Vapour extraction unit for extracting vapour by means of a cooking hob, cooking hob and method for operating a vapour extraction unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a ventilation unit (200) for extracting vapors (210) above a cooktop (100), wherein the ventilation unit (200) has a fan (225) for discharging the vapors through a vapor extraction duct (220) and a steam generation unit (235) which is designed to output steam into the vapor extraction duct (220).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a ventilation unit for extracting vapors above a cooktop, a cooktop and a method for operating a ventilation unit according to the main claims.

[0002] The trend towards convenient 2-in-1 appliances, i.e., cooktops with integrated extraction, remains strong. Users particularly appreciate the compact design and the elimination of a separate hood, as well as the significantly improved accessibility at countertop height. A convenient opening in the glass-ceramic surface allows users to easily perform necessary service and maintenance on the ventilation system, such as changing grease and / or activated carbon filters. However, because the ventilation system is located within the user's work and line of sight, cooking fumes and dirt are also brought into sharp focus. Users are particularly concerned about appliances operating in recirculation mode, as the extracted cooking fumes are returned to the living space, which can raise hygiene concerns.This concern can be addressed by using grease filters, activated carbon filters, and manually cleaning the fan. However, accessibility for manual fan cleaning proves to be very problematic. Firstly, the opening in the glass-ceramic surface is very small, and secondly, the openings on the underside of the appliance are always located inside a kitchen cabinet, meaning the drawer usually has to be removed. Furthermore, grease residue can often only be removed with the aid of chemical cleaning agents.

[0003] Also known are extractor hoods for extracting fumes above a cooktop, with a steam generation unit designed to release steam into the extractor hood's fume extraction duct. This is shown, for example, in publications EP 3 759 397 B1 and EP 3 473 937 B1.

[0004] The approach presented here aims to create an improved extractor hood for extracting vapors above a cooktop, an improved cooktop, and an improved method for operating an extractor hood.

[0005] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a fume extraction unit for extracting vapors above a cooktop, a cooktop, and a method for operating a fume extraction unit with the features of the main claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0006] In this context, a blower can be understood as a fan capable of creating negative pressure and thereby drawing steam rising from the cooktop into the exhaust duct. A steam generation unit can be understood as a component that, upon activation, generates hot steam (for example, through the evaporation of water) and can release this steam into the exhaust duct.

[0007] The approach proposed here is based on the understanding that a very simple and efficient disinfection and / or cleaning of the extractor hood can be achieved by actively introducing steam into the exhaust duct. The heat of the steam can kill or inactivate germs, bacteria, and / or viruses. At the same time, the heat of the steam can loosen or completely remove contaminants such as deposits or grease residues, thus significantly simplifying, and potentially even automating, their removal. In this way, a significant improvement in hygiene and user comfort can be achieved with such an extractor hood.

[0008] According to a favorable embodiment, the steam generation unit can be arranged to introduce the steam into an area between an inlet opening of the fume extraction duct and the blower. Such an embodiment offers the advantage of efficiently reaching an area of ​​the fume extraction duct prone to soiling with the still very hot steam, thus increasing the effectiveness of the steam in that area.

[0009] A further advantageous embodiment of the approach proposed here is one in which the blower is designed to circulate the steam generated by the steam generation unit within the fume extraction duct. Such an embodiment offers the advantage of directing the generated steam for as long as possible and / or to as many different areas of the fume extraction duct as possible, in order to allow the steam to act most effectively at the relevant points.

[0010] A particularly efficient embodiment of the approach proposed here is one in which the steam generation unit is designed to generate steam and / or discharge it into the fume extraction duct when an inlet of the fume extraction duct is closed by a flap. This prevents steam from escaping, allowing the cleaning and / or disinfection effect to be utilized very efficiently in the fume extraction duct.

[0011] Preferably, the closing flap is locked or secured against manual opening as long as the steam generation unit is in operation and / or a temperature sensor in the steam extraction duct detects a temperature above 80 degrees Celsius.

[0012] One embodiment of the approach proposed here is particularly user-friendly, in which the steam generation unit can be filled with liquid, in particular water, through at least part of the fume extraction channel.

