RU2819257C1 - Microwave heating device - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: consumer electronics.

SUBSTANCE: disclosed is a heating device for several heating modes, including microwave heating in combination with other conventional heating modes, having a base; a grid made with a base and designed to support the container on the side of the container rim holding the container in a suspended state; lid hingedly held by the base for movement between a raised open position and a lowered closed position above the container. At least one microwave generating device is connected to the lid so that microwave heating can be performed using at least one microwave generating device. Sensor mechanism comprising a plurality of plungers on the periphery of the lid is provided so that when the lid is closed above the container, the plungers come into contact with the upper surface of the rim of the container, to determine whether the lid above the container lid is properly closed.

EFFECT: development of a heating device with a lid made with possibility of being aligned with the upper surface of the container rim to ensure proper closure of the container with the lid, allowing to prevent leakage of microwaves.

22 cl, 32 dwg

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a heating device capable of heating using multiple thermal energy sources, including microwaves. In particular, the present invention relates to a device that allows efficient use of microwaves.

BACKGROUND OF THE ART

[0002] The description of the prior art contains information that may be useful for understanding the present invention. This does not mean that any information presented herein is prior art or relates to a currently claimed invention, or that any publication referred to directly or indirectly is prior art.

[0003] Heating devices, such as cooking devices, combining the advantages of open flame/induction/convection/conduction and other modern methods of microwave food processing in one device, i.e. allowing the use of multiple cooking modes are known in the art. For example, one such device is disclosed in Applicant's previously filed US Patent Application No. US20150144006A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The food preparation device of the cited patent document contains: a base; a cooking container located on the base; and a lid hingedly connected to the base and configured to close the cooking container in a lowered position. The cover is connected to at least one magnetron, which serves as a source of microwaves. Closing the cooking container with a lid allows for microwave processing using a magnetron, while the cooking container can also be used for cooking using induction and/or open fire and/or radiation and/or convection and/or conduction.

[0004] Another previously filed patent application W02020039280, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, discloses an adaptable food preparation apparatus comprising a lid with at least one microwave device connected to the lid, and a lifting and lowering mechanism , carrying a lid and at least one microwave generating device connected thereto and configured to vertically raise and lower the lid and at least one microwave generating device. The upper end of the raising and lowering mechanism is configured with the lower side of the exhaust pipe. The lid, in the lowered position, may be operatively coupled to a first container positioned above a known heat source or a second container for preparatory operations involving churning and/or mixing and/or grinding and/or mixing to simultaneously heat the contents of the first or second container by microwaves generated at least one microwave generating device.

[0005] However, a disadvantage of conventional heating devices in which a microwave generating device is coupled to a lid for multiple cooking and preparatory operations is the proper engagement of the lid with the containers, i.e. cooking container or prep container. This is because containers placed on a known heat source, such as a gas or induction stove, or on a kitchen counter, may not be aligned with the lid, causing the lid to not close the container properly as required for efficient operation of the choke installed between them, which causes microwave leakage.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need in the art for an efficient heating device with multiple cooking modes that provides efficient microwave processing without microwave leakage.

OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The main object of the present invention is to develop an improved heating device that does not have the disadvantages of known devices with multiple heating and cooking modes.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a heating device with a lid compatible with the top surface of the rim of a container to ensure proper closure of the container to prevent microwave leakage.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heating device that aligns a container with a lid regardless of the level of the surface on which the container is located.

[00010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heating device that prevents the microwave generating device from being turned on if the lid is not properly installed on the container.

[00011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heating device including a sensing mechanism for detecting the gap between the lid and the rim of the container.

[00012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heating device including a locking mechanism for locking a lid on a container.

[00013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heating device including a weight sensing mechanism for determining the presence of a container before turning on the device.

[00014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a microwave-based heating device capable of pressure cooking.

[00015] Another object of the present invention is to develop a heating device that allows cooking controlled by an application.

[00016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heating device capable of spraying liquids such as oil and water into a working chamber.

[00017] Another object of the present invention is to develop a heating device that allows you to quickly remove/pump out steam from the working chamber before opening the lid.

[00018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a microwave heating device that meets current safety certification requirements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00019] The present invention relates to a heating device capable of heating by microwaves or heating by other cooking/heating methods, such as open flame heating using gas burners, induction heating using an induction cooker or any other similar known heating method, as well as heating in time of preparatory operations. The proposed heating device allows for the known cooking steps performed on an open fire/induction heater and also allows the user to switch to microwave processing to complete the cooking. In particular, the disclosed heating device overcomes the disadvantage of prior art devices by ensuring that the container containing the microwave magnetron is properly closed prior to microwave heating, thereby ensuring that no microwave leakage occurs, a necessary condition for efficient microwave heating.

[00020] In one embodiment, the disclosed heating device includes a cover movable between a raised position and a lowered position, and at least one microwave generating device coupled to the cover and serving as a source of microwaves. In the lowered position, the lid is configured to close the container containing the food to be heated or cooked, thereby allowing microwave heating by at least one microwave generating device, in combination with any of the following operations: applying heat to the container from below from another heat source and a preparatory operation on the contents of the container.

