Inward fired dual-stage radial gas burner assembly for cooktop appliance

Abstract

A cooktop appliance and gas burner assembly are provided. A first burner body includes a plurality of first flame ports distributed along a circumferential direction about a central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of first flame ports. The first burner body includes a first mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of first flame ports to distribute a first flow of fuel therethrough. A second burner body includes a plurality of second flame ports distributed along the circumferential direction about the central combustion zone. The second burner body includes a second mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of second flame ports to distribute a second flow of fuel therethrough. The second burner body is positioned radially inward of the first burner body, and the plurality of second flame ports is positioned along an axial direction below the plurality of first flame ports.

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to cooktop appliances with gas burner assemblies, such as gas range appliances or gas stove appliances.BACKGROUND

[0002] Certain cooktop appliances include gas burners for heating cooking utensils on the cooktop appliances. Gas burners that fire inwards, typically with a swirling flame pattern, offer better efficiency than traditional outward firing gas burners. However, known inward firing gas burners have various drawbacks.

[0003] One drawback to inward fired single flame ring burners is a large diameter of the flame ring relative to a power output from the flame ring. The perimeter of the flame ring that defines the flame ports is generally greater than an equivalently-powered radially outward fired burner. Consequently, a minimum power that an inward swirl burner may decrease to (i.e., turndown) is higher than other burners (e.g., outward fired burners) to avoid flame blow out (i.e., loss of flame). The minimum power that the inward swirl burner may decrease to may be up to double the minimum power of other burners of similar power output. Stated differently, a turndown ratio for a non-inward fired swirl burner may be up to double a turndown ratio for an inward fired swirl burner having similar powers.

[0004] Consequently, inward swirl burners struggle to provide low heat settings, such as may be used for melting chocolate, or for extended simmering of sauces. Inward swirl burners struggle to turndown to low heat settings without risking flame stability or extinction, requiring relatively higher heat output at low heat settings which may be unsuitable for simmering, melting, etc.

[0005] A multi-ring inward fired burner may provide benefits for high heat tasks (e.g., boiling) while also providing a reduced minimum power for low heat tasks as compared to a single flame ring inward burner, via a smaller inner flame ring. However, despite providing a lower minimum heat, a centrally-positioned inward swirl burner positioned near a cooking utensil may concentrate heat to a center region, which may be disadvantageous for uniform, even heating tasks (e.g., simmering).

[0006] Additionally, or alternatively, multi-ring inward fired burners may collect unburned fuel in the center during initial startup if an ignition spark is not provided within a relatively immediate period of time. Structures for mitigating such pooling may add costs.

[0007] A multi-ring inward fired gas burner addressing one or more of these issues would be advantageous and beneficial. Furthermore, a cooktop appliance and multi-ring inward fired gas burner addressing one or more of these issues would be advantageous and beneficial.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0008] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0009] An aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a gas burner assembly for a cooktop appliance. The gas burner assembly includes a first burner body and a second burner body. The first burner body includes a plurality of first flame ports distributed along a circumferential direction about a central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of first flame ports. The first burner body includes a first mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of first flame ports to distribute a first flow of fuel therethrough. The second burner body includes a plurality of second flame ports distributed along the circumferential direction about the central combustion zone. The second burner body includes a second mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of second flame ports to distribute a second flow of fuel therethrough. The second burner body is positioned radially inward of the first burner body, and the plurality of second flame ports is positioned along an axial direction below the plurality of first flame ports.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a cooktop appliance. The cooktop appliance include a gas burner assembly positioned at a top panel. The gas burner assembly includes a first burner body and a second burner body. The first burner body includes a first inner side wall and a first outer side wall. A plurality of first flame ports is distributed through the first inner side wall along a circumferential direction about a first central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of first flame ports. The first burner body includes a first mixing chamber positioned between the first inner side wall and the first outer side wall. The first mixing chamber is fluidly coupled to the plurality of first flame ports to distribute a first flow of fuel therethrough. A second burner body includes a second inner side wall and a second outer side wall. A plurality of second flame ports is distributed through the second inner side wall along the circumferential direction about a second central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of second flame ports. The second burner body includes a second mixing chamber positioned between the second inner side wall and the second outer side wall. The second mixing chamber is fluidly coupled to the plurality of second flame ports to distribute a second flow of fuel therethrough. The second burner body is positioned radially inward of the first burner body. The plurality of second flame ports is positioned along an axial direction below the plurality of first flame ports.

[0011] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0013] FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of a range appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 provides a top, plan view of the exemplary range appliance of FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 4 provides a cutaway perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 5 provides an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 6 provides a cutaway side view of an exemplary embodiment of the burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0019] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0021] As used herein, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows.

[0022] Embodiments of a cooktop appliance and multi-ring inward-fired swirl burner assembly addressing one or more of the aforementioned issues are provided. Embodiments described herein provide an inward-fired multi ring swirl burner assembly having a first inward-fired burner ring (outer burner) positioned radially outward of a second inward-fired burner ring (inner burner). The flame ports of the inner burner are positioned at a height above the cooktop that is below that of a flame ring of the outer burner. The height may facilitate an increased distance to diffuse heat from the inner burner before impinging on the bottom surface of cookware at the burner assembly. In various embodiments, a height separation may provide an additional twelve (12) millimeters or 0.5 inches of distance (e.g., along a vertical direction) to diffuse gases from the inner burner. Still various embodiments may include a cap of the inner burner contoured with a height that is proximate to, or above, the height of the flame ports at the outer burner. The cap of the inner burner may form a deflector for gas accumulation from the outer burner.

[0023] In various embodiments, the multi-ring inward-fired swirl burner assembly includes the inner and outer burners having concentric rings and a hollow center. The hollow center may be free of, or substantially free of, burner assembly structure or material at the combustion zone(s). A swirl component at flame ports of the inner and outer burners may be directionally similar to one another. A mixing throat may provide gaseous fuel to mixing chambers at the inner and outer burner rings. The mixing throat may include one or more offset, vertically-extending mixing throats.

[0024] Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of a cooktop appliance 100 as may be employed with the present disclosure. FIG. 2 provides a top, plan view of cooktop appliance 100. Cooktop appliance 100 includes an insulated cabinet 110. Cabinet 110 defines an upper cooking chamber 120 and a lower cooking chamber 122. Thus, cooktop appliance 100 is generally referred to as a double oven range appliance. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, cooktop appliance 100 is provided by way of example only, and the present disclosure may be used in any suitable appliance (e.g., a single oven range appliance or a standalone cooktop appliance). Thus, the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is not intended to limit the present disclosure to any particular cooking chamber configuration or arrangement.

[0025] Upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122 are configured for the receipt of one or more food items to be cooked. Cooktop appliance 100 includes an upper door 124 and a lower door 126 rotatably attached to cabinet 110 in order to permit selective access to upper cooking chamber 120 and lower cooking chamber 122, respectively. Handles 128 are mounted to upper and lower doors 124 and 126 to assist a user with opening and closing doors 124 and 126 in order to access cooking chambers 120 and 122. As an example, a user can pull on handle 128 mounted to upper door 124 to open or close upper door 124 and access upper cooking chamber 120. Glass windowpanes 130 provide for viewing the contents of upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122 when doors 124 and 126 are closed and also assist with insulating upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122. Heating elements (not shown), such as electric resistance heating elements, gas burners, microwave heating elements, halogen heating elements, or suitable combinations thereof, are positioned within upper cooking chamber 120 and lower cooking chamber 122 for heating upper cooking chamber 120 and lower cooking chamber 122.

