Integrated and auto-cleanable grease handling system and reservoir

Abstract

A cooking appliance is described, which is an oven having an interior cooking chamber. A drive shaft attached to a drive system extending through the cooking chamber with drive plates attached to the drive shaft. Product supports attached to the drive plates. A grease reservoir is found in a section of the interior cooking chamber with a collector manifold in communications with the grease reservoir. The collector manifold includes grease output along with water inlets and wherein the grease reservoir is adapted to collect grease and facilitate cleaning of the cooking appliance.

Description

[0001] INTEGRATED AND AUTO-CLEANABLE GREASE HANDLING SYSTEM AND

[0002] RESERVOIR

[0003]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 722,917, filed on November 20, 2025, presently pending. The contents of that application are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] 1. Field of the Invention.

[0006]

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to improvements to cooking apparatuses, especially rotisserie ovens. In one embodiment, the device is a rotisserie oven with automatic-cleaning features, including a grease-handling system and a reservoir.

[0007]

[0003] Prior art approaches to cleaning rotisserie ovens focused on detergents and cleaning jets installed in the oven’s interior cavity. These attempts nonetheless require significant end-user intervention and manual cleaning of specific components, such as the undersides of grease drip trays. The current invention provides a specific arrangement of components to facilitate cleaning with minimal or no end-user manual intervention.

[0008]

[0004] In addition to a particular arrangement of cooking cavity elements and grease-handling components, the invention relates to improvements to the cooking apparatus, resulting in much-improved self-cleaning features, including obviating the need for manual cleaning steps and removing components from the cooking apparatus for routine cleaning.

[0009]

[0005] While existing rotisserie ovens offer cleaning cycles and self-cleaning features, there is a need for a cooking apparatus that increases cleaning efficiency by eliminating or minimizing manual cleaning steps. Integrating various components, such as grease-handling elements, provides a comprehensive solution that delivers the benefits described in this disclosure. 2. Background of the Invention.

[0010]

[0006] A commercial rotisserie oven typically includes a main cooking chamber with rotating spit rods to hold and turn food for even cooking, an adjustable heating element for precise temperature control, a control system, and a grease collection system. The interior surfaces of the main cooking chamber will be covered with grease and oils from the food being cooked therein and will require frequent cleaning to maintain safe and efficient operation.

[0011]

[0007] Rotisserie ovens offer an efficient way to evenly cook multiple food items simultaneously, including red meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, and various combinations. However, ovens require both a way to clean the interior of the cooking chamber. The process must also allow for the collection of grease and other food drippings during cooking.

[0012]

[0008] Convection ovens often include a grease-collection drip tray or a conduit that directs grease to an external container. Such drip trays require frequent emptying, whereas an external container can hold more grease. Nonetheless, they require regular emptying and careful handling. Prior art rotisseries with built-in grease collection trays and other containers also had shields that covered the collected grease. The shields protect the operator from direct contact with hot liquid and splashes of hot grease, which may occur if the product falls. However, these shields require cleaning on both sides - the side that faces the interior of the cooking chamber and the side that faces the grease.

[0013]

[0009] Cleaning the internal cooking chamber is both labor-intensive and challenging. During cooking, the internal chamber accumulates grease, charred food particles, and carbonized residue on its interior surfaces. The oven’s design, with rotating spits, drip trays, and tight corners, often makes reaching and thoroughly cleaning all areas difficult, even if the rotating elements are removed. This process typically requires degreasers and other chemical cleaners, as well as significant physical effort. The cleaning process can be time-consuming and require cumbersome protective equipment, such as heavy-duty gloves, along with training and supervision. Frequent manual cleaning is necessary to maintain hygienic operation and avoid unpleasant smells or cross-contamination. These difficulties make the task both physically demanding and inefficient, often leading to delays or reduced productivity in busy kitchen settings.

[0014]

[0010] Many ovens have self-cleaning cycles, but even those require multiple, labor-intensive manual steps.

[0015]

[0011] For example, one common problem with automated cleaning processes is the need to remove carefully and reinstall components. Multiple protective covers and the grease collection system must be removed and cleaned manually. Covers and drip trays require manual removal during cleaning, as the automated cleaning steps do not reach the non-exposed sides of the covers or trays.

