Vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202023003024
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-09-13
- Publication Date
- 2025-09-04
- Estimated Expiration
- 2033-09-30
Smart Images
Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance, comprising: a first component with at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element, a second component with at least one magnetic-field-based counter-element, and an evaluation device, wherein the first component and the second component together form a receiving space with a receiving volume. Also disclosed are a method for operating a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance and a machine-readable storage medium with program instructions.
[0002] Kitchen appliances designed for the at least semi-automatic preparation of food are known from the prior art. Such kitchen appliances can comprise at least one vessel assembly and a base unit. Optionally, separate components or accessories can also be provided which interact with the vessel assembly and / or with the base unit in order to process a food item depending on the dish, beverage, or similar product being prepared. Components of the vessel assembly or separate accessories are generally offered by kitchen appliance suppliers, for example as cooking vessels, steaming vessels, lids, cutting or stirring units, or similar. In general, the base unit or components of the vessel assembly can each have compatible interfaces that enable interaction.In particular, a movable element of the vessel arrangement or an accessory part can be driven by an electric motor arranged in the basic unit through interfaces that interact with one another.
[0003] A container arrangement may comprise a food receptacle, for example in the form of a pot, and at least one lid element. The lid element is preferably configured to at least partially close or cover the food receptacle.
[0004] When using known kitchen appliances, under certain circumstances, for example, if at least one opening in the lid element becomes blocked, a user may be able to build up pressure in the food receiving element covered by the lid element. This could lead to unrelated liquid leakage. Furthermore, high motor speeds could cause pressure to build up, for example, through the formation of a so-called vortex, which could cause the lid to shift. Alternatively, the lid may lift during use of the kitchen appliance at high speeds.
[0005] Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of improving known vessel arrangements for a kitchen appliance and, in particular, of offering a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance with increased user-friendliness.
[0006] The above-mentioned object is achieved according to the invention by a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance, comprising: a first component with at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, a second component with at least one magnetic field-based counter-element, and an evaluation device, wherein the first component and the second component together form a receiving space with a receiving volume, achieved in that the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element is configured to detect a magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element and to output at least one indication for the detected magnetic field, that the evaluation device is configured to determine information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element on the basis of the at least one indication output for the detected magnetic field,and that the evaluation device is configured to determine information about a change in the recording volume on the basis of the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element.
[0007] Furthermore, a method for operating a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance, in particular a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance according to the present disclosure, is disclosed, in which a magnetic field of at least one magnetic field-based counter-element provided on a second component of the vessel arrangement is detected by at least one magnetic field-based sensor element provided on a first component of the vessel arrangement, in which at least one indication for the detected magnetic field is output for the detected magnetic field, in which information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element is determined on the basis of the at least one indication output for the detected magnetic field,and in which information about a change in a receiving volume formed by the first component and the second component is determined on the basis of the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element.
[0008] Furthermore, a machine-readable storage medium is disclosed with program instructions which, when executed by a processor of a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance, in particular a vessel arrangement according to the present disclosure, or by the processor of a kitchen appliance with a vessel arrangement according to the present disclosure, cause the vessel arrangement or the kitchen appliance to carry out a method according to the present disclosure.
[0009] If pressure builds up in the receiving space, the first component and the second component are pushed apart, which in turn can lead to a displacement of the components relative to one another and / or to an expansion of the material of the components. Such a displacement or expansion can result in a change in the receiving volume. With the vessel holder, method, and computer-readable storage medium disclosed here, a change in the receiving volume can be detected by determining a position of the components relative to one another, and a pressure buildup can then be inferred from the detected change in the receiving volume.
[0010] Overall, a pressure or vortex build-up in the receiving chamber can be detected in the form of a lid lift or lid deformation, and this corresponding information can be used to automatically initiate countermeasures.
[0011] The first component can be a food receiving element, for example, with an opening for receiving food, with an opening for receiving a cutting unit, and with a handle. The second component can be a cover element designed to cover the opening for receiving food of the food receiving element. The second component can have one or more air passage openings.
[0012] The first component and the second component together form a receiving space with a receiving volume. The receiving space can be suitable for the air-permeable storage of food. The air permeability of the receiving space can be due in particular to one or more ventilation openings in the second component.
[0013] The first component and the second component are preferably designed such that they can be assembled together in at least one assembly position, for example, by the second component covering an opening in the first component, thus forming the receiving space with the receiving volume within the meaning of the present disclosure. The first component and the second component can further be designed such that they can assume an open position, wherein in the open position, the first component and the second component form a receiving space with a virtually infinite receiving volume.
