Hob system

Abstract

In order to provide a hob system with improved properties in terms of flexibility of use and / or user friendliness, the invention relates to a conventional hob system (10a-10f), in particular an induction hob system, comprising: at least one kitchen worktop (12a-12f) which has an opening (14a- 14f) for extracting vapours; and a closure unit (16a - 16f) for selectively closing the opening (14a - 14f).

Description

[0001] Hob system

[0002] State of the art

[0003] The invention relates to a hob system according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0004] Cooktop systems are known from the prior art, with an extractor fan located above the cooktop. Furthermore, cooktop systems are known that have an opening in a cooktop through which air can be drawn in.

[0005] The object of the invention is, in particular but not limited to, to provide a generic system with improved properties regarding flexibility of use and / or ease of use. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claim 1, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.

[0006] Advantages of the invention

[0007] A hob system, in particular an induction hob system, is proposed, comprising at least one installation plate, in particular a kitchen worktop, which has an opening for extracting vapors, and comprising a closure unit for selectively closing the opening.

[0008] Advantageously, a cooktop system can be realized with a particularly flexible and / or particularly large work surface. Advantageously, the locking unit can be used as part of the work surface with particularly unrestricted ease when the opening is closed. Advantageously, a particularly uniform appearance of a kitchen worktop with an opening for extracting fumes can be achieved. The user experience can be improved. Advantageously, the kitchen worktop can be used particularly flexibly.

[0009] In one aspect of the invention, which can be considered in particular on its own as well as in conjunction with other aspects of the invention, the invention is based on a cooktop system, in particular the one already mentioned above, with at least one installation plate, in particular the one already mentioned above, in particular a cooktop plate or a kitchen worktop, in particular the one already mentioned above, which has an opening, in particular the one already mentioned above, for extracting vapors. It is proposed that the cooktop system has a user interface which, in at least one operating state, is arranged in the opening when viewed from above onto the installation plate, in particular the kitchen worktop.

[0010] Advantageously, the user interface can be particularly reliably protected from damage. Advantageously, the space required for a user interface can be kept particularly small when using the base plate without the user interface being operated. This prevents the user interface from restricting the use of the base plate's work surface. Advantageously, this arrangement of the user interface enables particularly flexible use of the work surface.

[0011] The cooktop system is preferably designed as an induction cooktop system. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the cooktop system to be designed as a resistance cooktop system. It is conceivable that the cooktop system can be used for an outdoor kitchen and / or an indoor kitchen.

[0012] The installation plate is preferably designed as a kitchen worktop. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the installation plate to be designed as a hob plate. The installation plate, in particular the kitchen worktop or hob plate, is preferably plate-shaped. The installation plate, in particular the kitchen worktop or hob plate, is preferably intended for the installation of at least one installation unit and / or for the placement of at least one food item, in particular a cooking item.

[0013] The cooktop system preferably comprises a housing unit. The installation plate is preferably fastened to the housing unit. The installation plate is preferably made of a non-metallic material. The installation plate could be formed at least partially or at least largely from glass and / or glass ceramic and / or Neolith and / or Dekton and / or wood and / or marble and / or stone, in particular natural stone, and / or laminate and / or plastic and / or ceramic and / or a composite material. The expression “largely” is to be understood in particular as meaning at least 55%, preferably at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85% and very particularly preferably at least 95% of a volume and / or mass fraction.The expression “at least partially” is to be understood as meaning in particular at least 10%, preferably at least 25% and preferably at least 40% of a volume and / or mass fraction.

[0014] In this document, position designations such as “below” or “above” preferably refer to an installation position, in particular the assembled state, of the cooktop system, unless explicitly described otherwise.

[0015] The opening is preferably rectangular. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the opening to be circular, oval, square, polygonal, or any other shape deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art. The cooktop system preferably comprises an extraction unit. The extraction unit is arranged, in particular, in the housing unit. The extraction unit is intended, in particular, to generate an air flow for extracting vapors. The extraction unit comprises, for example, at least one fan for generating the air flow. The extraction unit is preferably arranged below the installation plate.

[0016] The cooktop system preferably has at least one heating unit, in particular an induction heating unit or a resistance heating unit. The heating unit is preferably attached to the housing unit, in particular arranged beneath the support plate. The heating unit is preferably provided for heating at least the support unit when the support unit is arranged on the support plate, in particular a cooking surface area of ​​the support plate, preferably for cooking at least the food to be cooked. The heating unit is preferably arranged within the housing unit, in particular in an interior space which is at least partially delimited by the housing unit and the support plate.

[0017] The installation unit can have at least one small household appliance and / or a piece of cooking utensil. The small household appliance is designed, for example, as a coffee maker, a toaster, a kettle, a blender, a stirrer or as another small household appliance that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art. It is conceivable that the small household appliance can be supplied with energy at least partially, preferably inductively, when placed on the installation plate, in particular by means of the heating unit. The cooking utensil is designed, for example, as a pot, a pan, a roasting pan or as another piece of cooking utensil that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the cooking utensil can be supplied with energy at least partially, preferably inductively, when placed on the installation plate, at least for heating purposes, in particular by means of the heating unit.

[0018] The closure unit is, in particular, movable relative to the support plate. It is conceivable for the closure unit to be movably attached to the housing unit, the heating unit, and / or the support plate. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the closure unit to be free of any attachment to the heating unit, the housing unit, and / or the support plate, in particular to merely rest on the heating unit, the support plate, and / or the housing unit. The opening can preferably be closed or opened by moving the closure unit relative to the support plate. The closure unit is, in particular, different from a grid or the like.

