container is configured to be positioned on the shelf, and the second container is configured to be positioned inside the cooking chamber below the shelf.

[0045] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall and side walls; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; a mode stirrer positioned on the side wall of the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing; a heating element positioned within the housing; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein, in a first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber, and the mode stirrer rotates to distribute the microwaves emitted into the cooking chamber, while in a second cooking mode, the air movement device and the heating element direct a heated airflow directly into the container.

[0046] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the housing includes a second chamber configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0047] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the microwave source is located in the second room.

[0048] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which a waveguide is positioned in a second chamber, and the waveguide is configured to direct microwaves from the microwave source into the cooking chamber.

[0049] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the mode stirrer is positioned at the outlet of the waveguide.

[0050] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which a mode stirrer is connected to a drive shaft of a motor passing through the waveguide to rotate the mode stirrer.

[0051] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the sidewall of the cooking chamber separates the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

[0052] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the mode stirrer includes a first orifice and a second orifice.

[0053] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which at least one of the first aperture and the second aperture is a rectangular aperture.

[0054] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the modal stirrer is asymmetric.

[0055] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber therein, the cooking chamber including a top wall, a rear wall, and side walls; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; a mode stirrer positioned on the side wall of the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an airflow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

[0056] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the housing includes a second chamber configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0057] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the sidewall of the cooking chamber separates the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

[0058] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the microwave source is located in the second room.

[0059] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which a waveguide is positioned in a second chamber, and the waveguide is configured to direct microwaves from the microwave source into the cooking chamber.

[0060] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which a motor is positioned in a second chamber, and the motor is configured to rotate the mode stirrer.

[0061] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the modulating mixer includes a protrusion extending axially outward toward the cooking chamber.

[0062] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the protrusion is adjacent to an orifice located within the mode stirrer.

[0063] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which a mica sheet is positioned between the mode mixer and the cooking chamber.

[0064] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the modal stirrer is asymmetric.

[0065] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed within the housing, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; a motor positioned outside the cooking chamber and including a first pulley connected to a drive shaft of the motor; an air motion device positioned within the housing, the air motion device including a vertically upwardly extending drive shaft and having a second pulley; a belt extending between the first pulley and the second pulley, the belt being configured to transmit rotational motion from the first pulley to the second pulley; a heating element positioned within the housing; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

[0066] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the housing includes a second chamber configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0067] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the microwave source and the motor are positioned in the second room.

[0068] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the motor is positioned above the microwave source.

[0069] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the motor includes a cooling fan configured to rotate within a second chamber.

[0070] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the motor and the air motion device are horizontally spaced apart from each other and vertically aligned within the housing.

[0071] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in a first cooking mode, the motor rotates the first pulley to rotate the air movement device to generate airflow.

[0072] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the second pulley is positioned vertically above the heating element.

[0073] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the first pulley includes a plurality of teeth arranged circumferentially around the first pulley.

[0074] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the belt includes a plurality of teeth corresponding to the plurality of teeth of the first pulley.

[0075] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber and a second chamber therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall and side walls separating the cooking chamber from the second chamber; a microwave source positioned within the second chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to cook food directly therein; a motor positioned within the second chamber and including a first pulley connected to a drive shaft of the motor, the first pulley being vertically positioned above the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall, the air movement device including a vertically upwardly extending drive shaft and having a second pulley vertically aligned with the first pulley; a belt extending between the first pulley and the second pulley, the belt being configured to transmit rotational motion from the first pulley to the second pulley; a heating element positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

[0076] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the cooking chamber and the second chamber are configured side-by-side within the housing.

[0077] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the motor is positioned above the microwave source.

[0078] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the motor includes a cooling fan configured to rotate within a second chamber.

[0079] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the motor and the air-moving device are horizontally spaced apart from each other within the housing.

[0080] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in a first cooking mode, the motor rotates the first pulley to rotate the air movement device to generate airflow.

[0081] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which, in a second cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

[0082] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to a device in which the second pulley is positioned vertically above the heating element.

[0083] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the first pulley includes a plurality of teeth arranged circumferentially around the first pulley.

[0084] In some aspects, the technology described in this application relates to an apparatus in which the belt includes a plurality of teeth corresponding to the plurality of teeth of the first pulley.

[0085] Therefore, a cooking system is needed that includes the speed and efficiency of a microwave device, while also generating sufficient Maillard reactions on the food. Attached Figure Description

[0086] These and other features will be more readily understood through the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0087] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an implementation of a cooking system based on the subject matter described herein;

[0088] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A sectional view of the cooking system taken by line 2-2 in the figure;

[0089] Figure 3A It is along Figure 1 Top sectional view of the cooking system taken by line 3A-3A;

[0090] Figure 3B yes Figure 1 A top-view perspective of the cooking system, with the outer shell removed;

[0091] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An independent three-dimensional diagram of the cooking system with its drive system;

[0092] Figure 5A It is along Figure 1 A sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 5A-5A in the diagram;

[0093] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a cooking system, where the cooking volume contains no containers;

[0094] Figure 5C yes Figure 5A A detailed view of the container;

[0095] Figure 5D yes Figure 5C A detailed view of the container;

[0096] Figure 6A It is along Figure 1 A sectional view of the cooking system taken along line 6A-6A in the diagram;

[0097] Figure 6B It is along Figure 1 A sectional view of the cooking system taken by line 6B-6B in the diagram;

[0098] Figure 7A yes Figure 1 Independent perspective views of the cooking system's mixer and inner lid; and

[0099] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A An independent three-dimensional view of the reflective cover of the cooking system.

