Heating assemblies with deflector plate

Abstract

Heating assemblies are provided herein. In some implementations, a heating assembly can include a heating element and a deflector plate, wherein the deflector plate comprises one or more channels shaped to at least partially receive the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate can comprise a thermally reflective material. In some implementations, the deflector plate can comprise a thermally conductive material.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WOHEATING ASSEMBLIES WITH DEFLECTOR PLATECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 727,978, filed on December 4, 2024, entitled “Heater Assembly with Deflection Plate,” which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and for all purposes.FIELD

[0002] The subject matter described herein generally relates to electric heating assemblies.BACKGROUND

[0003] Existing electric stovetop heaters utilize drip bowls to prevent liquids from the cooking surface from dripping into the interior of the heating unit. However, these heaters suffer from inefficiency, as a significant proportion of the heat generated by the heating element suspended over the drip bowl can be lost to the surrounding air. This can result in prolonged heating times for an object to be heated to reach a target heating temperature and can result in increased power consumption of the device to bring an object to a target heating temperature and to maintain the object at the target heating temperature. Improved heating assemblies are needed to increase the efficiency of heating assemblies.SUMMARY

[0004] Devices and methods for heating assemblies are disclosed herein.

[0005] In some implementations, a heating assembly comprising: a heating element configured to be in direct contact with at least a portion of an object to heat the object, the heating element comprising a first end, a second end, and a heating section; a deflector plate comprising, one or more channels defined in the deflector plate, wherein the one or more channels are configured to receive and to directly contact at least a portion of the heating section and one or more deflector fastening features; and a bracket comprising a first terminal configured to receive the first end of the heating element, a second terminal configured to receive the second end of the heating element, and one or more bracket fastening features, wherein the one or more bracket fastening features are configured to receive a respective deflector fastening feature of the one or more deflector fastening features, and wherein the first terminal and second terminal are configured to supply electrical current to the heating element. In some implementations, the heating assembly comprises a thermostat having aAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO contact surface, wherein the thermostat is coupled to the bracket such that the contact surface is in direct physical contact with a lower surface of deflector plate. In some implementations, the thermostat comprises a safety thermostat, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, a resistance temperature detector, or any combination thereof. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises a biasing element configured to urge the thermostat in a vertical direction so as to place the contact surface of the thermostat in direct physical contact with the lower surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the biasing element is selected from a coil spring or a leaf spring. In some implementations, the biasing element comprises a region of deformation comprising a plurality of planar sections, wherein the plurality of planar sections are connected at an angle, wherein compressive deformation of the biasing element changes the angle from an initial angle to a deflected angle. In some implementations, the first terminal and the second terminal are configured to transmit electrical current from a power source to the heating element. In some implementations, the heating assembly comprises an electronic control unit operatively connected to the thermostat and at least one of the first terminal and the second terminal. In some implementations, the electronic control unit comprises a switch configured to prevent electrical current from flowing between the power source and at least one of the first terminal and the second terminal, based on a temperature value measured by the thermostat. In some implementations, a cross-sectional shape of the one or more channels is u-shaped. In some implementations, the one or more channels are configured to directly contact a majority of a perimeter of the heating section along at least a portion of a length of the heating section. In some implementations, the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a perimeter of the heating element for 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 90% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a perimeter of the heating element for 100% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, theAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 50% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 60% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 70% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 80% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface being in direct physical contact with the heating section of the heating element. In some implementations, the upper surface of the deflector plate is in direct physical contact with the heating element for at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95% or at 100% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element. In some implementations, the deflector plate comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface being disposed closer to the heating element than the lower surface, and wherein the lower surface comprises a thermal insulator. In some implementations, the thermal insulator is disposed on at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the lower surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the deflector plate comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface being disposed closer to the heating element than the lower surface, and wherein the lower surface comprises a thermally reflective material. In some implementations, the thermally reflective material is disposed on at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the lower surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the thermally reflective material is disposed between the lower surface of the deflector plate and the thermal insulator. In some implementations, the deflector plate comprises one or moreAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO thermally conductive materials. In some implementations, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or 100% of the deflector plate is made of the one or more thermally conductive materials. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises a temperature indicator, wherein the temperature indicator is configured to provide a visual indication that a temperature of at least a portion of the deflector plate is above a threshold value. In some implementations, the temperature indicator comprises a light emitting diode. In some implementations, the temperature indicator comprises a light pipe configured to transmit light from the light emitting diode. In some implementations, the temperature indicator comprises a temperature-sensitive coating, wherein the visual indication provided by the temperature- sensitive coating comprises a change in color or opacity of the temperature- sensitive coating. In some implementations, the deflector plate comprises a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein the first aperture is sized and shaped to allow at least a portion of the first end of the heating element to pass therethrough, and wherein the second aperture is sized and shaped to allow at least a portion of the second end of the heating element to pass therethrough. In some implementations, the one or more bracket fastening features, the one or more deflector fastening features, the first terminal, and the second terminal are configured to align the first terminal with the first aperture and the second terminal with the second aperture when the one or more deflector fastening features are fastened to the one or more bracket fastening features. In some implementations, the one or more deflector fastening features are configured to slidably engage with the one or more bracket fastening features. In some implementations, the one or more bracket fastening features comprise a backstop flange configured to prevent further rotation of the deflector plate relative to the bracket when the one or more deflector plate fastening features are slideably engaged with the one or more bracket fastening features. In some implementations, the one or more deflector plate fastening features comprise a backstop flange configured to prevent further rotation of the deflector plate relative to the bracket when the one or more deflector plate fastening features are slideably engaged with the one or more bracket fastening features. In some implementations, the bracket comprises one or more housing fastening features, wherein the one or more housing fastening features are configured to secure the bracket to a stovetop housing. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises an object sensor, wherein the object sensor is coupled to the bracket such that the object sensor detects the presence or absence of an object on the upper surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the object sensor comprises a pressure sensor, aAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO photosensor, or a presence sensor. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises a biasing element configured to urge the object sensor in a vertical direction toward the lower surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises an electronic control unit operatively coupled to the object sensor, the first terminal, and the second terminal, wherein the electronic control unit comprises a switch, and wherein the electronic control unit is configured to operate the switch based on a signal from the object sensor wherein electrical current is not allowed to flow through the heating element when the signal indicates that an object is not present on the upper surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the bracket comprises a plate having an upper rim configured to contact the deflector plate along the entirety of a circumference of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the shape of the heating section comprises a spiral shape. In some implementations, the shape of the heating section does not comprise a spiral shape.