[0019] The closure unit preferably has a closed surface. The surface is preferably arranged, in particular at least when the opening is closed, on a side of the closure unit facing away from the housing unit and / or the heating unit. The surface of the closure unit preferably forms part of a support surface of the cooktop system. A surface of the support plate forms, in particular, part of the support surface of the cooktop system. The surface of the support plate is arranged, in particular, on a side of the support plate facing away from the housing unit and / or the heating unit. The surface of the closure unit, in particular when the opening is closed, and the surface of the support plate preferably form at least a large part of the support surface of the cooktop system, particularly preferably the entire support surface of the cooktop system.The opening can preferably be opened and / or closed without tools by means of the closure unit. The opening can preferably be closed in a fluid-tight manner, in particular at least liquid-tight and / or airtight, by means of the closure unit. The closure unit is provided in particular as a cover for the opening. The user interface is arranged, for example, on the support plate, the heating unit and / or the housing unit, in particular fixedly or movably attached. It is also conceivable for the user interface to be arranged removably, preferably without tools, on the support plate, the heating unit and / or the housing unit. The removably designed user interface can preferably be designed as a remote control for the heating unit and / or the suction unit.The term “top view” should be understood in particular to mean a view in a direction that is at least substantially perpendicular to the mounting plate, preferably onto an upper side of the mounting plate. “Substantially perpendicular” can be understood to mean an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, in particular viewed in a projection plane, enclose an angle of 90° and the angle has a maximum deviation of in particular less than 8°, advantageously less than 5° and particularly advantageously less than 2°. The upper side of the mounting plate is preferably on a side of the mounting plate facing away from the housing unit and / or the heating unit. The upper side of the mounting plate is preferably located above the mounting plate.

[0020] The user interface is designed, in particular, as a cooktop operator interface. Preferably, at least the heating unit and / or the extraction unit can be operated using the user interface. The user interface is connected, in particular, to the heating unit and / or the extraction unit via data and / or control technology, for example, wirelessly and / or with a cable. The user interface preferably has a screen, for example, a TFT screen, an LCD screen, an e-ink screen, one or more lighting elements, in particular LEDs, or the like.

[0021] It is further proposed that the closure unit is at least substantially flush with the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop, on an upper side, in particular the one already mentioned, when the opening is closed. Advantageously, the upper side can be used particularly conveniently with the upper side of the support plate as a work surface. “At least substantially flush” is to be understood in particular as flush, except for production-related deviations. In particular, the surface of the closure unit and the surface of the support plate are at least substantially flush when the opening is closed. Preferably, a main extension plane of the surface of the closure unit and a main extension plane of the surface of the support plate are congruent when the opening is closed.A "main extension plane" of a structural unit or an element can be understood as a plane which is parallel to a largest side surface of the smallest possible imaginary cuboid which just completely encloses the structural unit and in particular runs through the center point of the cuboid. Preferably, the support plate rests against the closure unit when the opening is closed. Particularly preferably, the surface of the support unit and the surface of the closure unit rest against one another when the opening is closed. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for a gap to be present between the closure unit and the support plate when the opening is closed, in particular between the surface of the support plate and the surface of the closure unit.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that one surface of the installation plate, in particular of the kitchen worktop, and one surface of the locking unit, in particular the one already mentioned, have the same visual appearance. This can create a particularly pleasant user experience. The fact that two surfaces have the same visual appearance should be understood in particular to mean that a structure of the surfaces appears identical to an observer with average eyesight. In particular, the surface of the locking unit and the surface of the installation plate have the same color and / or the same roughness and / or texture. Preferably, the surface of the locking unit and the surface of the installation plate are made of the same material. Advantageously, the installation surface of the cooktop system can be used flexibly and / or safely with particularly few restrictions.Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the surface of the closure unit and the surface of the mounting plate are made of different materials and / or have a different visual appearance.

[0023] It is also proposed that the user interface be movable relative to the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop. Advantageously, the position of the user interface can be adapted to different requirements. This allows for a particularly high level of user comfort. It is conceivable that the user interface be translationally movable and / or rotatable relative to the support plate.

[0024] It is further proposed that the user interface be translationally movable along an axis extending at least substantially perpendicular to the support plate, in particular to the kitchen worktop. Advantageously, particularly good visibility of the user interface can be achieved when the opening is open. Advantageously, the position of the user interface can be adapted particularly flexibly to different requirements. Advantageously, the user interface can be arranged in a particularly protected manner below the support plate. Preferably, the user interface is translationally movable at least substantially perpendicular to the surface, in particular to the main extension plane of the surface, of the support plate.Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the user interface is translationally movable in a plane parallel to the surface, in particular the main extension plane of the surface, of the support plate.

[0025] Furthermore, it is proposed that the user interface be tiltable relative to the support plate, in particular to the kitchen worktop. Advantageously, the alignment of the support plate can be adjusted particularly conveniently, in particular to a user's eye level. Advantageously, particularly good visibility of the user interface can be achieved when the opening is open. A maximum angle of tilt of the user interface, in particular a main extension plane of the user interface, relative to the support plate, in particular to the surface of the support plate, is preferably at least 5°, preferably at least 20°, more preferably at least 45°, and most preferably at least 60°.