[0100] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and should therefore not be considered as a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0101] Certain exemplary embodiments will be described herein to provide a general understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the apparatuses 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 apparatuses and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of this invention is defined only by the claims. Features shown or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this invention.

[0102] Traditional countertop cooking systems, such as air fryers, typically consist of a heating element and a fan positioned above the cooking chamber. Due to the slow nature of convective heat exchange, these types of cooking appliances may require relatively long amounts of time to cook or reheat food. Microwaves can be used to cook or reheat food relatively quickly, creating steam within it, as food absorbs microwaves. However, microwaves can leave food moist because condensation remains on and within the food after cooking. While the basic function of a microwave oven is to heat food via dielectric heating (i.e., via microwaves acting directly and being absorbed by the food), this disclosure includes microwave ovens with additional multiple cooking capabilities, such as a crisping (or browning) function or a grilling function, enabling the preparation of various types of food items and providing new cooking effects. Such additional multiple cooking capabilities typically require additional components, such as a browning plate or a grilling element.

[0103] The embodiments of the cooking systems and methods described herein advantageously provide systems that can be rapidly reheated and / or cooked using microwaves, while also providing crisping and browning functions to remove water vapor generated from food due to the microwave process, thereby producing more satisfactory finished food products.

[0104] Figures 1 to 4 Embodiments of a cooking system 100 according to the subject matter described herein are depicted. In some embodiments, the cooking system 100 may include a housing 102, which includes a cooking volume 104, an inner container 106, an upper volume 108, and a side volume 110. A door 132 may be movably and rotatably configured on the housing 102 to selectively close the cooking volume 104.

[0105] In one aspect, the cooking volume 104 is the main cooking chamber where food is placed for the cooking process. The cooking volume 104 is formed by an inner shell 105 within the housing 102 and can be used as a shield for microwaves and heat, as will be described in more detail below. Air gaps may be positioned around the inner shell 105 and the housing 102 to isolate the cooking volume 104 from the housing 102 in terms of heat transfer.

[0106] Figures 5A to 5CA cross-sectional view of a cooking system 100 is shown, including a cooking volume 104 and a more detailed view of its constituent components. As shown, the cooking volume 104 may include a tray 502 configured to divide the cooking volume 104 into an upper cooking volume 512 and a lower cooking volume 514. In one aspect, a user of the cooking system may expect to place two food items in the cooking volume 104, thus the individual items can be separated using the tray 502. The upper cooking volume 512 may provide a container 106 for the food items. For example, Figure 5B A cooking volume 104 is shown, with the container 106 removed, exposing the upper cooking volume 512. When the container is removed, a fan 130 can provide circulating air throughout the cooking volume 104. In one aspect, when the air circulating from the fan 130 is turned on, the circulating air can reach food placed on the tray 502 and the upper cooking volume 512, as well as food placed in the lower cooking volume 514, which can be cooked evenly.

[0107] The upper surface of the cooking volume 104 is defined by an inner top wall 109. The inner top wall 109 separates the upper volume 108 from the cooking volume 104. The upper volume 108 is disposed within the housing 102 and positioned vertically above the cooking volume 104. The inner top wall 109 includes a plurality of orifices disposed therein and is configured to allow airflow from the upper volume 108 into the cooking volume 104, as described in more detail below. The inner top wall 109 also protects the components within the upper volume 108 from food splashes that may occur during cooking. The inner top wall 109 may be made of a metallic material and may also include a single or multiple orifices 111 configured in a specific pattern to facilitate airflow from the upper volume 108 to the cooking volume 104. The pattern of the orifices 111 may correspond to the size of the opening of the inner container 106, as described in more detail below.

[0108] Figure 2 as well as Figure 6A Figure 7 depicts a perspective view of the side volume 110 of the cooking system 100. The side volume 110 is separated from the cooking volume 114 via a side wall 616. Figure 6A As shown, the side volume 110 may include a magnetron 620 positioned adjacent to the rear wall 604 of the side volume 110. The magnetron 620 is configured to emit electromagnetic waves as a microwave source into the cooking volume 104. To guide microwaves from the magnetron 620 to the cooking volume 104, a waveguide 617 is positioned within the side volume 110. The waveguide 617 is a metal conduit that contains and guides microwaves from the magnetron 620 to the cooking volume 104. In one aspect, the waveguide 617 is positioned on a side wall 616, having an inlet at the magnetron 620 and an outlet at an orifice in the side wall 616.

[0109] like Figure 7A As shown, the orifice of the mode stirrer 702 is located adjacent to the sidewall 616. The mode stirrer 702 is configured to randomly distribute microwaves from the microwave assembly 120 within the cooking volume 104 to ensure uniform heating during microwave cooking. As described in more detail below, the mode stirrer 702 can rotate about a central axis to enhance the distribution of microwave energy throughout the cooking volume 104.

[0110] The modal stirrer 702 may be circular, flat in a single plane, or include curved protrusions extending axially from the plane of rotation. In one aspect, the modal stirrer may include a first slot 704 and a second slot 706, wherein the first slot 704 and the second slot 706 are configured to randomly scatter microwaves from the magnetron 620 throughout the cooking volume 104. The slots 704, 706 may be rectangular in shape and include protrusions extending axially from the edges of the slots 704, 706 into the cooking volume 104.