[0014] The at least one magnetic-field-based counterelement is preferably designed to generate a magnetic field, for example, due to inherent material properties or by applying an electric current. Examples of the at least one magnetic-field-based counterelement are: magnet, permanent magnet, electromagnet, coil, although this list is not exhaustive.
[0015] The at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element is preferably sensitive to the magnetic field. An example of the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element is a Hall sensor, with which the influence of a Lorentz force from a magnetic field on a current flowing in the sensor or a Hall voltage can be detected and, based on this, a magnetic flux density can be output. A particular example of the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element is a 3D Hall sensor, which is configured to output components of the magnetic flux density of a magnetic field in three spatial directions. Preferably, the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element has means for transmitting data to the evaluation device, in particular for outputting the information for the detected magnetic field to the evaluation device.
[0016] A single magnetic-field-based sensor element or a plurality of magnetic-field-based sensor elements can be provided on the first component. By providing a single magnetic-field-based sensor element, the vessel arrangement, in particular the first component, can be designed cost-effectively, and the evaluation of the sensor data can then be kept simple. Providing a plurality of magnetic-field-based sensor elements, for example, two magnetic-field-based sensor elements, enables increased measurement accuracy and, if necessary, the mutual exclusion of detection errors through redundancy.
[0017] A single magnetic-field-based counterelement or a plurality of magnetic-field-based counterelements can be provided on the second component. By providing a single magnetic-field-based counterelement, the vessel arrangement, in particular the second component, can be designed cost-effectively, and the acquisition and evaluation of the corresponding sensor data can then be kept simple. The provision of a plurality of magnetic-field-based counterelements, for example, two magnetic-field-based counterelements, enables increased accuracy in determining the position of the second component.
[0018] The at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element can be configured to detect overlapping magnetic fields, each magnetic field being generated by a magnetic-field-based counter-element. Alternatively or additionally, pairs can be provided, each pair comprising a magnetic-field-based sensor element and a magnetic-field-based counter-element, and the magnetic-field-based sensor element of a pair detecting the magnetic field of the magnetic-field-based counter-element.
[0019] The evaluation device preferably comprises a processor with a storage medium. In particular, a computer program with instructions can be stored on the storage medium, the execution of which by the processor causes the vessel assembly to perform an operating method. The evaluation device can be arranged on the first component of the vessel assembly. If the vessel assembly is used in conjunction with a base unit of a kitchen appliance, the evaluation device can be arranged on the base unit of the kitchen appliance, in which case the evaluation device can be part of a control device of the kitchen appliance.
[0020] The at least one indication for the detected magnetic field output by the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element can in particular be a magnetic flux density.
[0021] Various embodiments of the vessel arrangement are described below, with each of the individual embodiments applying independently to the vessel arrangement. Furthermore, the individual embodiments can be combined with one another as desired.
[0022] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the information about a change in the receiving volume corresponds to a change in the position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, wherein the change in the position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element is the result of a translational movement, a rotational movement or a combination thereof.
[0023] In a corresponding embodiment, it is provided that the information about a change in the recording volume corresponds to a change in the position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, wherein the change in the position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element is the result of a translational movement, a rotational movement or a combination thereof.
[0024] Thus, a wider variety of movements of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter-element or the second component can be detected. Examples of causes for the change in the position of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element include: material deformation of the second component, material deformation of the first component, displacement of the second component relative to the first component, opening of the receiving space, attachment or placement of the second component on the first component, or other factors.
[0025] For this purpose, the magnetic-field-based sensor element can be configured to output at least one piece of information about the detected magnetic field such that the evaluation device can infer a change in position of the magnetic-field-based counter-element along the vertical axis. In a specific case in which removal of the second component from the first component is restricted by a horizontal displacement for unlocking, a distinction can thus be made between a force occurring in the receiving volume, which then causes a vertical displacement of the magnetic-field-based counter-element, and a proper removal of the second component, which, due to the special locking mechanism, causes a horizontal displacement of the magnetic-field-based counter-element.
[0026] Furthermore, the second component can be designed such that it has at least one bending region, wherein the bending region is designed to deform relative to other regions of the second component when an increased force is applied against the component or when the temperature is increased. For this purpose, the bending region can, for example, have a smaller thickness than other regions of the second component. Alternatively or additionally, the bending region can have a different material composition than other regions of the second component.
[0027] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the evaluation device is configured to compare the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element with a reference position, and that the evaluation device is configured to determine the information about a change in the receiving volume on the basis of the comparison.
[0028] This allows a change in the position of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element compared to the reference position to be determined. The reference position can be specified or stored by the manufacturer of the vessel arrangement. Alternatively or additionally, a reference position can be retrieved from a server and updated. Another variant involves redetermining the reference position on the vessel arrangement, for example, when the vessel arrangement is used for a new purpose.