[0016]

[0012] The timing of the cleaning steps is also a frequent problem with prior art approaches. Oven cleaning will generally be scheduled for the end of the work shift, meaning an employee must attend to the equipment after completing the cooking tasks. The oven must be cooled off but not completely cold, so it is necessary to delay the cleaning steps after the revenue-generating cooking process has ended. Even in ovens with some automated cleaning features, it is necessary to wait for the cooking to cease before removing features such as the drip tray or internal covers, which must be washed manually.

[0017]

[0013] Many self-cleaning ovens include components that can be removed for cleaning and must be cleaned with non-abrasive methods, such as sponges and nylon cleaning brushes. These cleaning steps are time-consuming and require repeated manual manipulation with cleaning tools.

[0018]

[0014] There is a need in art for a cooking apparatus with improved self-cleaning features that overcome the shortcomings of prior art.

[0019] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0020]

[0015] An object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and to provide an efficient rotisserie with completely automated self-cleaning processes and with an efficient external grease reservoir connection.

[0021]

[0016] The feature of this invention is that it provides a sealed main cooking chamber with a grease collection container. This allows the cleaning steps to occur without end-user intervention or removal of panels, such as the bottom panel or a grease drip tray. A benefit of the invention is that during cooking, the grease collection occurs without end-user intervention and monitoring. At the same time, the cleaning steps do not require the removal of any panels from the interior of the cooking chamber.

[0022]

[0017] Another advantage of this invention is the shape of the cleaning fluid handling system, which directs the cleaning fluids through a manifold that provides for liquid exchange and cleaning.

[0023]

[0018] Another advantage of this invention is that the rotisserie includes a shield or a panel separating the cooking chamber or cooking cavity from the grease reservoir, which can be cleaned using an automated process. The grease reservoir and both sides of the shield are cleaned during the cleaning process.

[0024]

[0019] Another advantage of this invention is that the oven is fully self-cleanable with little to no end-user intervention. A benefit of the invention is that cleaning can occur independently of any employees. It does not require the removal of any elements for manual cleaning at another location, such as in a sink.

[0025] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026]

[0020] The invention, together with the above and other objects and advantages, will be best understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0027]

[0021] Fig. 1 is an overview of one embodiment of the device.

[0028]

[0022] Fig. 2 shows a three-dimensional view of an embodiment.

[0029]

[0023] Figs. 3A to 3F show a detailed view of components used in conjunction with several embodiments.

[0030]

[0024] Figs. 4A to 4E, show views of an embodiment of a shield used in some embodiments.

[0031]

[0025] Figs 5A and 5B show a close-up view of the grease reservoir used in some embodiments.

[0032]

[0026] Fig. 6, shows a schematic of the operation of the automatic cleaning cycle.

[0033]

[0027] Figs. 7A to 7C schematically show the operation of the cleaning and rinsing cycles.

[0034]

[0028] Figs. 8A and 8B depict flowcharts of the use of an embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035]

[0029] The foregoing summary and the following detailed description of specific embodiments of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings.

[0036]

[0030] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural said elements or steps unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property.

[0037]

[0031] Turning to Fig. 1 , depicted therein is a cut-away side view of an embodiment 10 of the self-cleaning cooking appliance, such as a rotisserie oven 12. The oven includes an interior cooking chamber 14 with cooking elements, such as tubular heating elements, shown in the cross-section in Fig. 1.

[0038]

[0032] While Fig. 1 depicts a rotisserie oven 12, the elements of this invention can be implemented in any number of possible ovens. For example, the elements can be added to commercial-grade foodservice equipment such as gas and electric ovens, conventional ovens, convection ovens, steam ovens, combi ovens, air fryers, and even hot cases with closing doors.

[0039]

[0033] The interior cooking chamber 14 includes a drive shaft 16 extending through the interior of the cooking chamber. The drive shaft 16 rotates drive plates 18, which in results in movement of the food product supports 20 rotating along with the drive plates 18. As can be appreciated from the cut-away view of Fig. 1 , food rotating around the drive shaft 16 will be exposed to heat from the heating elements, and drippings from the food will fall towards the bottom region 32 of the interior cooking chamber 14. The drive shaft 16 is connected to a drive system (not shown).

[0034] The bottom region 32 includes the grease collection features and also supports the automatic cleaning processes.

[0040]

[0035] The bottom region 32 is generally defined as those elements of embodiment 10 found below the perforated shield 34. The perforated shield 34 is shown as being angled in Fig. 1 , which helps to move the grease drippings into the optimum location. The details of the perforated shield 34 are shown in subsequent figures.