[0013] According to the invention, the steam generation unit has a storage tank for liquid, in particular water, wherein the storage tank is designed to be removable and / or fillable through the inlet opening.

[0014] One aspect is that at least part of the fume extraction duct forms the storage unit. This makes it possible to provide a fume extraction unit with a steam generation unit that has the smallest possible installation space and / or uses minimal materials.

[0015] One aspect is that the steam generation unit has a heating element by means of which the steam is generated from the liquid. The heating element is either located in the storage tank or in a steam generation chamber of the steam generation unit that is separate from the storage tank.

[0016] In a steam generation unit with storage and steam generation room, a pump is provided by means of which liquid can be transferred into the steam generation room.

[0017] One aspect is that at least part of the fume extraction duct provides the heating element. This makes it possible to add the liquid to be evaporated directly into the fume extraction duct, which simplifies handling.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the approach proposed here, a steam distribution fan can also be provided, designed to distribute the generated steam in the exhaust duct independently of the operation of the blower. Such an embodiment offers the advantage of being able to direct the generated steam energy-efficiently to particularly stressed areas in the exhaust duct by means of the steam distribution fan's arrangement or operation. In this case, the blower, for example, does not need to be activated, which could potentially cause excessive suction and thus an excessively rapid discharge of the steam from the exhaust duct.

[0019] A further advantageous embodiment of the proposed approach is a cooktop with a variant of the extractor hood presented here, in particular where any steam generated above the cooktop can be extracted through an opening in the cooktop into the steam extraction duct. Such an embodiment allows for the simple and efficient realization of the aforementioned advantages.

[0020] Furthermore, the approach proposed here creates a method for operating a variant of a fume extraction unit presented here, wherein the method includes a step of activating the steam generation unit.

[0021] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the approach proposed here includes a drying step in which the blower is activated while the steam generation unit is deactivated. Such an embodiment allows the fume extraction duct to be dried after steam has been introduced into it for cleaning and / or disinfection.

[0022] One aspect is that as long as the steam generation unit is in operation and / or a temperature sensor in the fume extraction duct detects a temperature above a first threshold value, in particular 80 degrees Celsius, the closing flap is locked or blocked against manual opening.

[0023] Another aspect is that after steam generation has ceased, i.e., after the steam generation unit has been switched off, the damper is opened and the blower is activated. This ensures that dry air is drawn in through the inlet opening to dry the fume extraction duct.

[0024] One aspect is that during the cleaning phase, and especially during the operation of the steam generation unit, the steam is recirculated in the fume extraction duct. For this purpose, either the blower and / or a steam distribution fan is operated. The blower is preferably operated at a lower speed than during the drying phase.

[0025] The approach presented here further creates a control unit designed to execute, control, and implement the steps of a variant of the method presented here in appropriate devices. This embodiment of the invention, in the form of a device, also allows the underlying problem to be solved quickly and efficiently.

[0026] The control unit can be configured to read input signals and use these input signals to determine and provide output signals. An input signal can, for example, be a sensor signal readable via an input interface of the control unit. An output signal can be a control signal or a data signal that can be provided at an output interface of the control unit. The control unit can be configured to determine the output signals using a processing instruction implemented in hardware or software. For example, the control unit can include a logic circuit, an integrated circuit, or a software module and may be implemented as a discrete component or comprised of a discrete component.

[0027] Although the described approach is based on a household appliance, namely a range hood, in particular a downdraft range hood, the approach described here can be used accordingly in connection with a commercial or professional device, for example a medical device, such as a cleaning or disinfection device, a small sterilizer, a large-area disinfector or a container washing system.

[0028] An embodiment of the invention is shown purely schematically in the drawings and is described in more detail below. It shows Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a cooktop with an extractor hood; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the cooktop with an extractor hood; Figure 3 is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for operating a variant of an extractor hood presented here; and Figure 4 is a block diagram of a control unit for executing steps of the method for operating a variant of an extractor hood presented here.