[0029] Preferably, the reference position is defined in a coordinate system of the magnetic field-based sensor element, wherein the position of the sensor element is considered the zero position.
[0030] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the reference position has been determined on the basis of a previous detection of the magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element.
[0031] This allows the reference position for the vessel arrangement to be accurately and individually defined. This allows, for example, aging effects or defects in the sensor element to be compensated for. Likewise, material changes in the vessel arrangement components over the course of the vessel arrangement's life cycle can be compensated for. Another advantage is the ability to redefine new admissibility conditions or tolerance specifications for the position to be detected of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element by updating the reference position.
[0032] A tolerance specification can include a maximum value for an angular position of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element. In this way, it can be determined that, for the detected angular position by an amount that exceeds this maximum value, the second component with the magnetic-field-based counter-element is dismounted from the first component. For example, if a cover element is removed from a feed receiving element, thus opening the receiving space.
[0033] The earlier detection can, for example, be carried out as part of a referencing process in which a targeted detection is carried out to determine a reference position, or during operation of the vessel arrangement based on a continuous detection of the magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element.
[0034] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element is configured to detect the magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element at at least two points in time and to output an indication for the detected magnetic field for each detection, that the evaluation device is configured to determine information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element for the respective output indications, and that the evaluation device is configured to determine the information about a change in the receiving volume on the basis of the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element determined for the respective output indications.
[0035] This allows for dynamic observation of the position of the magnetic-field-based counter-element or the second component. For this purpose, for example, the information about the position of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter-element at the first time point can be compared with the information about the position of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter-element at the second time point, in order to observe a change in position or a change in the recording volume over time points.
[0036] Alternatively, a referenced observation of the position of the magnetic field-based counter element or of the second component can be accomplished by storing the information about the position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element at the first time point, and comparing any further information about the position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element at a later second time point with the stored information about the position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element at the first time point.
[0037] In a special example, the magnetic-field-based sensor element can be referenced to the container assembly before each use, e.g., before a mixing or cooking process, in order to compensate for a variety of tolerance influences such as temperature, deformation of the components, and magnetic field deviations. This allows for more precise detection of a displacement of the second component, for example, in the form of a lid lift. This can be achieved by locking the lid.
[0038] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the evaluation device is configured to store the at least one output indication for the detected magnetic field in a detection history.
[0039] This allows a recording history to be generated, which can then serve as a basis for determining changes in the recording volume during an evaluation. With long-term storage of the recording history, events during the life cycle of the vessel arrangement can be retrospectively evaluated and used for future applications, for example, for consideration when re-establishing a reference position.
[0040] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the evaluation device is configured to store the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, which information is determined for the at least one output indication, in a position history.
[0041] This embodiment offers similar advantages to the previously described embodiment. However, in the present case, an evaluation step was already performed prior to storage in the position history, in which the at least one piece of information about a position of the at least one magnetic-field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element was determined based on the information for the detected magnetic field.
[0042] This allows the position history to be used for an expanded range of subsequent uses, such as controlling the vessel arrangement or a kitchen appliance with which the vessel arrangement is compatible.
[0043] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the at least one indication for the detected magnetic field comprises at least one element from the list: an absolute value for an electromagnetic quantity, a direction indication for an electromagnetic quantity with coordinates in a two-dimensional coordinate system, a vectorial indication B→ with an absolute value |B| and with coordinates for a direction specification in a two-dimensional coordinate system, a vector specification B→ with an absolute value |B| and with coordinates for a direction in a three-dimensional coordinate system, a magnetic flux density, a magnetic field strength.
[0044] Such information allows for inferences about the position of the magnetic field-based counter element. Two-dimensional coordinate information can simplify the evaluation. Three-dimensional coordinate information allows the position of the magnetic field-based counter element to be determined with increased information content and accuracy.
[0045] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element comprises at least one element from the list: an angle indication, a distance, an absolute value for a vector, a direction indication, a vector.
[0046] Depending on the arrangement of the magnetic field-based counter element in the coordinate system of the magnetic field-based sensor element and / or depending on the information output by the magnetic field-based sensor element, one or more elements of the above list may be suitable for conveniently identifying the position and simplifying the evaluation by the evaluation device.
[0047] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that a locking element is provided, wherein the locking element is provided to lock the first component and the second component with a movement tolerance in a locked state, and that the evaluation device is configured to determine a tolerance range for a change in the receiving volume on the basis of the movement tolerance.