[0111] like Figure 7B As shown, a mode stirrer 702 is connected via a waveguide 614 to a motor 710 positioned within the side volume 110. A drive shaft extends through the waveguide 614 and is non-rotatably connected to the mode stirrer 702 to transfer rotational motion from the motor 710 to the mode stirrer 704. In one aspect, the mode stirrer 702 can rotate continuously during a cooking mode in which the microwave assembly 120 is operating and emitting microwaves into the cooking volume 104. In another aspect, the mode stirrer 702 can rotate at a single speed during cooking operation. Furthermore, in another aspect, the mode stirrer 702 can change its rotational speed according to the cooking process. Figure 6B As shown, the mode stirrer is positioned on the side wall 616 behind the mica sheet 614. The mica sheet 614 allows microwaves to pass through and enter the cooking volume 104 while concealing the mode stirrer 702 from the user's view.

[0112] When the cooking process is underway, heat is generated within the side volume 110 due to the magnetron 620 and motor 405 disposed therein. To help dissipate excess heat within the side volume 110, the side volume 110 may include a fan 608 powered by a motor 609, positioned on the top wall 606. Furthermore, the motor 405 includes the fan 606. Figure 6B As further shown, the side volume 110 may include a sidewall 616 with ventilation holes 618.

[0113] Arranged in the upper volume 108 is an air movement device 130 (i.e., a fan). The air movement device 130 is configured to generate airflow into the cooking volume 104 during convection heating. In one aspect, the air movement device 130 may be a radial fan that generates radially outward airflow. Figure 3A As shown, the fan 130 inside the upper volume 108 can be surrounded by a reflector cover 302. When the fan 130 is turned on, the reflector cover 302 can redirect the radial airflow from the fan and guide it downward through the orifice 111 of the inner top wall 109 and into the cooking volume 104.

[0114] The air movement device 130 can be connected to the drive system 304 to power the air movement device 103, while reducing the height of the housing 102 compared to a conventional air fryer. Figure 3B As shown, the drive system 304 can be connected at a first point in the upper volume 108 and at a second point in the side volume 110. Figure 4 A perspective view of a belt drive system 304 configured to circulate air within container 106 is depicted. At a first point A on the upper volume 108, belt 310 can be connected to a first gear 402 or pulley. At a second point B on the side volume 110, belt 310 can be connected to a second gear 404 or pulley. The first gear 402 and the second gear 404 can be designed with components for achieving speed matching between the motor 405 and the respective gears 402, 404. For example, the first gear 402 and the second gear 404 can be configured to have the same diameter to achieve a 1:1 gear ratio during fan operation. This configuration provides minimal power loss when operating the cooking system 100. Furthermore, this direct drive configuration achieves minimal noise from the fan 130 and therefore the motor, which will be described in more detail below. However, different gear ratios can be used between gears 402, 404, and should be considered within the scope of this disclosure. In one aspect, gears 402, 404 may include gear teeth positioned on the peripheral edges of the respective gears. Furthermore, belt 310 may include corresponding teeth that mesh with the teeth of gears 402, 404 to help prevent belt 310 from slipping relative to gears 402, 402 during operation.

[0115] Gear 402 is connected to fan 130 via a drive shaft extending vertically downward through the inner shell of cooking volume 104. Belt 310 is configured to drive the rotation of fan 130 and generate air circulation within the container. In one aspect, belt 310 may be made of synthetic rubber to extend the service life of cooking system 100. For example, since the cooking system may operate at high temperatures, belt may be made of urethane and polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or nylon fibers. In one aspect, a gear train or multiple gears may be used instead of belt.

[0116] To generate a heated airflow for the convection cooking process, a heating element 140 is positioned adjacent to a fan 130 to heat the airflow generated by the fan 130. The heat source 140 can be a radiant or convective heat source, and in combination with the fan 130, can generate a heated airflow capable of traveling from the upper volume 108 to the cooking volumes 104, 114. In one aspect, the heating element 140 is a cal-rod, tungsten alloy, carbon fiber, or any other suitable heat source. In one aspect, the heating element 140 can be positioned in the same horizontal plane around the fan 130 and radially offset from the fan 130. In one aspect, the heating element 130 can be cyclically turned on and off during cooking depending on the desired temperature or cooking method (i.e., air frying, baking, roasting).

[0117] Depending on the size of the food item and therefore the choice of using container 106 and heating element 140 or cooking volume 104 and microwave unit 120, the cooking system 100 can adapt to the user's choice. For example, when food is placed in container 106, the cooking system 100 can activate heating element 140 independently of microwave unit 120, and vice versa. As will be described in more detail below, if the user expects to heat food via container 106, the cooking system 100 can deactivate microwave unit 120 to conserve energy used by the cooking system 100 during operation.

