DEVICE FOR HEATING COOKED GOODS

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for heating food. The invention also relates to a method for operating a device for heating food.

[0002] Ovens and steam cookers in various designs are known from the prior art. Examples include DE 27 05 395 A1, DE 44 07 702 A1, DE 101 58 425 C1, US 3,587,555, and EP 1 436 550 B2. There is a continuing need to further develop such devices. EP 0 732 549 A2 discloses an oven for the heat treatment of food and a method for baking. The invention is based on the objective of improving a device for heating food.

[0003] This problem is solved by a device according to claim 1.

[0004] The core of the invention consists in providing the device with a controllable ventilation device, which has at least one control means for controlling the extraction of exhaust air from the receiving room and at least one control means for controlling a supply of fresh air through at least one fresh air inlet to the receiving room.

[0005] This makes it possible to precisely control the atmosphere, especially the temperature and / or humidity, in the recording room. In particular, it is possible to regulate the atmosphere in the recording room.

[0006] The term "atmosphere in the recording room" here refers in particular to the gaseous medium in the recording room with its temperature and humidity content.

[0007] A particular advantage is that the controllable ventilation system allows for rapid air exchange in the cooking chamber, often within seconds. This results in increased operational reliability. Furthermore, it enables more precise control of the cooking process, particularly preventing overcooking at the end or after the cooking process is complete.

[0008] According to a further aspect of the invention, the ventilation device makes it possible to clean the exhaust air extracted from the receiving chamber. This prevents unwanted odors and / or contamination.

[0009] The appliance in question is, for example, an oven, particularly a steam oven, or a steam cooker. It could also be a microwave oven or a combination appliance offering a selection of oven, steam cooker, and microwave functions. Generally speaking, the appliance is a kitchen appliance.

[0010] According to the invention, the ventilation device enables at least three different operating modes: In one operating mode, the supply of fresh air to the recording chamber is blocked; in a second operating mode, both a supply of

[0011] Fresh air is supplied to the recording room, and cooling air is supplied to the airflow of the exhaust air extracted from the recording room. In a third operating mode, the supply of cooling air to the airflow of the exhaust air extracted from the intake chamber is prevented.

[0012] The third operating mode allows for very rapid extraction of exhaust air from the cooking chamber. This is particularly advantageous when opening the door of the cooking chamber and / or at the end of the cooking process.

[0013] Fresh air, as used here and in the following, refers to air that is drawn into the housing of the device from outside. Exhaust air refers to air from the intake chamber. The exhaust air may include, in particular, cooking fumes and / or steam, especially steam containing grease.

[0014] With the aid of the device according to the invention, it is possible to prevent the uncontrolled introduction of exhaust air into the kitchen. In particular, it is possible to clean the exhaust air before it is released from the housing.

[0015] The core of the invention consists in providing different operating modes which differ in what proportion of the volume flow generated by the fan is formed by the exhaust air extracted from the receiving space.

[0016] The information on the proportion of exhaust air extracted from the intake space to the volume flow generated by the fan refers to the area of ​​the at least one means for cleaning exhaust air, in particular a filter, and / or to the area of ​​an intake opening of the at least one fan for generating the volume flow and / or to an area of ​​a housing outlet.

[0017] In its first operating mode, the volume flow generated by the fan contains a maximum of 10% exhaust air extracted from the intake chamber. Such a low extraction rate of exhaust air from the intake chamber is advantageous, for example, in steaming or combined steaming modes. In this case, the volume flow can primarily serve to cool electrical or electronic components.

[0018] In a second operating mode, the proportion of exhaust air extracted from the recording chamber to the volume flow generated by the fan is at least 10% and at most 90%. This is advantageous, for example, for a hot air mode and / or for steam reduction in the recording chamber.

[0019] In a third operating mode, at least 90% of the volume flow generated by the fan consists of exhaust air extracted from the recording chamber. This is particularly advantageous for the rapid extraction of exhaust air from the recording chamber and / or for cooling the recording chamber. Extracting exhaust air from the recording chamber is also referred to as evacuation of the recording or cooking chamber. In this context, the term "evacuation" does not necessarily imply that a negative pressure is created in the recording chamber.

[0020] According to one aspect, one or more of the control means for controlling the extraction of exhaust air from the receiving chamber, for controlling the supply of fresh air through the at least one fresh air inlet to the receiving chamber, and for controlling the feed of the fresh air drawn into the housing to the exhaust air flow extracted from the receiving chamber are continuously controllable. In particular, they can be adjustable between fully open and fully closed. They can also have any intermediate positions. Alternatively, they can have a predetermined number of discrete positions.

[0021] Stepless adjustability allows for more flexible control. Discrete settings can simplify the operation of the control devices.