[0006] A heating assembly comprising: a heating element comprising a first end, a second end, and a heating section disposed between the first end and the second end; a deflector plate comprising an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface comprising one or more channels configured to receive at least a portion of the heating section; an inferior base, comprising a bottom wall, an inner side wall, and an outer side wall, the outer side wall and the inner side wall each extending from the bottom wall in a direction toward at least the deflector plate such that the inner side wall, the bottom wall, and the outer side wall define a volume within the inferior base; and an insulator plate positioned between the deflector plate and at least a portion of the inferior base. In some implementations, the outer side wall comprises an upper rim, wherein the upper rim comprises an upper rim flange. In some implementations, an upper rim of the outer side wall of the inferior base comprises one or more plate positioning features. In some implementations, the upper rim of the outer wall comprises a plurality of plate positioning features. In some implementations, the deflector plate comprises one or more plate positioning features. In some implementations, the one or more plate positioning features of the deflector plate are configured to slideably engage with the one or more plate positioning features of the inferior base such that the engagement of the one or more plate positioning features of the deflector plate and the one or more plate positioning features of the inferior base prevent the deflector plate and the inferior base from rotating past one another. In some implementations, the bottom wall comprises a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein the first aperture is sized and shaped so as to allow atAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO least a portion of the first end of the heating element to pass through the first aperture and wherein the second aperture is sized and shaped so as to allow at least a portion of the second end of the heating element to pass through the second aperture. In some implementations, the bottom wall comprises a first grommet coupled to the bottom plate at the first aperture and a second grommet coupled to the bottom plate at the second aperture. In some implementations, the insulator plate is sized and shaped to fit within an upper rim of the outer side wall. In some implementations, the insulator plate comprises one or more apertures, wherein a first aperture of the one or more apertures is sized and shaped to allow the thermostat apparatus side wall to pass therethrough. In some implementations, the first aperture of the one or more apertures is sized and shaped to allow the first end of the heating element to pass therethrough in addition to the thermostat apparatus side wall. In some implementations, the one or more apertures comprises a second aperture, wherein the second aperture is sized and shaped to allow the second end of the heating element to pass therethrough. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises a first heating element terminal connector and a second heating element terminal connector, wherein the first end of the heating element comprises a first heating element terminal and the second end of the heating element comprises a second heating element terminal, the first heating element terminal connector configured to be reversibly coupled to the first heating element terminal and the second heating element terminal connector configured to be reversibly coupled to the second heating element terminal such that engagement of the first and second heating element terminals with the first and second heating element terminal connectors, respectively, places the heating element into electrical communication with a power source. In some implementations, the first heating terminal connector is coupled to the inferior base by a first connector support and the second heating terminal connector is coupled to the inferior base by a second connector support. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises one or more helical springs coupled to a thermostat support plate and biased against the upper rim of the thermostat apparatus side wall such that the thermostat support plate is urged in a direction away from the thermostat apparatus side wall by the one or more helical springs. In some implementations, the one or more helical springs are configured to urge the thermostat into contact with the lower surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises an outer ring assembly, the outer ring assembly having an inner rim flange having a smaller diameter than the outer rim flange of the inferior base. In some implementations, an upper surface ofAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO the inner rim flange of the outer ring assembly contacts a lower surface of the upper rim flange of the inferior base when the heating assembly is assembled. In some implementations, the outer ring assembly comprises an aperture sized and shaped so as to allow the second end of the heating element to pass therethrough. In some implementations, the outer ring assembly comprises one or more ring positioning features sized and shaped to slideably engage one or more positioning features of the deflector plate, such that the engagement of the one or more plate positioning features of the deflector plate and the one or more ring positioning features of the outer ring prevents the deflector plate and the outer ring from rotating past one another. In some implementations, the heating assembly further comprises a mechanical switch configured to reversibly move from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein, when in the engaged position, the mechanical switch interrupts an electrical current supplied to the heating element. In some implementations, the mechanical switch comprises a contact element and spring operably coupled to the contact element. In some implementations, the contact element of the switch passes through a switch aperture of the deflector plate and a switch aperture of the thermostat support plate, such that the contact element extends through the deflector plate and past the upper surface of the deflector plate. In some implementations, the contact element of the switch is configured to translate at least partially through the deflector plate switch aperture in response to contact with an object. In some implementations, the contact element is positioned entirely below the thermostat support and above the inferior base and is in contact with a movable element of the heating assembly selected from the thermostat or the thermostat support, such that translation of the thermostat support plate toward the bottom wall of the inferior base causes the contact element of the switch to translate toward the bottom wall of the inferior base and engage the switch. In some implementations, at least a portion of the heating section of the heating element is configured to be in direct contact with at least a portion of an object in contact with the heating element. In some implementations, each of the one or more channels has a depth that is greater than or equal to a thickness of the portion of the heating section.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain implementations of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawings,Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0008] FIG. 1A shows an orthogonal view of an upper surface of a heating assembly comprising a heating element and a deflector plate, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0009] FIG. IB shows a perspective view of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 1A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0010] FIG. 1C shows a perspective view of the bottom of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 1A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0011] FIG. ID shows an orthogonal view of the bottom of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 1A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0012] FIG. 2A shows an exploded view of a heating assembly comprising a heating element, a deflector plate, and a bracket, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0013] FIG. 2B shows a perspective view of a cross-section of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 2A consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0014] FIG. 2C shows a bracket coupled to a stovetop housing, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0015] FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0016] FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly comprising an electronic control unit, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0017] FIG. 3C shows a side view of a heating assembly comprising an electronic control unit, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0018] FIG. 3D shows a side view of a heating assembly comprising an electronic control unit, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0019] FIG. 4A shows a close-up view of a temperature sensor of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0020] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly comprising a temperature sensor, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0021] FIG. 4C shows a bracket and temperature sensor of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0022] FIG. 4D shows a close-up view of the temperature sensor shown in FIG. 4C, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0023] FIG. 4E shows a close-up view of a temperature sensor of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0024] FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of the upper surface of a heating element and deflector plate of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0025] FIG. 5B shows a perspective view of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 5A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0026] FIG. 6A shows a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly comprising a temperature sensor, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0027] FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of a bracket and temperature sensor of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0028] FIG. 6C shows a perspective view of a bracket and temperature sensor of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0029] FIG. 6D shows a perspective view of a heating assembly having a bracket and temperature sensor, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0030] FIG. 6E shows a different perspective view of the heating assembly shown in FIG.6E, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0031] FIG. 7A shows an orthogonal view of an upper surface of a heating assembly comprising a heating element, a deflector plate, and a medallion, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0032] FIG. 7B shows a perspective view of an upper surface of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 7A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0033] FIG. 8A shows a close-up view of a deflector plate and bracket of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0034] FIG. 8B shows an orthogonal view of the bottom of the deflector plate and bracket shown in FIG. 8A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0035] FIG. 8C shows a close-up view of a housing fastening feature of a bracket of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0036] FIG. 8D shows a close-up view of a bracket comprising a fastening feature, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0037] FIG. 8E shows a close-up view of a deflector plate and a bracket comprising a fastening feature of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0038] FIG. 8F shows a close-up side view of a bracket and deflector plate of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0039] FIG. 8G shows a close-up view of a bracket comprising a fastening feature, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0040] FIG. 8H shows a close-up view of a housing fastening feature of a bracket of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0041] FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly comprising a plate-shaped bracket, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0042] FIG. 9B shows an orthogonal view of the bottom of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 9A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0043] FIG. 9C shows a perspective view of the bottom of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 9A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0044] FIG. 9D shows an exploded view of a heating assembly comprising a heating element, a deflector plate, and a plate- shaped bracket, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0045] FIG. 9E shows a schematic of a deflector plate being coupled to a bracket of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0046] FIG. 9F shows a close-up view of a fastening feature of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0047] FIG. 9G shows a close-up view of a housing fastening feature of a bracket, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0048] FIG. 10 shows a schematic of a heating assembly comprising an inferior plate, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0049] FIG. 11A shows close-up schematic of a portion of a heating element received in a portion of a deflector plate of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0050] FIG. 11B shows a cross-sectional schematic view of a heating assembly illustrating conductive thermal transmission in a deflector plate of the heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0051] FIG. 11C shows an orthogonal schematic view of a heating assembly illustrating conductive thermal transmission in a deflector plate of the heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0052] FIG. 12 shows a a heating assembly comprising a heating element, a deflector plate, and a temperature indicator, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0053] FIG. 13A shows a schematic of a heating assembly comprising a deflector plate and a bracket comprising a bottom wall and a side wall extending from the bottom wall toward the deflector plate, with a heating element positioned in a channel of the deflector plate, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0054] FIG. 13B shows a schematic of heating assembly shown in FIG. 13A with the heating element removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0055] FIG. 13C shows a schematic of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 13B with the deflector plate removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0056] FIG. 13D shows a schematic of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 13C with the insulator plate removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0057] FIG. 13E shows a schematic of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 13D with the thermostat apparatus removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0058] FIG. 14A shows a schematic of a thermostat apparatus shown in FIGs. 13C and 13D, where the thermostat apparatus comprises a thermostat, a thermostat support, a thermostat apparatus side wall and a plurality of spiral springs, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0059] FIG. 14B shows a schematic of the elements shown in FIG. 14A with the thermostat apparatus side wall removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0060] FIG. 14C shows a bottom view of the elements shown in FIG. 14B, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0061] FIG. 15A shows a heating element seated in a channel of a deflector plate, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0062] FIG. 15B shows a schematic view of the deflector plate shown in FIG. 15 A, with the heating element removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0063] FIG. 16A shows a top view of a deflector plate, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0064] FIG. 16B shows a top view of an insulator plate, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0065] FIG. 16C shows a top view of an inferior base, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0066] FIG. 17A shows a cross-sectional view of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0067] FIG. 17B shows a heating element, thermostat, and connectors of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0068] FIG. 18A shows a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0069] FIG. 18B shows a reversed angle of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 18A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0070] FIG. 19A shows a perspective view of a heating assembly comprising an outer ring assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0071] FIG. 19B shows the heating assembly of FIG. 19A with the heating element removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0072] FIG. 19C shows the heating assembly of FIG. 19B with the deflector plate removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0073] FIG. 19D shows the heating assembly of FIG. 19C with the insulator plate removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0074] FIG. 19E shows the outer ring and inferior base of the heating assembly of FIG. 19D with the thermostat apparatus side wall, thermostat, thermostat support, and biasing element removed, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0075] FIG. 20A shows a deflector plate compatible with a heating assembly that utilizes an outer ring assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0076] FIG. 20B shows an insulation plate compatible with a heating assembly that utilizes an outer ring assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0077] FIG. 20C shows an inferior base and a first outer ring portion of an outer ring assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0078] FIG. 20D shows an inferior base and first and second outer ring portions of an outer ring assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0079] FIG. 21 shows an exploded view of a heating assembly comprising an outer ring assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0080] FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly comprising an outer ring assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0081] FIG. 23A shows an internal switch mechanism of a heating assembly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0082] FIG. 23B shows a side view of the internal switch mechanism shown in FIG. 23A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0083] FIG. 24A shows a perspective view of a heating assembly comprising an external switch mechanism, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0084] FIG. 24B shows a close-up view of an external switch mechanism of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 24A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0085] FIG. 24C shows a close-up, cross-sectional view of an external switch mechanism of the heating assembly shown in FIG. 24A, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] Disclosed herein are heating assemblies (e.g., heaters) that generally comprise a heating element and a deflector plate. Whereas heating assemblies comprising a bowl- shaped housing beneath the heating element of the assembly can suffer from long preheating periods and low efficiency in heat transfer from the heating element to an object being heated (for example, due to radiation of heat in a direction away from the object to be heated), the heating assemblies described herein can more efficiently conduct heat to the object being heated.