[0029] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a cooktop 100 with a range hood 200. The cooktop 100 comprises, for example, a glass-ceramic surface 110, beneath which heating elements 111 are arranged. These heating elements, preferably designed as induction coils, provide the energy to heat cookware placed above the glass-ceramic surface 110. Furthermore, an inlet opening 205 is provided in the glass-ceramic surface 110, through which steam 210 generated above the cooktop 100 during cooking can be drawn into a steam extraction duct 220 of the range hood 200. This drawing in of the steam 210 is effected or assisted by a fan 225, and the drawn-in steam 210 is then, for example, directed at a vent located in the Figure 1The exhaust air can be discharged from the extractor unit 200 through the outlet opening (not shown). The extractor unit 200 also includes a cover flap 215 to close the inlet opening 205 when the extractor unit 200 is not in use, preventing, for example, dirt from entering the extractor unit 200 and ensuring an aesthetically pleasing appearance of the glass-ceramic surface 110 of the cooktop 100. A cooktop designed in this way allows for a very high level of user comfort, as, for example, the extraction unit 200 does not need to be designed as an overhead hood, thus reducing the risk of a user bumping their head on it.However, such a design of the extractor hood 200 can present problems regarding hygiene and cleaning possibilities, which can at least be reduced with the solution presented here.

[0030] The hob 100 also includes a control unit 300 for controlling the functions of the hob 100 and / or the extractor unit 200.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the approach proposed here, a steam generation unit 235 is provided in the fume extraction duct 220 or in a lateral recess 230 of the fume extraction duct 220. This unit is designed to discharge steam into the fume extraction duct 220 through a steam discharge opening 240, for example, into an area between the inlet opening 205 and the blower 225. The discharged hot steam can then inactivate germs, bacteria, and / or viruses and / or loosen or even completely remove contaminants 400, which are formed, for example, by grease deposits on an edge of the fume extraction duct 220, and discharge them back out of the exhaust unit 200 through the discharge opening. For example, the steam generation unit 235 can also be filled with water through the inlet opening 205, which significantly increases the user comfort of such a variant of the extractor hood unit 200.

[0032] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the cooktop 100 with a range hood 200 in cross-sectional view. Contrary to the illustration from the Figure 1 The closing flap 215 is now positioned in such a way that it closes the inlet opening 205. At the same time, the steam generation unit 235 is activated, so that it generates steam 250 and releases it into the fume extraction duct 220. The closing flap 215 prevents the steam 250 from escaping through the inlet opening 205 and thus prevents it from being available for cleaning and disinfecting the components of the extractor hood 200.

[0033] Furthermore, efficiency can be increased if the steam 250 is circulated by the fan 225 so that it reaches as many points as possible in the vapor extraction duct 220 or, more generally, in the extractor hood unit 200, and can thus take effect. Additionally or alternatively, a steam distribution fan 255 can also be used to circulate the steam 250. In this case, the fan 225 can remain deactivated, allowing, for example, easier cleaning of its components.

[0034] It is also conceivable that after an active phase of the steam generation unit 235, it is deactivated and then the blower 225 is activated for a drying process of the components of the steam extraction unit 200. This ensures that mold or biofilm does not form on damp walls or areas in the extractor unit 200, which would also cause hygiene problems.

[0035] Figure 3Figure 500 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 500 for operating a variant of a fume extraction unit presented herein, wherein the method 500 comprises a step 510 of activating the steam generation unit to generate steam and introduce it into the fume extraction duct. Furthermore, the method 500 can comprise a drying step 520, wherein in the drying step 520 the blower is activated with the steam generation unit deactivated.

[0036] Figure 4Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a control unit 300 for executing steps of the method 500 for operating a variant of a cooker hood unit presented here, wherein the control unit 300 includes a unit 310 for activating the steam generation unit in order to generate steam and introduce it into the fume extraction duct. Furthermore, the control unit 300 can include a drying unit 320, wherein the drying unit 320 activates the blower when the steam generation unit is deactivated.

[0037] The approach presented here allows for the integration of an additional hygiene function into a range hood, alongside existing cleaning methods. This provides users, especially in recirculation mode, with a simple way to semi-automatically disinfect their appliance, actively combating bacteria and mold growth and loosening dirt, particularly grease. This process should ideally be achieved without chemicals, or at least without chemical cleaning agents, to prevent these chemicals from being unknowingly released into the living space through the exhaust system.