[0026] Cooktop appliance 100 also includes a cooktop 140. Cooktop 140 is positioned at or adjacent a top portion of cabinet 110. Thus, cooktop 140 is positioned above upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122. Cooktop 140 may include a top panel 142. By way of example, top panel 142 may be constructed of glass, ceramics, enameled steel, and combinations thereof. Moreover, top panel 142 may be formed as a unitary, single piece or, alternatively, as multiple discrete pieces joined together.

[0027] For cooktop appliance 100, a utensil holding food or cooking liquids (e.g., oil, water, etc.) may be placed onto grates 152 at a location of any of burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150. Burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150 provide thermal energy to cooking utensils on grates 152. As shown in FIG. 1, burners assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150 can be configured in various sizes so as to provide, for example, for the receipt of cooking utensils (e.g., pots, pans, etc.) of various sizes and configurations and to provide different heat inputs for such cooking utensils. Grates 152 may be supported on a top surface 158 of top panel 142. In optional embodiments, cooktop appliance 100 includes a griddle burner 160 positioned at a middle portion of top panel 142, as may be seen in FIG. 2. A griddle may be positioned on grates 152 and heated with griddle burner 160.

[0028] A user interface panel 154 is located within convenient reach of a user of the cooktop appliance 100. For this exemplary embodiment, user interface panel 154 includes knobs 156 that are each associated with one of burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150 and griddle burner 160. Knobs 156 allow the user to activate each burner assembly and determine the amount of heat input provided by each burner assembly 144, 146, 148, 150 and griddle burner 160 to a cooking utensil located thereon. User interface panel 154 may also be provided with one or more graphical display devices that deliver certain information to the user such as, for example, whether a particular burner assembly is activated or the rate at which the burner assembly is set.

[0029] Although shown with knobs 156, it should be understood that knobs 156 and the configuration of cooktop appliance 100 shown in FIG. 1 is provided by way of example only. More specifically, user interface panel 154 may include various input components, such as one or more of a variety of touch-type controls, electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, push buttons, and touch pads. The user interface panel 154 may include other display components, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user.

[0030] Turning now to FIGS. 4-6, perspective, cutaway, and exploded views of an exemplary embodiment of a multi-ring inward-fired gas burner assembly (hereinafter, “burner assembly 200”) are provided. As an example, burner assembly 200 may be used in cooktop appliance 100 (FIG. 2) as one of burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150, 160. Nonetheless, it will be understood that, while described in greater detail below in the context of cooktop appliance 100 or cooktop 140, burner assembly 200 may be used in or with any suitable appliance in alternative exemplary embodiments.

[0031] Generally, burner assembly 200 includes a pair of substantially concentric inner burner rings configured as inward firing, such as with a swirling flame pattern. As discussed in greater detail below, burner assembly 200 includes features for managing or mitigating heat at top panel 142 (e.g., to prevent damage thereto). Burner assembly 200 defines an axial direction A, a radial direction R, and a circumferential direction C.

[0032] When assembled, burner assembly 200 is positioned at top panel 142. As noted above, top panel 142 may include multiple discrete elements or, alternatively, a single integral unitary piece (e.g., formed from sheet metal). Thus, burner assembly 200 may be positioned at a specific separable portion of top panel 142 (e.g., a mounting pan mounted to or supported on a support plate of top panel 142). Burner assembly 200 includes a first or outer burner body 210 and a second or inner burner body 1210. Burner bodies 210, 1210 form annular burner rings. Burner bodies 210, 1210 may be positioned on top panel 142. For example, burner bodies 210, 1210 may rest on top panel 142 such that burner bodies 210, 1210 are not fastened or otherwise mechanically fixed to top panel 142. Thus, a user may simply lift burner bodies 210, 1210 upwardly (e.g., along axial direction A) away from top panel 142 to remove one or both of burner bodies 210, 1210 from top panel 142.

[0033] Annular outer burner body 210 defines a central combustion zone 212. Burner body 210 includes a plurality of flame ports 214 (e.g., at or facing central combustion zone 212). Flame ports 214 may be distributed, for example, along the circumferential direction C, about central combustion zone 212. Gaseous fuel is thus flowable from mixing chamber 216 within burner body 210 into central combustion zone 212 through flame ports 214. Flame ports 214 may also be oriented such that the gaseous fuel flows in a swirling pattern from flame ports 214 into central combustion zone 212.

[0034] In certain embodiments, burner body 210 includes an inner side wall 218 and an outer side wall 219. Inner side wall 218 may extend around central combustion zone 212 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Flame ports 214 may be formed on or extend through inner side wall 218 (e.g., substantially along the radial direction R, or additionally, along radial direction R and circumferential direction C, between mixing chamber 216 and central combustion zone 212). Outer side wall 219 may extend around inner side wall 218 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Outer side wall 219 may also be spaced from inner side wall 218 (e.g., along the radial direction R). Mixing chamber 216 may be defined and positioned between inner and outer side walls 218, 219 (e.g., along the radial direction R, within annular burner body 210).

[0035] Burner body 210 is open at central combustion zone 212. For example, no portion or component of burner body 210 may extend (e.g., inward or otherwise along the radial direction R) into central combustion zone 212. In some embodiments, no fuel-providing structure extends into the central combustion zone 212. Top panel 142 may be exposed through burner body 210 at central combustion zone 212. Specifically, a circumferentially bounded portion of top panel 142 (e.g., bounded by burner body 210) may be exposed along the axial direction A. In such a manner, spills from utensils above burner assembly 200 may flow through central combustion zone 212 to top panel 142, and such spills may pass through burner assembly 200 without contacting burner assembly 200 at central combustion zone 212. Staining of burner body 210 may be reduced or limited by allowing spills to pass through burner body 210 at central combustion zone 212.

[0036] Burner body 210 may include an annular burner base 240 and an annular burner head 242. Burner base 240 includes inlet passages 230 configured to receive a flow of gaseous fuel from a mixing tube 224, such as a vertical Venturi mixing tube. Burner head 242 may be positioned on burner base 240 to form mixing chamber 216 of burner body 210. Thus, burner base 240 may form a bottom wall of mixing chamber 216, and burner head 242 may form a top wall of mixing chamber 216. Burner base 240 or burner head 242 may be formed of a cast metal, such as cast iron or cast aluminum alloy.

[0037] In some embodiments, burner body 210 may also include burner cap 246. For instance, burner cap 246 may be positioned on burner head 242 such that annular burner cap 246 covers annular burner head 242. Annular burner cap 246 may reduce staining of annular burner base 240 or annular burner head 242.

[0038] Annular inner burner body 1210 may be formed substantially similarly as outer burner body 210. Inner burner body 1210 defines a central combustion zone 1212. Burner body 1210 includes a plurality of flame ports 1214 (e.g., at or facing central combustion zone 1212). Flame ports 1214 may be distributed, for example, along the circumferential direction C, about central combustion zone 1212. Gaseous fuel is thus flowable from mixing chamber 1216 within burner body 1210 into central combustion zone 1212 through flame ports 1214. Flame ports 1214 may also be oriented such that the gaseous fuel flows in a swirling pattern from flame ports 1214 into central combustion zone 1212. In various embodiments, flame ports 1214 may be configured with similar angular extensions and directions as flame ports 214, such as providing a similar swirl component from burner bodies 210, 1210.