[0022] According to a further aspect of the invention, the ventilation device is designed such that fresh air can be drawn in from the front of the housing. Alternatively or additionally, fresh air can also be drawn in from the rear. In particular, it is possible to draw in the fresh air, which is supplied to the receiving chamber through the fresh air inlet, from the rear of the device. It can, in particular, be drawn in without a guide.

[0023] According to another aspect, two or more of the control means are directly or indirectly coupled to one another. In particular, it is possible to implement all control means in a coupled manner. According to the invention, the control means are connected to a common central control unit via signal transmission. This increases operational reliability. Furthermore, it simplifies the control process.

[0024] According to a further aspect of the invention, one or more of the control means have an adjustable actuator. They can, in particular, comprise a valve and / or a control flap and / or one or more air slides. They can, in particular, be designed as a valve or a control flap.

[0025] This allows for particularly simple, reliable and robust control of airflows.

[0026] According to another aspect of the invention, the means for cleaning exhaust air comprises at least one filter module with at least one odor filter.

[0027] The filter module allows the exhaust air generated in the cooking chamber to be cleaned during the cooking process. In particular, the exhaust air can be cleaned of odors, grease, and / or particles.

[0028] This aspect of the invention can also be implemented independently of the details of the controllable ventilation device.

[0029] According to another aspect of the invention, the at least one filter module, in particular the odor filter, can be removed from the front of the housing of the device.

[0030] According to another aspect of the invention, the means for cleaning exhaust air, in particular the filter module, especially the odor filter, can be replaced without tools from the front of the housing.

[0031] This makes it easier to replace the cleaning agent.

[0032] The cleaning agent, especially the odor filter, can be recyclable.

[0033] The filter module can be cleaned, either partially or as a whole.

[0034] According to another aspect of the invention, the means for cleaning exhaust air in the flow guidance system is arranged in the direction of flow in front of the fan.

[0035] This prevents the fan from becoming dirty.

[0036] According to a further aspect of the invention, a bypass flap, bypass valve, or bypass slide can be arranged in the flow path upstream of the filter module, with which an alternative flow path can be opened or closed. In this way, it is possible to divert the exhaust air around the filter module. This is particularly useful for the third operating mode, in which the volume flow generated by the fan consists mainly of exhaust air extracted from the intake chamber. With the aid of such an alternative, controllable flow path, the pressure drop, especially in the third operating mode, can be further reduced. Moreover, this can generally improve the energy efficiency of the device.

[0037] According to a further aspect of the invention, the alternative flow path can be continuously controlled. In particular, it can be provided parallel to the flow path through the filter module. In this case, it is possible to control, and in particular to regulate, especially depending on sensor-detected parameters, what proportion of the volume flow is directed through the filter module and what proportion through the bypass.

[0038] The filter module, especially the odor filter, can be based on activated carbon, plasma, UV photocatalysis or a combination of these options.

[0039] The odor filter may, in particular, include a retaining element. The retaining element allows the odor filter to be easily arranged in the device, especially in the flow guidance system.

[0040] The odor filter can be cuboid in shape. It can have a length of at least 20 cm, in particular at least 30 cm, and in particular at least 40 cm.

[0041] It can have a width of at least 5 cm, in particular at least 10 cm, in particular at least 15 cm, in particular at least 18 cm.

[0042] It can have a depth of at least 1 cm, in particular at least 2.5 cm, in particular at least 4.8 cm.

[0043] These values ​​have proven advantageous in enabling sufficiently high filtration while simultaneously minimizing flow resistance.

[0044] According to a further aspect of the invention, the control means for regulating the fresh air supply to the recording chamber through the at least one fresh air inlet is coupled to a sensor device in the recording chamber in a signal-transmitting manner. The sensor device can, for example, detect the temperature and / or humidity of the atmosphere in the recording chamber.

[0045] In this way it is possible to control, and in particular regulate, the atmosphere in the recording room, especially the temperature and / or humidity, flexibly and precisely.

[0046] According to a further aspect of the invention, the control means for controlling the extraction of exhaust air from the receiving chamber is coupled to a sensor device in the receiving chamber. This can be the sensor device already mentioned above.

[0047] This makes it possible to control the extraction of exhaust air from the recording room flexibly and precisely.

[0048] According to a further aspect of the invention, the device comprises a controllable pump by means of which exhaust air and / or moisture can be pumped out of the receiving chamber through the at least one fluid outlet.

[0049] This improves the removal of exhaust air and / or moisture from the recording chamber. A separate pump makes it particularly quick and easy to exchange the atmosphere in the recording chamber.

[0050] According to another aspect of the invention, a device for condensing water vapor contained in the exhaust air extracted from the receiving chamber is arranged on the outlet side to the fluid outlet of the receiving chamber.

[0051] The condensation unit can be a water-cooled unit. In particular, it is possible to pass the exhaust air through a reservoir containing cooling water. This causes the water vapor contained in the exhaust air to condense. This also results in the purification of the exhaust air.

