Vapour extraction device, control system and method for operating a vapour extraction device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extractor devices have a long response time and are not accurately controlled by air sealing sensors, as they rely on air passing through sensors and hob settings, leading to inefficient suction of fumes and odors, which is independent of actual steam and odor volumes.
Innovation Solution
The extractor device is controlled by recording the temperature of cookware and adjusting its performance based on this data, along with energy input, to predict and adapt to the expected steam and odor volume, allowing for precise and reliable suction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If air quality sensors are used to control the extractor hood, then the hood can adjust operating level based on air quality, but the response time is unacceptably long because control can only occur after air passes the sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by detecting cooktop power levels and predicting future steam/odor generation before actual cooking fumes are produced. The control system proactively adjusts extractor hood power levels in advance based on anticipated cooking intensity, rather than reacting after sensors detect airborne contaminants. This eliminates the time delay inherent in post-detection control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using cooktop power level data as a proxy indicator for upcoming steam and odor generation. Instead of directly sensing airborne contaminants and reacting, the system uses the cooktop's energy input settings as an intermediate signal to predict and prepare for fume generation, enabling faster response without waiting for air quality sensors to detect actual contaminants.
2Ease of operation
If extractor hood is controlled by cooktop settings, then automatic switching is achieved, but the operation is independent of actual steam and odor levels
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring both cooktop power levels and air quality sensor data, then using this combined information to dynamically adjust extractor hood operation. The control system compares predicted steam/odor generation (from cooktop settings) with actual air quality measurements, refining its control strategy over time to match extraction performance with actual cooking conditions rather than relying solely on preset cooktop levels.
3Measurement precision
If traditional air quality sensors are positioned to monitor air, then they can detect VOC and humidity content, but the control response is delayed until air passes the sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains precise air quality measurement capability while eliminating response delay by performing preliminary control actions based on predicted cooking intensity. The extractor hood power level is adjusted in advance based on cooktop energy input and detected cookware temperature, ensuring the hood is already at the appropriate extraction level before significant steam or odor is generated and reaches the sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adapts extraction power based on real-time cookware temperature monitoring. As cookware temperature increases (indicating rising steam generation), the system dynamically adjusts extractor hood power levels accordingly, creating a responsive, adaptive control system that matches extraction capacity to actual cooking conditions rather than using fixed or delayed responses.
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 approach enables the extractor device to set the appropriate operating level based on actual cooking conditions, ensuring efficient and reliable removal of fumes and odors, improving upon the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one temperature of a cookware is detected
Implementation Method 2
The cookware's temperature can be detected by a temperature sensor on the cookware itself
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for controlling a range hood (31), characterized in that at least one temperature of a cookware (2) is detected and the power setting of the range hood (31) is determined based on the detected temperature. The invention also relates to a range hood (31) and a control system (1) for controlling a range hood (31).