[0048] Thus, a tolerance range for the vessel arrangement is determined individually and for the current circumstances of the vessel arrangement. Based on this tolerance range, a statement can then be made regarding the permissibility of an observed change in the intake volume, which may be relevant, for example, for adequate control of the vessel arrangement or a kitchen appliance with which the vessel arrangement interacts. Alternatively or additionally, the statement can be made available to a user, for example, via a display device, possibly together with instructions for use.
[0049] The locking element can be formed as a separate element from the first component and the second component. Alternatively or additionally, the locking element can be part of the first component or part of the second component.
[0050] In one embodiment of the vessel arrangement, it is provided that the evaluation device is configured to output information for controlling the vessel arrangement or a kitchen appliance with which the vessel arrangement interacts: the information about a change in the receiving volume, the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, the at least one indication for the detected magnetic field, the reference position, the detection history, the position history, the tolerance range for a change in the receiving volume.
[0051] This allows the vessel arrangement or the kitchen appliance to be automatically controlled according to, for example, a certain change in the intake volume, in particular to take appropriate countermeasures such as limiting a speed for the electric motor or a cutting unit, or lowering a temperature of a heating element.
[0052] Examples of information for controlling the vessel assembly or a kitchen appliance with which the vessel assembly interacts are: an indication of the admissibility of changing the intake volume, a warning, an exceeding of a specified volume change, although this list is not exhaustive.
[0053] In one embodiment, it is provided that a locking state of the first component with the second component is detected, that after detecting the locking state, a referencing process is automatically initiated, wherein the referencing process comprises at least the following: detecting the magnetic field of the magnetic field-based counter-element, wherein the first component and the second component are locked to one another, outputting a first indication for the detected magnetic field, determining information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element on the basis of the output first indication, defining the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element as a reference position,and that the information about a change in a receiving volume formed by the first component and the second component is determined on the basis of a comparison of at least one piece of information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, which has been determined after defining the reference position, with the reference position.
[0054] This allows, for example, a referencing process to be performed each time a locking state is detected, allowing the determination of a position change or a change in the recording volume to be tailored to the situation. Automation also increases user-friendliness by eliminating the need for user input to initiate the referencing process.
[0055] In one embodiment, it is provided that a locking state of the first component with the second component is detected, that the magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element is detected at a first point in time by the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, that a first indication for the detected magnetic field is output, that the first indication for the detected magnetic field is stored as a reference indication, that information about a movement tolerance for the locking state is retrieved, and that a tolerance range for a change in the receiving volume is determined on the basis of the reference indication and on the basis of the movement tolerance.
[0056] This allows a reference value to be established directly based on the value output by the magnetic-field-based sensor element, eliminating the need for an evaluation step in which the position of the counter element is determined based on the output value. Thus, each time the method is performed, a permissibility framework is established for the acquired data or for the values output by at least one magnetic-field-based sensor element.
[0057] The information about a movement tolerance can be stored locally on the evaluation device, for example, on a memory of the evaluation device, or on an external server. The information about a movement tolerance can have been defined by the manufacturer of the vessel arrangement. Alternatively, the information about a movement tolerance can have been adapted over the course of the vessel arrangement's life cycle to account for changes in the vessel arrangement.
[0058] In one embodiment, it is provided that the magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element is detected at a second point in time by the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, that a second indication for the detected magnetic field is output, and that on the basis of the second indication for the detected magnetic field and on the basis of the tolerance range, information for the control of the vessel arrangement or information for the control of the kitchen appliance is determined.
[0059] As a result, a change in the magnetic field can be observed based on the information output by the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element and the vessel arrangement or a kitchen appliance with which the vessel arrangement interacts can be controlled accordingly.
[0060] Examples of information for controlling the vessel arrangement are: information about switching off a drive, information about reducing a speed, information about reducing a heating output, information about blocking a locking element, information about delayed requested unlocking, information about a current device status for a user display.
[0061] In one embodiment, it is provided that at least one control parameter for a preparation process on the vessel arrangement or on the kitchen appliance is automatically adapted depending on at least one element from the list: the information about a change in the receiving volume, the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element, the at least one indication for the detected magnetic field, the reference indication, a detection history, a position history, the tolerance range for a change in the receiving volume.
[0062] Automatic control offers the advantage of preventing user error. Furthermore, response times in the event of problematic device use, such as a pressure buildup in the receiving chamber that is deemed impermeable, can be shortened, thus improving the handling of the vessel assembly. In particular, appropriate measures, such as deactivating a heating element or reducing heating power, can be implemented automatically in a shorter time.