[0118] The inner container 106 may also include a cooking volume 114 where food can be positioned to receive microwave, radiant, and / or convective heat. In one aspect, the container 106 may be a metal, glass, or suitable polymer that allows microwaves to pass through. The container 106 may be held on the top inner surface of the cooking volume 104 by a support 123 having a channel 124 extending downward from the inner top wall 109. Figure 5C As shown, when container 106 is placed inside the upper cooking volume 512, container 106 is positioned directly adjacent to fan 130 and heating element 140. Due to this proximity, airflow from fan 130 and heating element 104 is essentially contained within container 106, as indicated by airflow AF. This also prevents excessive heated airflow from reaching the lower cooking volume 514. In one aspect, this allows heat generated by heating element 140 to be retained within the cooking volume of container 106. For example, as container 106 is placed inside the upper cooking volume, channel 124 provides support for the container through the outer lip 516 of container 106. See also Figure 5C and Figure 5D The outer lip 516 can be shown resting against the channel 124. In one aspect, the support provided by the channel 124 can serve as a guide when the container 106 is placed inside the upper cooking volume 512. In some embodiments, such as Figure 5D As shown, when container 106 is placed inside the upper cooking volume 512, outlet 520 can be positioned between the outer lip 516 and the channel 124. Outlet 520 allows ventilation of cooking volume 114 during convection cooking. For example, during operation of cooking system 100, as fan 130 circulates air around container 106, the internal temperature and pressure within container 106 will increase. Outlet 520 provides sufficient space for hot air to exit container 106 and enter cooking volume 104. Because most of the heated airflow remains within cooking volume 114, this helps increase the operating efficiency of the convection cooking process.

[0119] Because the cooking apparatus 100 combines a convection cooking system and a microwave cooking system, multiple cooking processes can be performed within the apparatus. A first cooking process may include heating food within the cooking volume 104 using only microwaves. Furthermore, a second cooking process may include generating convection airflow to further heat and cook the food within the cooking volumes 104 and 114. The container 106 and the cooking volume 114 may be designed with optimal volumes to enhance the cooking process during operation. In one aspect, the container 106 may be configured to have an internal volume ranging from 0.10 cubic feet to 0.15 cubic feet, specifically 0.13 cubic feet. In another aspect, the container 106 may be configured to have an internal volume ranging from 0.18 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet, specifically 0.20 cubic feet. As the fan 130 circulates hot air from the heating element 140 into the container 106, the heat concentration can increase at a faster rate within the volume 114 compared to the cooking volume 104 due to the smaller size of the volume 114. In one aspect, the cooking volume 104 may be configured to have an internal volume in the range of 0.70 cubic feet to 0.90 cubic feet, specifically 0.80 cubic feet. In another aspect, the cooking volume 104 may be configured to have an internal volume in the range of 1.0 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet, specifically 1.1 cubic feet. In one aspect, the ratio of the cooking volume 104 to the volume 114 is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:1. Specifically, this ratio may be 5.50:1 or 6.15:1.

[0120] Option 1. A cooking apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall; a heating element positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein, in a first cooking mode, the container is spaced apart from the inner top wall, and in a second cooking mode, the container is positioned directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0121] Option 2. The apparatus according to Option 1, wherein the cooking chamber includes a support positioned on at least one of the side wall or the inner top wall.

[0122] Option 3. The device according to Option 2, wherein the container includes a protrusion extending outward from the container and is configured to abut against the support in the second cooking mode.

[0123] Option 4. The device according to Option 1, wherein the inner top wall includes at least one orifice.

[0124] Option 5. The apparatus according to Option 1, wherein in the first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

[0125] Option 6. The apparatus according to Option 5, wherein in the second cooking mode, the air movement device and the heating element generate a heated airflow that directly enters the container.

[0126] Option 7. The apparatus according to Option 1, wherein the container is partially sealed to the inner top wall to reduce the loss rate of the heated airflow from the container to the cooking chamber.

[0127] Option 8. The apparatus according to Option 1, wherein the cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

[0128] Option 9. The apparatus according to Option 8, wherein the container abuts against the shelf in the second cooking mode to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0129] Option 10. The apparatus according to Option 1, wherein the microwave source is located in a second chamber configured adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0130] Option 11. An apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an airflow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; a support positioned within the cooking chamber; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein and a protrusion extending outwardly from the container, wherein the protrusion of the container contacts the support to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0131] Option 12. The apparatus according to Option 11, wherein the support surrounds the container on the first, second and third sides of the container.

[0132] Option 13. The device according to Option 11, wherein the support is positioned on at least one of the inner top wall or side wall of the cooking chamber.

[0133] Option 14. The apparatus according to Option 11, wherein the inner top wall includes a plurality of perforations to allow the heated airflow to pass through the inner top wall and enter the cooking chamber.

[0134] Option 15. The apparatus according to Option 11, wherein in a first cooking mode, the container is spaced apart from the inner top wall and the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

[0135] Option 16. The apparatus according to Option 15, wherein in the second cooking mode, the container is positioned directly adjacent to the inner top wall, and the air movement device and heating element direct the heated airflow directly into the container.

[0136] Option 17. The device according to Option 11, wherein the support is horizontally spaced from the side wall of the cooking chamber.

[0137] Option 18. The apparatus according to Option 11, wherein the container is partially sealed to the inner top wall to reduce the loss rate of the heated airflow from the container to the cooking chamber.

[0138] Option 19. The apparatus according to Option 11, wherein the cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

[0139] Option 20. The apparatus according to Option 11, wherein the container abuts against the shelf in the second cooking mode to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

[0140] Option 21. An apparatus comprising: a housing having a front surface and an opening positioned on the front surface; a door rotatably connected to the housing to selectively cover the opening; a cooking chamber formed within the housing having a first volume, wherein the cooking chamber is configured to be accessed through the opening and to cook food directly therein; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing; a heating element positioned within the housing; and a container having a second volume and selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein the first volume is larger than the second volume.

[0141] Option 22. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the first volume is in the range of 0.7 cubic feet to 0.9 cubic feet.

