VESSEL ARRANGEMENT FOR A KITCHEN APPLIANCE

Description

[0001] The application relates to a container assembly for a kitchen appliance, comprising a food-receiving element and a corresponding lid. Furthermore, the application relates to a kitchen appliance and a method.

[0002] Kitchen appliances designed for the at least semi-automatic preparation of food are known from the prior art. Such kitchen appliances, as well as other kitchen appliances, can comprise at least one container assembly. A container assembly can comprise a food receptacle, for example, in the form of a pot, and at least one lid. The lid is designed to close or cover the pot opening of the food receptacle. The lid can also enable or be used for other functions.

[0003] In particular, for the safe operation of a kitchen appliance, it may be necessary for the lid with the food receiving element to be in a specific operating position, in particular to be able to be locked. It is therefore known from the prior art that a lid can be moved relative to a food receiving element from a first operating position, such as an unlocked operating position, to a second operating position, such as a locked operating position. For example, the user can move the lid accordingly, or the kitchen appliance can comprise a lid drive configured to (automatically) move a lid at least between the unlocked position and the locked position.

[0004] The performance of a specific kitchen appliance function by a kitchen appliance is generally only permissible if a lid on the food receiving element is in a specific operating position, in particular the locked position, i.e. the vessel arrangement is in a second operating state, in particular the locked state.

[0005] To detect or record the locking state of a container assembly, it is known from the (internal) state of the art to use microswitches. For example, the locking position of the lid can be detected by querying the position of the locking rollers of the food receiving element / lid via microswitches in combination with an evaluation of the power consumption of the lid drive. In addition, a microswitch is usually used, which must be actuated by a locked lid.

[0006] Furthermore, concepts are known from the prior art that also use electrical switches to detect a lid in the locked position. Depending on the kitchen appliance, such an electrical switch is activated directly by the lid or indirectly via mechanical plungers, levers, or similar devices.

[0007] However, these detection mechanisms have a variety of disadvantages. In particular, implementation is complex. This is especially true when the kitchen appliance comprises a plurality of container arrangements and / or the container arrangement comprises a plurality of lids.

[0008] In order to transmit the locking information from a cover area to a detection device arranged in a device base, a transmission path must be provided that transmits the locking information to the corresponding coupling point of the device base. Furthermore, the locking information must be provided in the form of one or more electrical signals so that the detection device can evaluate this information to detect the locking state.

[0009] The various known detection mechanisms can essentially be divided into two groups. The classification may depend, in particular, on the location of the kitchen appliance where the electrical signal is generated that contains and / or represents the locking information (i.e., in particular, that the lid is in the locked position).

[0010] In the first group, the locking information is transmitted mechanically between the container assembly and the appliance base. The conversion into an electrical signal only occurs in the appliance base.

[0011] A corresponding detection mechanism, especially with different pot or food receptacle diameters, presents the challenge of transmitting the mechanical movement to the correct position on the device base. Due to the moving parts, the mechanical transmission elements required for this are subject to a high risk of contamination. In particularly unfavorable cases, contamination can lead to jamming and / or blocking of the mechanical mechanism. This, in turn, can lead to faulty locking detection.

[0012] In addition, cleaning the mechanical mechanism can be difficult, especially when delicate mechanical structures are used due to space constraints.

[0013] If, in addition to the locking state of the vessel arrangement, an additional option is to be provided to determine the lid type from a plurality of possible different lid types (e.g. in the case of several different lids per pot), the detection signal must be codeable in a suitable manner.

[0014] When mechanically scanning the lid, this results in significant additional effort. The main reason for this is that transmitting the additional information requires either an increase in the number of signals (which requires additional mechanical transmission mechanisms) or a more detailed evaluation of a mechanical movement of an element of the mechanical mechanism (e.g., different plunger strokes depending on the lid type).

[0015] Depending on the design, mechanical transmission elements also pose an increased risk of tampering. For example, the corresponding switches and / or mechanisms can be manually operated by a user to simulate a locking mechanism. To prevent this, additional mechanical structures are required. This, in turn, further complicates cleaning and increases implementation effort.

[0016] In the second group, the locking status of the lid is transmitted electrically between the container assembly and the device base. In other words, the conversion into an electrical signal already occurs at the container assembly. Due to the environmental conditions (e.g., humidity, dirt, temperature, dishwasher environment) to which a container assembly is regularly exposed, sensing the lid using microswitches is problematic. The reason for this is that the microswitches require a seal. This leads to increased implementation effort. Furthermore, a seal is a wear element. Wear can have a particularly negative impact on the service life of the container assembly.

[0017] The document AU 2020 245 708 A1 discloses a kitchen appliance comprising a base with an electrically powered mechanism for processing food, a removable vessel, a lid that can be removably coupled to the rim of the vessel to at least partially close the opening, and a locking system connected to the mechanism to enable the delivery of electrical energy to the mechanism, wherein the system comprises a first locking circuit and a second locking circuit, wherein the delivery of electrical energy to the mechanism is enabled by closing the first locking circuit and activating the second locking circuit, wherein the first locking circuit comprises a first coupling to close the first circuit, wherein the first coupling has a first portion attached to the lid and a second portion,which is mounted on the vessel adjacent to the rim such that the first portion is disposed adjacent the second portion when the lid is engaged with the rim, thereby closing the first circuit, and wherein the second locking circuit comprises a second clutch for activating the second locking circuit, the second clutch comprising a first portion forming part of the second locking circuit and attached to the base, the first portion being operatively connected to a second portion attached to the vessel and forming part of the first locking circuit, wherein closure of the first locking circuit causes actuation of the second portion of the second clutch, thereby causing actuation of the first portion of the second clutch to thereby activate the second locking circuit and enable delivery of electrical power to the mechanism.

[0018] The described detection mechanisms therefore have disadvantages in the areas of robustness, complexity and / or installation space.

[0019] Therefore, the application is based on the object of providing a possibility for detecting a second operating state, in particular a locking state, in a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance, which is more robust and / or simpler in design and / or requires less installation space.

[0020] This object is achieved according to a first aspect of the application by a vessel arrangement for a kitchen appliance according to claim 1. The vessel arrangement comprises a food receptacle element. The vessel arrangement comprises at least one lid, configured to close an opening of the food receptacle element. The lid is movable relative to the food receptacle element between a first operating position and an operating position different from the first operating position. The lid has at least one reading antenna connected to a first lid contact and a second lid contact. The lid has at least one transponder arranged within range of the reading antenna. The food receptacle element has at least one first pot connection running between a first upper pot contact and a first lower pot contact and a second pot connection running between a second upper pot contact and a second lower pot contact.The first lower pot contact and the second lower pot contact are configured for electrical connection to a reading controller. The first lid contact and the second lid contact are arranged such that an electrical connection between the first lid contact and the first upper pot contact and an electrical connection between the second lid contact and the second upper pot contact are established only in the second operating position.