[0087] Turning to FIGs. 1A-1D, a heating assembly 100 can comprise a heating element 102, a deflector plate 200 (e.g., a deflector plate). A heating element 102 of a heating assembly 100 can comprise a first end 104, a second end 106, and a heating section, for example, wherein the heating element is configured to pass an electrical current from the first end 104 to the heating section and from the heating section to the second end 106 (or from the second end 106 to the heating section and from the heating section to the first end 104). A heating section of a heating element can comprise a resistive heating element configured to radiate thermal energy when electrical current is passed through the heating section. In some implementations, a first end 104 and / or a second end 106 of a heating element 102 can be configured to radiate thermal energy when electrical current is passed therethrough. In some implementations, a first end 104 and / or a second end 106 of a heating element 102 can be configured to pass electrical energy to or from the heating section and not to radiate thermal energy.

[0088] A deflector plate 200 can comprise an upper surface 210 and a lower surface 212 (e.g., wherein the upper surface is disposed closer to heating element 102 and / or an object to be heated than the lower surface). In some implementations, at least a portion of a heating element 102 (e.g., a heating section of the heating element) can be disposed in closeAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG proximity or in direct contact with at least a portion of an upper surface of deflector plate 200 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. IB). In some implementations, at least a portion of heating element 102 (e.g., a heating section of the heating element) can be disposed between an upper surface of deflector plate 200 and an object to be heated, e.g., wherein the object to be heated is placed in contact with the upper surface of deflector plate 200 and / or in contact with heating element 102. In some implementations, providing a deflector plate 200 in close proximity to (e.g., at most 2 millimeters from) or in direct contact with heating element 102 can increase the efficiency of thermal energy transmission to an object disposed on or in close proximity to at least a portion of an upper surface of the deflector plate 200, for example, by decreasing the volume of air surrounding the heating element which will be heated by thermal energy radiated by the heating element in one or more directions other than toward the object being heated (see, e.g., straight arrows in FIG. 10 showing heat radiated by heating element 102 in a direction away from the upper surface of the heating element and curved arrows in FIG. 10 showing convective heat patterns within an inferior base, which can lead to dissipation of thermal energy from the heating element). In some implementations, an upper surface of the deflector plate 200 can be in direct physical contact with at least a portion of the heating element for at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or 100% of a length of the heating element 102 (e.g., wherein the length is the distance from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element) or of the heating section of the heating element 102.

[0089] A deflector plate 200 can comprise one or more thermally conductive materials. In some implementations, a deflector plate 200 comprising one or more thermally conductive materials can transmit thermal energy in a direction radially inward and / or in a direction radially outward from a center point of the deflector plate 200 (e.g., as indicated by the straight arrows in FIG. 11B and FIG. 11C). In some implementations, conductive transmission of thermal energy through a deflector plate 200 that comprising a thermally conductive material (e.g., in a radially inward or radially outward direction) can more evenly distribute thermal energy transmission from the heating assembly 100 to an object disposed thereupon (for instance, wherein thermal energy is transmitted to one or more surfaces of the object in contact with or in close proximity to the deflector plate 200, e.g., as compared to a heating assembly comprising a heating element and no deflector plate). In some cases, conduction of thermal energy (e.g., radially inward or radially outward) through a deflector plate can increase the cross-sectional area of thermal flux from the heating assembly to theAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO object that is to be heated (e.g., as compared to the area of a heating element alone), which can improve efficiency of heating.

[0090] In some implementations, a deflector plate 200 of heating assembly 100 can comprise a thermally reflective material, such as aluminum. In some implementations, a deflector plate 200 can comprise aluminum, iron (e.g., cast iron), steel, stainless steel, or a combination thereof (e.g., a combination of two or more materials). In some implementations, a deflector plate 200 can comprise a finish. For example, the deflector plate 200 or a portion thereof (e.g., one or more surfaces thereof) can be painted, anodized, and / or enameled. In some implementations, a lower surface 212 of deflector plate 200 comprises a thermally reflective material, for example, wherein the thermally reflective material is disposed on at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the lower surface of the deflector plate 200. In some implementations, an upper surface 210 of deflector plate 200 comprises a thermally reflective material, e.g., wherein the thermally reflective material is disposed on at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the upper surface of the deflector plate 200. In some implementations, a deflector plate 200 comprising a thermally reflective material can reflect thermal energy produced by heating element 102 toward an object to be heated, which may be disposed on or in close proximity to (e.g., an upper surface of) the deflector plate 200 (e.g., deflector plate).

[0091] In some implementations, deflector plate 200 can comprise a thermal insulator. For example, a lower surface 212 of deflector plate 200 can comprise a thermal insulator, e.g., to reduce or prevent transmission of thermal energy from the lower surface of deflector plate 200 to an underlying air volume or to an underlying structure. In some implementations, the thermally reflective material is disposed between the lower surface of the deflector plate 200 and the thermal insulator. In some implementations, a thermal insulator can be disposed on at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of a lower surface 212 of the deflector plate 200.

[0092] Deflector plate 200 can comprise one or more channels 202 (e.g., wherein the one or more channels 202 are formed as depressions or cavities in the upper surface of deflector plate 200). A channel 202 of the deflector plate can comprise a recess or cavity in the deflector plate configured to receive at least a portion of the heating element 102. FIG. 1A shows a deflector plate 200 comprising a channel 202 that is configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to receive heating element 102 from a first end 104 of the heating element to a second end 106 of the heating element. In some implementations, a channel can have a shapeAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG(e.g., a shape in the plane of the deflector plate) that is substantially similar (e.g., complementary) to a shape of at least a portion of the heating section of the heating element 102 (e.g., so that the channel can receive at least a portion of the heating element, such as the heating section of the heating element), for example, as shown in FIG. 11 A. One or more channels 202 of a deflector plate can have a cross-sectional shape that is U-shaped. In some implementations, the one or more channels are configured to directly contact a majority of a perimeter of the heating section along at least a portion of a length of the heating section (e.g., wherein the length of the heating section is assessed as the axial length of the heating section from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element). In some implementations, the one or more channels 202 of deflector plate 200 can be sized and shaped to receive (e.g., surround) at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of a perimeter (see, e.g., dotted line in FIG. 11 A) of the heating element 102 or a portion (e.g., the heating section) thereof. In some implementations, the depth and / or cross-sectional curvature of the channel(s) 202 can be selected to achieve a desired circumferential encirclement of the heating element by the interior surface of the channel 202 (e.g., which can be a portion of the upper surface of deflector plate 200). In some implementations, the cross-sectional shape of the channel(s) 202 can be U-shaped.

[0093] In some implementations, the cross-sectional size and shape of the channels 202 can be selected so that an interior surface of the channels 202 (e.g., an upper surface of the deflector plate 200) is disposed at most 1 millimeter (mm), at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm from a portion of the heating element 102. For example, one or more channels of the deflector plate can be disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a cross-sectional circumference of the heating element for 80% of a length of the heating element, at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a cross- sectional circumference of the heating element for at least 90% of a length of the heating element, at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a cross-sectional circumference of the heating element for 100% of a length of the heating element, at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 50% of a cross-sectional circumference of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 60% of a cross-sectional circumference of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 70% of a cross-sectional circumference of the heating element for atAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG least 80% of a length of the heating element, or at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 80% of a cross-sectional circumference of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

[0094] FIG. 1C shows a view of the bottom surface of an implementation of heating assembly 100. In some implementations, a deflector plate 200 can comprise one or more deflector plate apertures 204, for example, wherein a deflector plate aperture 204 can be sized and shaped to allow first end 104 or second send 106 of heating element 102 to pass therethrough. FIG. ID shows an orthogonal bottom view of an implementation of heating assembly 100 comprising deflector plate 200.

[0095] A heating assembly 100 can comprise a bracket 300. A bracket 300 can be coupled to deflector plate 200, e.g., by one or more bracket fastening features 320 of bracket 300. In some implementations, a bracket fastening feature 320 can engage (e.g., slideably engage, for instance, as shown in FIG. 9E and FIG. 9F) a deflector plate fastening feature 220 of deflector plate 200 to couple deflector plate 200 to bracket 300. In some implementations, bracket 300 can be configured to physically support deflector plate 200 and / or heating element 102. In some implementations, bracket 300 can be configured to couple deflector plate 200 and / or heating element 102 to a housing 500 of a device in which heating assembly 100 is disposed, such as a stovetop housing 500, for example, via engaging one or more housing fastening features 330 with the housing 500.

[0096] Heating assembly 100 can comprise a first terminal 302 and a second terminal 304. First terminal 302 can be electrically coupled to first end 104 of heating element 102 and configured to transmit electrical energy to the first end 104. Second terminal 304 can be electrically coupled to second end 106 of heating element 102 and configured to receive electrical energy from second end 106. Accordingly, heating element 102 can be energized by electrical energy supplied via first terminal 302 and second terminal 304. In some implementations, e.g., as shown in FIG. IB, the first terminal 302 and the second terminal 304 are directly coupled to the first end 104 and the second end 106, respectively, of the heating element.