[0142] Option 23. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the first volume is 0.8 cubic feet.

[0143] Option 24. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the second volume is in the range of 0.10 cubic feet to 0.15 cubic feet.

[0144] Option 25. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the second volume is 0.13 cubic feet.

[0145] Option 26. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the first volume is in the range of 1.0 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet.

[0146] Option 27. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the first volume is 1.1 cubic feet.

[0147] Option 28. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the second volume is in the range of 0.18 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet.

[0148] Option 29. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the second volume is 0.20 cubic feet.

[0149] Option 30. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:1.

[0150] Option 31. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is 5.50:1.

[0151] Option 32. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is 6.15:1.

[0152] Option 33. The apparatus according to Option 21, wherein in a first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

[0153] Option 34. The apparatus according to Option 33, wherein in the second cooking mode, the air movement device and the heating element directly guide the heated airflow into the container.

[0154] Option 35. An apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber having a first height and a first width therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to cook food directly therein; an air movement device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an airflow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; and a container having a second height and a second width and selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing the food therein, wherein the first height is at least twice the second height.

[0155] Option 36. The apparatus according to Option 35, wherein the cooking chamber comprises a first volume in the range of 0.7 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet.

[0156] Option 37. The apparatus according to Option 36, wherein the container includes a second volume in the range of 0.10 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet.

[0157] Option 38. The apparatus according to Option 37, wherein the ratio of the first volume to the second volume is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:1.

[0158] Option 39. The apparatus according to Option 35, wherein the cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

[0159] Option 40. The apparatus according to Option 38, wherein the container is configured to be positioned on the shelf, and the second container is configured to be positioned inside the cooking chamber below the shelf.

[0160] 41. An apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall and side walls; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; a mode stirrer positioned on the side wall of the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing; a heating element positioned within the housing; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein, in a first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber, and the mode stirrer rotates to distribute the microwaves emitted into the cooking chamber, while in a second cooking mode, the air movement device and the heating element direct a heated airflow directly into the container.

[0161] Option 42. The device according to Option 41, wherein the housing includes a second chamber configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0162] Option 43. The apparatus according to Option 42, wherein the microwave source is located in the second room.

[0163] Option 44. The apparatus according to Option 43, wherein a waveguide is positioned in the second chamber, and the waveguide is configured to guide microwaves from the microwave source to the cooking chamber.

[0164] Option 45. The apparatus according to Option 44, wherein the mode stirrer is positioned at the outlet of the waveguide.

[0165] Option 46. The apparatus according to Option 45, wherein the mode stirrer is connected to a drive shaft of a motor passing through the waveguide to rotate the mode stirrer.

[0166] Option 47. The apparatus according to Option 42, wherein the side wall of the cooking chamber separates the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

[0167] Option 48. The apparatus according to Option 41, wherein the mode stirrer includes a first orifice and a second orifice.

[0168] Option 49. The apparatus according to Option 48, wherein at least one of the first aperture and the second aperture is a rectangular aperture.

[0169] Option 50. The apparatus according to Option 41, wherein the mode stirrer is asymmetric.

[0170] Option 51. An apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber therein, the cooking chamber including a top wall, a rear wall, and a side wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; a modulating stirrer positioned on the side wall of the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and configured to generate an airflow within the cooking chamber; a heating element positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

[0171] Option 52. The device according to Option 51, wherein the housing includes a second chamber configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0172] Option 53. The apparatus according to Option 52, wherein the side wall of the cooking chamber separates the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

[0173] Option 54. The apparatus according to Option 52, wherein the microwave source is located in the second room.

[0174] Option 55. The apparatus according to Option 54, wherein a waveguide is positioned in the second chamber, and the waveguide is configured to guide microwaves from the microwave source to the cooking chamber.

[0175] Option 56. The apparatus according to Option 52, wherein a motor is positioned in the second chamber, and the motor is configured to rotate the mode stirrer.

[0176] Option 57. The apparatus according to Option 51, wherein the mode stirrer includes a protrusion extending axially outward toward the cooking chamber.

[0177] Option 58. The apparatus according to Option 57, wherein the protrusion is adjacent to an orifice located within the mode stirrer.

[0178] Option 59. The apparatus according to Option 51, wherein a mica sheet is positioned between the mode mixer and the cooking chamber.

[0179] Option 60. The apparatus according to Option 51, wherein the mode stirrer is asymmetric.

[0180] Option 61. An apparatus comprising: a housing having a cooking chamber formed within the housing, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; a microwave source positioned outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; a motor positioned outside the cooking chamber and including a first pulley connected to a drive shaft of the motor; an air motion device positioned within the housing, the air motion device including a vertically upwardly extending drive shaft and having a second pulley; a belt extending between the first pulley and the second pulley, the belt being configured to transmit rotational motion from the first pulley to the second pulley; a heating element positioned within the housing; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

[0181] Option 62. The device according to Option 61, wherein the housing includes a second chamber configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

[0182] Option 63. The apparatus according to Option 62, wherein the microwave source and the motor are located in the second chamber.

[0183] Option 64. The apparatus according to Option 63, wherein the motor is positioned above the microwave source.

[0184] Option 65. The apparatus according to Option 62, wherein the motor includes a cooling fan configured to rotate within the second chamber.

[0185] Option 66. The apparatus according to Option 61, wherein the motor and the air movement device are horizontally spaced apart from each other and vertically aligned within the housing.