[0021] In contrast to the prior art, the application provides a possibility for detecting a second operating state, in particular a locked state, of a lid of a container arrangement for a kitchen appliance, which is more robust and simpler in design and, in particular, requires less installation space. The lid contains both a reading antenna and a transponder that is within range of the reading antenna and can be read by the reading antenna. The reading antenna can only be supplied with an antenna signal when the lid is in the second operating position, in particular in the locked operating position. The circuit between the reading control and the reading antenna is closed only in the second operating position of the lid.

[0022] The container assembly according to the application is designed for use in a kitchen appliance. The kitchen appliance is, in particular, a food processor designed for preparing food. The preparation can be at least partially automated.

[0023] The vessel assembly comprises at least one food receptacle and at least one first lid structurally corresponding to the food receptacle. This means, in particular, that a (pot) opening can be closed or covered by the first lid, and the lid can, in particular, be placed over the pot opening.

[0024] A food receiving element is particularly designed to hold food, preferably a pot, also called a saucepan, a pan, or the like. According to the application, a food receiving element is understood to be a fillable vessel or container designed for preparing food or beverages, in particular for cooking or boiling hot food.

[0025] Preferably, the food receiving element corresponds (structurally) to an appliance base of the kitchen appliance. The food receiving element can, for example, be formed at least partially from plastic, at least partially from metal, and / or at least partially from glass.

[0026] According to the application, a lid is to be understood in particular as a closure and / or covering element with which the opening of the food receiving element can be at least partially (e.g. completely) closed or covered. Completely means in particular that the lid is properly or completely placed over the opening of the food receiving element. The lid can in turn have its own lid opening, for example for arranging, in particular coupling, an accessory such as a measuring jug or the like. The further lid opening is therefore closable. An opening of the food receiving element can at least be completely closed when a lid is properly placed and a further accessory is properly arranged in a lid opening. It is understood that lids without openings or with other integrated functions can also be used.

[0027] According to the application, the lid is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position. The first operating position can be a lid position in which the vessel arrangement is not ready for operation, and the second operating position can be a lid position in which the vessel arrangement is ready for operation. In the first operating position, the lid is positioned on or in a non-operational manner on the food receiving element. The lid or the vessel arrangement is in particular in a first operating state. In the second operating position, the lid is positioned on or in a ready-to-use manner on the food receiving element. The lid or the vessel arrangement is in particular in a second operating state.

[0028] Preferably, the lid can be locked to the food receiving element. In particular, the first lid is movable relative to the food receiving element between an unlocked position and a (defined) locked position. In the locked position, the lid or the container arrangement is in a (mechanical) locked state. A locking mechanism according to the application is, in particular, a mechanical locking or blocking of the lid.

[0029] Preferably, the vessel assembly can comprise at least one (mechanical) locking mechanism configured to lock the first lid to the food receiving element in a locking position or locked position of the lid. For example, the locking can be achieved via at least one clamping element (e.g., a roller) arranged on the food receiving element (in a known manner). In particular, a bayonet lock can be provided. It is understood that other locking mechanisms can be used.

[0030] A lid can be moved automatically by a lid drive or locking actuator or manually by a user action from the first operating position to the (defined) second operating position.

[0031] According to the application, it has been recognized that a second operating state, in particular a locking state, can be easily detected by arranging a reading antenna in or on the cover, which can only be supplied with electrical energy or can only be subjected to an antenna signal when the cover is in a specific (second) operating position, in particular the locked operating position. Therefore, only in the second operating position of the cover can the reading antenna emit electromagnetic signals, in particular in the form of a reading field (also called an interrogation field). In other words, a transponder (also referred to as a tag) arranged in or on the cover can only be read by the reading antenna of the cover when the cover is (properly) positioned on the power receiving element, in particular when it is locked.

[0032] Preferably, a system consisting of a reading antenna and a transponder corresponding to the reading antenna is implemented in the cover. The system is, in particular, an RFID (radio-frequency identification) system. The reading antenna is preferably an RFID-based reading antenna. The transponder is preferably an RFID-based transponder or RFID tag.

[0033] The transponder is arranged on or in the lid in such a way that the transponder is within the (reading field) range of the lid's reading antenna. In particular, this means that the distance of the transponder from the reading antenna and the geometric alignment of the transponder to the reading antenna are such that the transponder can be read (at all times or under all circumstances) by a reading field emitted by the reading antenna.

[0034] The cover has two contacts, each electrically connected to the reading antenna. These contacts can be used to supply the reading antenna with electrical power or an antenna signal.

[0035] The two lower pot contacts are configured for electrically connecting a reading control. The reading control can preferably be arranged in a base of the kitchen appliance. In other embodiments, the food receiving element, in particular the pot, can at least partially encompass the reading control (and thus in particular also a detection device). The reading control can, for example, be integrated into the pot if the pot is equipped with an intelligent interface and a corresponding (small) controller is integrated into the pot. In this case, the lower pot contacts are in particular directly connected to the reading control.

[0036] The reading controller can be configured to provide the antenna signal. In particular, the reading controller can generate the antenna signal and apply it to the reading antenna, so that a corresponding reading field is emitted by the reading antenna.

[0037] The reading controller can be configured to detect a second operating state, such as the locking state of the vessel assembly, preferably based on a readable or readable transponder (or depending on whether a transponder is readable or not). The reading controller can preferably be an RFID reader.

[0038] The upper pot contacts, which can be arranged above the lower pot contacts, in particular when viewed in a vertical direction of the food receiving element, serve for electrical coupling with the first lid contact and the second lid contact.

[0039] According to the application, the upper pot contacts are arranged on the power receiving element, and the first lid contact and the second lid contact are arranged on the lid in such a way that an electrical connection between the respective contacts is only established when the lid is in the second operating position. If the lid is not (properly) positioned on the power receiving element, at least one electrical connection between the aforementioned contacts is not established. Applying an antenna signal to the reading antenna is not possible, so that, in particular, reading the transponder is not possible.

[0040] This enables the reading control to (directly) determine, particularly based on whether a transponder has been read or not, whether the cover is in the second operating position, in particular the locking position (i.e., properly locked) or not. Thus, the electrical contact bridge arranged in the cover, containing the reading antenna, only connects the first lower pot contact to the second lower pot contact when the cover is in the second operating position. In other words, the arrangement of the contacts on the cover and power receptacle element is selected such that the circuit is only closed when the cover assumes the (defined) second operating position on or at the power receptacle element.