[0097] First terminal 302 and / or second terminal 304 can be in electrical communication with a power source (e.g., a power supply). In some implementations, first terminal 302 and second terminal 304 can be in electronic communication with a power source via a control unit 480 (e.g., a controller or electronic control unit, “ECU”). In some implementations, firstAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG end 104 can be disengaged from first terminal 302 and second end 106 of heating element 102 can be disengaged from second terminal 304, for example, to facilitate removal of heating element 102 and / or deflector plate 200 from bracket 300 (and / or a housing 500, such as a stovetop housing, to which heating assembly 100 is coupled). In some implementations, this can allow for easy cleaning of deflector plate 200 (which may be a washable component) or replacement thereof. Once cleaning of the components of heating assembly 100 and / or housing 500 is complete, heating assembly 100 can be reassembled by slotting first end 104 and second end 106 through deflector plate apertures 204 (and fitting heating element 102 into channel(s) 202) and reconnecting first end 104 and second end 106 with first terminal 302 and second terminal 304, respectively, e.g., as suggested by the exploded diagram shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B. Bracket 300 can be secured to (e.g., coupled to) deflector plate by engaging bracket fastening feature 320 of bracket 300 with deflector plate fastening feature 220 of deflector plate 200 (see, e.g., FIGs. 8A-8G). First terminal 302 and second terminal 304 can be connected to a power source (e.g., via control unit connector 482), and the heating assembly 100 can be secured to a (e.g., stovetop) housing 500 using housing fastening feature 330 of bracket 300, which can be clipped to housing 500, for example, by sliding heating assembly 100 into housing 500 (e.g., as suggested by the configuration shown in FIG. 2C).

[0098] Heating assembly 100 can comprise one or more sensors 400. In some implementations, a sensor can comprise a thermostat 400 or 402. A thermostat can comprise a switch (e.g., a mechanical switch) configured to interrupt flow of electrical current through heating element 102 when a temperature value measured by sensor 400 is equal to or, alternatively or additionally, greater than a threshold temperature value. As such, the thermostat can prevent overheating of the cooking surface (which can comprise heating element 102 and / or deflector plate 200). In some cases, electronic control unit 480 comprises a thermostat, which can be used to interrupt flow of current through the heating element 102 based on one or more rules prescribed by the control unit 480. In some implementations, a thermostat can comprise a sensor selected from a safety thermostat, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, a resistance temperature detector, or any combination thereof.

[0099] In some implementations, a heating assembly can comprise one or more sensors 400 (e.g., object sensors) in addition to a thermostat. In some implementations, the one or more sensors 400 can comprise a position sensor. A position sensor can be configured to detect the presence and / or position of an object (e.g., cookware, such as a pot or pan) relative to the topAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG surface of the heating assembly (e.g., relative to an upper surface of deflector plate 200). Examples of suitable position sensors include a pressure sensor, a presence sensor, a photosensor sensor, light barriers / photoelectric sensors, fiber optic sensors, capacitive sensors, ultrasonic sensors, magnetic proximity sensors, or light-band sensors. In some instances, a sensor 400 can be positioned within the substrate so it is located at the center of the heating element (e.g., within a central region of the heating assembly’s heating element 206). In other instances, the position sensor can be positioned at other areas on the heating assembly.

[0100] Electronic control unit 480 can be used to control the magnitude of the current passing through the heating element 102, for instance, based on input signals from one or more sensors 400 of heating assembly 100. For example, an electronic control unit 480 can be used to establish electrical current to or interrupt electrical current to heating element 102 based on whether an object is detected on top of the heating assembly, e.g., as determined by measured values passed to the electronic control unit 480 from presence sensor(s), optical sensor(s), and / or pressure sensor(s) 400 of the heating assembly. Electronic control unit 480 can also be configured to establish, modulate, or interrupt electrical current flow through the heating element 102 based on input from a user, such as a time duration or a desired temperature (e.g., which can correspond to a magnitude of electrical current supplied to the heating element 102). FIG. 3B shows an implementation in which an electronic control unit 480 can be used to control the temperature of an object on the heating assembly’s surface by modulating or interrupting electrical current through the heating element based at least in part on a value measured by thermostat 400 (which can be a negative temperature coefficient thermistor). FIG. 3C shows a side view of an implementation of heating assembly 100, in which an electronic control unit 480 is used to control the temperature of a cooking surface comprising at least a portion of deflector plate 200.

[0101] Heating assembly 100 can comprise one or more biasing elements 420, which can be used to provide an upward force to a sensor 400 (e.g., a thermostat sensor), for example to urge the thermostat sensor 400 in a vertical direction so as to maintain direct physical contact between contact surface 401 of thermostat sensor 400 and a lower surface of deflector plate 200 or a lower surface of a medallion 450 of deflector plate 400. FIG. 3D shows two helical spring biasing elements 420 coupled to bracket 300 and configured to provide an upward force to thermostat 400, for example, to ensure contact between thermostat 400 and deflector plate 200. FIGs. 4A-4E show views of a helical spring biasing element 420 used to provideAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG an upward force on a thermostat 400. FIGs. 6A-6E show views of a heating assembly 100 comprising a leaf spring biasing element 420. In some implementations (and as shown in FIG. 4A, for example) thermostat 400 can be in electrical communication with control unit 480, e.g., to control a temperature of deflector plate 200. In some implementations, a biasing element 420 can be a helical or coil spring, and in some implementations, a biasing element 420 can be a leaf spring. In some implementations, the biasing element can comprise a plurality of planar sections. For example, a biasing element can comprise a region of deformation comprising a plurality of planar sections connected at an angle, wherein compressive deformation of the biasing element changes the angle from an initial angle to a deflected angle.

[0102] A heating element 102 (and the corresponding one or more channels 202) can have a variety of shapes in the plane of the deflector plate. For example, a heating element 102 can form a spiral in the plane of the deflector plate, e.g., as shown in FIG. 2A, FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, FIG. 7A, and FIG. 7B. In some implementations, heating element 102 can have a non-spiral shape (e.g., a labyrinth shape as shown in FIGs. 1A, or another geometric or artistic shape). In some implementations, a deflector plate can comprise a central region 206 (e.g., at the center of the spiral shape of the heating element 102 (for example, as shown in FIG. 5 A, FIG. 5B, FIG. 7A, and FIG. 7B. In some implementations, a central region free of the heating section of the heating element 102 can provide more accurate measurements of temperature (e.g., by creating a central region spaced away from the heating elements, which may affect thermostat measurements). In some implementations, a heating assembly 100 or portion thereof (e.g., deflector plate 200) can comprise a medallion 450. In some implementations, a medallion can serve as a thermally conductive interface between the contact surface 401 of the thermostat sensor and the object to be heated, while also protecting the thermostat from damage (e.g., resulting from liquids spilled on the deflector plate surface). In some implementations, the medallion protrudes vertically from the upper surface of the deflector plate 200 (e.g., to provide direct contact between the medallion and the object to be heated. In some implementations, a downward force applied by the object to be heated on the medallion is transferred to the contact surface of the sensor 400 via the medallion. In some implementations, the downward force applied to the sensor 400 by the object (e.g., via the medallion) can be resisted at least partially by the biasing element 420, for example, to maintain good contact and temperature sensing by the sensors 400.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0103] FIGs. 8A-8G show close-up views of some fastening features that can be incorporated into a heating assembly described herein. FIGs. 8A-8E show a fin- shaped deflector plate fastening feature 220 (e.g., along a rim of the deflector plate) comprising a gap slideably engaged with a bracket fastening feature 320 of the bracket 300, so as to couple the deflector plate 200 to the bracket 300. As shown, for example, in FIG. 8E, bracket fastening feature 320 can comprise a backstop flange, e.g., to prevent further rotation (e.g., over-rotation) of deflector plate 200 relative to bracket 300 when the one or more deflector plate fastening features are slideably engaged with the one or more bracket fastening features. FIGs. 8F-8H show implementations of housing fastening features, which can be used to couple and optionally secure bracket 300 to a housing 500 of a structure or appliance (e.g., a stovetop) in which the heating assembly is to be utilized.

[0104] As shown in FIGs. 9A-9D, a bracket 300 can be plate-shaped. In some implementations, a full (e.g., plate-shaped) bracket 300 can prevent damage or disruption to sensitive sensors or connections of the heating assembly. In some implementations, a full (e.g., plate-shaped) bracket, for example, as shown in FIGs. 9A-9D (or an inferior base, e.g., as shown in FIGs. 13A-13E, 17A, 18A-19E, and 20C-24C) can prevent dripping, spilling, or leaking of a liquid (e.g., from an object placed on top of the heating assembly or a liquid present or spilled on the heating element, the deflector plate 100, or a housing 500) into the interior of the heating unit comprising the heating assembly, for instance due to its positioning beneath the heating element and deflector plate and its full coverage of the area beneath the heating element and deflector plate. One or more bracket apertures 306 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9C) can be used to pass the first end 104 and second end 106 of heating element 102 through to the first terminal 302 and second terminal 304 of the heating assembly when a full coverage bracket is used. FIGs. 9E-9F show methods of coupling the bracket 300 to the deflector plate 200 (arrows show direction of movement of the bracket 300 or rim 308 thereof relative to the deflector plate 200). Similar coupling methods can be used for coupling partial brackets, such as those shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2C, to a deflector plate. FIG. 9G shows a close-up view of a housing fastening feature, which can be utilized by installing the heating assembly 100 into the housing 500. In some implementations, bracket rim 308 can prevent heating assembly 100 from falling through an opening in the housing 500.