[00021] In one aspect, the lid includes a sensing mechanism for detecting that the container is properly closed by the lid to ensure that microwaves generated by the at least one microwave generating device do not leak to the outside.

[00022] The sensing mechanism may include a plurality of retractable plungers located around the periphery of the lid such that when the container is closed with the lid, the plungers come into contact with the seating surface of the container if the gap between the lid and the seating surface of the container is less than a predetermined gap value, which makes the gap between the lid and the container is generally uniform.

[00023] In one aspect, the container includes a cooking chamber and a flat seating surface on which is located a lid containing an inductor that attenuates the power of outgoing microwaves, thereby preventing microwave leakage.

[00024] The plungers may be offset outwardly and configured to move linearly inward upon contact with the seating surface of the container when the container is closed with a lid.

[00025] The plungers may be electrically connected such that the connection is completed when the plungers contact the container, all plungers having a predetermined uniform stroke, and completion of the connection serves as confirmation that the container is properly closed by the lid.

[00026] The heating device may also include a control circuit configured to turn on the microwave generating device only after the connection of the plungers is completed.

[00027] The heating device may include a throttling mechanism to prevent microwave leakage, whereby the uniform gap set value is defined as the maximum gap allowed between the lid and the seating surface of the container for the throttle to operate effectively.

[00028] The heating device may include a locking mechanism that locks the lid after the container is closed with the lid.

[00029] The cover may be hinged to the base to pivot between the raised and lowered positions. The base may contain a known heat source, and the container is positioned to receive heat from the known heat source in addition to heating by microwaves generated by the at least one microwave generating device.

[00030] The heating device may further comprise a grille configured to support the container from a rim side of the container and to hold the container in a suspended position. The grid may be designed in such a way that, while holding the container by the rim in a suspended position, it aligns the rim of the container with the lid lowered onto the container.

[00031] The cover together with the exhaust pipe may be configured to be vertically movable between a raised position and a lowered position using a lifting and lowering mechanism. The container may be a first container placed over a known heat source, or a second container for preparatory operations of churning and/or mixing and/or grinding and/or mixing. Connecting the lid to the containers allows the contents of the container to be heated by microwaves generated by at least one microwave generating device.

[00032] In a second embodiment, the disclosed heating device comprises a base; a lattice connected to the base, the lattice being configured to support the container from a rim side of the container and to hold the container in a suspended position. In addition, the device includes a lid movable between a raised position and a lowered position in which the lid covers the container. The at least one microwave generating device is connected to the lid and serves as a source of microwaves, that is, in the lowered position of the lid, the heating device provides microwave heating using the at least one microwave generating device. The heating device also allows heat to be supplied to the container from below using a heat source operating by induction and/or open flame and/or radiation and/or convection and/or conduction. The grille is configured to align the rim of the container with the lid lowered onto the container when the grille holds the container by the rim in a suspended position.

[00033] In one embodiment, the lid may be hinged to the base by means of a self-aligning hinge that allows the lid to be moved such that, in the lowered position of the lid, any tolerance or gap between the lid and the container is taken into account to ensure contact and retention between the lid and the container. The grille is designed in such a way that the axis of rotation of the lid coincides with the axis of rotation of the grille, which will allow them to be aligned in parallel when the container placed above the grille is closed with a lid, thereby ensuring that the seating flat surface of the container resting on the grille is parallel to the lid in the lowered position .

[00034] Alternatively, the cover together with the exhaust pipe can be configured to be vertically movable between a raised position and a lowered position using a lift and lower mechanism. The container may be a container placed above the grate, or a second container for the preparatory operations of churning and/or mixing and/or grinding and/or mixing; wherein the connection of the lid to the containers allows the contents of the containers to be heated by microwaves generated by the at least one microwave generating device.

[00035] The lid may include a plurality of retractable plungers located around the periphery of the lid such that when the container is closed with the lid, the plungers come into contact with the rim of the container when a uniform gap between the lid and the container rim is less than a predetermined uniform gap value.

[00036] The plungers may be offset outwardly and configured to move linearly inward upon contact with the rim of the container when the container is closed with a lid.

[00037] The plungers can be electrically connected such that the connection is completed when the plungers contact the container, all plungers having a predetermined uniform stroke, and completion of the connection serves as confirmation of the correct closure of the container.

[00038] The heating device may include a control circuit configured to turn on the at least one microwave generating device only after the connection of the plungers is completed.

[00039] The heating device may include a throttling mechanism to prevent microwave leakage, where the uniform gap set value may be the maximum gap allowed between the lid and the rim of the container for the throttle to operate effectively.

[00040] The heating device may include a locking mechanism to lock the lid after the container is closed with the lid. The locking mechanism may include spring-loaded balls connected to the lid and securing the lid to the grill. In the locked position, the rim of the container can be pinched and secured between the grid and the lid.