[0041] Preferably, a specific function of the kitchen appliance can be enabled for a user depending on a detected or determined second operating state (e.g., locking state or (correct) position state) of a lid. This means, in particular, that the appliance function can only be enabled if the second operating state, such as the locking state, of the lid is detected. Upon detection of another (e.g., first) operating state, such as a non-locking state or a non-position state, the appliance function (preferably all appliance functions) can be or remain locked. Safety during operation of the kitchen appliance can be improved.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the vessel arrangement according to the application, the reading antenna can be a first antenna coil. In particular, the antenna coil can be an RFID-based antenna coil. The antenna coil can be made of copper. It is understood that other electrically conductive materials, in particular metals, can also be used, for example, aluminum or the like. The number of turns of the antenna coil can preferably be between 1 and 10, more preferably between 1 and 5, most preferably 3 or 4.

[0043] Particularly preferably, the at least one turn can run along the lid edge and / or be bent accordingly. The at least one turn can, for example, be inserted into a lid base body during production and subsequently provided with a cover (preferably made of plastic). The cover can be attached to the lid base body, for example, by ultrasonic welding. A reading antenna can be provided in a simple manner.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, the transponder can be a passive transponder with a second antenna coil (corresponding to the first antenna coil). Passive means in particular that the transponder cannot actively emit a transmission field, but can only manipulate a received reading field (depending on the information to be transmitted). Passive (further) means in particular that the transponder does not have its own energy source (e.g., battery), but is supplied with energy by the reading field or transmission field of the reading antenna. In variants of the application, an active transponder can also be implemented. An active transponder can, in particular, have its own energy source, such as a battery. In this variant, the transponder is then able to actively emit a transmission field or respond to a received reading field or received signal.

[0045] As described, the transponder can preferably have a coil as a receiving antenna. A capacitor of the transponder can be charged by induction, similar to that in a transformer. This energy can be used by the transponder, in particular, to respond to a request contained in the reading field. This makes it possible to provide a simple and reliable transponder.

[0046] Furthermore, the transponder can be arranged within the at least one winding. In other words, the at least one winding can run along the edge of the lid, and the transponder can be arranged closer to the center of the lid (compared to the winding).

[0047] The transponder can, for example, be arranged integrally with the cover. Preferably, the transponder and, in particular, the second antenna coil of the transponder can be covered by a cover (particularly made of plastic).

[0048] According to a further embodiment of the vessel assembly according to the application, the electrical connection between the first lid contact and the first upper pot contact and / or the electrical connection between the second lid contact and the second upper pot contact can be a contact-based (or wired) electrical connection. Preferably, the two electrical connections can be of identical design. In particular, the respective contacts can be designed as sliding contacts or spring contacts.

[0049] In order to further reduce manufacturing costs and to enable easy cleaning in the event of contamination, according to a further embodiment of the vessel arrangement according to the application, the first lid contact and the second lid contact can be exposed electrical contacts. Preferably, at least the first upper pot contact and the second upper pot contact can be exposed electrical contacts. In particular, the upper contact elements can be formed in the form of bent spring wire elements. The lid contacts can, in particular, be formed in the form of bent spring wire elements. In other variants of the application, a contact can also be formed by a (bent) (spring) sheet or the like.

[0050] The cover contacts and the upper pot contacts can in particular be formed from the same electrically conductive material, preferably copper or aluminum.

[0051] Particularly preferably, the first lid contact and the second lid contact can be arranged in such a way with respect to the first upper pot contact and the second upper pot contact that when the lid moves from the first operating position into the second operating position, the lid is guided in such a way that the first lid contact on the first upper pot contact and the second lid contact on the second upper pot contact rub against each other for a certain distance (e.g. 1 mm to 10 mm).

[0052] Preferably, a first lid contact can have a first longitudinal extension in a first direction and the (associated) first upper pot contact can have a second longitudinal extension in a second direction, wherein between the first and the second direction (which are in particular in the same plane) there can be an angle between 10° and 90°, preferably of approximately 90°.

[0053] In particular, the lid can be guided by a cup guide during the closing movement, i.e., particularly when moving from an unlocked position to the locked position of the lid (which can occur, for example, in the form of a rotary movement), such that the aforementioned contacts slide against each other. It has been recognized that dirt can accumulate on a contact. This dirt can (significantly) impair the contact resistance between two contacts. Through the preferred positioning, design, and / or alignment of the aforementioned contacts, any contaminants present can be scraped off. The impairment of the contact resistance can at least be reduced.

[0054] Furthermore, a (first or second) cover contact and / or a (first or second) upper pot contact and / or a (first or second) lower pot contact can preferably be backed with a filling material. In particular, the passages of said contacts can be backed with an elastic material (e.g., silicone). This has the particular advantage of at least reducing the penetration and / or accumulation of dirt at the contacts. Cleaning is further facilitated.

[0055] According to a further preferred embodiment of the vessel assembly, the electrical connection between the first lid contact and the first upper pot contact and / or the electrical connection between the second lid contact and the second upper pot contact can be a contactless (or wireless) electrical connection. Preferably, the two electrical connections can be of identical design. The contactless electrical connection is preferably a capacitive connection. Alternatively, an inductive connection is also possible.

[0056] Particularly preferably, the first cover contact can be formed as a first cover surface element and the second cover contact can be formed as a second cover surface element. The first upper pot contact can be formed as a first pot surface element and the second upper pot contact can be formed as a second pot surface element. In the second operating position of the cover, the first cover surface element and the first pot surface element can form a first coupling capacitor and the second cover surface element and the second pot surface element can form a second coupling capacitor. In particular, the said surface elements form a respective coupling capacitor only in the second operating position of the cover. In other words, the antenna signal provided by the reading control can be transmitted to the reading antenna via the said coupling capacitors only in the second operating position.

[0057] As described, the respective contacts are preferably designed as surface elements, for example, as electrically conductive foils. The surface elements serve as electrodes of a capacitor or capacitor electrodes. In particular, the surface elements form a capacitor only in the locked state of the vessel arrangement, i.e., they are spatially located one above the other or next to each other.

[0058] The dielectric of a coupling capacitor is determined primarily by air and the plastic used as a cover on the power element and / or lid. Liquids and / or foodstuffs that may be present between the capacitor electrodes on the lid and / or power element also influence the capacitance. This influence can be taken into account, especially in a tolerance analysis.