[0105] A heating assembly can comprise a temperature indicator. A temperature indicator can be a feature configured to provide a visual indication of a temperature of the heating elementAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG and / or the deflector plate. In some implementations, a temperature indicator can be configured to provide a visual indication that a temperature of at least a portion of the deflector plate 200, the object to be heated, and / or the heating element 102 is above a threshold value. In some implementations, a temperature indicator can comprise a light emitting diode. In some implementations, a temperature indicator can comprise a light pipe configured to transmit light from the light emitting diode. FIG. 12 shows an implementation wherein the visual indicator is a light pipe used to convey a visual signal from a light emitting diode, indicating that the cooking surface of the heating assembly is hot. In some implementations, a temperature indicator can be a temperature- sensitive coating. For example, the temperature indicator can be a temperature- sensitive coating configured to provide a change in color or opacity of the temperature- sensitive coating in response to a change in temperature of the cooking surface past a threshold temperature.

[0106] FIGs. 13A-13E show implementations of a heating assembly 100 described herein. FIG. 13A shows a heating assembly comprising a heating element 103 located at least partially within a channel 202 of a deflector plate 200. In some cases, one or more channels 202 can be formed in (e.g., stamped into or formed in through casting) the material of the deflector plate, which can comprise a metal or a metal alloy. The one or more channels 202 of the deflector plate can be dimensioned (e.g., have a shape and size) configured to receive all or a portion of the heating element 102 (e.g., all or a portion of the heating section 103), for example, as shown in FIG. 13 A. For example, the one or more channels can have a depth (e.g., in a z-direction) that is equal to or substantially equal to a thickness of the heating element or received portion thereof; however, it is contemplated that the channel can have a depth less than the thickness of the channel(s) 202 in implementations wherein it is desired that the heating element or portion thereof extends past the upper surface of the deflector plate. In various implementations, the channel can have a depth greater than the thickness of the channel(s) 202, for example, so that the heating element does not extend past the upper surface of the deflector plate (e.g., wherein the heating element is flush with the upper surface of the deflector plate). The shape of the one or more channels 202 (e.g., in the x-y plane of FIG. 13 A) can define a path within the deflector plate that comprises a shape that is identical or substantially identical to the shape of the heating element (e.g., to the shape of the heating section 103 of the heating element). In some cases, the heating section 103 can contact the upper surface of the one or more channels 202 of the deflector plate 200. In some cases, theAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG heating section 103 can be suspended above (e.g., such that the heating element is not in contact with) the one or more channels 202 of the heating element.

[0107] A deflector plate can have one or more deflector plate positioning features 214 sized and shaped to engage with (e.g., slideably engage with) one or more inferior base positioning features 574 and / or one or more insulation plate positioning features 254, which can secure the orientation of the deflector plate relative to the inferior base 550 and / or insulator plate 250, e.g., by preventing the deflector plate from rotating relative to the inferior base and / or the insulator plate, for instance in the plane of the deflector plate. As shown in FIG. 13 A, heating element first end terminal 105 and heating element second end terminal 107 can extend below the bottom wall of the inferior base 550, presenting the terminals for convenient coupling to heating element terminal connector(s) 108, which can connect the heating element 102 to a power source and / or to the thermostat 402.

[0108] FIG. 13B shows the heating assembly 100 disclosed herein, wherein the heating element 102 has been removed. Removal of the heating element 102 can be facilitated by selection of heating element terminal connector(s) 108 that releasably engage heating element first end terminal 105 and heating element second end terminal 107. For example, the heating element terminal connector(s) can comprise electrically conductive spring clamps that engage and retain the heating element first end terminal or the heating element second end terminal using a friction clamping mechanism while also electrically coupling the first end terminal or second end terminal to the power source and / or to the thermostat. The force of the clamping mechanism of the heating element terminal connector(s) can be selected so as to allow the first end terminal or the second end terminal to engage and be retained by the terminal connector(s) simply by pressing the heating element down until the terminals engage the terminal connectors. Accordingly, the heating element 102 can be removed simply by pulling the heating element up away from the channel 202 of the deflector plate so that the first end terminal and the second end terminal slide out of the connector(s). As disclosed herein, the deflector plate, which can have a channel sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the heating element, can be function to reflect heat away from the heating assembly and toward the object to be heated on top of the cooking surface, which can reduce interference with temperature readings and can aid in more efficiently delivering thermal energy to the object to be heated.

[0109] FIG. 13C shows the heating assembly 100 disclosed herein, wherein the deflector plate 200 has been removed. As shown, heating assembly 100 can comprise a thermostatAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO apparatus. The thermostat apparatus can comprise a thermostat 402 and a thermostat apparatus side wall 460. In some implementations, thermostat apparatus 450 can comprise a thermostat support plate 410, for example, wherein thermostat support plate 410 is coupled to thermostat apparatus side wall 460 by one or more biasing elements 420 (e.g., one or more helical springs). In various implementations, the deflector plate can be allowed to rest upon a portion of the thermostat apparatus side wall 460, a portion of the insulator plate 250, a portion of the thermostat 402, a portion of the thermostat support plate 410, a portion of the biasing element 420, and / or a portion of the inferior base 550. In various implementations, the thermostat 402 can be coupled to the thermostat support plate 410, which can be coupled to one or more biasing element(s) 420 (e.g., spring(s) such as helical spring(s)). The one or more biasing elements 420 can be biased against the thermostat apparatus side wall 460 to urge the thermostat 420 upward away from the thermostat apparatus side wall 460 such that the sensor contact surface 401 of the thermostat 402 is held in contact with a lower surface of the deflector plate 200. This can result in accurate and responsive measurement of the temperature of the deflector plate 200. Since an object to be heated can be in contact simultaneously with the deflector plate 200 (e.g., a central region 206 of the deflector plate) and with the heating section 103 of the heating element 102 when placed upon the heating assembly, ensuring that the sensor contact surface 401 is in contact with the deflector plate can improve heating assembly 100 performance, safety, and responsiveness. Thermostat apparatus side wall 460, thermostat 402, thermostat support plate 410, and / or biasing element(s) 420 can pass through an insulator plate aperture 252 to allow direct contact between a sensor of the thermostat 402 and the deflector plate 200. The insulator plate 250 can also comprise one or more insulator plate aperture(s) 252 sized and shaped to allow the first end 104 or second end 106 of the heating element to pass therethrough. In some cases, an aperture of the one or more insulator plate aperture(s) 252 can be sized and shaped to allow one of the first end or second end of the heating element to pass therethrough and also to allow the thermostat apparatus side wall 460 to pass therethrough (e.g., as shown in FIG. 13C). The insulator plate 250 can comprise an insulator plate retainer aperture 261, for example, wherein the an insulator plate retainer 260 can pass therethrough (and, in various implementations, through an inferior base retainer aperture in the outer side wall 570 of the inferior base), so as to tether the insulator plate to the inferior base.

[0110] The insulator plate 250 can also comprise one or more insulator plate positioning feature(s) 254, which can be configured to engage with the deflector plate positioning featureAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG214 and / or an inferior base positioning feature 574 to prevent the insulator plate from rotating with respect to the deflector plate and / or the inferior base 550. In some implementations, a heating assembly can comprise an insulator plate retainer 260, which can comprise a hook, a wire, a thread, a hinge, or other such connectors. The insulator plate retainer can couple the insulator plate 250 to the inferior base 550 to prevent loss of the insulator plate by users, e.g., when the insulator plate is displaced from its position during cleaning. By tethering the insulator plate 250 to the inferior base 550, it is difficult or impossible to misplace the insulator plate. The insulator plate 250 can be sized to fit between the deflector plate 200 and an upper rim (e.g., upper rim flange 572) of the inferior base 550 and to rest upon the upper rim of the inferior base outer side wall 570. In various implementations, the insulator plate can reduce heat flux from the deflector plate to the volume of space between the insulator plate, the bottom wall, the outer side wall, and the thermostat apparatus side wall, which can further reduce the flow of thermal energy from the heating element to the thermostat (which can improve accuracy of temperature measurements) and can reduce the likelihood of dripping or leaking of fluids from the cooking surface (e.g., the upper surface of the deflector plate and heating element) into the interior of the inferior base 550.