[0039] In certain embodiments, burner body 1210 includes an inner side wall 1218 and an outer side wall 1219. Inner side wall 1218 may extend around central combustion zone 1212 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Flame ports 1214 may be formed on or extend through inner side wall 1218 (e.g., substantially along the radial direction R, or additionally, along radial direction R and circumferential direction C, between mixing chamber 1216 and central combustion zone 1212). Outer side wall 1219 may extend around inner side wall 1218 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Outer side wall 1219 may also be spaced from inner side wall 218 (e.g., along the radial direction R). Mixing chamber 1216 may be defined and positioned between inner and outer side walls 1218, 1219 (e.g., along the radial direction R, within annular burner body 1210).

[0040] Burner body 1210 is open at central combustion zone 1212. For example, no portion or component of burner body 1210 may extend (e.g., inward or otherwise along the radial direction R) into central combustion zone 1212. In some embodiments, no fuel-providing structure extends into the central combustion zone 1212. Top panel 142 may be exposed through burner body 1210 at central combustion zone 1212. Specifically, a circumferentially bounded portion of top panel 142 (e.g., bounded by burner body 1210) may be exposed along the axial direction A. In such a manner, spills from utensils above burner assembly 200 may flow through central combustion zone 1212 to top panel 142, and such spills may pass through burner assembly 200 without contacting burner assembly 200 at central combustion zone 1212. Staining of burner body 1210 may be reduced or limited by allowing spills to pass through burner body 1210 at central combustion zone 1212.

[0041] Burner body 1210 may include an annular burner base 1240 and an annular burner head 1242. Burner base 1240 includes one or more inlet passages 1230 configured to receive a flow of gaseous fuel from a mixing tube 1224, such as a vertical Venturi mixing tube. Burner head 1242 may be positioned on burner base 1240 to form mixing chamber 1216 of burner body 1210. Thus, burner base 1240 may form a bottom wall of mixing chamber 1216, and burner head 1242 may form a top wall of mixing chamber 1216. Burner base 1240 or burner head 1242 may be formed of a cast metal, such as cast iron or cast aluminum alloy.

[0042] Top panel 142 may also be continuous or imperforate directly below central combustion zone 212, 1212. Thus, spills passing through central combustion zone 212, 1212 may collect on top panel 142 and not flow through top panel 142. A user may easily access and clean such spills on top panel 142 by removing burner body 210, 1210 from top panel 142. In such a manner, burner assembly 200 may facilitate cleaning of spills from utensils positioned over burner assembly 200.

[0043] In some embodiments, mixing tube 224, 1224 extends through top panel 142 (e.g., along the axial direction A) toward fuel manifold 220 from respective burner body 210, 1210. For instance, top panel 142 may form openings through which mixing tube 224, 1224 is extendable into fluid communication with a fuel manifold 220.

[0044] When assembled to the cooktop appliance, fuel manifold 220 is positioned beneath top panel 142 (e.g., along axial direction A). Thus, fuel manifold 220 may be positioned at or proximate to a bottom surface of the top panel 142 and burner body 210, 1210 may be positioned at or proximate to a top surface 270 of the top panel 142. Burner body 210, 1210 is fluidly coupled to fuel manifold 220 such that the gaseous fuel is flowable from fuel manifold 220 into respective mixing chambers 216, 1216. For example, fuel manifold 220 has an outlet passage 222. The gaseous fuel is flowable from fuel manifold 220 through outlet passage 222 into mixing chamber 216 of burner body 210. In another example, fuel manifold 220 has an outlet passage 1222. The gaseous fuel is flowable from fuel manifold 220 through outlet passage 1222 into mixing chamber 1216 of burner body 1210.

[0045] As shown, burner body 210, 1210 have a respective vertical mixing tube 224, 1224. Mixing tube 224, 1224 may form a Venturi mixing tube. Embodiments of the mixing tube have a respective inlet 227, 1227 to a flow passage in fluid communication with respective mixing chambers 216, 1216 through respective openings 230, 1230. Burner body 210, 1210 may include a plurality of mixing tubes 224, 1224 positioned at different locations along the circumferential direction C. For instance, the plurality of mixing tubes 224, 1224 may be substantially evenly spaced apart from one another. In various embodiments, the burner body includes one, or two or more mixing tubes, such as three mixing tubes, or other appropriate quantity to provide a fuel-air mixture to respective mixing chambers.

[0046] Fuel manifold 220 includes a body 225 forming a first fuel passage 229 and a second fuel passage 1229. The first fuel passage 229 extends from an inlet opening 226 to an outlet opening 222. An outlet fuel nozzle 228 is positioned at the outlet opening 222. The outlet fuel nozzle 228 is configured to direct a flow of gaseous fuel toward the mixing tube 224 at the burner body 210. In various embodiments, the outlet fuel nozzle 228 is extended in vertical orientation from the outlet opening 222 toward the mixing tube inlet 227 at the mixing tube 224. Outlet opening 222 may be positioned at different locations along the circumferential direction C. For instance, a plurality of outlet openings 222 may be substantially evenly spaced apart from one another. In various embodiments, the fuel manifold 220 may include two or more outlet passages 222, such as three outlet passages, or a quantity and position corresponding to a quantity of vertical mixing tubes 224, such as to provide a gaseous fuel through the outlet opening 222 to a respective vertical mixing tube 224.

[0047] The second fuel passage 1229 extends from an inlet opening 1226 to an outlet opening 1222. An outlet fuel nozzle 1228 is positioned at the outlet opening 1222. The outlet fuel nozzle 1228 is configured to direct a flow of gaseous fuel toward the mixing tube 1224 at the burner body 1210. In various embodiments, the outlet fuel nozzle 1228 is extended in vertical orientation from the outlet opening 1222 toward the mixing tube inlet 1227 at the mixing tube 1224. Outlet opening 1222 may be positioned at different locations along the circumferential direction C. For instance, a plurality of outlet openings 1222 may be substantially evenly spaced apart from one another. In various embodiments, the fuel manifold 220 may include one, or two or more outlet passages 1222, such as three outlet passages, or a quantity and position corresponding to a quantity of vertical mixing tubes 1224, such as to provide a gaseous fuel through the outlet opening 1222 to a respective vertical mixing tube 1224.

[0048] A fuel nozzle may be positioned at and oriented towards inlet 226 of body 225. In particular, the fuel nozzle may be mounted to the body 225 such that the fuel nozzle is spaced from fuel passage 229 (e.g., along the radial direction R). The fuel nozzle may be connected to a supply line for gaseous fuel, such as propane or natural gas, and the gaseous fuel may flow from the fuel nozzle through fuel passage 229 and outlet opening 222 of body 225.

[0049] One or more first posts 221 extends from body 225. Post 221 is configured to mount and support a heat sink plate 252. The heat sink plate 252 is a separate and separable structure from the body 225. In various embodiments, post 221 is configured to receive a fastener extending into the post 221 to affix the heat sink plate 252 to the post 221. Post 221 may include an opening into which the fastener is extendable. The opening may form a threaded interface configured to receive the fastener including a threaded shank, such as, but not limited to, a screw, a bolt, a tie rod, etc. In various embodiments, post 221 extends along axial direction A and forms a cavity or gap between the heat sink plate 252 and the body 225.

[0050] Embodiments of the fuel manifold 220 may advantageously and beneficially reduce a mass and weight of material in contrast to known fuel manifolds. Additionally, embodiments provided herein allow for simple construction, such as via die casting, additive manufacturing, machining, or combinations thereof. Various embodiments of the fuel manifold 220 include the body 225 and posts 221 forming a unitary, monolithic structure. For instance, various embodiments of burner assembly 200 include the fuel manifold 220 forming a unitary, monolithic structure separate from the heat sink plate 252, top panel 142, and burner body 210, 1210.