[0186] Option 67. The apparatus according to Option 61, wherein in a first cooking mode, the motor causes the first pulley to rotate, thereby causing the air movement device to rotate to generate airflow.

[0187] Option 68. The apparatus according to Option 61, wherein the second pulley is positioned vertically above the heating element.

[0188] Option 69. The apparatus according to Option 61, wherein the first pulley includes a plurality of teeth arranged circumferentially around the first pulley.

[0189] Option 70. The apparatus according to Option 69, wherein the belt includes a plurality of teeth corresponding to the plurality of teeth of the first pulley.

[0190] Option 71. An apparatus comprising: a housing forming a cooking chamber and a second chamber therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall and a side wall separating the cooking chamber from the second chamber; a microwave source positioned within the second chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to cook food directly therein; a motor positioned within the second chamber and including a first pulley connected to a drive shaft of the motor, the first pulley being vertically positioned above the cooking chamber; an air movement device positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall, the air movement device including a vertically upwardly extending drive shaft and having a second pulley vertically aligned with the first pulley; a belt extending between the first pulley and the second pulley, the belt being configured to transmit rotational motion from the first pulley to the second pulley; a heating element positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall; and a container selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

[0191] Option 72. The apparatus according to Option 71, wherein the cooking chamber and the second chamber are configured side-by-side within the housing.

[0192] Option 73. The apparatus according to Option 71, wherein the motor is positioned above the microwave source.

[0193] Option 74. The apparatus according to Option 71, wherein the motor includes a cooling fan configured to rotate within the second chamber.

[0194] Option 75. The apparatus according to Option 71, wherein the motor and the air movement device are horizontally spaced apart from each other within the housing.

[0195] Option 76. The apparatus according to Option 71, wherein in a first cooking mode, the motor causes the first pulley to rotate, thereby causing the air movement device to rotate to generate airflow.

[0196] Option 77. The apparatus according to Option 76, wherein in the second cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

[0197] Option 78. The apparatus according to Option 71, wherein the second pulley is positioned vertically above the heating element.

[0198] Option 79. The apparatus according to Option 71, wherein the first pulley includes a plurality of teeth arranged circumferentially around the first pulley.

[0199] Option 80. The apparatus according to Option 79, wherein the belt includes a plurality of teeth corresponding to the plurality of teeth of the first pulley.

[0200] Specific exemplary embodiments are described herein to provide a general understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the apparatuses 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 apparatuses and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of this invention is limited only by the specification. Features shown or described in conjunction with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this invention.

[0201] Furthermore, in this disclosure, components with the same name in the embodiments generally have similar characteristics, so in a particular embodiment, every feature of each component with the same name need not be fully described. Moreover, the use of linear or circular dimensions in the description of the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods is not intended to limit the types of shapes that can be used in conjunction with these systems, apparatuses, and methods. Those skilled in the art will recognize that equivalents of such linear and circular dimensions can be readily determined for any geometry. The dimensions and shapes of systems and apparatuses and their components can relate at least to the structure of the subject in which the system and apparatus will be used, the dimensions and shapes of the components to be used with the system and apparatus, and the methods and procedures in which the system and apparatus will be used. Furthermore, the terms “around” and “substantially” are limited to ranges based on manufacturing variations and variations in temperature and other parameters.

[0202] The approximate language used herein throughout the specification and claims may be adapted to modify any permissible variation in quantitative expressions without causing a change in the essential function associated with them. Therefore, values ​​modified by one or more terms (such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially”) are not limited to the specified precise values. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the numerical value. Herein and throughout the specification and claims, unless otherwise indicated by context or language, scope limitations may be combined and / or interchanged, and these scopes are defined and include all subscopes contained herein.

[0203] In the foregoing description and in the claims, phrases such as “at least one” or “one or more” may appear, followed by a connected list of elements or features. The term “and / or” may also appear in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implied or clearly contradictory to the context in which it is used, the phrase is intended to individually indicate any of the listed elements or features, or any of the referenced elements or features combined with any other referenced elements or features. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B,” “one or more of A and B,” and “A and / or B” are all intended to indicate “A only, B only, or A and B together.” Similar interpretations are also intended for lists that include three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C;,” “one or more of A, B, and C;,” and “A, B, and / or C” are all intended to indicate “A only, B only, C only, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.” Furthermore, the term “based on” used in the foregoing and claims is intended to indicate “at least partially based on,” thus unmentioned features or elements are permissible.

[0204] Those skilled in the art will understand other features and advantages of this utility model based on the above embodiments. Therefore, unless indicated by the appended claims, this application is not limited to what has been specifically shown and described. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated in their entirety by reference.

Claims

1. A cooking apparatus comprising: A housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; A microwave source, located outside the cooking chamber and configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber; An air movement device, which is positioned inside the housing and is vertically positioned above the inner top wall; A heating element is positioned inside the housing and is vertically positioned above the inner top wall; and A container that can be selectively removed from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein. In the first cooking mode, the container is spaced apart from the inner top wall, and in the second cooking mode, the container is positioned directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

2. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking chamber includes a support positioned on at least one of the side walls or the inner top wall.

3. The cooking apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The container includes a protrusion extending outward from the container and is configured to abut against the support in the second cooking mode.

4. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The inner top wall includes at least one opening.

5. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, wherein In the first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

6. The cooking apparatus according to claim 5, wherein In the second cooking mode, the air movement device and heating element generate a heated airflow that enters the container directly.