[0111] FIG. 13D shows the heating assembly 100 disclosed herein, wherein the insulator plate has been removed. As shown in FIG. 13D, an upper rim of outer side wall 570 of inferior base 550 can comprise one or more inferior base positioning features 574. An upper rim of outer side wall 570 can comprise an outer side wall upper rim flange 572. In some implementations, outer side wall upper rim flange 572 can be configured to support a portion of insulator plate 250 and / or a portion of deflector plate 200. Thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can be integral to or coupled to bottom wall 555 of inferior base 550 or thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can be separate from (e.g., resting upon) bottom wall 555 of inferior base 550. A portion of upper rim of thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can be shaped to support biasing element 420, which can be a helical spring. Biasing element 420 can be coupled to thermostat support plate 410. In implementations, biasing element 420 can exert force against thermostat apparatus side wall 460 and against thermostat support plate 410 so as to urge thermostat support plate (and one or more objects coupled thereto, such as thermostat 402) upward, in a direction away from bottom wall 555. In implementations, biasing element 420 can urge thermostat 402 or a portion thereof (e.g., sensor contact surface 401) against a lower surface of deflector plate 200.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0112] FIG. 13E shows an inferior base 550 of heating assembly 100. As disclosed herein, inferior base 550 can comprise a bottom wall 555 and an outer side wall 570 projecting therefrom. In various aspects, inferior base 550 can comprise an inner side wall 560. For example, inner side wall 560 can be integral to inferior base 550 and can project upward from bottom wall 555 and in a direction toward at least the deflector plate. In some implementations, inner side wall 560 of inferior base 550 can be an angled flange. Bottom wall 555 can comprise a plurality of apertures. Bottom wall can comprise one or more bottom wall heating element apertures 556. Bottom wall heating element apertures 556 can be sized and shaped and positioned on bottom wall 555 so as to allow heating element first end 104 and / or heating element second end 106 to pass therethrough. Bottom wall heating element apertures 556 can comprise a grommet 558, for example, to reduce the likelihood of any liquid passing through the aperture(s). Bottom wall 555 can also comprise a bottom wall thermostat aperture 557, which can be sized and shaped to allow thermostat 402, switch 610, and / or any wires or connectors associated therewith (e.g., 120 and / or 614) to pass therethrough. In some implementations, thermostat apparatus side wall 460 is configured to contact and upper surface of bottom wall 555. For example, a width or diameter of a lower end of thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can be greater than a width or diameter of bottom wall thermostat aperture 557 such that thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can contact and rest upon bottom wall 555 and surround or partially surround bottom wall thermostat aperture 557 without falling through the aperture. Bottom wall thermostat aperture 557 can comprise a grommet or a flanged edge (e.g., a bottom plate inner side wall 560, for instance, as shown in FIG. 13E), which can be useful in preventing any liquids present in inferior base 550 from leaking below the inferior base. In some implementations, inferior base inner side wall 560 can also be useful in preventing liquids present in inferior base 550 from leaking below the inferior base. Outer side wall 570 can comprise an upper rim, which can include an upper rim flange 572. The upper rim of outer side wall 570 can also comprise one or more inferior base positioning features 574, which can be sized and shaped to slideably engage one or more insulator plate positioning features and / or one or more deflector plate positioning features.

[0113] FIGs. 14A-C illustrate, in more detail, thermostat apparatus 450. The thermostat apparatus 450 comprises a thermostat apparatus side wall 460, thermostat support plate 410, thermostat 402, and biasing elements 420. The thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can be a component of thermostat apparatus 450. In some implementations, thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can rest on an upper surface of bottom plate 555 (e.g., without being joined toAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG bottom plate 555). In some implementations, thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can be a component of inferior base 550, for example, wherein thermostat apparatus side wall 460 is integrated into and extends from bottom plate 555 of inferior base 550. The thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can comprise an upper rim. One or more portions of thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can be shaped to retain one or more biasing elements 420 or to provide a surface against which biasing element 420 can exert a force. The one or more biasing elements 420 can be coupled to thermostat support plate 410, which can be coupled to thermostat 402. In various implementations, biasing element(s) 420 can urge thermostat support plate upward (e.g., by exerting force on thermostat apparatus side wall 460) so as to establish or maintain contact of thermostat 402 (or a portion thereof such as sensor contact surface 401) with a lower (bottom) surface of deflector plate 200. As shown in FIGs. 14A- 14C, biasing element(s) 420 can be coupled to a flange of thermostat support plate 410. Thermostat support plate can be sized and shaped to fit within thermostat apparatus side wall 460. Thermostat 420 can be coupled to a plurality of temperature sensor connectors 404, e.g., to allow sensing and control of temperatures in the deflector plate, which can be indicative of temperatures in an object to be heated that is placed on top of the heating element 102. Thermostat apparatus side wall 460 can function to shield thermostat 402 from radiant thermal energy within the luminal volume of heating assembly 100 (e.g., as defined by the boundaries of the insulator plate 250, outer side wall 570, bottom wall 555, and thermostat apparatus side wall 460) and can serve as a conduit through which electrical wires may pass to and from thermostat 402 and where a switch 610 may be located.

[0114] FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B show deflector plate 200 with and without heating element 102 installed, respectively. As shown, a heating section 103 of heating element 102 can partially or completely be received in channel 202 of deflector plate 200, which can have a cross-sectional shape and size to partially or completely receive a heating section or portion thereof of the heating element 102. Deflector plate 200 can have a plurality of apertures sized and shaped to allow first heating element end 104 and second heating element end 106 to pass therethrough, e.g., as shown in FIG. 15A. The first end 104 of heating element 102 can have a first heating element terminal 105 shaped to releasably engage with heating element terminal connector 109. The second end 106 of heating element 102 can have a second heating element terminal 107 shaped to releasably engage with heating element terminal connector 109.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0115] FIG. 16A shows a top view of an implementation of deflector plate 200, comprising first and second heating element apertures 204, a deflector plate positioning feature 214, and channel 202. FIG. 16B shows a top view of an insulator plate 250, which can comprise a plurality of apertures 252 and, optionally, one or more insulator plate positioning features 254. Insulator plate 250 can comprise a centrally located aperture 252 sized and shaped to allow inner side wall 560 to pass therethrough. As shown in FIG. 16B, the aperture 252 can also be shaped and sized to allow a heating element end to pass therethrough. In some implementations, one or more additional apertures or gaps can be present in insulator plate 250 to allow a second heating element end to pass therethrough. Insulator plate 250 can also comprise a insulator plate retainer aperture 261 sized and shaped to allow an insulator plate 260 retainer to pass therethrough. FIG. 16C shows a top view of an inferior base 550. Inferior base 550 can comprise a bottom wall 555, an outer side wall 570, and a plurality of apertures 556. Inferior base 550 can also comprise an inner side wall 560. Inferior base 550 can comprise an inferior base thermostat aperture 557 sized and shaped to allow electrical wires, thermostat 402, and / or switch 610 to pass therethrough. A portion of bottom plate 555 surrounding inferior base thermostat aperture 557 can comprise a flanged edge and / or a grommet, e.g., to prevent leakage of any fluids that may be present on bottom wall 555.Bottom wall 555 can comprise one or more (e.g., two or more) heating element apertures 556 sized and shaped to allow an end of heating element 102 to pass therethrough. Heating element apertures 556 can comprise a grommet 558, e.g., to prevent leakage of fluids that may be present on bottom wall 555.

[0116] FIG. 17A shows a cross-sectional view of a heating assembly 100. As shown in FIG. 17A, biasing element(s) 420 can urge thermostat support plate 410 upward, which can press sensor contact surface 401 against a lower surface of deflector plate 200. Heating element terminal connectors 108 can be coupled to inferior base 550 by one or more heating element terminal connector supports 109. FIG. 17B shows just the electrical components of some implementations of heating assembly 100 as well as the terminal connector supports 109, wherein a power source wire 120 is connected to thermostat 402, which is connected to first heating element end 104, which is connected to heating section 103 (which is capable of producing radiative thermal energy), which is connected to second heating element end 106, which is connected at connector 108 to a wire 120 leading back to the power supply.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG

[0117] FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B illustrate the electrical connections between the heating elements (e.g., at connectors 108), the thermostat 402 (not visible inside of inner side wall 560), and the power source (and, optionally, a computer), which is not shown.

[0118] A heating assembly 100 can comprise a larger heating element 102 and deflector plate 200, for example, as shown in FIGs. 19A-19E. As shown in FIGs. 19A-19E, the larger heating element 102 and deflector plate 200 can be used with a similar or identical inferior base and thermostat as described above by employing an outer ring assembly 590. As disclosed above, all or a portion of heating section 103 of heating element 102 can be received by channel 202 of deflector plate 200, and a first end and a second end of heating element 102 can pass through a plurality of deflector plate apertures. However, since the heating element 102 is larger, the distance from the center 206 of deflector plate 200 at which the second end 106 of heating element 102 passes through the deflector plate is greater than in the example shown in FIGs. 13A-13E. An outer ring assembly 590 can comprise one or more outer ring assembly positioning features 594, e.g., sized and shaped to slideably engage one or more deflector plate positioning features 214, to prevent deflector plate 200 from rotating relative to inferior base 550. In some implementations, outer ring assembly can comprise a plurality of portions. For example, FIGs. 19C, 19D, and 19E show an outer ring assembly 590 having a first portion 591 and a second portion 592, joined at an outer ring joint 593. The outer ring assembly 590 or a portion thereof (e.g., one or more portions of the outer ring assembly) can have an inner rim flange having a smaller diameter than the outer rim flange of the inferior base. In some embodiments, an upper surface of the inner rim flange(s) of the outer ring assembly can contact a lower surface of the upper rim flange of the inferior base, e.g., when the heating assembly is assembled. Outer ring assembly 590 can comprise one or more heating element apertures 595 that allow the second heating element end to pass therethrough. Outer ring assembly 590 can also comprise a housing fastening feature 330, which can be used to retain the heating assembly 100 within the larger heating device (e.g., a cooktop housing).