[0041]

[0036] In the depicted embodiment, the perforated shield 34 is locked in place by rotational locks 36. The perforated shield 34 does not have to be removed for routine cleaning, so the rotational locks 36 are secured with fasteners such as thumbscrews or the like. The side of the perforated shield 34 faces away from the interior of the interior cooking chamber 14, which includes a weld stud 38.

[0042]

[0037] Grease 30 collects in the bottom region 32 after dripping through the perforated shield 34.

[0043]

[0038] The bottom region includes an inclined section to assist in the cleaning steps. In the depicted embodiment, the incline 31a comprises approximately two degrees on a first side but the incline on a second side 31 b comprises four degrees.

[0044]

[0039] Fig. 2 shows a three-dimensional view of the food product 21 , the rotisserie oven 12, the location of a side cover 40, and the grease output quick-connect valve 42. The location of the perforated shield 34 is also visible in Fig. 2.

[0045]

[0040] Fig. 3A shows a detailed view of a grease filter 44 or grease strainer used in the bottom region 32 of the interior cooking chamber 14, in one embodiment. The grease filter 44 includes oblong apertures to optimize oil flow and also to facilitate the cleaning steps. The width 44w of the grease filter 44 comprises approximately 5.28 inches, and the height 44h of the grease filter 44 comprises approximately 0.38 inches in one embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3A, each oblong aperture has a top radius 44r of 0.03 inches, the distance from the middle of one aperture to another aperture 44d1 is 0.18 inches, the height of each aperture 44d2 (except for the rounded portions) is 0.25 inches, and the distance between the middle of each adjoining aperture 44d3 is 0.10 inches.

[0041] Fig. 3B shows a detailed view of the elements responsible for the cleaning process, including the side cover 40 shown in Fig. 2. The cleaning system includes the collector box or collector manifold 50, which includes the grease output port 52 and the water inlet 56 along with the degreaser inlet 54. The extraction system is mounted on the side of the exterior of the rotisserie oven 12 using a support bracket 58. As shown in Fig. 2, the grease output is terminated with a grease output quick connect valve 42, allowing for the collection of grease to an external container or other receptacle. The side cover 40 is attached to specific brackets and covers the extraction and cleaning system, as shown below. In one embodiment, a ball valve 60 closes the grease conduit when the grease output quick-connect valve 42 requires maintenance or replacement. A recirculation inlet 64 connects a pump with water and / or cleaning fluid collected in the interior cooking chamber. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3B, a drain pump output 66 connects to a suitable wastewater collection system.

[0046]

[0042] A top view of the collector box or collector manifold 50 is shown in Fig. 3C. Visible in Fig. 3C are the connections of the collector manifold 50. On one side of the collector manifold 50 is the drain pump output 66, the degreaser inlet 54, water inlet 56, recirculation inlet 64, and grease output port 52. As such, in one embodiment, there are two inlets, the water inlet 56 is used for the water from the facility’s water line, while the degreaser inlet 54 is used to add washing fluid / liquid detergent / liquid degreaser from a reservoir. In one embodiment, the shape of the manifold allows for minimizing / optimizing water and degreaser consumption. Because of the manifold small size and flat cross section, a small volume of water and degreaser can reach / clean / rinse all of its inner surfaces. Its tapered entrance accelerates the flow of liquid from the bottom pan of the cooking cavity. Flow control is essential to prevent cavitation of the recirculation pump.

[0047]

[0043] The collector manifold 50 includes a first side 51 , which is narrower than the second side 53. In one embodiment, the first side 51 has an approximate width of 5.4 inches, while the second side has a width of approximately 7.4 inches. The angle 55 defined by the collector manifold 50 enclosure, which broadens the second side 53 is 45 degrees in one embodiment.

[0044] Various degreasers or detergents can be used with the system. In one embodiment, a solid degreaser is added in the form of a pod or puck. In another embodiment, multiple such pre-formed doses can be combined, depending on the required amount of cleaning. Further, in other embodiments, the degreaser is in the form of a powder, which is measured into a receptacle on the side of the cooking chamber or with a measuring implement.

[0048]

[0045] Another view of the collector manifold 50 is shown in Fig. 3D. Visible in Fig. 3D is the location of the grease filter 44 and the grease output port 52. Fig. 3D also shows the relative locations of drain pump output 66 and recirculation inlet 64.