[00041] The grille is designed so that the axis of rotation of the lid coincides with the axis of rotation of the grille, which will ensure their constant parallel alignment, thereby ensuring that the seating flat surface of the container resting on the grille is parallel to the lid in the lowered position.

[00042] The grid may include an adjustable spacer located at the lower end of the front leg and configured to move up and down to align the container held in the grid with the lid.

[00043] Alternatively, the grille may include a rear leg configured to rest on a base, the rear leg being configured to provide alignment of a container supported in the grille with the lid.

[00044] In a third embodiment, the present invention provides a heating device comprising a lid movable between a raised position and a lowered position, wherein in the lowered position the lid is movable to cover a container containing food to be heated or cooked; at least one microwave generating device connected to the lid and serving as a source of microwaves, that is, in the lowered position of the lid, the heating device allows microwave heating by the at least one microwave generating device; and a throttling mechanism connected to the lid to prevent microwave leakage when the lid is lowered to close the container. In one aspect, the throttling mechanism is designed to seal the lid against the container to create pressure during pressure cooking.

[00045] The throttle mechanism may include metal throttle rods, a throttle gasket, and throttle retaining elements that engage the container to ensure a tight seal between the lid and the container.

[00046] The heating device may include an adjustable weight valve located above the steam release lid.

[00047] The heating device may include a secondary safety valve and a fusible safety plug to provide safety.

[00048] The heating device may include a steam pump for pumping steam from the working/heating chamber between the container and the lid to ensure timely removal of excess steam from the working/heating chamber before opening the lid.

[00049] The heating device may further comprise a grate coupled to the base, configured to support the container at the rim of the container, and to hold the container in a suspended position. The grid may be designed in such a way that, while holding the container by the rim in a suspended position, it aligns the rim of the container with the lid lowered onto the container.

[00050] The heating device may further include an image sensor and thermal sensors to detect ingredients added to the container, as well as to determine the optimal level of food being cooked and prevent under- or over-heating of the food. In addition, these sensors can also detect smoke/steam from any combustion that may occur in the cooking chamber.

[00051] The heating device may include a weight sensor coupled to the grate to detect the presence of a container placed on the grate and also to determine by weight the amount of ingredients added to the container.

[00052] The lid may be hinged to the base by means of a self-aligning hinge that allows the lid to be moved such that, in the lowered position of the lid, any tolerance or gap between the lid and the container is taken into account to ensure contact and retention between the lid and the container. The grille is designed in such a way that the axis of rotation of the lid coincides with the axis of rotation of the grille, which will allow them to be aligned in parallel when the container placed above the grille is closed with a lid, thereby ensuring that the seating flat surface of the container resting on the grille is parallel to the lid in the lowered position .

[00053] The heating device may further comprise one or more storage containers provided on the base for storing one or more liquids for spraying into the operating/heating chamber between the container and the lid.

[00054] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the subject matter will be apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention taken together with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00055] The accompanying drawings are intended to illustrate the present invention and are included in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[00056] In FIG. 1 is an exemplary representation of an embodiment of a disclosed heating device including a lid hinged to a base illustrating a container supported by an integral grid, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00057] In FIG. 2A-2C show, respectively, exemplary front, rear and side views of the disclosed heating device of FIG. 1, according to embodiments of the present invention.

[00058] In FIG. 3 is another exemplary view of the heating device according to FIG. 1, which shows the throttle, lid lock, and plungers for recognizing that the lid has been properly closed on the container, according to embodiments of the present invention.

[00059] In FIG. 4 is another exemplary view of the heating device according to FIG. 1, which illustrates a self-aligning hinge that hinges on the lid and ensures alignment between the lid and the container, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00060] In FIG. 5A-5C are exemplary cross-sectional views showing the arrangement of plungers on the lid for determining whether the container is properly closed by the lid, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00061] In FIG. 6A and 6B are exemplary cross-sectional views showing the operation of a locking mechanism that locks a grille lid in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00062] In FIG. 7A and 7B depict an alternative array embodiment for the device of FIG. 1, according to embodiments of the present invention.

[00063] In FIG. 8 illustrates various valves provided on the lid according to embodiments of the present invention.

[00064] In FIG. 9A-9C depict an exemplary representation of an alternative embodiment of a disclosed heating device comprising a drawer cover with a vent pipe, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00065] In FIG. 10A and 10B are exemplary wiring diagrams illustrating a method in which microwave leakage can be detected in one embodiment according to embodiments of the present invention.

[00066] In FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an disclosed heating device with another grille embodiment in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00067] In FIG. 12A and 12B are perspective views of exemplary rear views of an disclosed heating device with two magnetrons, storage containers, and a pump, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00068] In FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an opened heating device showing a stirrer connected to the lid, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00069] In FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an opened heating device illustrating a camera with an image sensor, means for spraying oil, water and steam, etc. connected to a cover according to embodiments of the present invention.