[0051] The gaseous fuel is received through inlet openings 226, 1226 into respective fuel passages 229, 1229 and pushed out through respective outlet openings 222, 1222. For instance, fuel passages 229, 1229 may be formed fluidly segregated from one another. The gaseous fuel egressing the outlet opening 222, 1222 may entrain air from the space between the outlet opening 222, 1222 and respective mixing tube inlet 227, 1227, and the gaseous fuel may mix with the entrained atmospheric air within vertical mixing tube 224, 1224. The mixture of the gaseous fuel and air may mix at respective fluidly-coupled mixing chambers 216, 1216 and egress through respective fluidly-coupled flame ports 214, 1214.

[0052] Outlet openings 222, 1222 may be distributed or sized to facilitate uniform flow of the gaseous fuel into inlet openings 227, 1227. For example, outlet openings 222, 1222 may be, for example, uniformly distributed about central combustion zone 212, 1212.

[0053] The heat sink plate 252 is positioned and retained by posts 221 relative to a portion of top panel 142, such as radially inward from annular burner body 210, to advantageously prevent damage or otherwise manage heat generated within combustion zone 212. For instance, legs 221 may position the heat sink plate 252 along the circumferentially bounded portion of the top panel 142 below the plurality of flame ports 214. Thus, heat absorbed at the portion of the top panel 142 vertically or axially aligned with the central combustion zone 212 may be advantageously reduced by the heat sink plate 252.

[0054] In various embodiments, heat sink plate 252 is positioned between the annular burner body 210 and above fuel manifold body 225. Thus, relative to axial direction A, legs 221 at body 225 allow the heat sink plate 252 to be disposed below the burner body 210, 1210 and above the fuel passage 229, 1229.

[0055] In various embodiments, the heat sink plate 252 is formed from a thermally conductive metal material (e.g., aluminum or steel, including alloys thereof). In some embodiments, the conductive heat sink plate 252 extends (e.g., upward along the axial direction A) from the fuel passage 229 to bottom surface of the top panel 142. Furthermore, posts 221 offset the heat sink plate 252 from the body 225. Thus, a base or bottom of conductive heat sink plate 252 is disposed from body 225, such as to form the cavity or gap extending vertically therebetween.

[0056] Referring now to FIG. 6, flame ports 214 of the outer burner body 210 are positioned at a height along the axial direction A above the cooktop, such as depicted at reference first height 201. Flame ports 1214 of the inner burner body 1210 are positioned at a height along the axial direction A above the cooktop, such as depicted at reference second height 202. In various embodiments, second height 202 may reference an uppermost portion of flame ports 1214 along the axial direction A. Second height 202 of flame ports 1214 at the inner burner body 1210 is below first height 201 of flame ports 214 at the outer burner body 210. In some embodiments, second height 202 of flame ports 1214 at the inner burner body 1210 is below first height 201 referencing a lowermost portion along axial direction A of flame ports 214 at the outer burner body 210. Accordingly, flame ports 1214 of the inner burner body 1210 are positioned at a height along the axial direction A above the cooktop (e.g., above top panel 142) that is below that of flame ports 214 of the outer burner body 210.

[0057] A height separation, such as a difference between heights 201, 202, may facilitate an increased distance to diffuse heat from the inner burner body 1210 before impinging on the bottom surface of cookware at the burner assembly 200. In some embodiments, the height separation is approximately twelve (12) millimeters, or approximately 0.5 inches, or greater, along the axial direction A. In still some embodiments, a ratio of the height separation to an axial dimension of flame ports 1214 is at least 2:1, such as the height separation is at least double the axial dimension of the flame ports 1214. In still some embodiments, a ratio of the height separation to an axial dimension of flame ports 1214 is at least 3:1, or at least 5:1. The height separation may provide additional distance to diffuse combusted gases from the inner burner body 1210. The height separation may facilitate diffusion of combusted gases to generate a more even heat at low heat settings.

[0058] Referring still to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, burner head 1242 at the inner burner body 1210 is contoured to extend to a maximum height, such as depicted at reference third height 203. Third height 203 references a maximum plane or surface along the axial direction A from the cooktop, such as from top panel 142. Third height 203 is equal to, or greater than (i.e., above), the first height 201. Accordingly, burner head 1242 is contoured with a height that is proximate to, or above, the height of the flame ports 214 at the outer burner body 210. The burner head 1242 of the inner burner body 1210 may form a deflector for gas accumulation from the outer burner body 210.

[0059] Inner and outer ring flame ports at multi-ring inward fired burners positioned co-planar relative to one another may generally improve heat transfer and efficiency to cookware at the burner. Consequently, heights and height separations, such as provided herein, may decrease efficiency of the burner relative to flame ports positioned co-planar to one another. However, heights and height separations such as provided herein may advantageously and beneficially improve performance for multi-ring inward fired burner assemblies at low heat settings while avoiding significant losses to heat transfer and efficiency at high heat settings.

[0060] For instance, embodiments such as provided herein of the inner burner relative to the outer burner may have losses to efficiency during operation of the inner burner alone. However, the outer swirling flame from embodiments of the outer burner provided herein relative to the inner burner may mitigate overall losses to heat transfer and efficiency from the inner burner by preventing the inner flame from losing heat to the surrounding atmosphere. Advantageously and beneficially, improvements to inner and outer burner efficiency may exceed losses relative to operation of the inner burner alone.

[0061] Embodiments of the multi-ring inward fired burner assembly 200 described herein may provide advantages and benefits associated generally with multi-ring burners. Additionally, embodiments described herein may further provide a more uniform heat for inward fired swirl burners at low heat settings.

[0062] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0021]As used herein, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to sign...

FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to cooktop appliances with gas burner assemblies, such as gas range appliances or gas stove appliances.BACKGROUND

[0002] Certain cooktop appliances include gas burners for heating cooking utensils on the cooktop appliances. Gas burners that fire inwards, typically with a swirling flame pattern, offer better efficiency than traditional outward firing gas burners. However, known inward firing gas burners have various drawbacks.

[0003] One drawback to inward fired single flame ring burners is a large diameter of the flame ring relative to a power output from the flame ring. The perimeter of the flame ring that defines the flame ports is generally greater than an equivalently-powered radially outward fired burner. Consequently, a minimum power that an inward swirl burner may decrease to (i.e., turndown) is higher than other burners (e.g., outward fired burners) to avoid flame blow out (i.e., loss of flame). The minimum power that the inward swirl burner may decrease to may be up to double the minimum power of other burners of similar power output. Stated differently, a turndown ratio for a non-inward fired swirl burner may be up to double a turndown ratio for an inward fired swirl burner having similar powers.

[0004] Consequently, inward swirl burners struggle to provide low heat settings, such as may be used for melting chocolate, or for extended simmering of sauces. Inward swirl burners struggle to turndown to low heat settings without risking flame stability or extinction, requiring relatively higher heat output at low heat settings which may be unsuitable for simmering, melting, etc.

[0005] A multi-ring inward fired burner may provide benefits for high heat tasks (e.g., boiling) while also providing a reduced minimum power for low heat tasks as compared to a single flame ring inward burner, via a smaller inner flame ring. However, despite providing a lower minimum heat, a centrally-positioned inward swirl burner positioned near a cooking utensil may concentrate heat to a center region, which may be disadvantageous for uniform, even heating tasks (e.g., simmering).