7. The cooking apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The container is partially sealed to the inner top wall to reduce the loss rate of the heated airflow from the container to the cooking chamber.

8. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

9. The cooking apparatus according to claim 8, wherein In the second cooking mode, the container rests against the shelf to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

10. The cooking apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The microwave source is located in a second room adjacent to the cooking room.

11. A cooking apparatus comprising: A shell in which a cooking chamber is formed, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; A microwave source, located outside the cooking chamber and configured to transmit microwaves into the cooking chamber; An air movement device, located within the housing and configured to generate airflow within the cooking chamber; A heating element, located within the housing, is configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; A support, positioned within the cooking chamber; and A container that can be selectively removed from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein and a protrusion extending outward from the container, wherein the protrusion contacts the support to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

12. The cooking apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The support surrounds the container on the first, second, and third sides.

13. The cooking apparatus of claim 11, wherein, The support is positioned on at least one of the inner top wall or side wall of the cooking chamber.

14. The cooking apparatus of claim 11, wherein, The inner top wall includes multiple perforations to allow the heated airflow to pass through the inner top wall and enter the cooking chamber.

15. The cooking device of claim 11, wherein, In the first cooking mode, the container is spaced apart from the inner top wall and the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

16. The cooking apparatus of claim 15, wherein, In the second cooking mode, the container is positioned directly adjacent to the inner top wall, and the air movement device and heating element guide the heated airflow directly into the container.

17. The cooking device of claim 11, wherein, The support is horizontally spaced from the side wall of the cooking chamber.

18. The cooking device of claim 11, wherein, The container is partially sealed to the inner top wall to reduce the loss rate of the heated airflow from the container to the cooking chamber.

19. The cooking device of claim 16, wherein, The cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

20. The cooking apparatus of claim 19, wherein, In the second cooking mode, the container rests against the shelf to position the container directly adjacent to the inner top wall.

21. A cooking apparatus comprising: A housing having a front surface and an opening positioned on the front surface; A door, which is rotatably connected to the housing to selectively cover the opening; A cooking chamber formed within the housing and having a first volume, wherein the cooking chamber is configured to be accessed through the opening and to cook food directly therein; A microwave source, located outside the cooking chamber and configured to transmit microwaves into the cooking chamber; An air movement device, which is positioned within the housing; A heating element, which is positioned within the housing; and A container having a second volume and being selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein, wherein the first volume is larger than the second volume.

22. The cooking apparatus of claim 21, wherein, The first volume is in the range of 0.7 cubic feet to 0.9 cubic feet.

23. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The first volume is 0.8 cubic feet.

24. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The second volume is in the range of 0.10 cubic feet to 0.15 cubic feet.

25. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The second volume is 0.13 cubic feet.

26. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The first volume is in the range of 1.0 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet.

27. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The first volume is 1.1 cubic feet.

28. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The second volume is in the range of 0.18 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet.

29. The cooking apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that, The second volume is 0.20 cubic feet.

30. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The ratio of the first volume to the second volume is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:

1.

31. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The ratio of the first volume to the second volume is 5.50:

1.

32. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, The ratio of the first volume to the second volume is 6.15:

1.

33. The cooking device of claim 21, wherein, In the first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

34. The cooking device of claim 33, wherein, In the second cooking mode, the air movement device and heating element guide the heated airflow directly into the container.

35. A cooking apparatus comprising: A housing, in which a cooking chamber having a first height and a first width is formed, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; A microwave source, located outside the cooking chamber, is configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to cook food directly therein; An air movement device, located within the housing and configured to generate airflow within the cooking chamber; A heating element, located within the housing, is configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; and A container having a second height and a second width, and being selectively removable from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing the food therein, wherein the first height is at least twice the second height.

36. The cooking device of claim 35, wherein, The cooking room comprises a first volume ranging from 0.7 cubic feet to 1.2 cubic feet.

37. The cooking device of claim 36, wherein, The container includes a second volume ranging from 0.10 cubic feet to 0.22 cubic feet.

38. The cooking device of claim 37, wherein, The ratio of the first volume to the second volume is in the range of 5.3:1 to 6.3:

1.

39. The cooking device of claim 35, wherein, The cooking chamber includes a shelf positioned inside the cooking chamber and spaced perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the cooking chamber.

40. The cooking device of claim 39, wherein, The first container is configured to be positioned on the shelf, and the second container is configured to be positioned inside the cooking chamber below the shelf.

41. A cooking apparatus comprising: A housing having a cooking chamber formed therein, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall and side walls; A microwave source, located outside the cooking chamber and configured to transmit microwaves into the cooking chamber; A mode mixer is positioned on the side wall of the cooking chamber; An air movement device, which is positioned within the housing; Heating element, which is positioned within the housing; and A container that can be selectively removed from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein. In the first cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber, and the mode stirrer rotates to distribute the microwaves emitted into the cooking chamber. In the second cooking mode, the air movement device and heating element guide the heated airflow directly into the container.

42. The cooking device of claim 41, wherein, The housing includes a second chamber, which is configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

43. The cooking device of claim 42, wherein, The microwave source is located in the second room.

44. The cooking device of claim 43, wherein, A waveguide is positioned in the second chamber, and the waveguide is configured to guide microwaves from the microwave source into the cooking chamber.