[00070] In FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an opened heating device illustrating load cells coupled to the cover, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00071] In FIG. 16A is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an opened heating device showing a grate hinged such that the axis of rotation of the grate is aligned with the axis of rotation of the lid, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00072] In FIG. 16B-16E are exemplary views of an opened heating device illustrating details of an alternative embodiment of a lid locking mechanism in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00073] In FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an opened heating device, showing throttle and interlock parts in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[00074] In FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an opened heating device, showing the use of the stirrer motor of the device for other accessories, such as making idli, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00075] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings. Embodiments of the invention are described in detail to accurately represent the subject matter of the invention. However, the proposed details do not limit the proposed embodiments; rather, it is the intention to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[00076] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention that, for purposes of intellectual property protection, is recognized as including equivalents of the various elements or limitations set forth in the claim. Depending on the context, all of the following references to the “invention” may, in some cases, only refer to certain embodiments. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to “invention” refer to the subject matter stated in one or more, but not necessarily all, claims.

[00077] Various terms are used herein. If a term used in a claim is not defined, it will have the broadest definition given to that term by those skilled in the art and reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time the application is filed.

[00078] The present invention provides an improved heating device with multiple heating modes, allowing microwave heating in combination with other heating modes, such as open flame heating using gas burners, induction heating using an induction cooker, heating using a hotplate or any other similar known heating mode. A disadvantage of known heating/cooking devices with multiple heating/cooking modes is the inefficient use of microwaves generated by a magnetron attached to the lid of the device that covers the container when microwave heating is required. Because several heating methods require placing the container over a known heat source, such as a gas burner, induction cooker, or hotplate, the top of the container may not align with the lid covering the container. This results in incorrect closing, i.e. to the formation of a gap between the lid and the container, resulting in microwave leakage. Even an orifice installed on the cap to prevent leakage will not work effectively if the gap exceeds the required value.

[00079] In one embodiment, the heating device of the present invention includes a cradle-shaped grill connected to the base of the device and adapted to hold the container on the upper rim side of the container in a suspended state, thereby keeping the bottom of the container away from the surface of the known heat source and perform container alignment regardless of a known heat source.

[00080] In one embodiment, the device includes a sensing mechanism for determining whether the container is properly closed with a lid. Specifically, a sensing mechanism based on multiple plungers located around the periphery of the lid detects a state in which the gap between the lid and the rim of the container exceeds a predetermined gap value. Moreover, the switch operates only when, with the lid closed, all plungers move with a uniform, specified gap. The sensor mechanism is connected to the control circuit of the device and blocks the magnetron from turning on if the cover is not closed properly.

[00081] As shown in FIG. 1 and 2A-2C, which show exemplary views of an open heating device with a container held over an integral grate, the heating device may include a base 800 and a cover 100 hinged to a hinge housing post 600 extending vertically upward from the base 800. Cover Hinge 100 with the hinge body post 600 is provided by a self-aligning hinge 300 that allows the cover to be tilted left or right, thereby allowing the cover 100 to automatically align in a left-to-right direction. In addition, attached to the hinge body post 600 is a cradle-shaped grid 200 configured to hold the container 500 on the upper rim side of the container 500 in a suspended state without the bottom of the container 500 resting on the base 800. The container includes an internal cavity 503 within the upper rim designed for storing prepared foods.

[00082] The cover 100 includes a detachable portion 120 for preventing heat transfer from the cover 100 to the rear side on which the magnetron is located, and one or more valves, such as the adjustable weight valve 110 shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 8 shows additional details of one or more valves provided in the cover 100. The one or more valves are further comprised of a secondary relief valve 115 and a metal safety plug (MSP) fused safety plug 116. The adjustable weight valve 110 may include a high pressure setting 112, a low pressure setting 111, and a quick steam release position 113.

[00083] In FIG. 1 and 2A-2C show one embodiment of a grid 200 with a proximal leg and an adjustable shim 202 provided at the lower end of the proximal leg of the grill 200. The adjustable shim 202 can be used to raise or lower the proximal side of the grill 200 and the container 500 located thereon. the purpose of tilting the container 500 in the front to back direction.

[00084] In FIG. 7A and 7B depict an alternative embodiment of the grille 200 that does not require an adjustable spacer 202 at the front end of the grille 100. The grille includes a distally located leg providing rear support at point B, in addition to connection point A, as shown in FIG. 7A to securely support the grill 200 in a position where the top surface of the grill is in line with the closed lid 100 such that the container 500 thereon is parallel to the lid 100 when it closes the container 500.

[00085] In FIG. 3 is another exemplary view of a heating device showing an inductor 901 coupled to the inner peripheral surface of the lid 100, a lid lock including a ball retainer 201, and a plurality of electrically connected plungers 701 located on the periphery of the lid 100 such that when the container 500 is closed with the lid 100, the plungers 701 contact the rim of the container 500 if the gap between the cap 100 and the container 500 at the location of the corresponding plunger 701 is less than a predetermined gap. The predetermined clearance may correspond to a clearance that cannot be exceeded for proper operation of the inductor 901 to effectively prevent microwave leakage. Proper closure is determined by the state in which all of the plungers 701 are in contact with the rim of the container 500. In addition, the lid includes a removable cup 800 secured to the inside of the lid 100 with thumbscrews 802. A handle 801 is provided at the center of the removable cup 800 for holding the cup 800 during removal.