[0063] Further features and advantages of the vessel arrangement will become apparent from the following description of embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0064] The drawing shows: Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance; Fig. 2a shows a second embodiment of a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance in a first position; Fig. 2b shows the second embodiment of a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance in a second position; Fig. 3 shows a third embodiment of a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance; Fig. 4 a schematic representation of several positions of a magnetic field-based counter element relative to a magnetic field-based sensor element; Fig. 5a a schematic curve representation of angular positions of a magnetic field-based counter element relative to a first magnetic field-based sensor element over time; Fig. 5b is a schematic graph of angular positions of a magnetic field-based counter element relative to a second magnetic field-based sensor element over time; and Fig. 5c shows a schematic curve representation for a force action over time.
[0065] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a container assembly 100 for a kitchen appliance. The container assembly 100 comprises a first component 102 with a first magnetic field-based sensor element 104 and a second magnetic field-based sensor element 106, a second component 108 with a first magnetic field-based counter element 110 and a second magnetic field-based counter element 112, and an evaluation device. The first component 102 is designed as a food receiving element, and the second component 108 is designed as a cover element. The second component 108 is placed on the first component 102, and together they form a receiving space 116 with a receiving volume 118.
[0066] The first magnetic field-based sensor element 104 and the second magnetic field-based sensor element 106 are connected to the evaluation device for data transfer. The first magnetic field-based counter element 110 and the second magnetic field-based counter element 112 are arranged next to one another on the second component 108. In the illustrated closed position of the second component 108 with the first component 102, the first magnetic field-based counter element 110 is arranged opposite the first magnetic field-based sensor element 104, and the second magnetic field-based counter element 112 is arranged opposite the second magnetic field-based sensor element 106.
[0067] The first magnetic-field-based counter-element 110 is designed as a permanent magnet and configured to generate a first magnetic field. The second magnetic-field-based counter-element 112 is also designed as a permanent magnet and configured to generate a first magnetic field.
[0068] The first magnetic field-based sensor element 104 is configured to detect the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field, or an overlap of the first magnetic field with the second magnetic field, and to output a magnetic flux density to the evaluation device. The second magnetic field-based sensor element 106 is likewise configured to detect the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field, or an overlap of the first magnetic field with the second magnetic field. The first magnetic field-based sensor element 104 and the second magnetic field-based sensor element 106 are each designed as 3D Hall sensors and are configured to output an indication for a detected magnetic field with components in the x, y, and z directions. The evaluation device is configured to calculate a magnetic flux density with an absolute value and with a positive or negative sign based on such an indication.
[0069] The evaluation device is further configured to calculate a first value for a first angle Theta on the basis of a first indication output by the first magnetic field-based sensor element 104 or on the basis of a first magnetic flux density calculated therefrom, wherein the first angle Theta is indicative of a position of the first magnetic field-based counter-element 110 and / or the second magnetic field-based counter-element 112 relative to the first magnetic field-based sensor element 104. In addition, the evaluation device is configured to calculate a first value for a first angle Theta on the basis of a second indication output by the second magnetic field-based sensor element 106 orto calculate a second value for a second angle Theta on the basis of a second magnetic flux density calculated therefrom, wherein the second angle Theta is indicative of a position of the first magnetic field-based counter element 110 and / or the second magnetic field-based counter element 112 relative to the second magnetic field-based sensor element 106.
[0070] The evaluation device is further configured to perform a check by means of a redundancy check on the basis of the information output by the first magnetic field-based sensor element 104 and on the basis of the information output by the second magnetic field-based sensor element 106.
[0071] Furthermore, the evaluation device is configured to determine a value indicative of a change in the recording volume 118 based on the first value for the first angle Theta and on the second value for the second angle Theta. The change may be zero.
[0072] Fig. 2a shows a vessel arrangement 200 for a kitchen appliance according to a second embodiment in a first position. Fig. Figure 2b shows the same vessel arrangement 200 in a second position.
[0073] The vessel assembly 200 comprises a first component 202 in the form of a feed receiving element with a magnetic field-based sensor element 204 and a second component 206 in the form of a cover element with a magnetic field-based counter element 208. The second component 206 is placed on the first component 202, and together they form a receiving space 210 with a receiving volume 212. The vessel assembly 200 also comprises an evaluation device 114 and a locking element 216.
[0074] Both in the first position ( Fig. 2a) as well as in the second position ( Fig. 2b) the second component 206 is placed on the first component 202 and the first component 202 and the second component 206 are locked by the locking element 216.
[0075] In the first position, the second component 206 rests against the first component 202, and the receiving space 210 has a first receiving volume. In the second position, the second component 206 is raised relative to the first component 202 due to an increase in pressure in the receiving space 210, and the receiving space 210 has a second receiving volume, wherein the second receiving volume is larger than the first receiving volume.