[0059] Preferably, the vessel arrangement can comprise a plurality of (different) lids. Different lids in this case means, in particular, different lid types. In one embodiment, the vessel arrangement can comprise a first lid or lid type with a first appliance function and at least one further lid or lid type with a further appliance function that differs from the first appliance function. Exemplary and non-exhaustive kitchen appliance functions or appliance functions are a first cutting function with a first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque, a further cutting function with a second maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque (different from the first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque), a first stirring function with a first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque,a further stirring function with a second maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque (different from the first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque), a first motor rotation direction, a second opposite motor rotation direction, a first target temperature and / or a first target temperature range of a heater integrated in the feed receiving element, a second target temperature (different from the first target temperature) and / or a second target temperature range (different from the first target temperature range) of a heater integrated in the feed receiving element, control programs and / or control program target parameters for certain operations, etc.,

[0060] According to a further embodiment of the container assembly according to the application, the transponder can comprise at least one readable memory. At least one lid identifier and / or a lid type identifier can be stored in the (data) memory. A lid identifier can uniquely identify a lid system-wide. A lid type identifier can uniquely identify a specific lid type from a plurality of lid types system-wide. In one variant, the lid type identifier can be included in the lid identifier.

[0061] The lid identifier and / or the lid type identifier can be read by the reading controller, in particular via the reading antenna. In particular, the transponder can be configured to respond to the receipt of a reading field containing the lid identifier and / or the lid type identifier.

[0062] It is understood that in variants of the application, at least one further piece of data can be stored in the memory and, in particular, can be read out (e.g. at least one permissible and / or non-permissible accessory part of the lid, at least one permissible and / or non-permissible device function of the lid, etc.).

[0063] According to a further embodiment of the vessel assembly according to the application, the vessel assembly can comprise at least one accessory that can be coupled to the vessel assembly (e.g., Varoma, stirring attachment, blade cover, measuring cup, cooking basket, and the like). The at least one accessory can, in particular, provide an additional appliance function. Preferably, the vessel assembly can comprise a plurality of different accessories or different accessory types.

[0064] In one embodiment, the container assembly can comprise a first accessory or a first accessory type with a first additional device function and at least one further accessory or further accessory type with a further additional device function that differs from the first additional device function. One advantage here is that an accessory can only be detected when the lid is in the second operating position, in particular in the locked position.

[0065] The accessory part may comprise at least one accessory transponder. The accessory transponder may be configured in accordance with the previously described (cover) transponder.

[0066] Furthermore, according to a further embodiment of the vessel assembly according to the application, the accessory transponder can be arranged on the accessory part such that the accessory transponder is within range of the reading antenna when the accessory part is coupled to the lid or the food receptacle. In other words, the accessory transponder is readable by the reading antenna of the lid at least when the accessory part is (properly) positioned (in particular, coupled) to the lid or the food receptacle.

[0067] In addition, the accessory transponder can comprise at least one readable memory. At least one accessory identifier (such as a serial number or a Universally Unique Identifier (UUID)) and / or an accessory type identifier can be stored in the (data) memory. An accessory identifier can uniquely identify an accessory part system-wide. An accessory type identifier can uniquely identify a specific accessory type from a plurality of accessory types system-wide. In one variant, the accessory type identifier can be contained in the accessory identifier. These can be stored before distribution (during or at the end of production). The accessory identifier and / or accessory type identifier can be read out by the reading control system, in particular via the reading antenna. In particular, the accessory transponder can be configured to respond to receipt of a reading field with the accessory identifier and / or accessory type identifier.

[0068] It is understood that in variants of the application, at least one further piece of data can be stored in the memory and, in particular, can be read out (e.g., at least one permissible and / or impermissible additional device function of the accessory, etc. and / or origin information(s) (such as manufacturer identity, time of manufacture, place of manufacture and / or authentication information)).

[0069] According to a further embodiment of the vessel assembly according to the application, the first lid contact and the second lid contact can be arranged on substantially opposite sides of the lid rim. Furthermore, the first upper pot contact and the second upper pot contact can be arranged on substantially opposite sides of the pot rim.

[0070] Another aspect of the application is a kitchen appliance. The kitchen appliance comprises a previously described vessel assembly. The kitchen appliance comprises an appliance base. The appliance base comprises a reading controller (previously described) electrically coupled to a first base contact and a second base contact. The first base contact is electrically connected to the first lower pot contact, and the second base contact is electrically connected to the second lower pot contact.

[0071] The device base may preferably have a pot receptacle corresponding to the food receptacle element of the vessel arrangement such that an electrical connection is established between the first lower pot contact and the first base contact and an electrical connection is established between the second lower pot contact and the second base contact when the food receptacle element is arranged in the pot receptacle.

[0072] The pot receptacle is configured to receive the food receptacle element, in particular at least the base of the food receptacle element. The pot receptacle can (structurally) correspond to the food receptacle element of the vessel arrangement in such a way that an electrical connection between the first lower pot contact and a first electrical base contact of the device base, and an electrical connection between the second lower pot contact and a second electrical contact of the device base, is established (only) when the food receptacle element is (correctly) arranged in the pot receptacle.

[0073] As already described, the reading controller can be configured, in particular, to provide an antenna signal for the reading antenna. In particular, the reading controller can be an RFID reader (e.g., formed by a microcontroller).

[0074] The reading control can be integrated into the device control or be communicatively connected to the device control.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the kitchen appliance according to the application, the reading control can comprise an evaluation module configured to detect a second operating state, in particular the locking state, of the lid based on a readable transponder. In other words, a second operating state in which the lid is positioned on the food receiving element in an operationally ready state, such as the locking state, can be determined by the evaluation module if a transponder is readable. If a transponder is not readable, the evaluation module can determine that a first operating state exists in which the lid is not positioned on the food receiving element in an operationally ready state, such as a non-locking state. In particular, in this case, the circuit with the reading antenna is not closed because the lid is not in the second operating position.

[0076] Furthermore, according to a further embodiment of the kitchen appliance according to the application, the evaluation module can be configured to determine the lid type (of the lid located in the second operating position) based on a received or read lid identifier and / or lid type identifier and in particular a (predefined) lid type criterion. The lid type criterion can be stored in a data memory of the appliance base accessible by the read controller. For example, an assignment table or the like can be provided as the lid type criterion. In the assignment table, each (possible) lid type of the container arrangement can be assigned, for example, a lid type identifier. Upon receipt of a read lid type identifier, the lid type of the lid positioned in the second operating position can then be determined. In particular, the received lid type identifier is compared with the stored lid type identifiers in the assignment table.If a match is found, the associated lid type can be determined and output, for example, via a user interface and / or provided to an approval module. If no match is found, this information can be output, for example, via a user interface and / or provided to an approval module. The lid type can be determined in a simple and reliable manner.

[0077] According to a further embodiment of the kitchen appliance according to the application, the appliance base can comprise a filter and matching network arranged between the reading control and the first base contact and the second base contact. In particular, the filter and matching network (e.g., formed by capacitors, coils, and / or resistors) can be configured such that a (suitable) total impedance is formed for the reading control (preferably an RFID reader), so that, in particular, the antenna coil can be used as an RFID antenna. In variants of the application, the filter and matching network can also be arranged partially in or on the food receiving element and / or the lid.