[00086] In FIG. 4 is another exemplary representation of the heating device, showing a self-aligning hinge that hinges on the lid and ensures alignment between the lid and the container. The self-aligning hinge includes a set of self-aligning bearings 601, a set of guide pins 602, and a set of guides 603 located on either side of the hinge housing post 600. The self-aligning hinge provides movement to easily accommodate any tolerance or gap and ensures contact and retention between the lid 100 and the container 500. Thus, the self-aligning hinge 300 in combination with the adjustable shim 202 allows the flat top surface 501 (see FIGS. 5A-5C) of the rim of the container 500 to be aligned with the lid 100 to ensure proper seating of the lid 100 on the container 500.

[00087] In FIG. 5A-5C are exemplary cross-sectional views illustrating details of the plunger assemblies on the lid 100 to determine whether the container 500 is properly closed by the lid 100. Each plunger assembly 700 may include a plunger 702 supported by a nylon sleeve 702 that biases the plunger 701 outward but allows the plunger 701 to move. inward when pressed in that direction. The length over which the plungers 701 can protrude is selected so that, when the container 500 is closed by the lid 100, the plunger 701 comes into contact with the upper flat surface 501 of the rim of the container 500 only when the gap between the lid 100 and the upper flat surface 501 of the container 500 is less than a predetermined one. gap The cap 100 contains a printed circuit board 703, and the plungers are electrically connected to the printed circuit board 703. The electrically connected plungers 701 are configured such that the connection is completed only after the plungers 701 contact the container 500. Thus, if the gap between the cap 100 and the container 500 exceeds a predetermined gap, a signal is received that the lid is not closed correctly and has a gap larger than required. In this way, proper closure of the cover 100 is determined and can be coupled to the device control circuitry that controls operation of the magnetron.

[00088] In FIG. 6A and 6B are exemplary cross-sectional views illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism locking the lid 100 onto the grille 200. The locking mechanism includes a ball retainer 201 that engages a protrusion on the locking surface 203 of the grille 200 when the lid 100 closes the container 500. The resulting rim container 500 is placed between lid 100 and grid 200.

[00089] In FIG. 9A-9C depict a second embodiment of an disclosed heating device including a retractable cover with a vent pipe. As shown in the figure, the lid includes a sensing mechanism for detecting the correct closure of the container 500 by the lid 200, as well as a grid 200 connected to the base 800. In addition, a locking device is provided on the lid 100 to lock the lid 100 placed on the grid 200, between which there is a rim container 500. The closure device may be any mechanical closure device. The locking device may be based on a ball retainer 201 engaging a protrusion on the locking surface 203 of the grid 200, as shown in FIG. 6A and 6B. However, other types of closure devices are also within the scope of the present invention.

[00090] In FIG. 10A and 10B are exemplary wiring diagrams illustrating a method in which microwave leakage can be detected in one embodiment according to embodiments of the present invention. In one aspect of the present invention, the circuitry of the present invention may be configured to test/detect the power-up of a device and check for possible faults in the whole or part of the device. Exemplary circuit 1002 allows the correct grating placement to be recognized (and an error code to be generated if the result is negative to correct the problem). Likewise, exemplary circuit 1004 recognizes the correct location of the container (and generates an error code if the result is negative to correct the problem). Once it is determined that the grid and/or container is correctly positioned, initial instructions may be sent to start the magnetron, after which, through exemplary circuit 1006, it may be checked whether the lid close AC limit switch is closed (and if negative, generate error code to resolve the problem). An example circuit 1008 can determine whether the lid close DC limit switch is closed (and, if negative, generate an error code to correct the problem). Exemplary circuit 1010 then allows you to confirm whether the capacitance is blocked (and if negative, generate an error code to correct the problem). Finally, example circuit 1012 allows you to check whether the lid is completely flush with the container (and if the result is negative, generate an error code to correct the problem). Once all tests 1002-1012 have been completed, it can be confirmed that no microwave leak is detected and the magnetron can be started accordingly.

[00091] In FIG. 11, which depicts another embodiment of the grille, the grille 200 may be supported on a base by means of adjustable spacers 202A located on the proximal side of the grille 200, i.e. on the side opposite the hinge body 600A, in which the self-aligning hinge 300A is located. Also shown is a detachable portion 120A to prevent heat transfer from the top cover 100A to the rear side on which the magnetron 10 is located (see FIGS. 12A and 12B), and weight sensors/load cells 900 located on the top side of the grid 200 to detect the weight of the container. /capacity 500, thereby defining a capacitance installed thereon, which are further disclosed in FIG. 15.