[0038] The 2-in-1 cooktops will be equipped with a semi-automatic cleaning function. A key aspect of this is that the interior of the cooktop is simply supplied with hot steam by the fan system or steam extraction duct. The steam is then circulated by the fan. This hot steam has the property of killing bacteria and germs and also loosening grease. It is particularly noteworthy that the steam reaches all areas within the cooktop, even those inaccessible to the user.

[0039] A steam generator is therefore installed in the blower compartment or extractor hood unit. The steam generator is best positioned so that it can be filled via the fume duct or exhaust channel. During cleaning, the exhaust and fume opening, or the intake opening, can be closed automatically if necessary. Grease and activated carbon filters can be removed from the unit. The steam generator produces hot steam, which is distributed throughout the blower system by the blower fan, although steam distribution can also be achieved via a separate fan. After a disinfection period, the exhaust and fume opening, or another discharge opening, is opened, and a drying phase takes place through airflow in the blower compartment. The user can then, for example, wipe away the loosened dirt with a damp cloth.

[0040] The approach presented here eliminates the need for users to perform disinfection and blower cleaning entirely manually. Furthermore, areas difficult for customers to access are cleaned more hygienically, as the steam cannot penetrate narrow spaces. Chemical cleaning agents are no longer required. Reference sign

[0041] 100Cooktop 110Glass ceramic surface 111Heating elements 200 Extractor unit 205 Inlet opening 210 Fumes 215 Shut-off flap 220 Fumes extraction duct 225 Blower 230 Recess 235 Steam generating unit 240 Steam discharge opening 245 Storage 250 Steam 255 Steam distribution fan 300 Control unit 320 Drying unit 310 Unit for activating the steam generation unit 400 pollution 500Process 510Step of activating the steam generation unit 520Step of drying

Claims

1. Extractor unit (200) for extracting fumes (210) above a cooktop (100), wherein the extractor unit (200) has a fume extraction duct (220) with an inlet opening (205) for receiving fumes, and wherein the extractor unit (200) has a fan (225) for discharging the fumes through the fume extraction duct (220) and a steam generation unit (235), wherein the steam generation unit (235) is configured to discharge steam (250) into the fume extraction duct (220), and wherein the steam generation unit (235) has a steam discharge opening (240) which is arranged in the fume extraction duct (220) to introduce the steam (250) into an area between the inlet opening (205) and the fan (225). characterized by the fact that The steam generating unit (235) has a storage tank (245) for liquid, in particular water, wherein the storage tank (245) is designed to be removable and / or filled through the inlet opening (205).

2. Extraction unit (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a part of the vapor extraction duct (220) forms the storage (245).

3. Extraction unit (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the steam generation unit (235) has a heating element (148) by means of which the steam (250) is generated from the liquid.

4. Steam generation unit (235) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a part of the vapor extraction channel (220) forms the heating element (148).

5. Extraction unit (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the blower (225) is configured to circulate the steam (250) generated by the steam generation unit (235) in the fume extraction duct (220).

6. Extraction unit (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the steam generation unit (235) is configured to discharge steam (250) into the fume extraction duct (220) when an inlet of the fume extraction duct (220) is closed by a flap (215).

7. Extraction unit (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the steam generation unit (235) can be filled with water through at least a part of the vapor extraction duct (220).

8. Extraction unit (200) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a steam distribution fan (255) configured to distribute or recirculate generated steam (250) independently of the operation of the blower (225) in the fume extraction duct (220).

9. Cooktop (100) with a ventilation unit (200) according to one of the preceding claims, in particular wherein a vapor (210) arising above the cooktop (100) can be extracted through an inlet opening (205) of the cooktop (100) into the vapor extraction duct (220).

10. Method (500) for operating a range hood unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 6 or for operating a 7. hob (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the method (500) comprises a step (510) of activating the steam generation unit (235) to generate steam (250) and introduce it into the vapor extraction duct (220).

11. Method (500) according to the preceding claim, comprising a drying step (520) wherein in the drying step (520) the blower (225) is activated with the steam generation unit (235) deactivated.

12. Control unit (300) configured to perform and / or control the steps (510, 520) of the method (500) according to one of the two preceding claims in corresponding units (310, 320).

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