[0076] In the first position, the magnetic field-based sensor element 204 and the magnetic field-based counter element 208 are spaced apart from each other by a first distance. In the second position, the magnetic field-based sensor element 204 and the magnetic field-based counter element 208 are spaced apart from each other by a second distance that is greater than the first distance due to the displacement 218 of the second component 206.
[0077] The evaluation device 214 is configured to determine the change between the first receiving volume and the second receiving volume. Furthermore, the evaluation device 214 is configured to output first information for controlling the vessel arrangement 200 in the form of a command for reducing a heating line on the first component 202, and second information for controlling the vessel arrangement 200 in the form of a locking command for unlocking the locking element 216.
[0078] Fig. Figure 3 shows a third embodiment of a container assembly 300 for a kitchen appliance 302. The kitchen appliance 302 comprises the container assembly 300 with a first component 304 and a second component 306, two locking elements 308, 310, a base unit 312, and an evaluation device 314. A magnetic field-based sensor element 316 in the form of a 3D Hall sensor is arranged on the first component 304.
[0079] A magnetic field-based counter element 318 in the form of a permanent magnet is arranged on the second component 306. The evaluation device 314 is arranged on the base unit 312 and is also a control device for the kitchen appliance 302.
[0080] The 3D Hall sensor is designed to output values for coordinates in 3 spatial directions for a magnetic flux density.
[0081] The evaluation device 314 is configured to determine a change in the magnetic flux density based on the flux densities output by the magnetic field-based sensor element 316 for the magnetic field of the magnetic field-based counter element 318. The flux density depends on the orientation of the magnetic field-based counter element 318 relative to the magnetic field-based sensor element 316 and thus also on the angular position of the magnetic field-based counter element 318 relative to the magnetic field-based sensor element 316.
[0082] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of several positions of a magnetic field-based counter element relative to a magnetic field-based sensor element 400, wherein the positions shown are not exhaustive and serve merely as examples. The magnetic field-based counter element can assume further positions relative to a magnetic field-based sensor element 400. Several angular positions M1, M2, M3, and M4 of the magnetic field-based counter element are shown, wherein the angular positions M1, M2, M3, and M4 correspond to different values for a theta angle 402. The theta angle 402 is the angle between a fictitious straight line extending through the magnetic field-based sensor element 400 and the position M1, M2, M3, or M4 of the magnetic field-based counter element, wherein the position of the magnetic field-based sensor element 400 serves as the coordinate origin.
[0083] The following describes exemplary situations that, when using a vessel arrangement comprising the magnetic field-based sensor element 400 and the magnetic field-based counter element, can correspond to each of the four illustrated positions of the magnetic field-based counter element relative to the magnetic field-based sensor element 400. The vessel arrangement comprises an evaluation device, a first component in the form of a pot, and a second component in the form of a lid, wherein the magnetic field-based sensor element 400 is arranged on the first component and wherein the magnetic field-based counter element is arranged on the second component.
[0084] Position M1, for example, corresponds to the locked lid, i.e., the zero position without internal pressure or a swirl. When position M1 is detected, heating and cutting can be performed with vessel assembly 400.
[0085] At lid position M2, the lid has lifted from the rim of the covered pot as a result of pressure buildup or a vortex being present. When position M2 is detected, a query is made as to whether, for example, a speed greater than or equal to a speed threshold is present. If this is the case and a temperature in the pot is less than, for example, 95°C, then the lid lifting can be attributed to a vortex. In this case, the current cooking process is not changed. If the speed is less than the speed threshold and a temperature in the pot is greater than, for example, 95°C, the lid lifting can be attributed to a thermal pressure buildup. In this case, the heating output is limited to a maximum of, for example, 30 to 50% of the previous heating output in order to counteract further pressure buildup. An increase in heating output is then only released if position M1 is detected for a predetermined period.
[0086] If position M3 is detected, it can be determined that a play in a lid locking system of the vessel assembly 400 has been fully exhausted, and possibly that the lid is bent. The evaluation device can then check whether an increased speed is set for a cutting or stirring unit in the pot. If the speed is not, for example, greater than or equal to a first speed threshold value and a temperature of, for example, below 95°C is detected in the pot, the evaluation device issues a command to slowly reduce the speed and checks whether position M2 is detected again. If this is the case, the evaluation device determines that there is no internal thermal pressure in the pot and that the pot is overfilled.If a temperature greater than 95°C is detected and the speed is below a second, lower speed threshold, the evaluation device determines that thermal internal pressure is present in the pot and issues a command to reduce the heating output to, for example, 10 to 30% of the previous heating output until position M2 is detected again. If position M2 is not detected after a period of, for example, 3 minutes, the evaluation device issues a command to stop the heating and leave the speed unchanged.