[00092] In FIG. 12A and 12B are internal views of the rear side of the cover and base showing the installation of two magnetrons 10, cooling fans 20 for cooling the magnetrons 10 on the rear side of the cover 100A behind the release portion 120A. Also shown are containers 1200 and pumps 1210 for storing and pumping liquids needed during food preparation, such as water and oil, through valves 1220. Pumps 1210 help pump water and oil from containers 1200 to sprayers 1250 (see FIG. 14) for adding to the prepared dish so that it does not dry out during cooking. As shown in FIG. 12A, a motor 1050 is coupled to the cover 100A to rotate the stirrer 1000 (see FIG. 13) or other accessories 520, such as an idli maker, mounted on a ceramic base with wheels 530 (see FIG. 18).

[00093] In FIG. 13 depicts a stirrer 100 connected to a lid 100A such that when the lid closes the container/container 500, rotation of the stirrer 100 by the motor 1050 results in mixing/mixing the food contained in the container 500. The stirrer 100 can be adapted to the profile of the internal cavity 503 of the container. 500. The agitator 1000 may also be configured to distribute microwaves within the microwave cavity, as well as contents within the container, such as food or supplies, etc.

[00094] In FIG. 14 shows an arrangement of an image sensor camera 1360, a far-infrared thermal sensor camera 1300, a steam pumping means 1250, an atomizer 1250 for atomizing oil, water, etc., an LED lamp 1350, and a stirrer 1000 connected to the cover 100A. The function of pumping out steam using a steam pump is designed to quickly remove/pump out excess steam from the working/heating chamber, for example, before opening the 100A lid. Under normal conditions, steam is released through the adjustable weight valve 110A (see FIG. 11), however, instantly releasing the steam saves time and ensures that the steam does not condense into water and back into the food being heated/cooked.

[00095] The image sensor camera 1360 and the far-infrared thermal sensor camera 1300 are designed to monitor food during heating/cooking. This provides a fully optimized and automated heating/cooking solution in which primary heating by microwaves and secondary heating by e.g. induction, or oven flame, or infrared radiation, or resistance coils, etc., are controlled to eliminate excess /insufficient heating of food.

[00096] In FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary front view of an disclosed heating device illustrating weight sensors 900 coupled to the cover, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Weight sensors 900 are located on the grid 200 to provide dual functionality. They can detect the presence of a container 500 mounted on the grid 200 and also determine the amount of ingredients to be added by weight. The weight of the ingredients measured by the weight sensor 900 is useful for cooking according to the app or built-in recipe.

[00097] In FIG. 16A shows an embodiment of a grille hinged by a grille hinge 204. The grille hinge 204 is configured such that the axis of rotation of the grille 200 coincides with the axis of rotation of the cover 100A. This ensures that in the state in which the lid 100A covers the container 500 mounted on the grille, they will be parallel to each other, which ensures that the seating plane of the container supported by the grille is parallel to the lowered lid.

[00098] In FIG. 16B-16E show details of an alternative embodiment of a locking mechanism for locking the cover 100A. The locking mechanism includes a pair of locking guide pins 211 and a pair of locking touch switches 210A and 210B (collectively locking touch switches 210). The locking guide pins 211 may be coupled to the lid 100A to move along the lid 100A as the lid closes the container 500 and engage associated locking mechanisms 215 housed in the grid 200. When the locking guide pins 211 engage the associated locking mechanisms 215, they also operate corresponding lock sensor switches 210 located adjacent to the locking mechanisms 215 on the grid 200. These switches operate in conjunction with a limit position switch 210C coupled to the spring-loaded container sensing pins 700. The electrical circuit for turning on the magnetrons 10 may be configured such that the magnetron will not turn on unless any of the three switches 210A, 210B and 210C are actuated. This is to ensure the safety of the unit and to ensure that microwaves are only emitted when the 500 container/capacity is installed, the 100A lid is fully closed, and the locking pins and touch switches are engaged.

[00099] In one aspect, the locking guide pins 211 are configured to engage with the locking mechanisms 215 and actuate the locking touch switches 210A and 210B that are concealed, for example, in the lock body 205 shown in FIG. 16A, that is, the locking touch switches 210A and 210B are not accessible from the outside, which complies with regulatory certification requirements for the safe operation of microwave heating devices.

[000100] In FIG. Figure 17 shows the details of the choke mechanism (also called the choke) and its interlocks, which prevent microwave leakage. In one aspect, the throttling mechanism 901 is configured so that the lid 100A fits tightly against the container 500 to create cooking pressure. The throttle 901 includes metal throttle rods 902 (see FIG. 5B), a throttle spacer 904, and throttle stop members 903. The container 500 is provided with cutouts 505 to allow the orifice to engage with the container 500, thereby generating the necessary pressure for pressure cooking. In alternative embodiments, the cutouts 505 may be replaced with projections that project upward to engage the cover 100A.

[000101] The adjustable weight valve 110/110A is designed to release steam in conjunction with a secondary relief valve 115 and a metal safety plug (MSP) fusible safety plug 116 (see FIG. 8) to ensure safety.