[0049]

[0046] Fig. 3E is a cut-away view of Fig. 3D. Visible in Fig. 3D is the grease filter 44 installed within the collector manifold 50. The recirculation inlet 64, the drain pump output 66 along with degreaser inlet 54 and water inlet 56 are visible in Fig. 3E.

[0050]

[0047] Fig. 3F is another view of the collector manifold 50. Visible are the degreaser inlet 54, the water inlet 56 and drain pump output 66 along with grease output port 52 and recirculation inlet 64. The placement of the grease filter 44 is also shown in Fig. 3F. The distance 52d1 from the grease output port 52 to the top part of the collector manifold 50 is approximately 1.9 inches in one embodiment.

[0051]

[0048] Turning to Fig. 4A, depicted therein is one embodiment of a perforated shield 34. The perforated shield 34 is installed in the bottom of the interior cooking chamber 14 as shown in earlier figures. Fig. 4B shows a perforated shield 34, with a perforated shield door 72. The measurements of the apertures on the perforated shield 34 is visible in Fig. 4B. In one embodiment, the width 34w of the perforated shield 34 is 34 inches.

[0052]

[0049] Fig. 4C shows another embodiment of the perforated shield 34. The figure shows a perforated shield bracket 74, which includes rotational locks 36 that removably attach the perforated shield 34 to the perforated shield bracket 74.

[0053]

[0050] Fig. 4D shows an exploded view of the perforated shield 34 of Fig. 4C. Visible in Fig. 4D is the perforated shield bracket 74 and the components that removably attach the perforated shield bracket 74 to the perforated shield 34. These attachment components include the rotational locks 36 which are kept in place by the washer 78 and a dome nut 79.

[0051] A benefit of the perforated shield 34 is that it protects the grease reservoir which is located underneath from falling food, such as chicken falling from the spit when being retrieved by the operator. The perforated shield 34 comprises a stainless metal material, having sufficient thickness and geometry to provide the necessary strength against chicken (or other food) falling / impacting the shield. The specific hole pattern and hole size, embedded in the shield, are chosen to optimize filtering cooking residues, for example, chicken skin, meat, and bone. The specific hole pattern and hole size, embedded in the shield, act as a splatter screen / guard for the operator when hot grease accumulates in the grease reservoir. In one embodiment, the grease reservoir comprises a stainless-steel container, such as a rectangular tray.

[0054]

[0052] The measurements of the openings in the perforated shield 34 are depicted in Figure 4B. The vertical distance from the center of each opening 34d1 is approximately 1 .6 inches in one embodiment. The diameter 34d2 is approximately 0.125 inches. The horizontal distance from the center of each opening 34d3 is approximately 0.19 inches in one embodiment.

[0055]

[0053] Fig. 4E shows the details of the perforated shield bracket 74. The bracket comprises two sub-brackets 74a and 74b. Visible in Fig. 4E is weld stud 38. The length 74d1 of each longer aperture in the two sub-brackets 74a, 74b is approximately 2 inches. Two sub-brackets 74a, 74b also include one horizontal oblong aperture 75 with a length 75d1 of approximately 2.5 inches and a width 75d2 of approximately 0.38 inches, in one embodiment. The two sub-brackets 74a, 74b have a width 74d2 of 16 inches in one embodiment.

[0056]

[0054] Fig. 5A shows a close-up view of the grease reservoir 82 with the collector manifold 50 attached thereto. The collector manifold 50 is in fluid communication with the interior of the grease reservoir 82. The grease reservoir 82 acts as a sealed bottom pan, inside the rotisserie oven, which captures the grease during the cooking process, acting as a grease reservoir. Also visible are the various connections on the collector manifold 50, including grease output port 52, recirculation inlet 64, water inlet 56, drain pump output 66, and the degreaser inlet 54. Fig. 5B is a side view of the grease reservoir 82 with cut-away views A and B also visible along lines indicated in Fig. 5B. As visible in Fig. 5A, the reservoir incorporates an inclined collection surface engineered to optimize volumetric capacity while maintaining gravitational conveyance of liquefied grease toward collector manifold 50 located at the lower terminus of the incline. The angular configuration is further calibrated to enable dual functionality during an automated cleaning cycle: ensuring sufficient return flow of water and degreasing solution to a recirculation pump, thereby preventing cavitation, while minimizing the volume of cleaning fluid required. This geometry achieves a balance between passive grease evacuation and sustainable fluid management, reducing resource consumption without compromising operational reliability. The inclined surface further incorporates directional flow features, including ridges and contouring, which serve a dual purpose: reinforcing structural rigidity of the reservoir while guiding grease, water, and cleaning solution along predetermined paths toward the discharge aperture, thereby enhancing evacuation efficiency and reducing fluid stagnation.