[0052] According to a further aspect of the invention, lowering the water level in the condensing device during extraction allows the fan cross-section to be increased. This leads to an increase in extraction performance.

[0053] The water reservoir can have a fixed water connection. Specifically, it can have a fresh water inlet and a wastewater outlet. This also allows for easy cleaning of the water reservoir.

[0054] According to another aspect of the invention, the condensation device can be cleaned together with the receiving chamber. A special cleaning program can be provided for this purpose.

[0055] The housing may, in particular, have an inlet opening for drawing in fresh air at the front or in the area of ​​the front. This is understood to mean an area with a maximum distance of 20 cm, in particular a maximum of 10 cm, and in particular a maximum of 5 cm from the front.

[0056] According to another aspect, the ventilation device is designed in such a way that exhaust air can be discharged at the rear of the housing. In particular, the housing may have an outlet opening in the area of ​​its rear.

[0057] An exhaust air duct, particularly in the form of an exhaust air duct system, can be connected to the outlet opening. The duct system can be modular. It can include, in particular, ventilation ducts and / or ventilation hoses.

[0058] It is particularly possible to flexibly route the exhaust air from the housing to a separate area of ​​the room. For example, the exhaust air can be directed into the base of a kitchen cabinet. In principle, the exhaust air can also be vented to the outside.

[0059] According to another aspect of the invention, the fan can be controlled to generate a volume flow in the range of 1 m³ / h to 500 m³ / h.

[0060] According to the invention, it has been recognized that for rapid extraction of exhaust air from the intake chamber, it is advantageous if the fan can generate a significantly higher volume flow rate, at least briefly, than that typically required in normal cooking mode. In normal cooking mode, the volume flow rate generated by the fan is in the range of up to 20 m³ / h. A volume flow rate of more than 40 m³ / h enables a complete exchange of the atmosphere in the intake chamber in less than 15 s, in particular less than 10 s, in particular less than 5 s, and in particular less than 3 s.

[0061] The volume flow rate for evacuation is typically in the range of 40 m³ / h to 80 m³ / h. It can also reach up to 100 m³ / h or more.

[0062] A radial fan can be used to generate the required airflow. An axial fan or a cross-flow fan can also be used.

[0063] According to a further aspect of the invention, the device for heating the food includes a control unit for regulating the temperature and / or humidity in the receiving chamber. The device for heating the food can, in particular, have different heating elements. This allows for particularly flexible heating of the food. In particular, different heating modes are possible.

[0064] According to another aspect of the invention, a door for closing the opening for loading the receiving chamber with food is coupled in a signal-transmitting manner to a locking device which allows or prevents the door from being opened depending on one or more parameters.

[0065] The locking device can, for example, be linked to the aforementioned sensor system in the recording chamber. This makes it possible to allow the recording chamber door to be opened only when the temperature and / or humidity in the recording chamber is below a predefined threshold. This prevents, in particular, a large amount of steam from escaping the recording chamber when the door is opened. Such a steam release is generally unpleasant, if not dangerous, for the user.

[0066] According to one aspect of the invention, the receiving space is to be evacuated before the door is unlocked, that is, the exhaust air is to be extracted from the receiving space to a large extent. For this purpose, the control device can be designed such that a request to open the door must be made, whereupon the atmospheric conditions in the receiving space are checked by means of the sensor device. If the temperature and / or humidity in the receiving space are lower than a predetermined limit, the door is unlocked; otherwise, the third operating mode of the ventilation device is started to evacuate the receiving space.

[0067] The locking device may in particular be an electronic or electronically controlled locking device.

[0068] According to a further aspect of the invention, the locking device can be released, in particular unlocked, as needed, independently of the data acquired by the sensor device, and in particular independently of the temperature and / or humidity in the receiving space. It may be possible, in particular, to manually deactivate the locking device to allow the door to be opened.

[0069] Another object of the invention is to improve a method for operating a device for heating food.

[0070] This problem is solved by the features of claim 11.

[0071] For details, please refer to the preceding description of the device for heating food.

[0072] The method according to the invention increases both ease of use and operational safety. In particular, it ensures that no hot steam, or at least only a predetermined maximum amount of steam, escapes from the cooking chamber when the door is opened. Furthermore, the end of the cooking process can be precisely controlled by selectively extracting the exhaust air from the cooking chamber. This prevents, in particular, unwanted overcooking of the food. For this purpose, the atmosphere in the cooking chamber can be completely replaced at the end of the cooking process. Subsequently, controlled warming at a predetermined temperature and / or humidity can be achieved.

[0073] Further advantages and details of the invention will become apparent from the description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic sectional view through a cooking appliance with a controllable ventilation device in a first operating mode, Fig. 2 a representation according to Fig. 1 in a second operating mode and Fig. 3 a representation according to Fig. 1 in a third operating mode.