[0119] FIG. 20A shows a top view of the larger deflector plate comprising two deflector plate heating element terminal apertures 204 and a channel 202 shaped and sized such that the channel 202 has a cross-sectional shape that is identical to or substantially identical to the cross-sectional shape of a heating element 102. FIG. 20B shows an insulator plate 250 comprising an aperture sized and shaped to allow the thermostat apparatus side wall 460 to pass therethrough and one aperture sized and shaped to allow a first heating element terminalAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG to pass therethrough. As shown in FIG. 20C, the second end heating element terminal aperture 595 is located in a first portion of the outer ring assembly 591. FIG. 20D shows how a second outer ring assembly portion 592 can be added and joined at an outer ring assembly joint 593 to complete the outer ring assembly. A exploded view of a heating assembly 100 comprising an outer ring assembly 590 is shown in FIG. 21. It is noted here that one or more portions of outer ring assembly 590 can have a flange 596 to receive a lower surface of upper rim flange 572, allowing inferior base 550 to sit on the inner edge of outer ring assembly 590. FIG. 22 provides a perspective view of the bottom of a heating assembly 100 comprising an outer ring assembly 590.

[0120] A heating assembly 100 can comprise a mechanical switch (e.g., an internal mechanical switch). A mechanical switch in the heating assemblies described herein can be configured to reversibly move from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein when in the engaged position, the mechanical switch interrupts an electrical current supplied to the heating element (e.g., wherein the switch is placed in series with the circuit supplying electrical current to the heating element). In some implementations, a biasing element, such as a spring, can urge the mechanical switch or a portion thereof (e.g., a contact element thereof) into a disengaged position, for example, wherein a mechanical force applied to a portion of the mechanical switch (e.g., to the contact element) can move the switch to an engaged position. In various embodiments, the mechanical switch can allow electrical current to flow to the heating element when the switch is in the engaged position. In various implementations, a mechanical switch can comprise a contact element operably coupled to a biasing element (e.g., a spring). In some cases, the biasing element (e.g., spring) is biased against the contact element such that the spring prevents the contact element of the switch from translating from a first position to a second position, wherein the switch is in a disengaged position when the contact element is in the first position and an engaged position when the contact element is in the second position. In some implementations, a biasing force (e.g., a spring force) of the biasing element (e.g., spring) operably coupled to the contact element can be selected to prevent the switch from moving from the disengaged position to the engaged position unless an opposing force (e.g., provided by the weight of an object placed on the deflector plate and / or heating element) greater than the biasing force is applied to the contact element.

[0121] In an implementation where the mechanical switch is an internal mechanical switch 610, the switch can be a mechanism configured to control electrical flow through heatingAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WG element 102, wherein the entirety of the switch (including a contact element 612) is located below the deflector plate. As shown in FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B, the contact element 612 of switch 610 can be positioned below a portion of the thermostat 402 or below thermostat support plate 410. When an object is placed on the heating element and upper surface of deflector plate 200, the deflector plate can translate downward, which can push down upon the thermostat and / or the thermostat support plate, which then can apply downward force on the contact element 612. When downward force is applied to the contact element 612, the switch engages, allowing electricity to flow to the heating element. In some implementations, the mechanical switch is not engaged when no downward force is applied, which disallows electrical flow through the heating element. Thus, the switch can be a safety mechanism wherein the heating assembly is in a default “off’ state until an object to be heated is placed upon the heating assembly for cooking. Likewise, when the object to be heated is removed, the downward force on the switch is decreased, and the flow of electricity to the heating element is interrupted, preventing overheating or unattended hot surfaces.

[0122] FIGs. 24A, 24B, and 24C illustrate implementations of a heating assembly 100 comprising an external mechanical switch. In some implementations, the contact element 612 can protrude through the deflector plate 200 (e.g., via a deflector plate switch aperture 222). The contact element 612 of the external mechanical switch can be depressed directly by the object being heated, e.g., when the object is placed on top of the contact element. As with the internal mechanical switch, engaging the switch by depressing the contact element can cause electricity to flow through the heating element 102 of the heating assembly, and disengaging the switch by removing a force from the contact element can cause the flow of electricity to the heating element to be interrupted.Terminology

[0123] In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as “at least one of’ or “one or more of’ may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term “and / or” may also occur in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it used, such a phrase is intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually or any of the recited elements or features in combination with any of the other recited elements or features. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B;” “one or more of A and B;” and “A and / or B” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, or A and B together.” A similar interpretation is also intended for lists including three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B,Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO and C;” “one or more of A, B, and C;” and “A, B, and / or C” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together.” Use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.

[0124] In the descriptions above and in the claims, the term “received at least partially by” can mean an object or a portion of an object that is configured to partially or completely surround or substantially surround the periphery of another object. In some cases, the surrounded or substantially surrounded object can have a periphery that is circular in crosssection. In some cases, the surrounded or substantially surrounded object can have a periphery that is square, rectangular, or in another polygonal shape in cross-section.

[0125] The subject matter described herein can be embodied in systems, apparatus, methods, computer programs and / or articles depending on the desired configuration. Any methods or the logic flows depicted in the accompanying figures and / or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with implementations related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and / or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. The implementations described above can be directed to various combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and / or combinations and subcombinations of further features noted above. Furthermore, above described advantages are not intended to limit the application of any issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the advantages.

[0126] As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and / or position to indicate that the value and / or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and / or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is + / - 0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), + / - 1% of the stated value (or range of values), + / - 2% of the stated value (or range of values), + / - 5% of the stated value (or range of values), + / - 10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical values given herein should also be understood toAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO include about or approximately that value, unless the context indicates otherwise. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is also disclosed. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. It is also understood that when a value is disclosed that “less than or equal to” the value, “greater than or equal to the value” and possible ranges between values are also disclosed, as appropriately understood by the skilled artisan. For example, if the value “X” is disclosed the “less than or equal to X” as well as “greater than or equal to X” (e.g., where X is a numerical value) is also disclosed. It is also understood that the throughout the application, data is provided in a number of different formats, and that this data, represents endpoints and starting points, and ranges for any combination of the data points. For example, if a particular data point “10” and a particular data point “15” are disclosed, it is understood that greater than, greater than or equal to, less than, less than or equal to, and equal to 10 and 15 are considered disclosed as well as between 10 and 15. It is also understood that each unit between two particular units are also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

[0127] Spatially relative terms, such as “forward”, “rearward”, “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0128] Additionally, section headings shall not limit or characterize the subject matter set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically, and by way of example, although the headings refer to a “Technical Field,” such claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called technical field. Further, the description of a technology in the “Background” is not to be construed as an admission that technology is prior art to any embodiment in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary” to be considered as an exclusive characterization of the subject matter set forth in issued claims.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WOCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A heating assembly comprising: a heating element configured to be in direct contact with at least a portion of an object to heat the object, the heating element comprising a first end, a second end, and a heating section; a deflector plate comprising, one or more channels defined in the deflector plate, wherein the one or more channels are configured to receive and to directly contact at least a portion of the heating section, and one or more deflector fastening features; and a bracket comprising a first terminal configured to receive the first end of the heating element, a second terminal configured to receive the second end of the heating element, and one or more bracket fastening features, wherein the one or more bracket fastening features are configured to receive a respective deflector fastening feature of the one or more deflector fastening features, and wherein the first terminal and second terminal are configured to supply electrical current to the heating element.

2. The heating assembly of claim 1, further comprising a thermostat having a contact surface, wherein the thermostat is coupled to the bracket such that the contact surface is in direct physical contact with a lower surface of deflector plate.

3. The heating assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the thermostat comprises a safety thermostat, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, a resistance temperature detector, or any combination thereof.

4. The heating assembly of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a biasing element configured to urge the thermostat in a vertical direction so as to place the contact surface of the thermostat in direct physical contact with the lower surface of the deflector plate.

5. The heating assembly of claim 4, wherein the biasing element is selected from a coil spring or a leaf spring.

6. The heating assembly of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the biasing element comprises a region of deformation comprising a plurality of planar sections, wherein the plurality ofAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO planar sections are connected at an angle, wherein compressive deformation of the biasing element changes the angle from an initial angle to a deflected angle.

7. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first terminal and the second terminal are configured to transmit electrical current from a power source to the heating element.

8. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an electronic control unit operatively connected to the thermostat and at least one of the first terminal and the second terminal.

9. The heating assembly of claim 8, wherein the electronic control unit comprises a switch configured to prevent electrical current from flowing between the power source and at least one of the first terminal and the second terminal, based on a temperature value measured by the thermostat.

10. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the one or more channels is u-shaped.

11. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the one or more channels are configured to directly contact a majority of a perimeter of the heating section along at least a portion of a length of the heating section.

12. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a perimeter of the heating element for 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

13. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 90% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

14. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 40% of a perimeterAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO of the heating element for 100% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

15. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 50% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

16. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 60% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

17. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 70% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

18. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate is disposed within at most 1 mm, at most 2 mm, or at most 3 mm of at least 80% of a perimeter of the heating element for at least 80% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of the heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

19. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deflector plate comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface being in direct physical contact with the heating section of the heating element.

20. The heating assembly of claim 17, wherein the upper surface of the deflector plate is in direct physical contact with the heating element for at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95% or at 100% of a length of the heating element, wherein the length of theAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO heating element extends from the first end of the heating element to the second end of the heating element.

21. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deflector plate comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface being disposed closer to the heating element than the lower surface, and wherein the lower surface comprises a thermal insulator.

22. The heating assembly of claim 19, wherein the thermal insulator is disposed on at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the lower surface of the deflector plate.

23. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deflector plate comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface being disposed closer to the heating element than the lower surface, and wherein the lower surface comprises a thermally reflective material.

24. The heating assembly of claim 21, wherein the thermally reflective material is disposed on at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the lower surface of the deflector plate.

25. The heating assembly of claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the thermally reflective material is disposed between the lower surface of the deflector plate and the thermal insulator.

26. The heating assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the deflector plate comprises one or more thermally conductive materials.

27. The heating assembly of claim 24, wherein at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or 100% of the deflector plate is made of the one or more thermally conductive materials.

28. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a temperature indicator, wherein the temperature indicator is configured to provide a visual indication that a temperature of at least a portion of the deflector plate is above a threshold value.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO29. The heating assembly of claim 26, wherein the temperature indicator comprises a light emitting diode.

30. The heating assembly of claim 27, wherein the temperature indicator comprises a light pipe configured to transmit light from the light emitting diode.

31. The heating assembly of claim 26, wherein the temperature indicator comprises a temperature- sensitive coating, wherein the visual indication provided by the temperaturesensitive coating comprises a change in color or opacity of the temperature-sensitive coating.

32. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deflector plate comprises a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein the first aperture is sized and shaped to allow at least a portion of the first end of the heating element to pass therethrough, and wherein the second aperture is sized and shaped to allow at least a portion of the second end of the heating element to pass therethrough.

33. The heating assembly of claim 31, wherein the one or more bracket fastening features, the one or more deflector fastening features, the first terminal, and the second terminal are configured to align the first terminal with the first aperture and the second terminal with the second aperture when the one or more deflector fastening features are fastened to the one or more bracket fastening features.

34. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more deflector fastening features are configured to slidably engage with the one or more bracket fastening features.

35. The heating assembly of claim 32, wherein the one or more bracket fastening features comprise a backstop flange configured to prevent further rotation of the deflector plate relative to the bracket when the one or more deflector plate fastening features are slideably engaged with the one or more bracket fastening features.

36. The heating assembly of claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the one or more deflector plate fastening features comprise a backstop flange configured to prevent further rotation of the deflector plate relative to the bracket when the one or more deflector plate fastening features are slideably engaged with the one or more bracket fastening features.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO37. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bracket comprises one or more housing fastening features, wherein the one or more housing fastening features are configured to secure the bracket to a stovetop housing.

38. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an object sensor, wherein the object sensor is coupled to the bracket such that the object sensor detects the presence or absence of an object on the upper surface of the deflector plate.

39. The heating assembly of claim 36, wherein the object sensor comprises a pressure sensor, a photosensor, or a presence sensor.

40. The heating assembly of claim 36 or claim 37, further comprising a biasing element configured to urge the object sensor in a vertical direction toward the lower surface of the deflector plate.

41. The heating assembly of any one of claims 36-38, further comprising an electronic control unit operatively coupled to the object sensor, the first terminal, and the second terminal, wherein the electronic control unit comprises a switch, and wherein the electronic control unit is configured to operate the switch based on a signal from the object sensor wherein electrical current is not allowed to flow through the heating element when the signal indicates that an object is not present on the upper surface of the deflector plate.

42. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bracket comprises a plate having an upper rim configured to contact the deflector plate along the entirety of a circumference of the deflector plate.

43. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shape of the heating section comprises a spiral shape.

44. The heating assembly of any one of claims 1-40, wherein the shape of the heating section does not comprise a spiral shape.

45. A heating assembly comprising: a heating element comprising a first end, a second end, and a heating section disposed between the first end and the second end;Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO a deflector plate comprising an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface comprising one or more channels configured to receive at least a portion of the heating section, wherein each of the one or more channels; an inferior base, comprising a bottom wall, an inner side wall, and an outer side wall, the outer side wall and the inner side wall each extending from the bottom wall in a direction toward the insulator plate such that the inner side wall, the bottom wall, and the outer side wall define a volume within the inferior base; and an insulator plate positioned between the deflector plate and at least a portion of the inferior base.

46. The heating assembly of claim 45, wherein the outer side wall comprises an upper rim, wherein the upper rim comprises an upper rim flange.

47. The heating assembly of claim 45 or claim 46, wherein an upper rim of the outer side wall of the inferior base comprises one or more plate positioning features.

48. The heating assembly of claim 46 or claim 47, wherein the upper rim of the outer wall comprises a plurality of plate positioning features.

49. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein the deflector plate comprises one or more plate positioning features.

50. The heating assembly of claim 49, wherein the one or more plate positioning features of the deflector plate are configured to slideably engage with the one or more plate positioning features of the inferior base such that the engagement of the one or more plate positioning features of the deflector plate and the one or more plate positioning features of the inferior base prevent the deflector plate and the inferior base from rotating past one another.

51. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 50, wherein the bottom wall comprises a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein the first aperture is sized and shaped so as to allow at least a portion of the first end of the heating element to pass through the first aperture and wherein the second aperture is sized and shaped so as to allow at least a portion of the second end of the heating element to pass through the second aperture.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO52. The heating assembly of claim 51, wherein the bottom wall comprises a first grommet coupled to the bottom plate at the first aperture and a second grommet coupled to the bottom plate at the second aperture.

53. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 52, wherein the insulator plate is sized and shaped to fit within an upper rim of the outer side wall.

54. The heating assembly of claim 53, wherein the insulator plate comprises one or more apertures, wherein a first aperture of the one or more apertures is sized and shaped to allow the thermostat apparatus side wall to pass therethrough.

55. The heating assembly of claim 54, wherein the first aperture of the one or more apertures is sized and shaped to allow the first end of the heating element to pass therethrough in addition to the thermostat apparatus side wall.

56. The heating assembly of claim 53 or claim 54, wherein the one or more apertures comprises a second aperture, wherein the second aperture is sized and shaped to allow the second end of the heating element to pass therethrough.

57. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 56, further comprising a first heating element terminal connector and a second heating element terminal connector, wherein the first end of the heating element comprises a first heating element terminal and the second end of the heating element comprises a second heating element terminal, the first heating element terminal connector configured to be reversibly coupled to the first heating element terminal and the second heating element terminal connector configured to be reversibly coupled to the second heating element terminal such that engagement of the first and second heating element terminals with the first and second heating element terminal connectors, respectively, places the heating element into electrical communication with a power source.

58. The heating assembly of claim 57, wherein the first heating terminal connector is coupled to the inferior base by a first connector support and the second heating terminal connector is coupled to the inferior base by a second connector support.

59. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 58, further comprising one or more helical springs coupled to a thermostat support plate and biased against the upper rim of theAttorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO thermostat apparatus side wall such that the thermostat support plate is urged in a direction away from the thermostat apparatus side wall by the one or more helical springs.

60. The heating assembly of claim 59, wherein the one or more helical springs are configured to urge the thermostat into contact with the lower surface of the deflector plate.

61. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 60, further comprising an outer ring assembly, the outer ring assembly having an inner rim flange having a smaller diameter than the outer rim flange of the inferior base.

62. The heating assembly of claim 61, wherein an upper surface of the inner rim flange of the outer ring assembly contacts a lower surface of the upper rim flange of the inferior base when the heating assembly is assembled.

63. The heating assembly of claim 61 or claim 62, wherein the outer ring assembly comprises an aperture sized and shaped so as to allow the second end of the heating element to pass therethrough.

64. The heating assembly of any one of claims 61 to 63, wherein the outer ring assembly comprises one or more ring positioning features sized and shaped to slideably engage one or more positioning features of the deflector plate, such that the engagement of the one or more plate positioning features of the deflector plate and the one or more ring positioning features of the outer ring prevents the deflector plate and the outer ring from rotating past one another.

65. The heating assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a mechanical switch configured to reversibly move from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein, when in the engaged position, the mechanical switch interrupts an electrical current supplied to the heating element.

66. The heating assembly of claim 65, wherein the mechanical switch comprises a contact element and spring operably coupled to the contact element.

67. The heating assembly of claim 66, wherein the contact element of the switch passes through a switch aperture of the deflector plate and a switch aperture of the thermostat support plate, such that the contact element extends through the deflector plate and past the upper surface of the deflector plate.Attorney Docket No. 045631-519001WO68. The heating assembly of claim 67, wherein the contact element of the switch is configured to translate at least partially through the deflector plate switch aperture in response to contact with an object.

69. The heating assembly of any one of claims 66 to 68, wherein the contact element is positioned entirely below the thermostat support and above the inferior base and is in contact with a movable element of the heating assembly selected from the thermostat or the thermostat support, such that translation of the thermostat support plate toward the bottom wall of the inferior base causes the contact element of the switch to translate toward the bottom wall of the inferior base and engage the switch.

70. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 69, wherein at least a portion of the heating section of the heating element is configured to be in direct contact with at least a portion of an object in contact with the heating element71. The heating assembly of any one of claims 45 to 70, wherein each of the one or more channels has a depth that is greater than or equal to a thickness of the portion of the heating section.

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