[0078] According to a further embodiment of the kitchen appliance according to the application, the appliance base can comprise an enabling module. The enabling module can be configured to enable a function of the kitchen appliance only upon detection of the second operating state (e.g., locking state) of the lid or the container arrangement. The enabling module can, in particular, be communicatively connected to the evaluation module. For example, the enabling module can be integrated into the reading control. If no corresponding operating state is detected, the at least one appliance function remains blocked. By enabling a function of the kitchen appliance, for example, and thus being able to be executed, only upon detection of the locking state of the lid, the safety during operation of the kitchen appliance can be further improved.

[0079] Preferably, the release module can be configured to release at least one appliance function based on the determined lid type and the lid type criterion. In particular, the lid type criterion can define for which at least one appliance function a lid type is permitted. Depending on the read lid type and the (predefined) lid type criterion, only the at least one appliance function permitted for this lid type can be released. If a lid type cannot be determined, the at least one appliance function of the kitchen appliance can remain locked. Security can be further improved.

[0080] If the memory of the lid's transponder stores the information for which at least one device function the lid is authorized to perform, the release of the at least one device function can also be based on a corresponding read-out date.

[0081] In the event that an accessory is coupled to the lid located in the second operating position (i.e., in particular, is properly arranged on the lid), the enabling module can further be configured to enable the device function (additionally) based on the specific accessory type and an accessory type criterion. The accessory type criterion can be stored in a data memory of the device base accessible by the enabling module. In particular, the accessory type criterion can define for which at least one device function an accessory type is permitted. Depending on the read accessory type and the (predefined) accessory type criterion, only the at least one device function that is permitted for this accessory type can be enabled. Security can be further improved.

[0082] If the memory of the accessory transponder stores the at least one device function for which the accessory is authorized, the release of the at least one device function can also be based on a corresponding read-out date.

[0083] A further aspect of the application is a method for determining or detecting a second operating position of the lid or a second operating state in a previously described vessel arrangement. The method comprises: Detecting, by a reading control, the second operating position of the lid of the vessel arrangement, based on a readable transponder (or depending on whether a transponder is (at all) readable (or not)).

[0084] The reading control can, in particular, be a previously described reading control. Preferably, a device base of a previously described kitchen appliance can comprise the reading control. In variants of the application, the container arrangement can also at least partially comprise the reading control.

[0085] The method can preferably be used to determine a locking state for a previously described container assembly of a previously described kitchen appliance. Preferably, the method can further be used to identify the lid type and / or accessory type, as previously described.

[0086] A module, device, or the like can be implemented at least partially by hardware elements and / or software elements. In principle, data can be transmitted directly or first collected and buffered, for example, to be transmitted together at specific times. Furthermore, terms such as "top," "upper," "bottom," "beneath," etc., refer to the direction running vertically relative to a horizontal plane and to a vessel arrangement and / or kitchen appliance placed on a horizontal surface. Unless otherwise stated, expressions such as "first," "second," etc., serve merely to distinguish between two elements and do not indicate a sequence.

[0087] There are now numerous possibilities for designing and further developing the vessel arrangement, the kitchen appliance, and the method according to the application. Reference is made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to the independent patent claims and, on the other hand, to the description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a vessel arrangement according to the present application, Fig. 2 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a kitchen appliance according to the present application, Fig. 3a is a schematic view of an embodiment of a pot of a vessel arrangement according to the present application, Fig. 3b is an enlarged view of an upper pot contact of the pot according to Figure 3a, Fig. 3c shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a lid of a vessel arrangement according to the present application, Fig. 4 shows a schematic plan view of an embodiment according to the present application, Fig. 5 shows an example of an equivalent circuit diagram of an overall network of a vessel arrangement according to the present application, Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of a further embodiment of a kitchen appliance according to the present application, and Fig. 7 shows a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application.

[0088] In the following, similar reference numerals are used for similar elements.

[0089] In particular, the following exemplary embodiments assume a pot as the food-receiving element. It is understood that the explanations can be applied to other food-receiving elements. Furthermore, the following exemplary embodiments assume an unlocked position as the first operating position, a locked position as the second operating position, and a locked state as a second operating state. Here, too, the examples can easily be applied to other operating positions and / or operating states.

[0090] The Figure 1shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a vessel assembly 100 according to the present application for a kitchen appliance, in particular a food processor, configured for the at least partially automated preparation of food. The vessel assembly 100 shown comprises a pot 102 and at least one lid 104. The pot 102 has a circumferential pot wall and a pot base.

[0091] The lid 104 is configured to close an opening of the pot 102. This closed state of the vessel arrangement 100 is in the Figure 1 In particular, the cover 104 is located in the Figure 1 in the locked position. This means, in particular, that the lid 104 is (correctly) mechanically locked to the pot 102, i.e., the vessel assembly 100 is in the locked state.

[0092] The lid 104 is movable relative to the pot 102, in particular between an unlocked position and the (defined) locked position. The locking mechanism can be, for example, a bayonet lock or a similar mechanical lock.

[0093] As can also be seen, the cover 104 has a reading antenna 106, for example an antenna coil 106, arranged between a first electrical cover contact 108 and a second electrical cover contact 110. In other words, the reading antenna 106 is electrically connected to the first electrical cover contact 108 and the second electrical cover contact 110. The reading antenna 106 therefore electrically connects, in particular, the cover contacts 108, 110 to one another.

[0094] In addition, the cover 104 has a transponder 124 or tag 124. The wirelessly readable transponder 124 (also called the cover transponder 124) is arranged on or in the cover 104 such that the transponder 124 is within range of the reading antenna 106. In other words, a reading field emitted by the reading antenna 106 always covers the transponder 124. The transponder 124 and the reading antenna 106 are fixedly or immutably attached to or in the cover 104.

[0095] The pot 102 has at least a first electrical pot connection 116 extending between a first upper electrical pot contact 112 and a first lower electrical pot contact 120, and a second electrical pot connection 118 extending between a second upper electrical pot contact 114 and a second lower electrical pot contact 122. The first lower electrical pot contact 120 and the second lower electrical pot contact 122 are configured for electrical connection to a read controller 126.

[0096] For example, the pot 102 may include the reading control 126, as indicated by the dashed lines in the Figure 1is indicated. As already described, the reading controller 126 can be configured, in particular, to provide an antenna signal. The antenna signal can, in particular, be applied by the reading controller 126 to the reading antenna 106 in a closed circuit. In particular, the reading controller 126 can be an RFID reader 126 (e.g., formed by a microcontroller).

[0097] According to the application, as stated in the Figure 1As shown, the first cover contact 108 and the second cover contact 110 are arranged on the cover 104 and relative to the upper pot contacts 112, 114 such that an electrical connection between the first cover contact 108 and the first upper pot contact 112 and an electrical connection between the second cover contact 110 and the second upper pot contact 114 is only established in the locked position. In other words, an antenna signal can only be applied to the reading antenna 106 by the reading controller 126 when the cover 104 is in the locked position. Only in the locked position is the circuit closed, as shown.