[0074] The components of the device according to the invention will first be described below. The device is for heating food. It will therefore be referred to as cooking appliance 1 in the following. It can be, in particular, a pressureless cooking appliance. Specifically, it can be an oven, a steam cooker, a combination steam cooker (i.e., an oven with a steam cooking function), a microwave oven, or a combination appliance with a selection of the aforementioned functions.

[0075] The cooking appliance 1 has a housing 2. The housing 2 surrounds a receiving chamber 3 for holding the food to be heated. The receiving chamber 3 is also referred to as the cooking chamber.

[0076] The housing 2 can be essentially cuboid in shape. In particular, it can have a front 4 and a back 5. It has, in particular, a bottom 6 and a top 7. It also has side walls, which are not explicitly shown in the figures.

[0077] The housing 2 has, in particular, a closable opening 8 for loading the cooking chamber 3 with food. The opening 8 can be closed by means of a closing element, in particular in the form of a door 9. The door 9 is, in particular, a hinged door. The door is, in particular, pivotable about a pivot axis 10. When the door 9 is closed, the pivot axis 10 is preferably located in its lower region. Alternative arrangements of the door 9 and alternative designs of the closing element are possible.

[0078] In addition to and separately from the opening 8 for loading the receiving chamber 3 with food, the housing 2 has a fresh air inlet 34 and an exhaust air outlet 12.

[0079] The fresh air inlet 34 is preferably arranged in the area of ​​the front 4 of the housing 2.

[0080] The exhaust air outlet 12 is preferably located in the area of ​​the rear 5 of the housing 2.

[0081] The cooking appliance 1 also includes a heating device 13, which is shown schematically in the figures. The heating device 13 serves to transfer heat energy directly or indirectly to the food being cooked. The heating device 13 can have one or more heating elements. The heating elements can be arranged inside the receiving chamber 3 or outside of it. Corresponding alternatives are known from the prior art, for example from DE 101 58 425 C1.

[0082] The cooking appliance 1 has a means for generating a circulating airflow in the receiving chamber 3. This means for generating a circulating airflow is schematically represented in the figures as a fan wheel 14. It can preferably be arranged in the area of ​​the rear of the receiving chamber 3.

[0083] Furthermore, the cooking appliance 1 includes a ventilation device. The ventilation device can have several functions. On the one hand, it can serve to generate an airflow for cooling certain components of the cooking appliance 1. On the other hand, it can serve to control the ventilation of the receiving chamber 3. According to the invention, these functions can be realized with the aid of a single ventilation device. According to an alternative not shown in the figures, it is also possible to provide at least partially separate ventilation devices for the different functions.

[0084] The ventilation device comprises at least one fan 15, which is shown only schematically in the figures. Preferably, a radial fan is used. Alternatively, an axial or cross-flow fan can also be used. A combination of different fans is also possible. The ventilation device can, in particular, comprise a single fan 15 or a single fan unit with one or more fans. For example, it is possible to arrange several fans side by side in a single fan unit. This reduces the installation space required for the fan unit, especially its height. Furthermore, such a fan unit can be controlled with particular flexibility.

[0085] According to the invention, the fan 15 is arranged in the area of ​​the exhaust air outlet 12.

[0086] The fan 15 serves to generate a volume flow rate V° (where V° denotes the volume flow rate dV / dt). The volume flow rate V° that can be generated by the fan 15 is in the range of up to 50 m³ / h, in particular up to 100 m³ / h, in particular up to 200 m³ / h, in particular up to 300 m³ / h, in particular up to 500 m³ / h.

[0087] Furthermore, the ventilation device includes a flow guidance system 16. The flow guidance system 16 comprises a first subsystem for guiding a flow of cooling air 17. The cooling air 17 is formed by fresh air drawn into the housing 2 through the fresh air inlet 11.

[0088] The cooling air 17 is guided in a meandering pattern through the flow guide system 16. Starting from the fresh air inlet 11 at the front 4 of the housing 2, it is initially guided along the top of the receiving chamber 3 into the rear area of ​​the housing 2. It is then deflected and guided back to the area of ​​the front 4 of the housing 2. There, it is deflected again and directed to the exhaust outlet 12 at the rear 5 of the housing 2. A larger number of deflections, in particular a larger number of meander loops, is also possible.

[0089] The cooling air 17 is directed into the flow guide system 16, particularly from the front. The exhaust air 18 is directed into the flow guide system 16, particularly from the rear.

[0090] To minimize the pressure loss in the flow guidance system 16, preferably as few deflections as possible are provided and the flow paths are designed to be as short as possible.

[0091] The cooling airflow is schematically represented in the figures by solid arrows.

[0092] Furthermore, the flow guidance system 16 includes a subsystem for guiding a flow of exhaust air 18 extracted from the receiving chamber 3. The exhaust air flow is schematically represented in the figures by dashed arrows.

