Toaster and convection oven with variable controls

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing toaster ovens lack advanced features for precise control over cooking operations, are limited in their ability to handle diverse cooking tasks, and do not offer flexible programming options.

Innovation Solution

A toaster and convection oven with multiple pre-programmed operating modes, adjustable temperature and cook times, programmable sequential cooking, a digital display, and independently controllable heating elements, allowing for dual cook mode and customizable cooking cycles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pre-programmed operating modes and programmable sequential cooking are added, then cooking versatility and precision are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecooking versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cooking process is segmented into multiple sequential modes (first cooking mode and second cooking mode) that can be independently programmed and executed. The control system divides complex cooking tasks into discrete, manageable stages with specific temperature and time parameters for each stage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple pre-programmed operating modes are stored in memory, allowing the controller to automatically execute predetermined cooking sequences. Users can select from pre-configured programs that have already been optimized for specific cooking tasks, eliminating the need to manually program each parameter.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 3:

The toaster oven is designed to perform multiple cooking functions (toasting, baking, broiling, roasting, reheating) within a single device. The heating elements can be independently controlled to accommodate various cooking requirements, making the device universally applicable to diverse cooking tasks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If preset and adjustable temperature and cook times are implemented, then cooking precision is improved, but ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature control precisionVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system allows dynamic adjustment of temperature and time parameters within pre-programmed modes. Users can select from preset ranges and then fine-tune specific parameters based on their cooking needs, combining the benefits of automated precision with manual flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The controller automatically manages the cooking process based on user selections, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and adjustment. Once a program is selected and parameters are set, the system self-regulates heating elements, timing, and mode transitions without requiring continuous user intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If independently controllable heating elements are added, then cooking control precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecooking control precisionVSAvoidheating mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different heating elements (upper heating element, lower heating element) are independently controlled to provide localized heating zones. Each element can be activated or adjusted separately based on the selected cooking mode, allowing precise control over heat distribution patterns within the cooking chamber.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

The solution provides enhanced ease of use and performance by enabling precise control over cooking operations, accommodating a variety of cooking tasks, and allowing for flexible programming, resulting in better cooking results and user satisfaction.

Implementation Method 1

a heating mechanism in thermal communication with the heating compartment and configured to heat the heating compartment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

Heating and cooking these food items is often accomplished by the operation of upper and lower heating elements within the toaster oven

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal radiation: Thermal Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS12232648B2Toaster and convection oven with variable controls

Publication Date: 2025.02.25 CONAIR CORP

AI summary

A toaster and convection oven includes a housing having an internal heating compartment, a heating mechanism in thermal communication with the heating compartment and configured to heat the heating compartment, a user interface including a plurality of user controls to be manipulated by a user, the user controls allowing the user to program a dual cook mode including a first cooking mode and a second cooking mode, and a control unit operatively connected to the user interface and to the heating mechanism. The control unit is configured to receive a signal from the user interface and to control operation of the heating mechanism in dependence upon the signal to run the first cooking mode and the second cooking mode sequentially without further input from the user.