[0087] Position M4 represents the state in which the lid is open, i.e., no longer engaged with the pot or the locking element, and a leak is expected. The evaluation device issues a command to reduce the speed and heating power to minimum or zero, respectively. The evaluation device can also check whether an opening mechanism has been triggered to open. If not, the evaluation device determines that the lid is defective.
[0088] Optionally, a user can be notified when positions M2, M3, or M4 are detected, for example, via a display. Alternatively or additionally, the heating output can be reduced without providing a user notification.
[0089] Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b each show a schematic graph of angular positions of a magnetic field-based counter element of a vessel arrangement according to the present disclosure over time. The Fig. 5a are relative to a first magnetic field-based sensor element of the vessel arrangement and the Fig. The angular positions shown in Figure 5b are relative to a second magnetic field-based sensor element of the vessel arrangement. Fig. Figure 5c shows a schematic curve representation of a force effect over time, where the force effect was caused by pressure and recorded with a pressure sensor in the receiving space of the vessel arrangement. The time axes of the curve representations of the Fig. 5a, Fig. 5b and Fig. 5c show the same period.
[0090] The curve representations of the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b each have an edge 500, 502, which corresponds to an edge 504 in the curve representation of Fig. 5c in time. The curve representations show that a change in the angular position of the magnet-based counter-element relative to the magnet-based sensor element corresponds to a change in the receiving volume of the receiving space of the vessel arrangement, in particular that a change in the angular position of the magnet-based counter-element relative to the magnet-based sensor element corresponds to a change in the receiving volume of the receiving space of the vessel arrangement.
Claims
[1] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) for a kitchen appliance (302), comprising: - a first component (102, 202, 304) with at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), - a second component (108, 206, 306) with at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318), and - an evaluation device (114, 214, 314), - wherein the first component (102, 202, 304) and the second component (108, 206, 306) together form a receiving space (116, 210) with a receiving volume (118, 212), characterized by , - that the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) is configured to detect a magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) and to output at least one indication for the detected magnetic field, - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is configured to determine, on the basis of the at least one indication output for the detected magnetic field, information about a position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), and - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is configured to determine information about a change in the recording volume (118, 212) on the basis of the information about a position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400). [2] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the information about a change in the recording volume (118, 212) corresponds to a change in the position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), - wherein the change in the position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) is the result of a translational movement, a rotational movement or a combination thereof. [3] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is configured to compare the information about a position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) with a reference position, and - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is designed to determine the information about a change in the recording volume (118, 212) on the basis of the comparison. [4] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 3, characterized by that the reference position has been determined on the basis of a previous detection of the magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318). [5] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , - that the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) is configured to detect the magnetic field of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) at at least two points in time and to output an indication of the detected magnetic field for each detection, - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is configured to determine, for the respective output information, information about a position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), and - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is configured to determine the information about a change in the recording volume (118, 212) on the basis of the information about a position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) determined for the respective output information. [6] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is designed to store the at least one output indication for the detected magnetic field in a detection history. [7] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is configured to store the information about a position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) determined for the at least one output indication in a position history. [8] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one indication for the detected magnetic field comprises at least one element from the list: an absolute value for an electromagnetic quantity, a direction indication for an electromagnetic quantity with coordinates in a two-dimensional coordinate system, a vectorial indication B→ with an absolute value |B| and with coordinates for a direction specification in a two-dimensional coordinate system, a vector specification B→ with an absolute value |B| and with coordinates for a direction in a three-dimensional coordinate system, a magnetic flux density, a magnetic field strength. [9] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) comprises at least one element from the list: an angle indication, a distance, an absolute value for a vector, a direction indication, a vector. [10] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , - that a locking element (216, 308, 310) is provided, - wherein the locking element (216, 308, 310) is provided to lock the first component (102, 202, 304) and the second component (108, 206, 306) with a movement tolerance in a locking state, and - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is designed to determine a tolerance range for a change in the recording volume (118, 212) on the basis of the movement tolerance. [11] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is designed to output information for controlling the vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) or a kitchen appliance (302) with which the vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) interacts: the information about a change in the receiving volume (118, 212), the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), the at least one indication for the detected magnetic field, the reference position, the detection history, the position history, the tolerance range for a change in the receiving volume (118, 212). [12] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the first component (102, 202, 304) is a food receiving element with an opening for receiving food, with an opening for receiving a cutting unit and with a handle. [13] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 12, characterized by , - that the second component (108, 206, 306) is a cover element which is designed to cover the opening for receiving food of the food receiving element. [14] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 13, characterized by , - that the