[0093] The fresh air intake 11 The aspirated cooling air 17 can be supplied to the area of ​​the flow control system 16 via a supply opening 33 together with the flow of the extracted exhaust air 18.

[0094] The flow guidance system 16 thus serves to guide the airflow with the fresh air drawn into the housing 2 and / or to guide the airflow with exhaust air 18 extracted from the receiving chamber 3.

[0095] The two subsystems partially overlap. In particular, it is intended that the airflow with the cooling air 17 is controlled and fed into the airflow of the exhaust air 18 extracted from the intake chamber 3.

[0096] To control the airflow in housing 2, the ventilation device has a control means for controlling the extraction of the exhaust air 18 from the receiving chamber 3. A controllable valve 19 serves as the control means for controlling the extraction of the exhaust air 18 from the receiving chamber 3.

[0097] The valve 19 is located in the area of ​​a fluid outlet 20 in the bottom of the receiving chamber 3.

[0098] Downstream of the fluid outlet 20, a device for condensing water vapor contained in the exhaust air extracted from the receiving chamber 3 is arranged. The condensation device 28 comprises a channel system with meandering channels. Cooling water 29 is arranged in the channel system. A fresh water inlet 30 serves to fill the condensation device 28 with cooling water 29. A wastewater line 31 serves to empty the condensation device 28.

[0099] The fresh water inlet 30 and the wastewater pipe 31 are shown schematically in the figures. Together, they are referred to as the fixed water connection. The fixed water connection can also be used to clean the intake chamber 3. For this purpose, the cooking appliance 1 can have a special cleaning program. This enables automated cleaning of the intake chamber 3.

[0100] For details of the condensation device 28, reference is made to DE 10 2008 012 961 A1 as an example.

[0101] The valve 19 is connected to a central control unit 21 via signal transmission. The central control unit 21 is located in an encapsulated electronic housing 22. The electronic housing 22 is encapsulated, in particular, to be liquid-tight, especially vapor-tight. The electronic housing 22 is located, in particular, in the flow guide system 16, specifically in the subsystem for guiding the cooling air 17. The cooling air 17 thus serves to cool the electronic housing 22, especially the electrical and / or electronic components located therein. All electrical and electronic components for controlling the cooking appliance 1 can be located in the electronic housing 22.

[0102] As shown in the figures, the electronics housing 22 can be arranged above the receiving space 3, particularly in the area of ​​the top 7 of the housing 2. Alternatively, it is possible to arrange the electronics housing 22 below the receiving space 3, particularly in the area of ​​the bottom 6 of the housing 2. This provides improved protection against overheating of the electrical and / or electronic components.

[0103] The ventilation system further includes a control device for controlling the supply of fresh air to the receiving room 3. A fan flap 23 or a valve or, more generally, an actuating element, in particular an adjustable actuating element, serves as the control device for controlling the supply of fresh air to the receiving room 3.

[0104] A fresh air opening 34, through which fresh air can be supplied to the intake chamber 3, can be closed by means of the fan flap 23. Fresh air can be supplied to the intake chamber 3 from the rear of the unit. The fresh air supplied to the intake chamber 3 can, in particular, be supplied without a guide from the rear of the unit. It can, in particular, be supplied via a flow path that is not in flow connection with the fresh air inlet 11. The fresh air supplied to the intake chamber 3 is, in particular, independent of the cooling air 17 drawn in through the fresh air inlet 11.

[0105] The control device for controlling the fresh air supply to the recording room 3 is connected to the central control unit 21 in a signal-transmitting manner.

[0106] The control device for regulating the fresh air supply to recording room 3 is, for example, located in the area of ​​the rear of recording room 3. Other arrangements are also possible.

[0107] Furthermore, the ventilation device includes at least one control means for controlling the supply of the airflow of the cooling air 17 drawn into the housing 2 to the airflow of the exhaust air 18 extracted from the receiving chamber 3. This control means is designed as an adjustable flap 24. It can also be designed as a valve, in particular as a multi-way valve, especially with at least two inlets and one outlet.

[0108] The closing flap 24 is connected to the central control unit 21 in a signal-transmitting manner.

[0109] Preferably, all control means of the ventilation system are directly or indirectly coupled to one another. According to the invention, they are all connected to the central control unit 21 in a signal-transmitting manner.

[0110] Furthermore, the cooking appliance 1, in particular the ventilation system, includes a means for cleaning exhaust air. A filter module 25 serves as the means for cleaning exhaust air. The filter module 25 includes, in particular, an odor filter. It may also include a grease filter and / or other filters. The filter module 25 is arranged, in particular, in the area of ​​the front 4 of the cooking appliance 1. It is arranged, in particular, behind a removable front panel 26.

[0111] The filter module 25 is preferably removable from the housing 2. It is particularly replaceable. Specifically, the filter module 25 can be removed from the housing 2 without tools. This facilitates the replacement of the filter module 25.