[0098] An electrical connection between a lid contact and a pot contact can be contactless or contact-based.

[0099] The Figure 2shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a kitchen appliance 230 according to the present application, in particular with a vessel arrangement 200. The vessel arrangement 200 can, for example, be substantially similar to the vessel arrangement 100 according to Figure 1 The kitchen appliance 230 is particularly designed for the at least partially automated preparation of hot meals.

[0100] The illustrated kitchen appliance 230 comprises an appliance base 232 with a pot receptacle 234. The receptacle 234 is configured to receive the pot 202, in particular at least the pot base. As can be seen, the pot receptacle 234 corresponds to the pot 202 of the vessel arrangement 200 in such a way that an electrical connection is established between the first lower pot contact 220 and a first electrical base contact 236 of the appliance base 232, and an electrical connection is established between the second lower pot contact 222 and a second electrical base contact 238 of the appliance base 232 when the pot 202 is (correctly) arranged in the pot receptacle 232.

[0101] In the present case, the device base 232 comprises a reading controller 226 electrically coupled to the base contacts 236, 238. In particular, the reading controller 226 is coupled to the base contacts 236, 238 via a filter and matching network 240. The reading controller 226 can, in particular, be integrated into the device control of the kitchen appliance 230. In variants of the application, the detection device can also be integrated into the pot. The detection device can, for example, be integrated into the pot if the pot is equipped with an intelligent interface and a corresponding (small) controller is integrated into the pot.

[0102] The Figure 3a shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a pot 302 of a vessel arrangement 300 according to the present application and the Figure 3ca schematic plan view of an embodiment of a lid 304 of the vessel assembly 300 according to the present application, structurally corresponding to the pot 302. The Figure 3b shows an enlarged section, in particular a top view, of the pot 302 according to Figure 3a .

[0103] The pot 302 is preferably formed partly from metal and partly from plastic. In particular, a portion 342 can be formed from plastic. This portion 342 can also form the handle and, in particular, can have an at least partially, preferably completely, annular portion 343 arranged on the pot rim 303.

[0104] A first upper electrical pot contact 312 is arranged on the upper pot edge 303. The second upper electrical pot contact (not shown) is preferably arranged on the opposite side of the upper pot edge 303.

[0105] The first electrical pot connection 316 runs from the first upper electrical pot contact 312, in particular through the section 342, to the first lower pot contact 320. In particular, the first pot connection 316 can be integrated into the plastic section 342. The first lower pot contact 320 is arranged in particular in or on the pot base. The further pot connection (not shown) can be designed accordingly.

[0106] The upper pot contacts 312 are preferably embedded in the annular plastic section 343. This section 343 preferably comprises part of the locking mechanism. In particular, the section 343 can have contours for locking the cover 304 to the pot 302 in the defined locking position.

[0107] As can be seen from the top view of the associated cover 304, a first cover contact 308 and a second cover contact 310 are arranged on the cover 304, in particular on the outer cover edge 305.

[0108] The reading antenna 306 is, in particular, a (first) antenna coil 306. In particular, the antenna coil 306 can be formed by at least one winding 309, preferably a plurality of windings 309, as shown. The at least one winding 309 can, in particular, be formed from a metal, preferably from copper.

[0109] As from the Figure 3c As can be seen, the at least one turn 309 runs in particular along the cover edge 305 or in the vicinity of the cover edge 305 from the first cover contact 308 to the second cover contact 310. The second cover contact 310 is located in particular on a side of the cover edge 305 opposite the first cover contact 308.

[0110] The at least one winding 309 is preferably inserted into the lid base body during production and then provided with a cover (not shown) (preferably made of plastic), which can be fastened to the lid base body, for example, by ultrasonic welding.

[0111] In the present embodiment, the respective connections between the lid contact and pot contact are contact-type connections.

[0112] In the present exemplary embodiment, the cover contacts 308, 310 and the upper pot contacts 312 are formed as exposed electrical contacts 308, 310, 312. Preferably, the cover contacts 308, 310 have a first longitudinal extension in a first direction, and the respective associated upper pot contact 312 has a second longitudinal extension in a second direction. As can be seen, an angle of between 10° and 90° exists between the first and second directions (which are in particular in the same plane), in particular approximately 90° in this case. In other words, the cover contacts 308, 310 extend at right angles to the pot contacts 312. For example, the cover contacts 308, 310 extend in a vertical direction, while the pot contacts 312 extend in a horizontal direction (or vice versa).

[0113] When the cover 304 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position (which can be done, for example, by rotating the cover), the respective contacts 308, 310, 312 slide off each other or along each other in contact. This prevents any impairment of the contact resistance at the respective contacts 308, 310, 312, since any contaminants adhering to the contacts 308, 310, 312 are scraped off.

[0114] In addition, a backing 344 with an elastic material (e.g. silicone) can be provided on the cover contact 308, 310 or pot contact 312.

[0115] The cover transponder 324 is arranged within the range of the antenna coil 306. In particular, the cover transponder 324 is surrounded by at least one winding 309. The distance of the cover transponder 324 from the cover center 311 is, in this case, less than the distance of the at least one winding 309 from the cover center 311.

[0116] The cover transponder 324 has a second antenna coil 325. For example, the cover transponder can be glued on. The transponder 325, in particular the antenna coil 325, can be covered by a cover (not shown), for example, made of plastic.

[0117] The Figure 4 shows a schematic top view of another embodiment of a vessel arrangement 400 according to the present application. In particular, only the differences from the previous embodiments are described below, and otherwise reference is made to the previous explanations.

[0118] A significant difference to the embodiment according to Figures 3a to 3c is that instead of a respective contact-based electrical connection between a lid contact and a pot contact, contactless electrical connections are provided.

[0119] The first cover contact 408 is formed here as a first cover surface element 408 (e.g. by a film made of an electrically conductive material, for example a metal foil) and the second cover contact 410 as a second cover surface element 410 (e.g. by a film made of an electrically conductive material, for example a metal foil).

[0120] The first upper pot contact 412 can be formed as a first pot surface element 412 (e.g. by a foil made of an electrically conductive material, for example a metal foil) and the second upper pot contact 414 (e.g. by a foil made of an electrically conductive material, for example a metal foil) can be formed as a second pot surface element 414.

[0121] In the illustrated locked position of the cover 404, the first cover surface element 408 and the first pot surface element 412 can form a first coupling capacitor 421. The second cover surface element 410 and the second pot surface element 414 can form a second coupling capacitor 423.