[0057]

[0055] In one embodiment, the grease reservoir 82 has grease direction features such as ridges and channels 83 along with a bottom slope 85 directing the grease towards the collector manifold 50. Fig. 5B demonstrates additional features and measurements of the grease reservoir 82. The grease reservoir 82 has a width 82d1 of approximately 38.75 inches and a bottom angle 82d2 of approximately 1 .5 degrees, which help direct the grease. The interior of the grease reservoir 82 is also visible in Fig. 5B, including a first angled portion with a width 82d3 of approximately 9 inches and an angle 82d4 of 4 degrees. A second, less steep portion has a width 82d5 of approximately 22 inches and an angle 82d6 of 2 degrees. The receptacle 87 is also visible in Fig. 5B and has a height 83h of approximately 3 inches and a diameter 83d of 7.35 inches, in one embodiment.

[0058]

[0056] Turning to Fig. 6, a schematic of the operation of the automatic cleaning cycle is depicted.

[0059]

[0057] First, the grease is moved to the grease caddy or other external grease container. Second, the quick-connect valve is disconnected. The quick-connect valve is designed to be quickly closed and disengaged while being able to contain hot grease. In one embodiment, a ball valve is closed if the quick-connect valve leaks or another leak in the external grease container is detected. While a discrete movable container is depicted in Fig. 6, in some embodiments, the system incorporates a direct connection to a fixed central grease collection point.

[0060]

[0058] Next, the door is locked, and the locked door status is indicated.

[0061]

[0059] The solenoid ball valve opens, and the degreaser pump starts operating. Fresh water and at least one cleaning solution, such as a degreaser, is pumped to the bottom pan of the oven.

[0062]

[0060] Once a set level of fluid is reached in the bottom pan of the oven, the solenoid closes and the degreaser pump stops. The recirculation pump begins, and the cleaning fluid is sprayed using nozzles on the cooking cavity surfaces, on and through the shield, and on the bottom pan. From the pan and into the manifold, the fluid recirculates back to the spray nozzles.

[0063]

[0061] After the cleaning cycle is concluded, the recirculation pump stops, a drain pump is energized, and the used cleaning liquid is drained.

[0064]

[0062] A rinse cycle then begins, in one embodiment. Rinse cycles are required after the cleaning cycle to remove the degreaser from the cooking cavity, shield, and grease reservoir surfaces. The operation is similar to the cleaning cycle, except that only clean water is introduced.

[0065]

[0063] Another cleaning cycle can then begin by opening the solenoid valve and opening the clean inlet along with the degreaser inlet.

[0066]

[0064] While Fig. 6 depicts multiple pumps, in one embodiment, some functions are combined in a single pump; for example, the drain pump and the recirculation pump operate as a single switchable unit, per an alternative embodiment (not shown).

[0067]

[0065] Further, while the degreaser is shown as an input to the degreaser pump in the embodiment shown, in another embodiment, the cleaning solution is provided in a solid form and dispensed into the oven along with the incoming water.

[0068]

[0066] As can be appreciated from the figures, the various components, such as the perforated shield 34 are exposed to grease 30 dripping from the food product 21 from the inside of the cooking chamber towards the bottom. As can be appreciated from this cleaning procedure, the underside of the shields is cleaned by spraying of the water and degreaser on top. The size of the openings and the angles of the shield are selected to allow the liquid to clean the underside while passing from the top. This ensures that the underside of components such as the perforated shield 34 will be cleaned during the cleaning process with little to no user intervention.

[0069]

[0067] The combination of the features above, the integrated grease collection system becomes fully auto-cleanable. This includes the shield (frontside, holes, backside) and its supporting means, the bottom pan and its peripheral walls, the manifold inner walls, the grease removal outlet, the fluid flushing outlet, the recirculation outlet and all other elements potentially exposed to grease and food residue during cooking.

[0070]

[0068] Figs. 7A to 7C schematically show the operation of the cleaning and rinsing cycles.