[0112] The filter module 25 is arranged in the flow guidance system 16 in such a way that it is permeated by both the exhaust air 18 and the cooling air 17.

[0113] The filter module 25 is arranged in the direction of flow upstream of the electronics housing 22. The electronics housing 22 is thus protected during operation of the cooking appliance. 1, especially during the operation of the ventilation system, surrounded by purified air.

[0114] The filter module 25 is arranged upstream of the fan 15, particularly in the direction of airflow. The fan 15 is thus supplied with purified air during operation of the ventilation system.

[0115] A sensor device 35 for detecting the temperature and / or humidity of the volume flow V° generated by the fan 15 can be arranged in the flow control system 16. The sensor device 35 is, for example, arranged in the area of ​​the filter module 25. It can also be arranged in the area of ​​the electronics housing 22 or in the area of ​​the fan 15. It is preferably arranged on the upstream side of the fan 15.

[0116] The sensor device 35 is preferably arranged downstream of the feed opening 33, in particular at a distance from it.

[0117] The details of the ventilation device and, in particular, the details of the filter module 25 are advantageous independently of the other details of the cooking device 1 and, taken on their own, lead to an improvement of a device for heating food.

[0118] The front panel 26 may, in particular, include a display and / or an operating device with one or more controls. This may, in particular, be a touch-sensitive display (touchscreen).

[0119] The display can feature a heavily tinted front glass (black panel effect). This makes it possible to conceal the contours between the display, adjacent functional components such as capacitive buttons, and the housing or locking mechanism.

[0120] Furthermore, the cooking appliance 1 includes a sensor device 27 arranged in the receiving chamber 3. The sensor device 27 comprises at least one sensor for detecting the temperature and / or humidity in the receiving chamber 3. The sensor device 27 is connected to the central control device 21 via signal transmission. In particular, the sensor device 27 enables feedback control of the control elements of the ventilation device, especially the fan flap 23 and / or the valve 19 and / or the flap 24.

[0121] Furthermore, the cooking appliance 1 has a device 32, also shown only schematically, for controlling the humidity in the receiving chamber 3. The device 32 for controlling the humidity in the receiving chamber 3 is preferably connected to the mains water supply.

[0122] The following describes different functions of the cooking appliance 1 as well as a procedure for operating it.

[0123] The cooking appliance 1 has different operating modes. The different operating modes differ in particular in the proportion of the exhaust air 18 extracted from the intake chamber 3 to the volume flow V° generated by the fan 15.

[0124] In a first operating mode, which in Fig. 1 As shown, the proportion of exhaust air 18 extracted from the intake chamber 3 to the total volume flow V° generated by the fan 15 is at most 10%. In other words, in this operating mode, the fan 15 essentially draws only fresh air through the fresh air inlet. 11 Fresh air is guided past the electronics housing 22 by the flow control system 16. It primarily serves to cool the electronics housing 22 and, in particular, the electrical / electronic components arranged therein.

[0125] In this operating mode, the fan flap 23 to the recording chamber 3 is essentially closed. However, it can be passively actuated. This means that when a certain negative pressure is reached in the recording chamber 3, it allows fresh air to flow into the recording chamber 3.

[0126] The fluid outlet 20 can always be open. Alternatively, the fluid outlet 20 can be essentially closed in the first operating mode. In this case, it is preferably controllable, in particular adjustable, by means of a controllable valve.

[0127] Passive fluid release from the receiving chamber 3 is also possible in the first operating mode, for example, for pressure equalization. It is also possible to continuously extract a relatively small volume flow of exhaust air 18 from the receiving chamber 3. This allows for continuous atmospheric circulation within the receiving chamber 3. This can be advantageous for monitoring and controlling, in particular regulating, the temperature and / or humidity within the receiving chamber 3. This can especially improve the control of the cooking process.

[0128] In a second operating mode, which is in the Fig. 2 As shown schematically, the proportion of the exhaust air 18 extracted from the intake chamber 3 to the total volume flow V° generated by the fan 15 is at least 10% and at most 90%. It can, in particular, be in the range of 20% to 80%.

[0129] This operating mode is particularly useful for reducing the steam content in the intake chamber 3. It is especially advantageous when the cooking appliance 1 is operating in hot air mode.

[0130] In this operating mode, both a supply of fresh air to the recording chamber 3 and a supply of fresh air to the airflow of the exhaust air 18 extracted from the recording chamber 3 are possible.

[0131] In this operating mode, the fan flap 23 is open. In particular, fresh air can be actively supplied to the intake chamber 3. It is also possible to actively extract or pump exhaust air from the intake chamber 3 through the fluid outlet 20.

[0132] In this operating mode, the adjustable flap 24 is in a position which limits the supply of air through the fresh air inlet. 11 The intake of fresh air 17 allows the exhaust air flow 18 to pass through. The supply opening 33 is at least partially open.