[000102] It should be noted that although a throttling mechanism configured to be fixed to a container to provide pressure cooking has been disclosed with reference to a lid pivotally connected to the base of the device, a similar throttling mechanism is possible with a device including a lid with a vent pipe, such as shown in FIG. 9A-9C, and all such variations are also included within the scope of this application.

[000103] In FIG. 18 illustrates the use of the heating apparatus stirrer motor 1050 for other accessories 520. To this end, the output shaft of the stirrer motor 1050 may be configured such that the stirrer 1000 can be removed if necessary, and when the lid 100A closes the container 500, the output shaft of the stirrer motor 1050 is connected to accessory 520 placed within container 500 to rotate the accessory and ensure uniform exposure of the food item on the accessory to the microwaves. Accessories 520 may include, but are not limited to, cake pans, idli pans, pizza pans, roti pans, microwaveable containers, etc. Accessories 520 may be placed on a ceramic plate 530 with wheels that serves as a turntable.

[000104] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and additional embodiments of the invention may be developed without departing from the spirit of the invention. The protected scope of the invention is determined by the following claims. The invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, versions or examples, which are intended to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention based on information and knowledge available to one skilled in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[000105] The present invention provides an improved heating device without the disadvantages of known devices with multiple heating and cooking modes.

[000106] The present invention provides a heating device with a lid configured to align with the top surface of the rim of the container to ensure proper closure of the container by the lid.

[000107] The present invention provides a heating device that combines a container with a lid regardless of the surface level of a known heat source.

[000108] The present invention provides a heating device that prevents the magnetron from being turned on if the lid does not properly seal the container.

[000109] The present invention provides a heating device including a sensing mechanism for detecting the gap between the lid and the rim of the container.

[000110] The present invention provides a heating device including a locking mechanism for locking a lid on a container.

[000111] The present invention provides a microwave-based heating device capable of pressure cooking.

[000112] The present invention provides a heating device that allows cooking to be controlled via an application.

[000113] The present invention provides a heating device capable of spraying liquids such as oil and water into a working chamber.

[000114] The present invention proposes a heating device that allows you to quickly remove/pump out steam from the working chamber before opening the lid.

[000115] The present invention provides a microwave heating device that meets current safety certification requirements.

Claims (40)