[0026] It is further proposed that the cooktop system comprise an air guiding unit for guiding an air flow for extracting the vapors, wherein at least part of the air guiding unit is arranged on the closure unit. Advantageously, vapors can be extracted particularly effectively. Preferably, the closure unit comprises at least part of the air guiding unit on an underside, in particular on a side facing the opening. The air guiding unit comprises, in particular, at least one air guiding element, which is preferably arranged on the closure unit. The air guiding element is designed, for example, as a preferably concave, curved surface. Alternatively, however, another design of the air guiding element that appears expedient to a person skilled in the art is also conceivable. The air guiding unit is provided, in particular, to guide the air flow from a vapor source towards the opening.It is conceivable that the closure unit, in particular the part of the air guide unit arranged on the closure unit, is adaptable, preferably alignable, to a position of a vapor source, preferably automatically, preferably by a rotation and / or translational movement of the closure unit relative to the support plate. Automatic adaptation, in particular alignment, of the air guide unit, preferably the closure unit, to a position of a vapor source can occur, for example, depending on sensor data from a sensor system, for example a camera or the like, of the cooktop system and / or depending on operating data of the cooktop system, for example depending on switched-on heating units.

[0027] Furthermore, it is proposed that the hob system comprise a manipulator unit for opening and / or closing the opening by means of the locking unit. Particularly reliable opening and / or closing of the opening can advantageously be achieved by means of the locking unit. Improper opening and / or closing of the opening can advantageously be counteracted. The manipulator unit is provided, in particular, to assist movement of the locking unit when opening and / or closing the opening. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the hob system to be designed without a manipulator unit. In particular, it is conceivable for a user to be able to manually lift the locking unit and place it to the side in order to open the opening.

[0028] It is further proposed that the closure unit can be arranged at least partially above the kitchen worktop by means of the manipulator unit. Advantageously, the space required in the housing unit for accommodating the closure unit can be kept particularly small. Advantageously, the closure unit can be used particularly effectively for air guidance when extracting the vapors. Preferably, the closure unit can be arranged, in particular securely, at least partially above the kitchen worktop by means of the manipulator unit when the opening is open. It is also conceivable that the closure unit is arranged completely above the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop, by means of the manipulator unit in the open state.In particular, at least 10%, preferably at least 25% and preferably at least 40% of a total volume and / or a total weight of the closure unit can be arranged by means of the manipulator unit above the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop.

[0029] It is also proposed that the cooktop system comprise a manipulator unit, in particular the one already mentioned, for moving and / or guiding a movement of the user interface. This advantageously allows for particularly safe and / or reliable movement of the user interface. Improper movement of the user interface can advantageously be counteracted. The manipulator unit is preferably provided to support a movement of the user interface.

[0030] It is further proposed that the user interface be arranged at least partially above and / or at least partially below the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop, by means of the manipulator unit. Advantageously, the position of the user interface can be adapted particularly securely and / or flexibly to different requirements. It is also conceivable that the user interface be arranged entirely above or entirely below the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop, by means of the manipulator unit.

[0031] Furthermore, it is proposed that the user interface and a suction region of the opening can be concealed independently of one another by means of the closure unit. This advantageously allows for particularly high flexibility when closing and / or opening the opening. This advantageously allows for particularly high user comfort. In particular, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the closure unit has two closure elements. The closure elements are preferably movable relative to one another. One closure element of the closure elements is provided, in particular, to conceal the user interface. A further closure element of the closure elements is provided, in particular, to conceal the suction region of the opening.In particular, the opening is closed in a covered state of the user interface, preferably by means of the closure element, and in a closed state of the suction area, preferably by means of the further closure element.

[0032] Furthermore, it is proposed that the user interface be arranged at least partially on the closure unit. Advantageously, a concealable user interface can be provided in a structurally simple manner. Preferably, the user interface is arranged on a side of the closure unit, in particular of the closure element, facing away from the surface. In particular, the user interface is arranged on an underside of the closure unit when the opening is closed, preferably when the user interface is concealed.

[0033] It is also proposed that the locking unit can be arranged at least partially beneath the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop, by means of the manipulator unit. This can enable the locking unit to be accommodated beneath the support plate, in particular when the opening is open. Advantageously, an area above the support plate can be kept free of the locking unit. This can achieve a particularly high level of user comfort. Advantageously, the area above the support plate can be used particularly flexibly. Preferably, the locking unit can be arranged, in particular securely, at least partially beneath the kitchen worktop by means of the manipulator unit when the opening is open. It is also conceivable that the locking unit is arranged completely beneath the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop, by means of the manipulator unit in the open state.In particular, at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, and preferably at least 40% of a total volume and / or total weight of the closure unit can be arranged below the support plate, in particular the kitchen worktop, by means of the manipulator unit. In particular, the housing unit has a receptacle for the closure unit, in which the closure unit can be arranged when the opening is open.

[0034] It is also proposed that the manipulator unit has a guide unit for guiding the closure unit when the opening is opened and / or closed. Advantageously, the closure unit can be moved particularly securely when the opening is opened and / or closed. Advantageously, proper movement of the closure unit for closing and / or opening the opening can be supported. The guide unit can, for example, be provided for guiding a linear movement of the closure unit relative to the support plate. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the guide unit is provided for guiding a pivoting movement of the closure unit relative to the support plate. It is conceivable that the guide unit has at least one guide element. The guide element can, for example, be designed as a guide rail, as a guide surface or the like.The guide element can alternatively be designed as a strut or the like. The guide element can, for example, be movably connected to the closure unit. The guide element is preferably mounted, in particular rotatably, on the support plate, the heating unit, and / or the housing unit.