[0133] The inlet opening 33 can be closed by means of the adjustable flap 24. In particular, it can be completely closed by means of the adjustable flap 24. In this case, the supply of cooling air 17 to the exhaust air stream is prevented.

[0134] The inlet opening 33 can also be partially closed by means of the adjustable flap 24. This allows the proportion of cooling air 17 to the volume flow generated by the fan 15 to be regulated.

[0135] Accordingly, the proportion of exhaust air 18 in the volume flow V° generated by the fan 15 can be regulated with the help of the adjustable flap 24.

[0136] In a third operating mode, which is in Fig. 3 As shown, the proportion of the exhaust air extracted from the intake chamber 18 to the volume flow V° generated by the fan 15 is at least 90%.

[0137] This mode is used for the rapid emptying of recording chamber 3. In particular, it enables a rapid reduction of the vapor content in recording chamber 3. In particular, it enables a rapid cooling of the atmosphere in recording chamber 3.

[0138] This is particularly advantageous for precisely controlling the end of the cooking process.

[0139] This is also advantageous to prevent a large amount of hot steam from escaping when door 9 to recording room 3 is opened.

[0140] In this operating mode, the supply of fresh air, in particular a direct supply, to the airflow of the exhaust air 18 extracted from the intake chamber 3 is prevented. The supply opening 33 is completely closed by means of the adjustable flap 24.

[0141] Optionally, the extraction of exhaust air from the receiving chamber 3 by the fan 15 in this operating mode can be supported by additional means. For example, one or more additional fans can be provided to generate a higher volume flow. It is also possible to actively remove fluid from the receiving chamber 3. For this purpose, fluid, especially steam-containing exhaust air, can be pumped out of the receiving chamber 3. This can be done, for example, with the help of a pump (not shown in the figures).

[0142] A rapid change in the atmosphere in recording room 3 can also be supported by actively introducing fresh air into recording room 3. The fresh air can be supplied to recording room 3, in particular via the fresh air opening 34.

[0143] In this operating mode, the direct supply of cooling air 17 to the exhaust air volume flow 18 can be prevented. This allows for faster extraction of the exhaust air from the intake chamber 3. On the other hand, this prevents the cooling function of the intake cooling air 17. Therefore, it may be provided that the third operating mode is only enabled for a predetermined maximum duration in the range of a few seconds to a few minutes. The maximum duration may be, in particular, in the range of 3 s to 3 min, in particular up to 2 min, in particular up to 1 min, in particular up to 30 s, in particular up to 20 s, in particular up to 10 s. Subsequently, the adjustable flap 24 may be forcibly opened. This condition may, in particular, be provided for at least as long as necessary until the temperature and / or humidity of the volume flow in the area of ​​the filter module 25, in particular in the area of ​​the sensor device 35, has reached predetermined values.

[0144] The following section describes further details of the cooking appliance 1 and its operation in bullet points.

[0145] The adjustable flap 24 allows control of the mixing ratio of fresh air 17 and exhaust air 18 passing through the filter module 25. It has been found that this allows control of the temperature and relative humidity of the fluid passing through the filter module 25. This can be advantageous for efficient cleaning of the exhaust air stream.

[0146] The exhaust air 18 extracted from the intake chamber 3 can be cleaned using the filter module 25. In particular, it can be cleaned of grease, odors, and / or particles contained therein.

[0147] By appropriately controlling the different control elements of the ventilation system, the cooling airflow and the atmosphere in the receiving chamber 3 can be controlled essentially independently of each other. According to the invention, only a single, common fan 15 is required for this purpose.

[0148] The rapid extraction of steam-laden exhaust air from recording chamber 3 prevents hot, steam-laden exhaust air from escaping from the front of the device when recording chamber 3 is opened. This can improve the operation of the device.

[0149] Continuous cleaning of the exhaust air 18 using the filter module 25 reduces, and in particular prevents, unpleasant odors during the cooking process. This leads to an improvement in air quality in the kitchen and, more generally, in the living space.

[0150] The control elements, in particular the adjustable flap 24 and / or the fan flap 23 and / or the valve 19, can be motor-driven. This enables particularly flexible control using the central control unit 21.

Claims

1. Apparatus (1) for heating food to be cooked, having 1.

1. a housing (2) which surrounds a receiving space (3) for receiving the food to be cooked which is to be heated, and said receiving space comprises: 1.1.

1. a closable opening (8) for loading the receiving space (3) with food to be cooked and, separate from this 1.1.

2. at least one fresh air inlet (34) and 1.1.

3. at least one fluid outlet (20) through which exhaust air can be actively sucked or pumped out of the receiving space (3), 1.

2. wherein the housing (2) comprises a second fresh air inlet (11) and an exhaust air outlet (12), 1.

3. a heating device (13) for the direct or indirect transfer of heat energy to the food to be cooked and 1.