1. A heating device containing: a lid movable between a raised position and a lowered position, wherein in the lowered position the lid is movable to cover a container containing food to be heated or cooked; And at least one microwave generating device connected to the lid and serving as a source of microwaves, wherein in the lowered position of the lid, heating by microwaves occurs using at least one microwave generating device in combination with the supply of heat to the container from below through another heat source and/or with a preparatory operation on the contents of the container, wherein the lid comprises a sensing mechanism for detecting that the container is properly closed by the lid to ensure that microwaves generated by the at least one microwave generating device do not leak outward, wherein the sensor mechanism includes a plurality of retractable plungers located around the periphery of the lid, which are offset outwardly and are configured to move linearly inward upon contact with the seating surface of the container when the container is closed with the lid; wherein several retractable plungers are designed in such a way that contact with the seating surface of the container occurs if the gap between the lid and the seating surface of the container is less than a predetermined gap value; and the plurality of retractable plungers are electrically connected such that the connection is completed upon contact of the plurality of retractable plungers with the container, and completion of the connection serves as confirmation that the container is properly closed by the lid. 2. Heating device according to claim 1, containing: a weight sensor configured to detect the presence of a container and also to determine by weight the amount of ingredients added to the container; And a locking mechanism for locking the lid after closing the container with the lid, the locking mechanism contains two or more touch lock switches located in a hidden location. 3. The heating device according to claim 2, comprising a control circuit configured to turn on the at least one microwave generating device only after completing the connection of multiple retractable plungers, receiving a signal from weight sensors indicating the presence of a container, and receiving a signal from two or more touch lock switches confirming the lid is locked. 4. The heating device according to claim 1, comprising a throttling mechanism to prevent leakage of microwaves, and wherein the set gap value refers to the maximum gap allowed between the lid and the seating surface of the container for effective operation of the throttle. 5. The heating device according to claim 1, in which the cover is hingedly connected to the base for hinge movement between the raised and lowered position; wherein the base contains a heat source, and the container is positioned to receive heat from the heat source in addition to heating by microwaves generated by the at least one microwave generating device. 6. The heating device according to claim 5, containing a grate connected to the base, wherein the grate is configured to support the container from the side of the rim of the container and holds the container in a suspended position, wherein the grate is configured to align the rim of the container with a lid lowered onto the container, when the grill holds the container by its rim in a suspended position; and weight sensors and two or more touch lock switches are located on the grille in a hidden location. 7. The heating device according to claim 1, in which the cover has a draft pipe and is configured to be vertically movable between a raised position and a lowered position using a lifting and lowering mechanism; wherein the container is a first container placed over a heat source, or a second container for preparatory operations of churning and/or mixing and/or grinding and/or mixing; wherein connecting the lid to the containers allows the contents of the container to be heated by microwaves generated by the at least one microwave generating device. 8. Heating device containing: base; a lattice connected to the base, the lattice being configured to support the container from a rim side of the container and to hold the container in a suspended position; a lid movable between raised and lowered positions, the lid closing the container in the lowered position; And at least one microwave generating device coupled to the lid and serving as a source of microwaves such that, in the lowered position of the lid, the heating device provides microwave heating by the at least one microwave generating device, wherein the heating device allows heat to be supplied to the container from below by the source heat operating on induction and/or open flame and/or radiation and/or convection and/or conduction; wherein the grille is configured to align the rim of the container with the lid lowered onto the container when the grille holds the container by the rim in a suspended position. 9. The heating device of claim 8, wherein the lid is hinged to the base by means of a self-aligning hinge that allows the lid to be moved so that, in the lowered position of the lid, any tolerance or gap between the lid and the container is taken into account to ensure contact between the lid and the container and their fixation. 10. The heating device according to claim 8, in which the lid contains several retractable plungers located along the periphery of the lid, several retractable plungers are displaced outward and are configured to move linearly inward upon contact with the seating surface of the container when the container is closed with the lid; wherein the plungers are designed in such a way that contact with the seating surface of the container occurs if the gap between the lid and the seating surface of the container is less than a predetermined gap value; and the plurality of retractable plungers are electrically connected such that the connection is completed upon contact of the plurality of retractable plungers with the container, wherein completion of the connection serves as confirmation that the container is properly closed by the lid. 11. Heating device according to claim 10, containing: a weight sensor coupled to the grate for detecting the presence of a container placed on the grate and also for determining by weight the amount of ingredients added to the container; And a locking mechanism to lock the lid after closing the container with the lid; The locking mechanism contains two or more touch lock switches located on the grille in a hidden location. 12. The heating device according to claim 11, comprising a control circuit configured to turn on the at least one microwave generating device only after completing the connection of multiple retractable plungers, receiving a signal from weight sensors indicating the presence of a container, and receiving a signal from two or more touch lock switches confirming the lid is locked. 13. The heating device according to claim 10, comprising a throttling mechanism to prevent leakage of microwaves, wherein the set gap value refers to the maximum gap allowed between the lid and the rim of the container for effective operation of the throttle. 14. Heating device according to claim 8, in which the base contains a heat source operating on induction and/or open flame and/or radiation and/or convection and/or conduction. 15. The heating device of claim 8, wherein the grille includes an adjustable spacer located at a lower end of the front leg, the adjustable spacer being movable up and down to align a container held in the grille with the lid. 16. The heating device of claim 8, wherein the grate includes a rear leg configured to rest on a base, the rear leg being configured to ensure alignment of a container held in the grate with the lid. 17. Heating device containing: a lid movable between a raised position and a lowered position, wherein in the lowered position the lid is movable to cover a container containing food to be heated or cooked; And at least one microwave generating device coupled to the lid and serving as a source of microwaves such that, in the lowered position of the lid, the heating device provides microwave heating by the at least one microwave generating device, wherein the lid includes a sensing mechanism for determining whether the container is properly closed with the lid to ensure that microwaves generated by the at least one microwave generating device do not leak outward, wherein the sensor mechanism includes a plurality of retractable plungers located around the periphery of the lid, which are offset outwardly and are configured to move linearly inward upon contact with the seating surface of the container when the container is closed with the lid; wherein the somewhat retractable plungers are designed in such a way that contact with the seating surface of the container occurs if the gap between the lid and the seating surface of the container is less than a predetermined gap value; and the plurality of retractable plungers are electrically connected such that the connection is completed upon contact of the plurality of retractable plungers with the container, and completion of the connection serves as confirmation that the container is properly closed by the lid; And a throttling mechanism connected to the lid to prevent microwave leakage when the lid is lowered to close the container; wherein the throttling mechanism is designed so that the lid fits tightly to the container to create pressure during pressure cooking. 18. The heating device of claim 17, wherein the throttle mechanism comprises metal throttle rods, a throttle gasket, and throttle retaining elements that engage the container to ensure a tight seal between the lid and the container. 19. The heating device according to claim 17, comprising an adjustable weight valve located above the steam release cover, a secondary safety valve and a fusible safety plug for safety. 20. The heating device according to claim 17, containing a steam evacuation pump for pumping steam out of the working/heating chamber between the container and the lid to ensure timely removal of excess steam from the working/heating chamber before opening the lid. 21. The heating device according to claim 17, further comprising a grate connected to the base, wherein the grate is configured to support the container from the side of the rim of the container and holds the container in a suspended position, wherein the grate is configured to align the rim of the container with a lid lowered onto the container when the grill holds the container by its rim in a suspended position. 22. The heating device of claim 17, comprising one or more storage containers provided on the base for storing one or more liquids for spraying into a working/heating chamber between the container and the lid.