[0035] It is further proposed that the manipulator unit has a drive unit for opening and / or closing the opening by means of the closure unit. Advantageously, the opening can be opened and / or closed automatically by means of the closure unit. This can achieve a particularly high level of user comfort. The drive unit preferably has at least one electric motor, a pneumatic drive or the like. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable for the drive unit to have a magnetic unit for opening and / or closing the opening. The drive unit is in particular provided for moving the closure unit relative to the opening for opening and / or closing the opening, preferably guided by the guide unit. It is conceivable for the drive unit to be provided for moving the user interface.Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the manipulator unit to have a further drive unit, for example, a further electric motor, a further pneumatic drive, or the like, for moving the user interface. Preferably, the user interface and the locking unit can be moved independently of one another by means of the manipulator unit. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for a movement of the user interface to be dependent on a movement of the locking unit.

[0036] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cooktop system have at least two heating units, between which the opening is arranged in a plan view. This advantageously enables particularly efficient extraction of vapors. The heating units are preferably designed as induction heating units. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the heating units to be designed as resistance heating units. The heating units are preferably arranged below the base plate, in particular the kitchen worktop.

[0037] It is further proposed that the cooktop system comprise a sensor unit for detecting an actuation characteristic for the manipulator unit, wherein the manipulator unit can be automatically actuated depending on the at least one actuation characteristic. Advantageously, a particularly high level of user comfort can be achieved. The actuation characteristic can be, for example, a user gesture, in particular a user intention, an acoustic user command, an environmental characteristic, for example air humidity, an ambient temperature, or the like, an operating parameter of the heating unit, in particular of the heating units, a combination of these, or the like. The sensor unit is preferably connected to the manipulator unit, preferably the drive unit, for data and / or control purposes, in particular wirelessly and / or wired.The sensor unit can, for example, comprise a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a microphone, a camera, a combination of these, or the like. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the manipulator unit, in particular the drive unit, to comprise an actuating element for triggering a movement of the closure unit by means of the manipulator unit. The actuating element can, for example, be designed as a button, a touchscreen, a rotary dial, a lever, or the like. The actuating element can, for example, be arranged on the user interface, on the support plate, on the housing unit, or on the closure unit. For example, it is conceivable for the manipulator unit to be actuated to trigger a movement of the closure unit by tapping the closure unit, in particular the surface of the closure unit.

[0038] The cooktop system is not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the cooktop system may have a number of individual elements, components, and units that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a functionality described herein.

[0039] Further advantages are shown in the following drawing description.

[0040] The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into further meaningful combinations.

[0041] They show:

[0042] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a part of a hob system with a closed opening of a mounting plate of the hob system,

[0043] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of the part of the hob system from Figure 1 with a closure unit in an arrangement offset from the installation plate, in particular vertically,

[0044] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of the part of the hob system from Figure 1 in an open state of the closure unit,

[0045] Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of the part of the hob system from Figure 4 with a user interface arranged on an upper side at least substantially flush with the installation plate,

[0046] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a part of a hob system in a first alternative embodiment with a closure unit when opening or closing an opening in a mounting plate,

[0047] Fig. 6 shows another position of the locking unit from Figure 5 when opening or closing the opening,

[0048] Fig. 7 the closure unit from Figures 5 and 6 in an open state,

[0049] Fig. 8 shows a user interface of the hob system from Figures 5 to 7 in an arrangement inclined to the installation plane,

[0050] Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of a part of a hob system in a second alternative embodiment with a closure unit in an open state,

[0051] Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of a part of a hob system in a third alternative embodiment with a closure unit in an open state,

[0052] Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a part of a hob system in a fourth alternative embodiment with a closure unit when opening or closing an opening in a mounting plate,

[0053] Fig. 12 shows the locking unit from Fig. 11 in an open state, Fig. 13 is a schematic representation of part of a hob system in a fifth alternative embodiment with a locking unit when opening or closing an opening in a mounting plate and Fig. 14 shows the locking unit from Fig. 13 in an open state.

[0054] Figure 1 shows a cooktop system 10a. The cooktop system 10a is designed as an induction cooktop system. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the cooktop system 10a to be designed as a resistance cooktop system. The cooktop system 10a can be intended for an outdoor kitchen and / or an indoor kitchen.

[0055] The cooktop system 10a includes a housing unit 48a. The housing unit 48a can be placed on a surface, such as a floor or the like, or can be attached to a support, such as a wall.

[0056] The cooktop system 10a has a support plate 36a. The support plate 36a is designed as a kitchen worktop 12a. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the support plate 36a to be designed as a cooktop plate. The support plate 36a, in particular the kitchen worktop 12a, is designed in a plate-like manner.

[0057] The installation plate 36a, in particular the kitchen worktop 12a, is provided for the installation of at least one installation unit (not shown here) and / or for the placement of at least one food item, in particular a cooking item. The installation unit can have at least one small household appliance and / or a cooking utensil. The small household appliance is designed, for example, as a coffee maker, a toaster, a kettle, a blender, a stirrer, or another small household appliance that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art. The cooking utensil is designed, for example, as a pot, a pan, a roasting pan, or another cooking utensil that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art.

[0058] The support plate 36a, in particular the kitchen worktop 12a, can be made, for example, of Neolith and / or Dekton and / or wood and / or marble and / or stone, in particular natural stone, and / or ceramic and / or a composite material. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the support plate 36a to be formed at least partially or at least largely of glass and / or glass ceramic and / or a laminate and / or a plastic.

[0059] The support plate 36a, in particular the kitchen worktop 12a, has an opening 14a for extracting vapors. The opening 14a has a rectangular shape. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the opening 14a has a circular, oval, square, polygonal, or any other shape deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art.