45. The cooking device of claim 44, wherein, The mode stirrer is positioned at the exit of the waveguide.

46. The cooking device of claim 45, wherein, The mode stirrer is connected to a drive shaft of a motor that passes through the waveguide to rotate the mode stirrer.

47. The cooking device of claim 42, wherein, The side wall of the cooking chamber separates the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

48. The cooking device of claim 41, wherein, The mode stirrer includes a first orifice and a second orifice.

49. The cooking device of claim 48, wherein, At least one of the first opening and the second opening is a rectangular opening.

50. The cooking device of claim 41, wherein, The mode stirrer is asymmetric.

51. A cooking apparatus comprising: A shell, in which a cooking chamber is formed, the cooking chamber including a top wall, a rear wall, and side walls; A microwave source, located outside the cooking chamber and configured to transmit microwaves into the cooking chamber; A mode mixer, which is positioned on the side wall of the cooking chamber; An air movement device, located within the housing and configured to generate airflow within the cooking chamber; A heating element, positioned within the housing and configured to heat the airflow to generate a heated airflow; and A container that can be selectively removed from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

52. The cooking device of claim 51, wherein, The housing includes a second chamber, which is configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

53. The cooking device of claim 52, wherein, The side wall of the cooking chamber separates the cooking chamber from the second chamber.

54. The cooking device of claim 52, wherein, The microwave source is located in the second room.

55. The cooking device of claim 54, wherein, A waveguide is positioned in the second chamber, and the waveguide is configured to guide microwaves from the microwave source into the cooking chamber.

56. The cooking device of claim 52, wherein, A motor is positioned in the second chamber, and the motor is configured to rotate the mode stirrer.

57. The cooking device of claim 51, wherein, The mode mixer includes a protrusion extending axially outward toward the cooking chamber.

58. The cooking device of claim 57, wherein, The protrusion is adjacent to the orifice located within the mode stirrer.

59. The cooking device of claim 51, wherein, A mica sheet is positioned between the mode mixer and the cooking chamber.

60. The cooking apparatus according to claim 51, characterized in that, The mode stirrer is asymmetric.

61. A cooking apparatus comprising: A housing having a cooking chamber formed within the housing, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall; A microwave source, located outside the cooking chamber and configured to transmit microwaves into the cooking chamber; A motor, located outside the cooking chamber, includes a first pulley connected to a drive shaft of the motor; An air movement device, positioned within the housing, includes a vertically upward-extending drive shaft and a second pulley; A belt extending between the first pulley and the second pulley, the belt being configured to transmit rotational motion from the first pulley to the second pulley; Heating element, which is positioned within the housing; and A container that can be selectively removed from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

62. The cooking apparatus according to claim 61, characterized in that, The housing includes a second chamber, which is configured side-by-side adjacent to the cooking chamber.

63. The cooking device of claim 62, wherein, The microwave source and the motor are located in the second room.

64. The cooking device of claim 63, wherein, The motor is positioned above the microwave source.

65. The cooking device of claim 62, wherein, The motor includes a cooling fan configured to rotate within the second chamber.

66. The cooking device of claim 61, wherein, The motor and the air motion device are horizontally spaced apart and vertically aligned within the housing.

67. The cooking device of claim 61, wherein, In the first cooking mode, the motor rotates the first pulley, which in turn rotates the air movement device to generate airflow.

68. The cooking device of claim 61, wherein, The second pulley is positioned vertically above the heating element.

69. The cooking device of claim 61, wherein, The first pulley includes a plurality of teeth arranged circumferentially around the first pulley.

70. The cooking device of claim 69, wherein, The belt includes a plurality of teeth corresponding to the plurality of teeth of the first pulley.

71. A cooking apparatus comprising: A housing, in which a cooking chamber and a second chamber are formed, the cooking chamber including an inner top wall and a side wall separating the cooking chamber from the second chamber; A microwave source, located in the second chamber, is configured to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber to cook food directly therein; A motor, located in the second chamber, includes a first pulley connected to a drive shaft of the motor, the first pulley being vertically positioned above the cooking chamber; An air movement device, positioned within the housing and capable of being vertically positioned above the inner top wall, the air movement device including a vertically upward extending drive shaft and having a second pulley vertically aligned with the first pulley; A belt extending between the first pulley and the second pulley, the belt being configured to transmit rotational motion from the first pulley to the second pulley; A heating element is positioned inside the housing and is vertically positioned above the inner top wall; and A container that can be selectively removed from the cooking chamber, the container including a top opening for placing food therein.

72. The cooking device of claim 71, wherein, The cooking chamber and the second chamber are arranged side-by-side within the housing.

73. The cooking device of claim 71, wherein, The motor is positioned above the microwave source.

74. The cooking device of claim 71, wherein, The motor includes a cooling fan configured to rotate within the second chamber.

75. The cooking device of claim 71, wherein, The motor and the air-moving device are horizontally spaced apart from each other within the housing.

76. The cooking device of claim 71, wherein, In the first cooking mode, the motor rotates the first pulley, which in turn rotates the air movement device to generate airflow.

77. The cooking device of claim 76, wherein, In the second cooking mode, the microwave source emits microwaves into the cooking chamber.

78. The cooking device of claim 71, wherein, The second pulley is positioned vertically above the heating element.

79. The cooking device of claim 71, wherein, The first pulley includes a plurality of teeth arranged circumferentially around the first pulley.

80. The cooking device of claim 79, wherein, The belt includes a plurality of teeth corresponding to the plurality of teeth of the first pulley.

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