[0006] Additionally, or alternatively, multi-ring inward fired burners may collect unburned fuel in the center during initial startup if an ignition spark is not provided within a relatively immediate period of time. Structures for mitigating such pooling may add costs.

[0007] A multi-ring inward fired gas burner addressing one or more of these issues would be advantageous and beneficial. Furthermore, a cooktop appliance and multi-ring inward fired gas burner addressing one or more of these issues would be advantageous and beneficial.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0008] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0009] An aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a gas burner assembly for a cooktop appliance. The gas burner assembly includes a first burner body and a second burner body. The first burner body includes a plurality of first flame ports distributed along a circumferential direction about a central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of first flame ports. The first burner body includes a first mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of first flame ports to distribute a first flow of fuel therethrough. The second burner body includes a plurality of second flame ports distributed along the circumferential direction about the central combustion zone. The second burner body includes a second mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of second flame ports to distribute a second flow of fuel therethrough. The second burner body is positioned radially inward of the first burner body, and the plurality of second flame ports is positioned along an axial direction below the plurality of first flame ports.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a cooktop appliance. The cooktop appliance include a gas burner assembly positioned at a top panel. The gas burner assembly includes a first burner body and a second burner body. The first burner body includes a first inner side wall and a first outer side wall. A plurality of first flame ports is distributed through the first inner side wall along a circumferential direction about a first central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of first flame ports. The first burner body includes a first mixing chamber positioned between the first inner side wall and the first outer side wall. The first mixing chamber is fluidly coupled to the plurality of first flame ports to distribute a first flow of fuel therethrough. A second burner body includes a second inner side wall and a second outer side wall. A plurality of second flame ports is distributed through the second inner side wall along the circumferential direction about a second central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of second flame ports. The second burner body includes a second mixing chamber positioned between the second inner side wall and the second outer side wall. The second mixing chamber is fluidly coupled to the plurality of second flame ports to distribute a second flow of fuel therethrough. The second burner body is positioned radially inward of the first burner body. The plurality of second flame ports is positioned along an axial direction below the plurality of first flame ports.

[0011] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0013] FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of a range appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 provides a top, plan view of the exemplary range appliance of FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 4 provides a cutaway perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 5 provides an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 6 provides a cutaway side view of an exemplary embodiment of the burner assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0019] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0021] As used herein, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows.

[0022] Embodiments of a cooktop appliance and multi-ring inward-fired swirl burner assembly addressing one or more of the aforementioned issues are provided. Embodiments described herein provide an inward-fired multi ring swirl burner assembly having a first inward-fired burner ring (outer burner) positioned radially outward of a second inward-fired burner ring (inner burner). The flame ports of the inner burner are positioned at a height above the cooktop that is below that of a flame ring of the outer burner. The height may facilitate an increased distance to diffuse heat from the inner burner before impinging on the bottom surface of cookware at the burner assembly. In various embodiments, a height separation may provide an additional twelve (12) millimeters or 0.5 inches of distance (e.g., along a vertical direction) to diffuse gases from the inner burner. Still various embodiments may include a cap of the inner burner contoured with a height that is proximate to, or above, the height of the flame ports at the outer burner. The cap of the inner burner may form a deflector for gas accumulation from the outer burner.

[0023] In various embodiments, the multi-ring inward-fired swirl burner assembly includes the inner and outer burners having concentric rings and a hollow center. The hollow center may be free of, or substantially free of, burner assembly structure or material at the combustion zone(s). A swirl component at flame ports of the inner and outer burners may be directionally similar to one another. A mixing throat may provide gaseous fuel to mixing chambers at the inner and outer burner rings. The mixing throat may include one or more offset, vertically-extending mixing throats.

[0024] Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of a cooktop appliance 100 as may be employed with the present disclosure. FIG. 2 provides a top, plan view of cooktop appliance 100. Cooktop appliance 100 includes an insulated cabinet 110. Cabinet 110 defines an upper cooking chamber 120 and a lower cooking chamber 122. Thus, cooktop appliance 100 is generally referred to as a double oven range appliance. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, cooktop appliance 100 is provided by way of example only, and the present disclosure may be used in any suitable appliance (e.g., a single oven range appliance or a standalone cooktop appliance). Thus, the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is not intended to limit the present disclosure to any particular cooking chamber configuration or arrangement.

[0025] Upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122 are configured for the receipt of one or more food items to be cooked. Cooktop appliance 100 includes an upper door 124 and a lower door 126 rotatably attached to cabinet 110 in order to permit selective access to upper cooking chamber 120 and lower cooking chamber 122, respectively. Handles 128 are mounted to upper and lower doors 124 and 126 to assist a user with opening and closing doors 124 and 126 in order to access cooking chambers 120 and 122. As an example, a user can pull on handle 128 mounted to upper door 124 to open or close upper door 124 and access upper cooking chamber 120. Glass windowpanes 130 provide for viewing the contents of upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122 when doors 124 and 126 are closed and also assist with insulating upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122. Heating elements (not shown), such as electric resistance heating elements, gas burners, microwave heating elements, halogen heating elements, or suitable combinations thereof, are positioned within upper cooking chamber 120 and lower cooking chamber 122 for heating upper cooking chamber 120 and lower cooking chamber 122.

[0026] Cooktop appliance 100 also includes a cooktop 140. Cooktop 140 is positioned at or adjacent a top portion of cabinet 110. Thus, cooktop 140 is positioned above upper and lower cooking chambers 120 and 122. Cooktop 140 may include a top panel 142. By way of example, top panel 142 may be constructed of glass, ceramics, enameled steel, and combinations thereof. Moreover, top panel 142 may be formed as a unitary, single piece or, alternatively, as multiple discrete pieces joined together.

[0027] For cooktop appliance 100, a utensil holding food or cooking liquids (e.g., oil, water, etc.) may be placed onto grates 152 at a location of any of burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150. Burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150 provide thermal energy to cooking utensils on grates 152. As shown in FIG. 1, burners assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150 can be configured in various sizes so as to provide, for example, for the receipt of cooking utensils (e.g., pots, pans, etc.) of various sizes and configurations and to provide different heat inputs for such cooking utensils. Grates 152 may be supported on a top surface 158 of top panel 142. In optional embodiments, cooktop appliance 100 includes a griddle burner 160 positioned at a middle portion of top panel 142, as may be seen in FIG. 2. A griddle may be positioned on grates 152 and heated with griddle burner 160.

[0028] A user interface panel 154 is located within convenient reach of a user of the cooktop appliance 100. For this exemplary embodiment, user interface panel 154 includes knobs 156 that are each associated with one of burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150 and griddle burner 160. Knobs 156 allow the user to activate each burner assembly and determine the amount of heat input provided by each burner assembly 144, 146, 148, 150 and griddle burner 160 to a cooking utensil located thereon. User interface panel 154 may also be provided with one or more graphical display devices that deliver certain information to the user such as, for example, whether a particular burner assembly is activated or the rate at which the burner assembly is set.

[0029] Although shown with knobs 156, it should be understood that knobs 156 and the configuration of cooktop appliance 100 shown in FIG. 1 is provided by way of example only. More specifically, user interface panel 154 may include various input components, such as one or more of a variety of touch-type controls, electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, push buttons, and touch pads. The user interface panel 154 may include other display components, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user.

