Kitchen system comprising a cooking hob and a ceiling console and method using the kitchen system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kitchen systems require user access to an external control device and lack direct control and automation, limiting intuitive, automated, and safe operation, especially with the increasing integration of cooktop extractors into hobs.
Innovation Solution
A second wireless transmitter/receiver unit is integrated into the cooktop to enable bidirectional communication with the ceiling console's control and evaluation unit, allowing direct control of hob settings and actuators, along with the use of sensors and lighting, and enabling gesture recognition and remote control via smart devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the ceiling console is arranged on an existing extractor hood, then the system can be implemented with existing infrastructure, but the system becomes incompatible with modern cooktop extractors integrated directly into the hob
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent modular components: the ceiling console with control unit, the hob with integrated extractor, and wireless communication modules. This segmentation allows the ceiling console to be positioned independently above the hob rather than being physically attached to it, enabling compatibility with cooktop extractors while maintaining system functionality.
2Extent of automation
If the control and evaluation unit cannot directly influence hob settings, then the system architecture remains simple, but the user must manually react to information and warnings, reducing automation
Solution Approach 1:
The control and evaluation unit in the ceiling console receives data from sensors and actively controls hob functions through wireless communication. The system continuously monitors temperature, cooking state, and other parameters, then automatically adjusts hob settings in response, creating a closed-loop feedback system that enables automated control while maintaining manageable complexity through intelligent algorithms.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication is implemented between ceiling console and hob, then direct control and automation are enabled, but additional wiring would be required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wiring connections with wireless communication technology. Transmitters and receivers are integrated into both the ceiling console and hob, enabling bidirectional data exchange and control commands without physical cable connections. This substitution simplifies installation, improves ease of operation through automated functions, and maintains system complexity at an acceptable level by using standardized wireless protocols.
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 setup enhances user interaction with intuitive control, automation, and safety by allowing direct manipulation of hob settings, automatic responses to temperature monitoring, and remote control, eliminating the need for manual intervention and additional wiring.
Implementation Method 1
at least one thermal sensor, preferably in the form of an IR sensor, is arranged in the ceiling console. This allows the temperature on the hob to be monitored
Implementation Method 2
a second wireless transmitter/receiver unit is arranged in or on the cooktop, which communicates with the first wireless transmitter/receiver unit via a radio channel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a kitchen system comprising a cooktop (1) with control elements (12), a ceiling console (2) arranged above the cooktop (1) in which actuators (5) and/or sensors (6) and a first wireless transmitter/receiver unit (8) are arranged, and at least one control and evaluation unit (9, 10). The object of the invention is to further develop the kitchen system in such a way that it enables more intuitive, better automated, and safer operation by the user of the kitchen system. To this end, the invention proposes that a second wireless transmitter/receiver unit (7) be arranged in or on the cooktop, which communicates with the first wireless transmitter/receiver unit (8) via a radio channel (11). Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for using such a kitchen system.