Oven Slow Cook Control Using Heating Elements and Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cooking appliances lack the capability to slow cook food items for extended periods without continuous supervision, as they do not have a dedicated mode for long-term, low-temperature cooking, necessitating the use of separate appliances like crock pots.
Innovation Solution
A cooking appliance with a controller that manages heating elements and a temperature sensor to operate a slow cook mode, allowing for programmable cooking algorithms for different food types, enabling cooking at varying temperatures and times, and a user-selectable power level for extended cooking periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional ovens use programmed cooking algorithms, then cooking can proceed without supervision, but the oven cannot slow cook food items for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The oven controller is programmed with multiple cooking algorithms including both conventional cooking and slow cook modes, allowing a single appliance to perform multiple functions. The system can automatically execute different cooking protocols based on user selection, making the oven versatile enough to handle both quick conventional cooking and extended slow cooking without requiring separate appliances
2Productivity
If conventional ovens operate at high temperatures for quick cooking, then cooking time is reduced, but the oven cannot maintain low temperatures for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The controller dynamically adjusts heating element operation based on the selected cooking mode. In slow cook mode, the system activates heating elements for limited durations and allows extended cooling periods, creating a dynamic on-off cycle that maintains low temperatures over extended periods. This contrasts with conventional high-temperature cooking where heating is more continuous and intense
3Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated slow cook appliance is used, then slow cooking capability is achieved, but the number of appliances required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the slow cook functionality into the existing oven system by integrating a slow cook mode into the oven controller. The oven's heating elements and controller are utilized for both conventional cooking and slow cooking, eliminating the need for a separate slow cook appliance and reducing overall kitchen appliance complexity
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
Enables hands-free slow cooking of food items for several hours, ensuring they are ready upon return, without the need for additional appliances, by implementing a programmable slow cook mode that maintains food at optimal temperatures and power levels.
Implementation Method 1
The controller is configured to energize the at least one heating element to operate a slow cook mode for cooking the food item
Data Source
AI summary
A heating system for a cooking appliance includes at least one heating element positioned within a cooking cavity defined by a cabinet of the cooking appliance. The cooking cavity is configured to support a food item therein during a cooking process. A controller is in operational control communication with the at least one heating element. The controller is configured to energize the at least one heating element to operate a slow cook mode for cooking the food item.