[0030] Turning now to FIGS. 4-6, perspective, cutaway, and exploded views of an exemplary embodiment of a multi-ring inward-fired gas burner assembly (hereinafter, “burner assembly 200”) are provided. As an example, burner assembly 200 may be used in cooktop appliance 100 (FIG. 2) as one of burner assemblies 144, 146, 148, 150, 160. Nonetheless, it will be understood that, while described in greater detail below in the context of cooktop appliance 100 or cooktop 140, burner assembly 200 may be used in or with any suitable appliance in alternative exemplary embodiments.

[0031] Generally, burner assembly 200 includes a pair of substantially concentric inner burner rings configured as inward firing, such as with a swirling flame pattern. As discussed in greater detail below, burner assembly 200 includes features for managing or mitigating heat at top panel 142 (e.g., to prevent damage thereto). Burner assembly 200 defines an axial direction A, a radial direction R, and a circumferential direction C.

[0032] When assembled, burner assembly 200 is positioned at top panel 142. As noted above, top panel 142 may include multiple discrete elements or, alternatively, a single integral unitary piece (e.g., formed from sheet metal). Thus, burner assembly 200 may be positioned at a specific separable portion of top panel 142 (e.g., a mounting pan mounted to or supported on a support plate of top panel 142). Burner assembly 200 includes a first or outer burner body 210 and a second or inner burner body 1210. Burner bodies 210, 1210 form annular burner rings. Burner bodies 210, 1210 may be positioned on top panel 142. For example, burner bodies 210, 1210 may rest on top panel 142 such that burner bodies 210, 1210 are not fastened or otherwise mechanically fixed to top panel 142. Thus, a user may simply lift burner bodies 210, 1210 upwardly (e.g., along axial direction A) away from top panel 142 to remove one or both of burner bodies 210, 1210 from top panel 142.

[0033] Annular outer burner body 210 defines a central combustion zone 212. Burner body 210 includes a plurality of flame ports 214 (e.g., at or facing central combustion zone 212). Flame ports 214 may be distributed, for example, along the circumferential direction C, about central combustion zone 212. Gaseous fuel is thus flowable from mixing chamber 216 within burner body 210 into central combustion zone 212 through flame ports 214. Flame ports 214 may also be oriented such that the gaseous fuel flows in a swirling pattern from flame ports 214 into central combustion zone 212.

[0034] In certain embodiments, burner body 210 includes an inner side wall 218 and an outer side wall 219. Inner side wall 218 may extend around central combustion zone 212 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Flame ports 214 may be formed on or extend through inner side wall 218 (e.g., substantially along the radial direction R, or additionally, along radial direction R and circumferential direction C, between mixing chamber 216 and central combustion zone 212). Outer side wall 219 may extend around inner side wall 218 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Outer side wall 219 may also be spaced from inner side wall 218 (e.g., along the radial direction R). Mixing chamber 216 may be defined and positioned between inner and outer side walls 218, 219 (e.g., along the radial direction R, within annular burner body 210).

[0035] Burner body 210 is open at central combustion zone 212. For example, no portion or component of burner body 210 may extend (e.g., inward or otherwise along the radial direction R) into central combustion zone 212. In some embodiments, no fuel-providing structure extends into the central combustion zone 212. Top panel 142 may be exposed through burner body 210 at central combustion zone 212. Specifically, a circumferentially bounded portion of top panel 142 (e.g., bounded by burner body 210) may be exposed along the axial direction A. In such a manner, spills from utensils above burner assembly 200 may flow through central combustion zone 212 to top panel 142, and such spills may pass through burner assembly 200 without contacting burner assembly 200 at central combustion zone 212. Staining of burner body 210 may be reduced or limited by allowing spills to pass through burner body 210 at central combustion zone 212.

[0036] Burner body 210 may include an annular burner base 240 and an annular burner head 242. Burner base 240 includes inlet passages 230 configured to receive a flow of gaseous fuel from a mixing tube 224, such as a vertical Venturi mixing tube. Burner head 242 may be positioned on burner base 240 to form mixing chamber 216 of burner body 210. Thus, burner base 240 may form a bottom wall of mixing chamber 216, and burner head 242 may form a top wall of mixing chamber 216. Burner base 240 or burner head 242 may be formed of a cast metal, such as cast iron or cast aluminum alloy.

[0037] In some embodiments, burner body 210 may also include burner cap 246. For instance, burner cap 246 may be positioned on burner head 242 such that annular burner cap 246 covers annular burner head 242. Annular burner cap 246 may reduce staining of annular burner base 240 or annular burner head 242.

[0038] Annular inner burner body 1210 may be formed substantially similarly as outer burner body 210. Inner burner body 1210 defines a central combustion zone 1212. Burner body 1210 includes a plurality of flame ports 1214 (e.g., at or facing central combustion zone 1212). Flame ports 1214 may be distributed, for example, along the circumferential direction C, about central combustion zone 1212. Gaseous fuel is thus flowable from mixing chamber 1216 within burner body 1210 into central combustion zone 1212 through flame ports 1214. Flame ports 1214 may also be oriented such that the gaseous fuel flows in a swirling pattern from flame ports 1214 into central combustion zone 1212. In various embodiments, flame ports 1214 may be configured with similar angular extensions and directions as flame ports 214, such as providing a similar swirl component from burner bodies 210, 1210.

[0039] In certain embodiments, burner body 1210 includes an inner side wall 1218 and an outer side wall 1219. Inner side wall 1218 may extend around central combustion zone 1212 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Flame ports 1214 may be formed on or extend through inner side wall 1218 (e.g., substantially along the radial direction R, or additionally, along radial direction R and circumferential direction C, between mixing chamber 1216 and central combustion zone 1212). Outer side wall 1219 may extend around inner side wall 1218 (e.g., along the circumferential direction C). Outer side wall 1219 may also be spaced from inner side wall 218 (e.g., along the radial direction R). Mixing chamber 1216 may be defined and positioned between inner and outer side walls 1218, 1219 (e.g., along the radial direction R, within annular burner body 1210).

[0040] Burner body 1210 is open at central combustion zone 1212. For example, no portion or component of burner body 1210 may extend (e.g., inward or otherwise along the radial direction R) into central combustion zone 1212. In some embodiments, no fuel-providing structure extends into the central combustion zone 1212. Top panel 142 may be exposed through burner body 1210 at central combustion zone 1212. Specifically, a circumferentially bounded portion of top panel 142 (e.g., bounded by burner body 1210) may be exposed along the axial direction A. In such a manner, spills from utensils above burner assembly 200 may flow through central combustion zone 1212 to top panel 142, and such spills may pass through burner assembly 200 without contacting burner assembly 200 at central combustion zone 1212. Staining of burner body 1210 may be reduced or limited by allowing spills to pass through burner body 1210 at central combustion zone 1212.

[0041] Burner body 1210 may include an annular burner base 1240 and an annular burner head 1242. Burner base 1240 includes one or more inlet passages 1230 configured to receive a flow of gaseous fuel from a mixing tube 1224, such as a vertical Venturi mixing tube. Burner head 1242 may be positioned on burner base 1240 to form mixing chamber 1216 of burner body 1210. Thus, burner base 1240 may form a bottom wall of mixing chamber 1216, and burner head 1242 may form a top wall of mixing chamber 1216. Burner base 1240 or burner head 1242 may be formed of a cast metal, such as cast iron or cast aluminum alloy.

[0042] Top panel 142 may also be continuous or imperforate directly below central combustion zone 212, 1212. Thus, spills passing through central combustion zone 212, 1212 may collect on top panel 142 and not flow through top panel 142. A user may easily access and clean such spills on top panel 142 by removing burner body 210, 1210 from top panel 142. In such a manner, burner assembly 200 may facilitate cleaning of spills from utensils positioned over burner assembly 200.