[0060] The cooktop system 10a has an extraction unit 50a. The extraction unit 50a is arranged in the housing unit 48a. The extraction unit 50a is arranged below the base plate 36a. The extraction unit 50a is designed to generate an air flow for extracting vapors. The extraction unit 50a has, for example, at least one fan for generating the air flow.

[0061] The cooktop system 10a has two heating units 34a. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the cooktop system 10a to have only one heating unit 34a or more than two heating units 34a. The heating units 34a are attached to the housing unit 48a, in particular arranged below the support plate 36a. The heating units 34a are provided for heating at least the support unit when the support unit is arranged on the support plate 36a, in particular a cooking surface area of ​​the support plate 36a, preferably for cooking at least the food to be cooked. The heating units 34a are arranged within the housing unit 48a, in particular in an interior space which is at least partially delimited by the housing unit 48a and the support plate 36a. The opening 14a is arranged between the heating units 34a in a plan view.

[0062] The cooktop system 10a has a closure unit 16a for selectively closing the opening 14a. The closure unit 16a is movable relative to the support plate 36a. The closure unit 16a is movably attached to the housing unit 48a and / or to the support plate 36a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the closure unit 16a to be movably attached to the heating units 34a. Furthermore, it is alternatively conceivable for the closure unit 16a to be free of attachment to the heating units 34a, the housing unit 48a and / or the support plate 36a, in particular to rest only on the heating units 34a, the support plate 36a and / or the housing unit 48a.

[0063] The opening 14a can be closed or opened by moving the closure unit 16a relative to the mounting plate 36a. The closure unit 16a is different from a grid or the like, in particular one that is permanently installed on the mounting plate 36a.

[0064] The closure unit 16a has a closed surface 22a. The surface 22a is arranged, particularly at least in a closed state of the opening 14a, on a side of the closure unit 16a facing away from the housing unit 48a and / or the heating units 34a. The surface 22a of the closure unit 16a forms part of a support surface 52a of the cooktop system 10a.

[0065] A surface 20a of the support plate 36a forms part of the installation surface 52a of the cooktop system 10a. The surface 20a of the support plate 36a is arranged on a side of the support plate 36a facing away from the housing unit 48a and / or the heating units 34a. The surface 22a of the closure unit 16a, particularly in the closed state of the opening 14a, and the surface 20a of the support plate 36a form at least a large part of the installation surface 52a of the cooktop system 10a, particularly preferably the entire installation surface 52a of the cooktop system 10a.

[0066] The opening 14a can be opened or closed without tools by means of the closure unit 16a. Preferably, the opening 14a can be closed in a fluid-tight manner, in particular at least liquid-tight, by means of the closure unit 16a.

[0067] The cooktop system 10a has a user interface 24a. In at least one operating state, the user interface 24a is arranged in the opening 14a when viewed from above onto the support plate 36a, in particular onto the kitchen worktop 12a.

[0068] The user interface 24a is movably attached to the housing unit 48a.

[0069] Alternatively, it is conceivable that the user interface 24a is movably attached to the heating units 34a and / or to the mounting plate 36a. Furthermore, it is alternatively conceivable that the user interface 24a is fixed to the housing unit 48a, to the heating units 34a, and / or to the mounting plate 36a. It is also conceivable that the user interface 24a is arranged on the housing unit 48a in a removable manner, in particular without the need for tools.

[0070] The user interface 24a is designed as a cooktop operator interface. The heating units 34a and / or the extraction unit 50a can be operated via the user interface 24a. The user interface 24a is connected to the heating units 34a and / or the extraction unit 50a for data and / or control purposes, for example, wirelessly and / or via a cable.

[0071] The closure unit 16a is at least substantially flush with the support plate 36a, in particular with the kitchen worktop 12a, on an upper side 18a when the opening 14a is closed. The upper side 18a is on a side of the support plate 36a facing away from the housing unit 48a and / or the heating units 34a. The upper side 18a is located above the support plate 36a.

[0072] The surface 22a of the closure unit 16a and the surface 20a of the mounting plate 36a are at least substantially flush when the opening 14a is closed. A main extension plane (not shown here) of the surface 22a of the closure unit 16a and a main extension plane (not shown here) of the surface 20a of the mounting plate 36a are congruent when the opening 14a is closed.

[0073] Preferably, the support plate 36a rests against the closure unit 16a when the opening 14a is closed. In particular, the surface 20a of the support unit 36a and the surface 22a of the closure unit 16a rest against one another when the opening 14a is closed. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for a gap to be present between the closure unit 16a and the support plate 36a when the opening 14a is closed, in particular between the surface 20a of the support plate 36a and the surface 22a of the closure unit 16a.

[0074] A surface 20a of the support plate 36a, in particular of the kitchen worktop 12a, and a surface 22a of the closure unit 16a have the same visual appearance. The surface 22a of the closure unit 16a and the surface 20a of the support plate 36a are formed from the same material. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the surface 22a of the closure unit 16a and the surface 20a of the support plate 36a are formed from different materials and / or have a different visual appearance.

[0075] The user interface 24a is movable relative to the support plate 36a, in particular the kitchen worktop 12a. The user interface 24a is translationally movable relative to the support plate 36a. The user interface 24a is translationally movable along an axis 38a running at least substantially perpendicular to the support plate 36a. The user interface 24a is translationally movable at least substantially perpendicular to the surface 20a, in particular the main extension plane of the surface 20a, of the support plate 36a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the user interface 24a to be translationally movable in a plane running parallel to the surface 20a, in particular the main extension plane of the surface 20a, of the support plate 36a.