[0071]

[0069] In Fig. 7A, the solenoid valve opens, and water flows through the water inlet 56. The degreaser pump energizes, and the degreaser flows through the degreaser inlet 54 inside the collector manifold 50. When the collector manifold 50 fills up, the fluid forces its way through the filter inside the grease reservoir, where it accumulates on the bottom pan, as described above. During the depicted step of Fig. 7A, the drain pump output 66, the recirculation inlet 64, and the grease output port 52 are not active.

[0072]

[0070] In Fig. 7B, the solenoid valve closes, and the degreaser pump stops. Due to the action of gravity, the fluid flows back inside the manifold. The recirculation pump energizes and moves fluid through the recirculation inlet 64 up to the spray nozzles, and the loop starts. The fluid is pumped through a before (upstream) the particle filter, which prevents big particles from clogging the spray nozzles. During the depicted step of Fig. 7B, drain pump output 66, degreaser inlet 54, water inlet 56, and grease output port 52 of the collector manifold 50 are not active.

[0073]

[0071] As shown in Fig. 7C, the recirculation pump stops, and with gravity, the fluid flows back inside the manifold. The drain pump energizes and moves the fluid down the drain through the drain pump output 66. The fluid is pumped before (upstream) the particle filter, which removes big particles and debris from the reservoir.

[0074]

[0072] During the step depicted in Fig. 7C, the degreaser inlet 54, the water inlet 56, the recirculation inlet 64, and the grease output port 52 are not active. Standard Operating Procedure

[0075]

[0073] Fig. 8A depicts one standard operating procedure for use with an oven incorporating the features of the automatic system described herein in conjunction with a grease caddy.

[0076]

[0074] At the end of a daily cooking cycle, the operator engages a grease caddy system that interfaces directly with the rotisserie’s extraction valve. A flexible hose is connected between the grease caddy and the valve, thereby establishing a sealed conduit for the transfer of liquid grease. Once the connection is secured, the extraction valve is opened to permit the flow of grease from the rotisserie chamber into the caddy system.

[0077]

[0075] In at least one embodiment, the grease caddy is equipped with a powered pump that, when activated, draws the grease through the hose and deposits it into a collection reservoir. This pumping action ensures complete evacuation of grease residues, minimizing manual handling and reducing the risk of spillage or operator exposure. Upon completion of the transfer, the valve is closed to terminate fluid communication between the rotisserie and the caddy.

[0078]

[0076] A sensor system is integrated into the rotisserie to monitor the status of the extraction valve. The auto clean cycle of the rotisserie is programmed to initiate only when the valve is confirmed to be in the closed position. This interlock prevents cleaning fluids from being discharged while the grease removal pathway remains open, thereby avoiding contamination, leakage, or mechanical malfunction. Once the valve closure is verified, the auto clean cycle commences, delivering detergent and rinse solutions through the oven cavity to achieve a thorough sanitation process, as described above.

[0079]

[0077] Fig. 8B depicts the standard operating procedure without the use of a dedicated grease caddy.

[0080]

[0078] At the conclusion of a cooking cycle, the operator positions a grease collection container beneath the rotisserie’s extraction point. This container serves as a receptacle for liquid grease discharged from the oven’s reservoir. Once the container is in place, in one embodiment, the operator opens the extraction valve, thereby permitting grease to flow downward under the influence of gravity into the container. This passive transfer eliminates the need for mechanical pumping equipment, reducing system complexity and cost. In some embodiments, the extraction valve is manual; in others, it is electromechanical or pushbutton-controlled. As such, in some embodiments, the valve’s opening and closing can be controlled automatically by the system.

[0081]

[0079] The grease reservoir is emptied by gravitational flow, ensuring that accumulated residues are safely captured in the container. Upon completion of the transfer, the operator closes the valve to terminate the discharge pathway. The closure of the valve is monitored by a sensor integrated into the rotisserie system. This sensor acts as a safety interlock, preventing the initiation of the auto clean cycle until the valve is confirmed to be in the closed position.

[0082]

[0080] Once valve closure is verified, the auto clean cycle is activated. The rotisserie then dispenses cleaning agents and rinse solutions throughout the cooking chamber, achieving thorough sanitation. The interlock mechanism ensures that cleaning fluids are not released while the grease discharge pathway remains open, thereby preventing leakage, contamination, or equipment malfunction.

[0083]

[0081] Both of these processes provide a coordinated sequence of grease extraction and automated cleaning, enhancing food safety, operational efficiency, and equipment longevity. By combining mechanical pumping, valve interlocks, and sensorbased safeguards, the system ensures that grease removal and cleaning are performed in a controlled and reliable manner.

