Cooking hob having heating zones with different temperatures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooking hobs lack flexibility in temperature control, requiring users to adjust heating zones manually and reset temperatures when moving cookware between different cooking modes, which is inconvenient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A cooking hob with at least two heating zones that can operate separately or jointly, featuring an automatic temperature control system allowing users to define and adjust temperatures freely, enabling 'chef mode' where cookware can be heated to specific temperatures by positioning it over one or multiple zones without manual temperature adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual temperature adjustment is used for each heating zone, then temperature control precision can be achieved, but operation complexity increases and user convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic temperature control without requiring manual intervention. The control unit automatically adjusts the heating zones based on the detected cookware position and selected cooking mode, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust temperatures while maintaining precise temperature control through automated feedback mechanisms
2Measurement precision
If heating zones are operated separately with individual temperature control, then temperature precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it detects cookware position, determines the appropriate cooking mode, controls multiple heating zones, and manages temperature settings. By consolidating these functions into a single intelligent control unit, the system achieves precise temperature control across multiple zones without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
3Measurement precision
If users must reset temperatures when moving cookware between zones, then temperature accuracy is maintained, but time efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures different cooking modes with appropriate temperature settings for different heating zone configurations. When cookware is moved between zones, the control unit automatically detects the new position and switches to the pre-configured mode with the appropriate temperature settings already established, eliminating the need for users to manually reset temperatures and saving time
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple heating zones operate independently, then cooking versatility is improved, but energy management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operation of heating zones based on the detected cookware position and selected cooking mode. The control unit can activate or deactivate specific heating zones as needed, coordinating their operation to match the actual cooking requirements. This dynamic adaptation maintains cooking versatility while optimizing energy management by avoiding unnecessary heating in zones that are not currently being used
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides users with high flexibility and comfort in achieving precise and delayed-free temperature control, allowing for seamless transitions between cooking modes without energy wastage, as the automatic temperature control maintains set temperatures efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
each of the first and second heating zone includes at least one heating element, wherein the first and second heating zones are operable or operated to heat a particular cookware item
Implementation Method 2
the automatic temperature control is configured to control a first separate temperature related to the first heating zone and to control a second separate temperature related to the second heating zone
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cooking hob for a domestic or an industrial appliance. The cooking hob comprises at least one heating area (10). The heating area (10) is subdivided or divisible into at least two adjacent heating zones (12, 14, 16). Each heating zone (12, 14, 16) includes at least one heating element (20, 22, 24, 26). The temperature of each heating zone (12, 14, 16) is separately adjusted or adjustable by the user or predefined by the producer. A cookware item (18) is placeable on one heating zone (12, 14, 16) or on more adjacent heating zones (12, 14, 16).