[0076] The cooktop system 10a has a manipulator unit 28a for opening and / or closing the opening 14a by means of the closure unit 16a. The manipulator unit 28a is provided to assist the movement of the closure unit 16a during the opening and / or closing of the opening 14a.

[0077] The locking unit 16a can be arranged at least partially beneath the kitchen worktop 12a by means of the manipulator unit 28a. The locking unit 16a can be arranged, in particular secured, at least partially beneath the kitchen worktop 12a by means of the manipulator unit 28a when the opening 14a is open. The locking unit 16a is arranged completely beneath the support plate 36a, in particular the kitchen worktop 12a, by means of the manipulator unit 28a in the open state. The housing unit 48a has a receptacle 54a for the locking unit 16a, in which the locking unit 16a can be arranged, in particular when the opening 14a is open.

[0078] The closure unit 16a is movable parallel to the axis 38a. Figure 1 shows the opening 14a in the closed state. To open the opening 14a, the closure unit 16a is moved parallel to the axis 38a, in particular beneath the support plate 36a (see Figure 2), preferably into a first opening position. The closure unit 16a is movable, in particular from the first opening position, parallel to the surface 20a, preferably into the receptacle 54a (see Figure 3), in particular into a second opening position. Figures 3 and 4 show the opening 14a in the open state.

[0079] The manipulator unit 28a is provided for moving and / or guiding a movement of the user interface 24a. The manipulator unit 28a is provided to support a movement of the user interface 24a. The user interface 24a is movable from a first position (see Figure 3) to a second position, preferably flush with the surface 20a (see Figure 4).

[0080] The user interface 24a can be arranged at least partially beneath the support plate 36a by means of the manipulator unit 28a. The user interface 24a can be arranged entirely beneath the support plate 36a, in particular the kitchen worktop 12a, by means of the manipulator unit 28a. When the opening 14a is closed, the user interface 24a is arranged beneath the support plate 36a.

[0081] The manipulator unit 28a has a guide unit 30a for guiding the closure unit 16a during the opening and / or closing of the opening 14a. The guide unit 30a is provided for guiding a linear movement of the closure unit 16a, in particular for guiding a movement of the closure unit 16a parallel to the surface 20a. The guide unit 30a has, for example, at least one guide rail and / or a guide plate or the like.

[0082] The manipulator unit 28a has a drive unit 32a for opening and / or closing the opening 14a by means of the closure unit 16a. The drive unit 32a has at least one electric motor, a pneumatic drive, or the like. The drive unit 32a is provided to move the closure unit 16a relative to the opening 14a to open and / or close the opening 14a, preferably guided by the guide unit 30a.

[0083] It is conceivable that the drive unit 32a is provided for moving the user interface 24a. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the manipulator unit 28a has a further drive unit, for example a further electric motor or the like, for moving the user interface 24a. The user interface 24a and the locking unit 16a can be moved independently of one another by means of the manipulator unit 28a. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that a movement of the user interface 24a is dependent on a movement of the locking unit 16a. The cooktop system 10a has a sensor unit 42a for detecting an actuation parameter for the manipulator unit 28a. The manipulator unit 28a can be actuated automatically at least as a function of the at least one actuation parameter.

[0084] The actuation parameter can be, for example, a user gesture, in particular a user intention, an acoustic user command, an environmental parameter, for example, air humidity, ambient temperature, or the like, an operating parameter of the heating units 34a, a combination of these, or the like. The sensor unit 42a is connected to the manipulator unit 28a, preferably the drive unit 32a, for data and / or control purposes, in particular wirelessly and / or wired.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the manipulator unit 28a, in particular the drive unit 32a, has an actuating element for triggering a movement of the closure unit 16a by the manipulator unit 28a. The actuating element can be designed, for example, as a button, a touchscreen, a rotary wheel, a lever, or the like. The actuating element can be arranged, for example, on the user interface 24a, on the support plate 36a, on the housing unit 48a, or on the closure unit 16a. For example, it is conceivable that the manipulator unit 28a can be actuated to trigger a movement of the closure unit 16a by tapping the closure unit 16a, in particular the surface 22a of the closure unit 16a.

[0086] Further exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in Figures 5 to 14. The following descriptions are essentially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, whereby reference can be made to the description of the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1 to 4 with regard to identical components, features and functions. To distinguish the exemplary embodiments, the letter a in the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1 to 4 has been replaced by the letters b to f in the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiments in Figures 5 to 14. With regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference can in principle also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1 to 4.Figure 5 shows a cooktop system 10b with a locking unit 16b at an opening 14b in a support plate 36b, in particular in a kitchen worktop 12b, of the cooktop system 10b. The locking unit 16b can be arranged in a receptacle 54b. Movement of the locking unit 16b into and out of the receptacle 54b is guided by a guide unit 30b (see also Figure 6).

[0087] A main extension plane of the receptacle 54b runs at least substantially perpendicular to a surface 20b of the mounting plate 36b, in particular a main extension plane of the mounting plate 36b.

[0088] The closure unit 16b is provided to be pivoted to an opening of the opening 14b from an orientation parallel to the mounting plate 36b into an orientation perpendicular to the mounting plate 36b, in particular in order to

[0089] Mounting plate 36b is to be arranged vertically in the receptacle 54b (see Figure 7).

[0090] A user interface 24b of the cooktop system 10b is arranged below the support plate 36b when the opening 14b is closed. The user interface 24b is translationally movable relative to the support plate 36b, in particular in a direction perpendicular to the surface 20b of the support plate 36b.