[0084]

[0082] During operation, the system is designed to maximize productivity by relieving the operator of the need to supervise the cleaning cycle. The oven cleaning system incorporates a series of interlocked safety features designed to protect both the operator and the equipment. A sensor positioned on the extraction valve continuously monitors its status and prevents cooking operations from commencing if the valve is open, or alternatively triggers an alarm to prompt the operator to close it. This same sensor ensures that the automated cleaning cycle cannot be initiated while the valve remains open, thereby avoiding the risk of fluid discharge through an unsecured pathway. In addition, the sensor prevents grease extraction from occurring unless the valve is properly opened, eliminating the possibility of pump activation against a closed line. Together, these safeguards create a layered system of protection that enforces correct operating sequences, reduces the chance of operator error, and ensures that grease removal and cleaning are performed under safe and controlled conditions.

[0085]

[0083] Although exemplary implementations of the invention have been depicted and described in detail herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that various modifications, additions, substitutions, and the like can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention, and these are therefore considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

[0086]

[0084] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the invention, they are by no means limiting, but are instead exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function void of further structure.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:1 . A cooking appliance comprising: an oven having an interior cooking chamber; a drive shaft attached to a drive system extending through the interior cooking chamber; drive plates attached to the drive shaft; product supports attached to the drive plates; a grease reservoir defined in a section of the interior cooking chamber; and a collector manifold in communications with the grease reservoir; wherein the collector manifold includes grease output along with water inlets and wherein the grease reservoir is adapted to collect grease and facilitate cleaning of the cooking appliance.

2. The cooking appliance of claim 1 wherein the collector manifold includes a grease filter.

3. The cooking appliance of claim 1 wherein the interior cooking chamber is cleaned by degreaser and fresh water introduced by the collector manifold.

4. The cooking appliance of claim 1 wherein a perforated shield covers the grease reservoir and is cleaned from its underside during a cleaning process.

5. The cooking appliance of claim 1 , wherein the collector manifold further comprises a tapered entrance configured to accelerate fluid flow from the grease reservoir into the manifold.

6. The cooking appliance of claim 1 , wherein the grease reservoir includes sloped surfaces and channels directing grease toward the collector manifold.

7. The cooking appliance of claim 1 , wherein the collector manifold includes a recirculation inlet connected to a pump for circulating cleaning fluid through spray nozzles positioned within the cooking chamber.

8. The cooking appliance of claim 1 , wherein the grease reservoir comprises stainless steel and includes ridges configured to guide grease into a receptacle portion of the reservoir.

9. The cooking appliance of claim 1 , wherein the perforated shield includes apertures sized to prevent food particles from entering the grease reservoir while permitting grease to pass through.

10. The cooking appliance of claim 1 , wherein the collector manifold includes a degreaser inlet and a water inlet configured to introduce cleaning fluid into the grease reservoir during an automated cleaning cycle.11 . A self-cleaning cooking appliance comprising: a cooking chamber; a perforated shield positioned above a grease reservoir; the grease reservoir including sloped surfaces and channels directing grease toward a collector manifold; the collector manifold including a grease output port, a water inlet, a degreaser inlet, a recirculation inlet, and a drain pump output; wherein the perforated shield, grease reservoir, and collector manifold are configured to be cleaned automatically by circulation of cleaning fluid without removal of components from the cooking appliance.

12. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the perforated shield is removably secured by rotational locks.

13. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the collector manifold includes a grease filter having oblong apertures to optimize fluid flow.

14. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the recirculation inlet is connected to spray nozzles positioned to direct cleaning fluid onto both sides of the perforated shield.

15. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the grease reservoir includes a receptacle portion having a diameter of approximately 7.35 inches.

16. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the collector manifold is mounted to the appliance exterior by a support bracket and covered by a removable side cover.

17. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the grease output port is terminated with a quick-connect valve for connection to an external grease caddy.

18. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the collector manifold includes a first side narrower than a second side, the sides defining an angle of approximately 45 degrees.

19. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the grease reservoir includes a first angled portion with a slope of approximately 4 degrees and a second angled portion with a slope of approximately 2 degrees.

20. The self-cleaning cooking appliance of claim 11 , wherein the drain pump output is configured to discharge used cleaning fluid into a wastewater collection system.

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