second component (108, 206, 306) has one or more air passage openings. [15] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the first component (102, 202, 304) and the second component (108, 206, 306) are designed such that they can be mounted together in at least one assembly position in that the second component covers an opening of the first component and thus forms the receiving space with the receiving volume. [16] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , that - the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is designed to determine the change in the receiving volume by determining a position of the components relative to one another, and is designed to infer a pressure build-up from the determined change in the receiving volume. [17] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) is designed to generate a magnetic field due to inherent material properties. [18] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) is designed to generate a magnetic field by applying an electric current. [19] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) is selected from the list comprising: magnet, permanent magnet, electromagnet and coil. [20] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that a plurality of magnetic field-based counter elements (110, 112, 208, 318) are provided on the second component (108, 206, 306). [21] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the second component (108, 206, 306) comprises a first magnetic field-based counter element (110) as a permanent magnet, configured to generate a first magnetic field, and a second magnetic field-based counter element (112) as a permanent magnet, configured to generate a second magnetic field. [22] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the information about a change in the recording volume (118, 212) corresponds to a change in the position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), - wherein the change in the position (M1, M2, M3, M4) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter-element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) is the result of a material deformation of the second component, a material deformation of the first component, a displacement of the second component relative to the first component, an opening of the receiving space or an attachment or placement of the second component on the first component. [23] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the second component (108, 206, 306) is designed such that it has at least one bending region, wherein the bending region is intended to deform relative to other regions of the second component when an increased force is applied against the component or an increased temperature. [24] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 10, characterized by , - that the locking element (216, 308, 310) is designed as a separate element from the first component (102, 202, 304) and from the second component (108, 206, 306). [25] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 10, characterized by , - that the locking element (216, 308, 310) is formed as part of the first component (102, 202, 304) or part of the second component (108, 206, 306). [26] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that the vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) is designed to automatically take appropriate countermeasures in the form of a restriction of a speed for the electric motor or a cutting unit or in the form of a reduction in the temperature of a heating element. [27] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , - that a first position (M1) of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) corresponds to a locked lid, i.e. the zero position without internal pressure or applied vortex, wherein upon detection of the position M1 the vessel arrangement can be heated and cut. [28] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 27, characterized by , that - in the first position (M1) the second component rests against the first component (102, 202, 304) and the receiving space has a first receiving volume, and - in a second position (M2) the second component (108, 206, 306) is raised relative to the first component (102, 202, 304) due to an increase in pressure in the receiving space and the receiving space has a second receiving volume, wherein the second receiving volume is larger than the first receiving volume. [29] Vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to claim 27 or 28, characterized by , that - in the first position (M1), the magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) and the magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) are spaced apart from each other by a first distance, and - in the second position (M2), the magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) and the magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) are spaced apart from one another by a second distance which is greater relative to the first distance due to the displacement of the second component. [30] Kitchen appliance (302), - wherein the kitchen appliance (302) comprises at least one vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) and a base unit (312), characterized by , - that the at least one vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) comprises a vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 29, and - that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is arranged on the base unit (312) of the kitchen appliance (302). [31] Kitchen appliance (302) according to claim 30, characterized by that the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is part of a control device of the kitchen appliance (300, 400). [32] Kitchen appliance (302) according to claim 30, characterized bythat the evaluation device (114, 214, 314) is designed to: - detecting a locking state of the first component (102, 202, 304) with the second component (108, 206, 306), - automatically initiating, after detecting the locking state, a referencing process, wherein the referencing process comprises at least the following: - detecting the magnetic field of the magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318), wherein the first component (102, 202, 304) and the second component (108, 206, 306) are locked together, - Outputting a first indication of the detected magnetic field, - determining information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) on the basis of the output first indication, - defining the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400) as a reference position, and - Determining the information about a change in a receiving volume (118, 212) formed by the first component (102, 202, 304) and the second component (108, 206, 306) on the basis of a comparison of at least one piece of information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), which was determined after defining the reference position, with the reference position. [33] Kitchen appliance (302) according to claim 31, characterized by that the control device of the kitchen appliance (300, 400) is designed to - to automatically adapt at least one control parameter for a preparation process on the vessel arrangement (100, 200, 300) or on the kitchen appliance (302) depending on at least one element from the list: the information about a change in the receiving volume (118, 212), the information about a position of the at least one magnetic field-based counter element (110, 112, 208, 318) relative to the at least one magnetic field-based sensor element (104, 106, 204, 316, 400), the at least one indication for the detected magnetic field, the reference indication, a detection history, a position history, the tolerance range for a change in the receiving volume (118, 212). [34] Kitchen appliance (302) according to claim 30, characterized by , - that the kitchen appliance (302) is designed to automatically take appropriate countermeasures such as limiting a speed for the electric motor or a cutting unit or lowering a temperature of a heating element.