[0091] The user interface 24b is tiltable relative to the support plate 36b. A maximum angle of tilt of the user interface 24b, in particular a main extension plane of the user interface 24b, relative to the support plate 36b, in particular to the surface 20b, is preferably at least 5°, preferably at least 20°, particularly preferably at least 45°, and most particularly preferably at least 60°.

[0092] Figure 8 shows the opening 14b in an open state and the user interface 24b in a state inclined toward the support plate 36b. A support unit 44b designed as a cooking utensil is arranged, for example, on a support surface 52b of the cooktop system 10b.

[0093] Figure 9 shows a cooktop system 10c with a support plate 36c, in particular a kitchen worktop 12c, which has an opening 14c. The opening 14c can be selectively closed by means of a closure unit 16c of the cooktop system 10c. The opening 14c is in an open state in Figure 9.

[0094] The cooktop system 10c has a user interface 24c. The user interface 24c is arranged below the support plate 36c in Figure 9. It is conceivable that the user interface 24c is translationally movable and / or rotatable relative to the support plate 36c.

[0095] The locking unit 16c can be arranged at least partially above the support plate 36c by means of a manipulator unit 28c of the cooktop system 10c. The locking unit 16c can be arranged, in particular secured, at least partially above the kitchen worktop 12c by means of the manipulator unit 28c when the opening 14c is open. The locking unit 16c is arranged completely above the support plate 36c, in particular the kitchen worktop 12c, by means of the manipulator unit 28c in the open state.

[0096] It is conceivable that the closure unit 16c comprises a lighting unit (not shown here). The lighting unit comprises at least one lighting element, for example an LED, in particular an RGB LED, or the like, or a plurality of lighting elements. The lighting unit is arranged, for example, on an underside of the closure unit.

[0097] The manipulator unit 28c has a guide unit 30c. The guide unit 30c has, for example, four guide struts 56c. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the guide unit 30c to have a number of guide struts 56c that differs from four, for example, only one guide strut 56c, two guide struts 56c, three guide struts 56c, or more than four guide struts 56c.

[0098] The guide struts 56c are movably connected to the closure unit 16c. The guide struts 56c are movably attached to a housing unit 48c of the cooktop system 10c. The guide struts 56c connect the closure unit 16c to the housing unit 16c. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the guide struts 56c are attached to heating units (not shown here) of the cooktop system 10c and / or to the support plate 36c. By a pivoting movement of the guide struts 56c, the closure unit 16c is movable, in particular for opening and / or closing the opening 14c. It is conceivable that a pivoting movement of the guide struts 56c can be generated by a drive unit (not shown here) of the manipulator unit 28c.

[0099] Figure 10 shows a cooktop system 10d with a support plate 36d, in particular a kitchen worktop 12d. The support plate 36d has an opening 14d. The cooktop system 10d has a closure unit 16d for selectively closing the opening 14d. Figure 10 shows the opening 14d in an open state.

[0100] A manipulator unit 28d here, for example, has a magnet unit for generating a movement of the closure unit 16d. The magnet unit here, for example, has four magnet coils (not shown). Alternatively, however, a different number of magnet coils, in particular one other than four, is also conceivable. The magnet unit is provided, in particular, to hold the closure unit 16d in an open state suspended above the support plate 36d, in particular the kitchen worktop 12d.

[0101] The cooktop system 10d has an air guide unit 26d for guiding an air flow for extracting the vapors. At least a portion of the air guide unit 26d is arranged on a closure unit 16d of the cooktop system 10d.

[0102] The closure unit 16d has at least part of the air guide unit 26d on an underside 58d, in particular on a side facing the opening. The air guide unit 26d has at least one air guide element 60d, which is arranged on the closure unit 16d. The air guide element 60d is designed as a preferably concave, curved surface. The air guide unit 26d is intended to guide the air flow from a vapor source toward the opening 14d.

[0103] It is conceivable that the closure unit 16d, in particular the part of the air guide unit 26d arranged on the closure unit 16d, is adaptable, preferably alignable, to a position of a vapor source, preferably automatically, preferably by a rotation and / or translational movement of the closure unit 16d relative to the support plate 36d. An automatic adaptation, in particular alignment, of the air guide unit 26d, preferably of the closure unit 16d, to a position of a vapor source can be carried out, for example, depending on sensor data from a sensor system, for example a camera or the like, of the cooktop system 10d.

[0104] Figure 11 shows a cooktop system 10e with a support plate 36e, in particular a kitchen worktop 12e. The support plate 36e has an opening 14e. The cooktop system 10e has a closure unit 16e for selectively closing the opening 14e.

[0105] A user interface 24e and a suction area 40e of the opening 14e can be covered independently of one another by means of the closure unit 16e. The closure unit 16e has two closure elements 62e, 64e. The closure elements 62e, 64e are movable relative to one another. One closure element 62e of the closure elements 62e, 64e is provided to cover the user interface 24e. Another closure element 64e of the closure elements 62e, 64e is provided to cover the suction area 40e of the opening 14e. The opening 14e is closed when the user interface 24e is covered, preferably by means of the closure element 62e, and when the suction area 40e is closed, preferably by means of the additional closure element 64e.

[0106] The closure unit 16e, in particular the closure elements 62e, 64e, are arranged pivotably relative to the support plate 36e. The closure unit 16e is provided for a pivoting movement about a pivot axis 66e for opening and / or closing the opening 14e. The pivot axis 66e runs in particular at least substantially parallel to a surface 22e of the closure unit 16e and / or to a surface 20e of the support plate 36e. The closure element 62e is pivotable by at least 180° relative to the support plate 36e. The further closure element 64e is pivotable here, for example, by a maximum of 90° relative to the support plate 36e. Alternatively, however, other maximum angular ranges for pivoting movements of the closure elements 62e, 64e that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable.