[0043] In some embodiments, mixing tube 224, 1224 extends through top panel 142 (e.g., along the axial direction A) toward fuel manifold 220 from respective burner body 210, 1210. For instance, top panel 142 may form openings through which mixing tube 224, 1224 is extendable into fluid communication with a fuel manifold 220.

[0044] When assembled to the cooktop appliance, fuel manifold 220 is positioned beneath top panel 142 (e.g., along axial direction A). Thus, fuel manifold 220 may be positioned at or proximate to a bottom surface of the top panel 142 and burner body 210, 1210 may be positioned at or proximate to a top surface 270 of the top panel 142. Burner body 210, 1210 is fluidly coupled to fuel manifold 220 such that the gaseous fuel is flowable from fuel manifold 220 into respective mixing chambers 216, 1216. For example, fuel manifold 220 has an outlet passage 222. The gaseous fuel is flowable from fuel manifold 220 through outlet passage 222 into mixing chamber 216 of burner body 210. In another example, fuel manifold 220 has an outlet passage 1222. The gaseous fuel is flowable from fuel manifold 220 through outlet passage 1222 into mixing chamber 1216 of burner body 1210.

[0045] As shown, burner body 210, 1210 have a respective vertical mixing tube 224, 1224. Mixing tube 224, 1224 may form a Venturi mixing tube. Embodiments of the mixing tube have a respective inlet 227, 1227 to a flow passage in fluid communication with respective mixing chambers 216, 1216 through respective openings 230, 1230. Burner body 210, 1210 may include a plurality of mixing tubes 224, 1224 positioned at different locations along the circumferential direction C. For instance, the plurality of mixing tubes 224, 1224 may be substantially evenly spaced apart from one another. In various embodiments, the burner body includes one, or two or more mixing tubes, such as three mixing tubes, or other appropriate quantity to provide a fuel-air mixture to respective mixing chambers.

[0046] Fuel manifold 220 includes a body 225 forming a first fuel passage 229 and a second fuel passage 1229. The first fuel passage 229 extends from an inlet opening 226 to an outlet opening 222. An outlet fuel nozzle 228 is positioned at the outlet opening 222. The outlet fuel nozzle 228 is configured to direct a flow of gaseous fuel toward the mixing tube 224 at the burner body 210. In various embodiments, the outlet fuel nozzle 228 is extended in vertical orientation from the outlet opening 222 toward the mixing tube inlet 227 at the mixing tube 224. Outlet opening 222 may be positioned at different locations along the circumferential direction C. For instance, a plurality of outlet openings 222 may be substantially evenly spaced apart from one another. In various embodiments, the fuel manifold 220 may include two or more outlet passages 222, such as three outlet passages, or a quantity and position corresponding to a quantity of vertical mixing tubes 224, such as to provide a gaseous fuel through the outlet opening 222 to a respective vertical mixing tube 224.

[0047] The second fuel passage 1229 extends from an inlet opening 1226 to an outlet opening 1222. An outlet fuel nozzle 1228 is positioned at the outlet opening 1222. The outlet fuel nozzle 1228 is configured to direct a flow of gaseous fuel toward the mixing tube 1224 at the burner body 1210. In various embodiments, the outlet fuel nozzle 1228 is extended in vertical orientation from the outlet opening 1222 toward the mixing tube inlet 1227 at the mixing tube 1224. Outlet opening 1222 may be positioned at different locations along the circumferential direction C. For instance, a plurality of outlet openings 1222 may be substantially evenly spaced apart from one another. In various embodiments, the fuel manifold 220 may include one, or two or more outlet passages 1222, such as three outlet passages, or a quantity and position corresponding to a quantity of vertical mixing tubes 1224, such as to provide a gaseous fuel through the outlet opening 1222 to a respective vertical mixing tube 1224.

[0048] A fuel nozzle may be positioned at and oriented towards inlet 226 of body 225. In particular, the fuel nozzle may be mounted to the body 225 such that the fuel nozzle is spaced from fuel passage 229 (e.g., along the radial direction R). The fuel nozzle may be connected to a supply line for gaseous fuel, such as propane or natural gas, and the gaseous fuel may flow from the fuel nozzle through fuel passage 229 and outlet opening 222 of body 225.

[0049] One or more first posts 221 extends from body 225. Post 221 is configured to mount and support a heat sink plate 252. The heat sink plate 252 is a separate and separable structure from the body 225. In various embodiments, post 221 is configured to receive a fastener extending into the post 221 to affix the heat sink plate 252 to the post 221. Post 221 may include an opening into which the fastener is extendable. The opening may form a threaded interface configured to receive the fastener including a threaded shank, such as, but not limited to, a screw, a bolt, a tie rod, etc. In various embodiments, post 221 extends along axial direction A and forms a cavity or gap between the heat sink plate 252 and the body 225.

[0050] Embodiments of the fuel manifold 220 may advantageously and beneficially reduce a mass and weight of material in contrast to known fuel manifolds. Additionally, embodiments provided herein allow for simple construction, such as via die casting, additive manufacturing, machining, or combinations thereof. Various embodiments of the fuel manifold 220 include the body 225 and posts 221 forming a unitary, monolithic structure. For instance, various embodiments of burner assembly 200 include the fuel manifold 220 forming a unitary, monolithic structure separate from the heat sink plate 252, top panel 142, and burner body 210, 1210.

[0051] The gaseous fuel is received through inlet openings 226, 1226 into respective fuel passages 229, 1229 and pushed out through respective outlet openings 222, 1222. For instance, fuel passages 229, 1229 may be formed fluidly segregated from one another. The gaseous fuel egressing the outlet opening 222, 1222 may entrain air from the space between the outlet opening 222, 1222 and respective mixing tube inlet 227, 1227, and the gaseous fuel may mix with the entrained atmospheric air within vertical mixing tube 224, 1224. The mixture of the gaseous fuel and air may mix at respective fluidly-coupled mixing chambers 216, 1216 and egress through respective fluidly-coupled flame ports 214, 1214.

[0052] Outlet openings 222, 1222 may be distributed or sized to facilitate uniform flow of the gaseous fuel into inlet openings 227, 1227. For example, outlet openings 222, 1222 may be, for example, uniformly distributed about central combustion zone 212, 1212.

[0053] The heat sink plate 252 is positioned and retained by posts 221 relative to a portion of top panel 142, such as radially inward from annular burner body 210, to advantageously prevent damage or otherwise manage heat generated within combustion zone 212. For instance, legs 221 may position the heat sink plate 252 along the circumferentially bounded portion of the top panel 142 below the plurality of flame ports 214. Thus, heat absorbed at the portion of the top panel 142 vertically or axially aligned with the central combustion zone 212 may be advantageously reduced by the heat sink plate 252.

[0054] In various embodiments, heat sink plate 252 is positioned between the annular burner body 210 and above fuel manifold body 225. Thus, relative to axial direction A, legs 221 at body 225 allow the heat sink plate 252 to be disposed below the burner body 210, 1210 and above the fuel passage 229, 1229.

[0055] In various embodiments, the heat sink plate 252 is formed from a thermally conductive metal material (e.g., aluminum or steel, including alloys thereof). In some embodiments, the conductive heat sink plate 252 extends (e.g., upward along the axial direction A) from the fuel passage 229 to bottom surface of the top panel 142. Furthermore, posts 221 offset the heat sink plate 252 from the body 225. Thus, a base or bottom of conductive heat sink plate 252 is disposed from body 225, such as to form the cavity or gap extending vertically therebetween.