4. a controllable ventilation device having 1.4.

1. at least one fan (15) for generating a volume flow (V°), wherein the fan (15) is arranged in the region of the exhaust air outlet (12), 1.4.

2. a flow guiding system (16) that is arranged outside the receiving space (3) in the housing (2) for guiding an air flow with cooling air (17) that is sucked into the housing (2) and an air flow with exhaust air (18) that is sucked out of the receiving space (3), 1.4.2.

1. wherein the flow guiding system (16) comprises a first subsystem for guiding a flow with cooling air (17) which is formed by fresh air, that is sucked into the housing (2) through the second fresh air inlet (11), and, 1.4.2.

2. wherein the flow guiding system (16) comprises a second subsystem for guiding a flow of exhaust air (18) that is sucked out of the receiving space (3), 1.4.

3. at least one means (25) for cleaning exhaust air (18), 1.4.

4. at least one control means (19) for controlling the sucking out of the exhaust air from the receiving space (3), wherein a controllable valve (19) is used as the control means (19), which is arranged in the region of a fluid outlet (20) in the bottom of the receiving space (3), 1.4.

5. at least one control means (23) for controlling a fresh air supply through the at least one fresh air inlet (34) to the receiving space (3), wherein an actuating element, in particular a controllable actuating element, is used as control means (23) for controlling the fresh air supply to the receiving space (3), 1.4.

6. at least one control means (24) for controlling a supply of the air flow of the cooling air (17) that is sucked into the housing (2) to the air flow of the exhaust air (18) that is sucked out of the receiving space (3), wherein the control means (24) is designed as an adjustable flap or as a valve, in particular as a multi-way valve, 1.4.7 wherein the apparatus comprises a central control device (21), to which the control means (19, 23, 24) are connected in a signal-transmitting manner, 1.

5. wherein the ventilation device is used to control the ventilation and venting of the receiving space (3), 1.

6. wherein the ventilation device renders possible at least three different functional modes: 1.6.

1. a first functional mode in which an active fresh air supply to the receiving space (3) is essentially prevented, 1.6.

2. a second functional mode, in which both a supply of fresh air to the receiving space (3) and a supply of cooling air (17) to the air flow of the exhaust air (18) that is sucked out of the receiving space (3) is rendered possible 1.6.

3. a third functional mode, in which a supply of cooling air (17) to the air flow of the exhaust air (18) that is sucked out of the receiving space (3) is prevented.

2. Apparatus (1) in accordance with Claim 1, characterised in that a sensor device (35) for detecting the temperature and / or humidity of the volume flow (V°) that is generated by means of the fan (15) is arranged in the flow guiding system (16).

3. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that one or more of the control means (19, 23, 24) are controllable in an infinitely variable manner.

4. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the means (25) for cleaning exhaust air comprises at least one filter module having at least one odour filter.

5. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the means (25) for cleaning exhaust air can be replaced without tools from the front side of the housing (2).

6. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the means (25) for cleaning exhaust air in the flow guiding system (16) is arranged upstream of the fan (15) in the flow direction.

7. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the control means (23) for controlling the fresh air supply through the at least one fresh air inlet (34) to the receiving space (3) is coupled in a signal-transmitting manner to a sensor device (27) in the receiving space (3).

8. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a device (28) for condensing water vapour that is contained in the exhaust air (18) that is sucked out of the receiving space (3) is arranged on the outlet side of the fluid outlet (20) of the receiving space (3).

9. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fan is controllable in order to generate a volume flow in the range from 1 m3 / h to 200 m3 / h.

10. Apparatus (1) in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a door (9) for closing the opening (8) for loading the receiving space (3) with food to be cooked is coupled in a signal-transmitting manner to a locking apparatus that allows or prevents the door (9) opening in dependence upon one or more parameters.

11. Method for operating an apparatus (1) for heating food to be cooked in accordance with one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: 11.

1. providing an apparatus (1) for heating food to be cooked, having 11.1.

1. a receiving space (3) having a closable opening (8) for loading the receiving space (3) with food to be cooked which is to be heated and 11.1.

2. a controllable ventilation device having at least one control means (19) for controlling the sucking out of exhaust air from the receiving space (3) 11.

2. heating the food to be cooked in the receiving space (3), 11.

3. sucking out exhaust air from the receiving space (3), 11.

4. wherein the exhaust air is sucked out of the receiving space (3) in a controlled manner in dependence upon a predetermined operating protocol, 11.

5. wherein a supply of cooling air (17) to the air flow of the exhaust air (18) that is sucked out of the receiving space (3) can be prevented.

12. Method in accordance with Claim 11, characterised in that opening of the receiving space (3) is only rendered possible after a locking device has been released.

13. Method in accordance with one of claims 11 to 12, characterized in that the atmosphere in the receiving space can be completely replaced in less than 15 s by a volume flow of more than 40 m3 / h.