Fume extraction device comprising a control device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing extractor devices and modular hob systems lack a centralized control system that can efficiently manage and control multiple hobs and vapor extraction devices, leading to complexity and reduced flexibility in operation.

Innovation Solution

A modular hob system with an integrated control device that has multiple interfaces for connecting various hobs and a signal connection for controlling the extractor device, allowing for centralized control of multiple hobs and vapor extraction devices, including downdraft fans, with features like touch-sensitive screens, redundant sensors, and adaptive user interfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If each cooktop has its own separate control unit, then each cooktop can be controlled independently, but the system complexity increases and flexibility decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent control of each cooktopVSAvoidMultiple separate control units
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate control units into a single centralized control unit that manages multiple cooktops and the extractor hood. This single control unit integrates the control functions that were previously distributed across multiple separate units, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to control each component independently through a unified interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit is designed with universal functionality to control different types of cooktops (induction, ceramic, gas) and the extractor hood through multiple interfaces. This multi-functional design allows a single control unit to replace multiple specialized control units, reducing system complexity while preserving independent control capabilities for each device type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If a centralized control system is implemented, then system complexity is reduced and flexibility is improved, but the control unit must handle multiple device types and interfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveNumber of control unitsVSAvoidCompatibility with different cooktop types
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit incorporates multiple interfaces and communication protocols to accommodate different types of cooktops (induction, ceramic, gas) and the extractor hood. This universal design enables a single control unit to manage diverse device types through standardized connection protocols, maintaining adaptability while reducing the number of separate control units needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit is designed with modular interface segments that can independently communicate with different device types. Each interface segment handles specific communication protocols for different cooktop types, allowing the centralized control unit to manage multiple device types without requiring a completely separate control unit for each type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If separate control panels are placed on each hob, then each hob can be controlled directly, but the overall system becomes less compact and more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveDirect control at each hobVSAvoidSystem compactness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control panels from individual hobs into a single centralized control unit located in the extractor hood. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate control panels on each hob surface, thereby improving system compactness and reducing the overall space required for control interfaces while maintaining the ability to control each hob independently through the unified control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3440407B1Fume extraction device comprising a control device
Publication Date: 2021.06.23 WERKHAUS GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3440407B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3440407B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3440407B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The invention relates to a hob system (1) comprising a control device (2) which controls all of the components (5, 6) of the hob system.