[0122] In particular, the aforementioned surface elements 408, 410, 412, 414 form a respective coupling capacitor 421, 423 only in the locked position of the cover 404.

[0123] In other words, only in the locked position can the antenna signal provided by the reading control be transmitted to the reading antenna 406 (e.g., a (schematically indicated) antenna coil) via the coupling capacitors 421, 423.

[0124] The dielectric of the respective coupling capacitor 421, 423 is determined in particular by air and / or the plastic used.

[0125] The Figure 5shows an example of an equivalent circuit diagram of an overall network 551 of a vessel arrangement according to the present application. In particular, the overall network 551 is shown from the perspective of the reading controller.

[0126] As can be seen, the illustrated overall network 551 comprises a filter and matching network 540, which is formed from a filter network 541 and a matching network 543, the coupling capacitors 521, 523 and the antenna coil 506. L denotes an inductance, C a capacitance and R a resistance.

[0127] In particular, depending on whether the filter and matching network 540 is arranged in the device base, in the pot and / or in the lid, the developing capacitance of the coupling capacitors 521, 523 or C 8 , C 9 can contribute to the total impedance in different ways.

[0128] If the filter and matching network 540 is located in the device base or in the pot, the capacitances C 8 and C 9 shown are created. If the filter and matching network 540 is located in the cover, the capacitance contributes to the existing capacitances C 5 and C 4 . C 8 and C 9 are omitted in this case. The geometry of the respective capacitor electrodes or cover and pot contacts is designed in particular such that the total impedance lies within the tolerance band of the specified output impedance of the reading controller, i.e., in particular, the RFID reader, when the cover is in the locked state.

[0129] In the case of contact-based connections between the pot and lid, the coupling capacitors C 8 and C 9 are eliminated. There is also no feedback to C 4 and C 5, making this concept easier to implement from an electronics perspective and, in particular, more robust.

[0130] The Figure 6shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a kitchen appliance 630 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, only the differences from the previous embodiments are described below, and otherwise reference is made to the previous explanations.

[0131] As can be seen, the appliance base 632 has a tool drive 660. The tool drive 660 is configured to drive or operate a kitchen appliance tool 662, which can be located in particular in the pot 602. A cutting tool 662 is shown as an example of the kitchen appliance tool 662. Furthermore, the kitchen base can include a control device that, for example, controls and monitors a heater integrated in the pot 602.

[0132] The reading controller 626 here comprises, in particular, an evaluation module 670. The evaluation module 670 is, in particular, configured to detect a locking state of the cover 604 based on a readable transponder 624. For example, the cover 604 can be moved into the locked state by a user. As soon as the cover 604 is in the locked position, an electrical connection is established between the first cover contact 608 and the first upper pot contact 612, and an electrical connection is established between the second cover contact 610 and the second upper pot contact 614. Via the established connections, an antenna signal is applied by the reading controller 626 to the reading antenna 606, so that, in particular, a reading field is generated and transmitted.

[0133] The transponder 624, located within range, receives the reading field and, in particular, extracts the instructions contained therein. Based on the instructions, the transponder 624 generates a response. For example, the transponder 624 outputs the stored data, such as a lid identifier and / or a lid type identifier. In particular, the transponder 624 influences the reading field accordingly. This can be detected by the reading controller 626, so that the stored data is read out, in particular the lid identifier and / or a lid type identifier.

[0134] The locking state is determined depending on whether a transponder is readable or not. Since the connections to the reading antenna 606 are only established when the cover 604 is in the locked position, the locking state can be determined by reading the transponder 624 or tag 624: RFID tag unreadable: lid status not locked; RFID tag readable: lid status locked.

[0135] Furthermore, in the present case, the appliance base 632 comprises an enabling module 672. The enabling module 672 is particularly configured to enable at least one appliance function only upon detection of the locking state of the lid 604. The enabling module 672 can, in particular, be communicatively connected to the evaluation module 670. If no locking state is detected, the at least one appliance function remains blocked. Exemplary and non-exhaustive kitchen appliance functions or appliance functions are a first cutting function with a first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque, a further cutting function with a second (different from the first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque) maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque, a first stirring function with a first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque,a further stirring function with a second maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque (different from the first maximum permissible target speed and / or target torque), a first motor rotation direction, a second opposite motor rotation direction, a first target temperature and / or a first target temperature range of a heater integrated in the feed receiving element, a second target temperature (different from the first target temperature) and / or a second target temperature range (different from the first target temperature range) of a heater integrated in the feed receiving element, control programs and / or control program target parameters for certain operations, etc.,

[0136] Preferably, the evaluation module 670 can additionally be configured to determine the lid type based on the read data, in particular the lid type identifier and a stored lid type criterion. The lid type criterion can preferably be a previously described assignment table. In particular, the assignment table can additionally store, for each lid type, the at least one device function permitted for this lid type. In particular, after the lid type has been determined, the at least one device function permitted for this lid type can be released by the release module 672. The lid type and optionally the permitted device function can be determined, in particular, by comparing the read lid type identifier with the lid type identifiers stored in the assignment table.

[0137] The permissible device function can, for example, include a maximum permissible drive target parameter value. Enabling a device function can, in particular, include limiting, for example, by the enabling module 672, the operation of the tool drive 660 to the drive target parameter value stored for this cover type (e.g., a maximum permissible target speed and / or a maximum permissible torque).

[0138] Optionally, the kitchen appliance 630 can have a (visual) indicator 666, for example, a display. The indicator 666 can be configured to display the identified lid type. Optionally, an error message (for example, if a locking condition was detected but no lid type could be determined) and / or an advisory message (for example, a cleaning request) can be displayed.

[0139] If an accessory is coupled to the cover 604, an accessory transponder of the accessory can additionally be read by the reading antenna 606. The accessory type can be determined, for example, by the evaluation module 670, in particular in a similar manner to the cover type.

[0140] The release module 672 can further be configured to release the device function (additionally) based on the specific accessory type and an accessory type criterion (e.g., an assignment table in which each accessory identifier can be assigned at least one permitted device function). The accessory type criterion can be stored in a data memory of the device base 632 accessible by the release module 672. Depending on the read accessory type and the (predefined) accessory type criterion, only the at least one device function that is permitted for this accessory type can be released.

[0141] The functioning of a vessel arrangement, such as the vessel arrangement 600 and in particular the kitchen appliance 630, is explained in more detail below with the aid of the Figure 7 described. The Figure 7 shows a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application. The method is used to determine or detect a locking state, for example, in the container assembly 600 of the kitchen appliance 630.

[0142] In a first step 701, the locking state of the vessel arrangement is detected by a reading control, based on a readable transponder (or depending on whether a transponder is readable (or not)), as already described.

[0143] In an optional step 702, the cover type of the cover in the locked position can be determined based on the read data of the transponder and in particular a cover type criterion, as already described.