[0107] The user interface 24e is arranged at least partially on the closure unit 16e. The user interface 24e is arranged on a side of the closure unit 16e facing away from the surface 22e. When the opening 14e is closed, preferably when the user interface 24e is concealed, the user interface 16e is arranged on an underside of the closure unit 16e.

[0108] Figure 12 shows the opening 14e in an open state and, by way of example, a mounting unit 44e formed on the mounting plate 36e and as a cooking utensil.

[0109] Figures 13 and 14 show a cooktop system 10f with a support plate 36f, in particular a kitchen worktop 12f. In Figure 14, a support unit 44f designed as a cooking utensil is arranged on the support plate 36f, for example. The support plate 36f has an opening 14f. The cooktop system 10f has a closure unit 16f for selectively closing the opening 14f.

[0110] The cooktop system 10f has a manipulator unit 28f for opening and / or closing the opening 14f by means of the closure unit 16f. The manipulator unit 28f has, for example, two supports 68f. A user interface 24f of the cooktop system 10f is arranged on the supports 68f. The closure unit 16f is arranged on the supports 68f. The supports 68f are movable relative to the support plate 36f, in particular at least along an axis perpendicular to a surface 20f of the support plate 36f.

[0111] The closure unit 16f is translationally movable relative to the mounting plate 36f, in particular by means of the manipulator unit 28f, preferably along an axis perpendicular to the surface 20f and / or in a plane parallel to the surface 20f.

[0112] The supports 68f are, in particular, part of a guide unit 30f of the manipulator unit 28f. The guide unit 30f has a guide surface 70f for guiding a movement of the closure unit 16f relative to the support plate 36f, in particular in the plane parallel to a surface 22f of the closure unit 16f. It is conceivable that the guide surface 70f is partially formed by the user interface 24f.

[0113] The user interface 24f can be arranged at least partially above the mounting plate 36f by means of the manipulator unit 28f. Reference numeral

[0114] 10 Hob system

[0115] 12 kitchen worktop

[0116] 14 Opening

[0117] 16 locking unit

[0118] 18 Top

[0119] 20 Surface

[0120] 22 Surface

[0121] 24 User interface

[0122] 26 Air duct unit

[0123] 28 Manipulator unit

[0124] 30 management unit

[0125] 32 drive unit

[0126] 34 Heating unit

[0127] 36 mounting plate

[0128] 38 Axis

[0129] 40 Extraction area

[0130] 42 Sensor unit

[0131] 44 Installation unit

[0132] 48 housing unit

[0133] 50 suction unit

[0134] 52 footprint

[0135] 54 recording

[0136] 56 Guide strut

[0137] 58 Bottom

[0138] 60 Air guide element

[0139] 62 locking element

[0140] 64 locking element

[0141] 66 Swivel axis 68 Support

[0142] 70 guide surface

Claims

Claims 1. Hob system (10a - 10f), in particular induction hob system, with at least one kitchen worktop (12a - 12f) which has an opening (14a - 14f) for extracting vapors, and with a closure unit (16a - 16f) for selectively closing the opening (14a - 14f).

2. Hob system (10a - 10f) according to claim 1, characterized in that the closure unit (16a - 16f) is at least substantially flush with the kitchen worktop (12a - 12f) in a closed state of the opening (14a - 14f) on an upper side (18a).

3. Hob system (10a - 10f) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a surface (20a) of the kitchen worktop (12a - 12f) and a surface (22a) of the closure unit (16a - 16f) have the same visual appearance.

4. Hob system (10a - 10f) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a user interface (24a - 24f) which, in at least one operating state, is arranged in the opening (14a - 14f) in a plan view of the kitchen worktop (12a - 12f).

5. Hob system (10a - 10f) according to claim 4, characterized in that the user interface (24a - 24f) is movable relative to the kitchen worktop (12a - 12f).

6. Hob system (10c - 10f) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an air guide unit (26d) for guiding an air flow for extracting the vapors, wherein at least a part of the air guide unit (26d) is arranged on the closure unit (16c - 16f).

7. Hob system (10a - 10f) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a manipulator unit (28a - 28f) for opening and / or closing the opening (14a - 14f) by means of the closure unit (16a - 16f).

8. Hob system (10c - 10f) according to claim 7, characterized in that the closure unit (16c - 16f) can be arranged at least partially above the kitchen worktop (12c - 12f) by means of the manipulator unit (28c - 28f).

9. Hob system (10a; 10b; 10e) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closure unit (16a; 16b; 16e) can be arranged at least partially below the kitchen worktop (12a; 12b; 12e) by means of the manipulator unit (28a; 28b; 28e).

10. Hob system (10a - 10c; 10e; 10f) according to claim 7, characterized in that the manipulator unit (28a - 28c; 28e; 28f) has a guide unit (30a - 30c; 30e; 30f) for guiding the closure unit (16a - 16c; 16e; 16f) during opening and / or closing of the opening (14a - 14c; 14e; 14f).

11. Hob system (10a; 10c - 10f) according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the manipulator unit (28a; 28c - 28f) has a drive unit (32a) for opening and / or closing the opening (14a; 14c - 14f) by means of the closure unit (16a; 16c - 16f).

12. Hob system (10a - 10f) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least two heating units (34a), between which the opening (14a - 14f) is arranged in a plan view.

Images