[0056] Referring now to FIG. 6, flame ports 214 of the outer burner body 210 are positioned at a height along the axial direction A above the cooktop, such as depicted at reference first height 201. Flame ports 1214 of the inner burner body 1210 are positioned at a height along the axial direction A above the cooktop, such as depicted at reference second height 202. In various embodiments, second height 202 may reference an uppermost portion of flame ports 1214 along the axial direction A. Second height 202 of flame ports 1214 at the inner burner body 1210 is below first height 201 of flame ports 214 at the outer burner body 210. In some embodiments, second height 202 of flame ports 1214 at the inner burner body 1210 is below first height 201 referencing a lowermost portion along axial direction A of flame ports 214 at the outer burner body 210. Accordingly, flame ports 1214 of the inner burner body 1210 are positioned at a height along the axial direction A above the cooktop (e.g., above top panel 142) that is below that of flame ports 214 of the outer burner body 210.

[0057] A height separation, such as a difference between heights 201, 202, may facilitate an increased distance to diffuse heat from the inner burner body 1210 before impinging on the bottom surface of cookware at the burner assembly 200. In some embodiments, the height separation is approximately twelve (12) millimeters, or approximately 0.5 inches, or greater, along the axial direction A. In still some embodiments, a ratio of the height separation to an axial dimension of flame ports 1214 is at least 2:1, such as the height separation is at least double the axial dimension of the flame ports 1214. In still some embodiments, a ratio of the height separation to an axial dimension of flame ports 1214 is at least 3:1, or at least 5:1. The height separation may provide additional distance to diffuse combusted gases from the inner burner body 1210. The height separation may facilitate diffusion of combusted gases to generate a more even heat at low heat settings.

[0058] Referring still to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, burner head 1242 at the inner burner body 1210 is contoured to extend to a maximum height, such as depicted at reference third height 203. Third height 203 references a maximum plane or surface along the axial direction A from the cooktop, such as from top panel 142. Third height 203 is equal to, or greater than (i.e., above), the first height 201. Accordingly, burner head 1242 is contoured with a height that is proximate to, or above, the height of the flame ports 214 at the outer burner body 210. The burner head 1242 of the inner burner body 1210 may form a deflector for gas accumulation from the outer burner body 210.

[0059] Inner and outer ring flame ports at multi-ring inward fired burners positioned co-planar relative to one another may generally improve heat transfer and efficiency to cookware at the burner. Consequently, heights and height separations, such as provided herein, may decrease efficiency of the burner relative to flame ports positioned co-planar to one another. However, heights and height separations such as provided herein may advantageously and beneficially improve performance for multi-ring inward fired burner assemblies at low heat settings while avoiding significant losses to heat transfer and efficiency at high heat settings.

[0060] For instance, embodiments such as provided herein of the inner burner relative to the outer burner may have losses to efficiency during operation of the inner burner alone. However, the outer swirling flame from embodiments of the outer burner provided herein relative to the inner burner may mitigate overall losses to heat transfer and efficiency from the inner burner by preventing the inner flame from losing heat to the surrounding atmosphere. Advantageously and beneficially, improvements to inner and outer burner efficiency may exceed losses relative to operation of the inner burner alone.

[0061] Embodiments of the multi-ring inward fired burner assembly 200 described herein may provide advantages and benefits associated generally with multi-ring burners. Additionally, embodiments described herein may further provide a more uniform heat for inward fired swirl burners at low heat settings.

[0062] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0021]As used herein, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,”“second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to sign...

Claims

1. A gas burner assembly for a cooktop appliance, comprising:a first burner body comprising a plurality of first flame ports distributed along a circumferential direction about a central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of first flame ports, the first burner body comprising a first mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of first flame ports to distribute a first flow of fuel therethrough;a second burner body comprising a plurality of second flame ports distributed along the circumferential direction about the central combustion zone, the second burner body comprising a second mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of second flame ports to distribute a second flow of fuel therethrough,wherein the second burner body is positioned radially inward of the first burner body, and wherein the plurality of second flame ports is positioned along an axial direction below the plurality of first flame ports.

2. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, wherein the second height references an uppermost portion of the plurality of second flame ports.

3. The gas burner assembly of claim 2, wherein the first height references a lowermost portion of the plurality of first flame ports.

4. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, wherein a height separation difference between the first height and the second height is at least double an axial dimension of the plurality of second flame ports.

5. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, wherein a height separation difference between the first height and the second height is at least approximately twelve millimeters.

6. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the second burner body comprises a burner head, and wherein a maximum height of the burner head is at or above the plurality of first flame ports.

7. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, and wherein the second burner body comprises a burner head, and wherein a maximum height of the burner head is equal to or greater than the first height of the plurality of first flame ports.

8. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first flame ports and the plurality of second flame ports comprise a swirl component directionally similar to one another.

9. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the first burner body and second burner body comprise a mixing throat extending along the axial direction.

10. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the central combustion zone is free of burner material above a continuous sealed cooktop surface.

11. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the first burner body and the second burner body comprise respective inner and outer side walls forming respective mixing chambers, wherein the plurality of first flame ports and the plurality of second flame ports are formed as respective inner side walls.

12. A cooktop appliance, comprising:a top panel;a gas burner assembly positioned at the top panel, the gas burner assembly comprising;a first burner body comprising a first inner side wall and a first outer side wall, wherein a plurality of first flame ports is distributed through the first inner side wall along a circumferential direction about a first central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of first flame ports, wherein the first burner body comprises a first mixing chamber positioned between the first inner side wall and the first outer side wall, the first mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of first flame ports to distribute a first flow of fuel therethrough;a second burner body comprising a second inner side wall and a second outer side wall, wherein a plurality of second flame ports is distributed through the second inner side wall along the circumferential direction about a second central combustion zone radially inward of the plurality of second flame ports, wherein the second burner body comprises a second mixing chamber positioned between the second inner side wall and the second outer side wall, the second mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the plurality of second flame ports to distribute a second flow of fuel therethrough,wherein the second burner body is positioned radially inward of the first burner body, and wherein the plurality of second flame ports is positioned along an axial direction below the plurality of first flame ports.

13. The cooktop appliance of claim 12, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, wherein the second height references an uppermost portion of the plurality of second flame ports.

14. The cooktop appliance of claim 13, wherein the first height references a lowermost portion of the plurality of first flame ports.

15. The cooktop appliance of claim 12, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, wherein a height separation difference between the first height and the second height is at least double an axial dimension of the plurality of second flame ports.

16. The cooktop appliance of claim 12, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, wherein a height separation difference between the first height and the second height is at least approximately twelve millimeters.

17. The cooktop appliance of claim 12, wherein the second burner body comprises a burner head, and wherein a maximum height of the burner head is at or above the plurality of first flame ports.

18. The cooktop appliance of claim 12, wherein the plurality of second flame ports comprises a reference second height below a reference first height of the plurality of first flame ports, and wherein the second burner body comprises a burner head, and wherein a maximum height of the burner head is equal to or greater than the first height of the plurality of first flame ports.

19. The cooktop appliance of claim 12, wherein the plurality of first flame ports and the plurality of second flame ports comprise a swirl component directionally similar to one another.

20. The gas burner assembly of claim 1, wherein the first burner body comprises a first mixing throat fluidly coupled to the first mixing chamber, and wherein the second burner body comprises a second mixing throat fluidly coupled to the second mixing chamber, wherein the first and second mixing throats extend along the axial direction.

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