[0144] In an optional further step 703, a device function is released depending on the detected locking state of the lid and optionally depending on the specific lid type, as already described. List of reference symbols

[0145] 100, 200, 300, 400, 600 Vessel arrangement 102, 202, 302, 402, 602 Food receiving element, in particular pot 303 Pot rim 104, 204, 304, 404, 604 Lid 305 Lid rim 106, 206, 306, 406, 606 Reading antenna 108, 208, 308, 408, 608 First lid contact 309 Winding 110, 210, 310, 410, 610 Second lid contact 112, 212, 312, 412, 612 First upper pot contact 114, 214, 414, 614 Second upper pot contact 116, 216, 316, 616 First pot connection 118, 218, 618 Second pot connection 120, 220, 320, 620 First lower pot contact 421, 521 Coupling capacitor 122, 222, 622 Second lower pot contact 423, 523 Coupling capacitor 124, 224, 324, 424, 624 Transponder 325 Second antenna coil 126, 226, 626 Reading control 230, 630 Kitchen appliance 232, 632 Appliance base 234, 634 Pot holder 236, 636 First base contact 238, 638 Second base contact 240, 540640Filter and adjustment network 541Filter network 342Pot section 343Annular section of the pot section 344Backing 545Adjustment network 551Overall network 660Tool drive 662Kitchen appliance tool 666, 766Display 670Evaluation module 672Release module,

Claims

1. A container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) for a kitchen appliance (230, 630) comprising: - a food receiving element (102, 202, 302, 402, 602), and - at least one lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604) configured to close an opening of the food receiving element (104, 204, 304, 404, 604), - wherein the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604) is movable relative to the food receiving element (102, 202, 302, 402, 602) between a first operating position and a second operating position different from the first operating position, - wherein the food receiving element (102, 202, 302, 402, 602) comprises at least a first pot connection (116, 216, 316, 616) extending between a first upper pot contact (112, 212, 312, 612) and a first lower pot contact (120, 220, 320, 620) and a second pot connection (118, 218, 618) extending between a second upper pot contact (114, 214, 614) and a second lower pot contact (122, 222, 622), - wherein the first lower pot contact (120, 220, 320, 620) and the second lower pot contact (122, 222, 622) are configured to electrically connect to a reading controller (126, 226, 626), - wherein the first lid contact (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and the second lid contact (110, 210, 310, 410, 610) are arranged such that an electrical connection is established between the first lid contact (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and the first upper pot contact (112, 212, 312, 612) and an electrical connection is established between the second lid contact (110, 210, 310, 410, 610) and the second upper pot contact (114, 214, 614) only in the second operating position characterized in that - the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604) comprises at least one reading antenna (106, 206, 306, 406, 606) connected to a first lid contact (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and a second lid contact (110, 210, 310, 410, 610), and - the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604) comprises at least one transponder (124, 224, 324, 424, 624) positioned within range of the reading antenna (106, 206, 306, 406, 606).

2. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to claim 1, wherein - the reading antenna (106, 206, 306, 406, 606) comprises a first antenna coil, and - the transponder (124, 224, 324, 424, 624) is a passive or an active transponder (124, 224, 324, 424, 624) with a second antenna coil (325).

3. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein - the electrical connection between the first lid contact (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and the first upper pot contact (112, 212, 312, 612) and / or the electrical connection between the second lid contact (110, 210, 310, 410, 610) and the second upper pot contact (114, 214, 614) is / are a contact based electrical connection.

4. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - the electrical connection between the first lid contact (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and the first upper pot contact (112, 212, 312, 612) and / or the electrical connection between the second lid contact (110, 210, 310, 410, 610) and the second upper pot contact (114, 214, 614) is / are a contactless electrical connection.

5. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to claim 4, wherein - the first lid contact (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) is formed as a first lid surface element (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and the second lid contact (110, 210, 310, 410, 610) is formed as a second lid surface element (110, 210, 310, 410, 610), - the first upper pot contact (112, 212, 312, 612) is formed as a first pot surface element (112, 212, 312, 612) and the second upper pot contact (114, 214, 614) is formed as a second pot surface element (114, 214, 614), and - in the second operating position of the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604), the first lid surface element (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and the first pot surface element (112, 212, 312, 612) form a first coupling capacitor (421) and the second lid surface element (110, 210, 310, 410, 610) and the second pot surface element (114, 214, 614) form a second coupling capacitor (423).

6. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to one of the previous, wherein - the transponder (124, 224, 324, 424, 624) comprises at least one readable memory, - wherein at least one lid identifier and / or lid type identifier is / are stored in the memory.

7. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to one of the previous, wherein - the container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) comprises at least one accessory couplable to the food receiving element (102, 202, 302, 402, 602) and / or the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604), - wherein the accessory comprises at least one accessory transponder.

8. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to claim 7, wherein - the accessory transponder is arranged on the accessory such that the accessory transponder is within range of the reading antenna (106, 206, 306, 406, 606) in a coupled state of the accessory with the lid.

9. The container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - the first lid contact (108, 208, 308, 408, 608) and the second lid contact (110, 210, 310, 410, 610) are arranged on substantially opposite sides of the lid edge, and - the first upper pot contact (112, 212, 312, 612) and the second upper pot contact are arranged on substantially opposite sides of the pot edge (114, 214, 614).

10. A kitchen appliance (230, 630), comprising: - a container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to any one of the preceding claims, and - an appliance base (232, 632) comprising a reading controller (126, 226, 626) electrically coupled to a first base contact (236, 636) and a second base contact (238, 638), - wherein the first base contact (236, 636) is electrically connectable to the first lower pot contact (120, 220, 320, 620) and the second base contact (238, 638) is electrically connectable to the second lower pot contact (122, 222, 622).

11. The kitchen appliance (230, 630) according to claim 10, wherein - the reading controller (126, 226, 626) comprises an evaluation module (670) configured to detect an operating position of the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604) based on the readable transponder.

12. The kitchen appliance (230, 630) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein - the evaluation module (670) is configured to determine the lid type based on a received lid identifier and / or lid type identifier.

13. The kitchen appliance (230, 630) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein - the appliance base (232, 632) comprises a filtering and matching network (240, 640) arranged between the reading controller (126, 226, 626) and the first base contact (236, 636) and the second base contact (238, 638).

14. The kitchen appliance (230, 630) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein - the appliance base (232, 632) comprises a release module (672) configured to release an appliance function of the kitchen appliance (230, 630) only upon detection of the operating position of the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604).

15. A method of determining an operating position of a lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604) in a container arrangement (100, 200, 300, 400, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: - detecting, by a reading controller (126, 226, 626), the operating position of the lid (104, 204, 304, 404, 604) based on a readable transponder.