DE102008026527A1 - Household appliance i.e. cooker, operating method, involves operating direct access control element for selecting operation mode or sub-group of operation modes, and displaying parameters associated with selected mode or sub-group of modes - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves operating a direct access control element for selecting an operation mode or a sub-group of operation modes. All operation modes are selected by the direct access control element. Parameters associated with the selected operation mode or the sub-group of operation modes are displayed in a hierarchical arrangement of selection levels. A navigation-control element e.g. rotary selecting element, is operated for selecting the parameters within the selected level. An adjustment of the operation mode is displayed in a display panel (11). An independent claim is also included for a household appliance i.e. oven, comprising an operating device.

Description

The The invention relates to a method for operating a household appliance in a Operating mode of several operating modes and a corresponding household appliance.

Commercially available household appliances (eg ovens, Stoves or compact units) have a variety of functions (eg types of heating in the case of an oven or oven), Programs (eg automatic programs) and options (eg rapid heating, Time options, parental control, and so on). The variety of Functions and related Parameters and parameter values are often difficult to use, as they are often combine in one control element. For example, over a Vorwählbedienelement an oven on one control level both heating modes as well Automatic programs and pyrolysis set. Such a selection is less intuitive and more tedious, the further down in the menu the desired Function is listed.

It the object of the present invention is to provide user guidance, which also for many features a clear overview Operating unit allows and more comfortable, because it's easier and more intuitive.

These Task is by means of a method and a household appliance after the respective independent Claim solved. Preferred embodiments are in particular the dependent ones claims removable.

The Method is for operating a household appliance in a mode of several operating modes of the household appliance. To select this Operating mode or a subset of operating modes, these Contains operating mode, becomes an associated Direct access control operated. By Actuate of the random access control becomes a mode or group jumped directly from operating modes. By means of direct lightning is one tailored to this type of operation or group of operating modes user guidance activated. To the user guidance usually serves a corresponding context menu displayed in a display field and can be operated by means of at least one operating element. These Operating mode or group of operating modes can be set as follows and be set in motion.

in the Contrary to a user guide to The prior art, in which all modes in a single Selection levels are housed, can now single modes and / or predetermined groups of modes targeted without tedious Browse the selection level can be achieved. This is special advantageous for the Domestic appliances, in the one hand, many users have little technical education and a clear overview user guidance as an important feature and on the other hand the Number of operating modes and setting possibilities is growing rapidly.

Generally The at least one random access control can be any one primary Operating parameters, the on the operation of the household appliance a Has an effect, jump on or offer for selection. Dependent parameters or parameter values can then be determined by means of a context menu choose. With direct access to a group of modes as the primary parameter, the individual operating modes of this group are considered as dependent parameters.

In In one embodiment, at least one random access control element additionally to a conventional one user guidance be provided. Then the operating mode or operating modes that are above the at least one random access control element is addressed, adjustable in two ways, namely also over the conventional user guidance.

It becomes particularly clear user guidance but preferred if all Operating modes only over Direct access controls are selectable, so a conventional User guidance via a all operating elements comprehensive selection level is eliminated. The Operating modes can be divided so that no mode by multiple random accesses responsive (disjoint division), or so that at least one Operating mode via at least two random access routes can be reached.

In an embodiment, a subset of operating modes a Subset of basic modes. The basic modes represent different ways to operate the home appliance. In the case of an oven, the group of basic modes for example, include: 3D hot air, Bottom heat, top heat, bottom heat / top heat combined and so on. For example, in the case of a microwave oven, the group of basic modes may the introduction of microwaves with different numbers of powers include. Prior to activation of the basic modes typically associated Parameter selected be like a temperature. Without active selection, default settings will be made of the context menu used when starting the operation. These Presets can Programmable selectable be. But there may also be modes that do not require further selection need.

Additionally or Alternatively, a subset of operating modes can be a subgroup of operating mode programs. Occupy operating mode programs certain basic modes and / or combinations of basic modes with associated parameters, Parameter values and / or sequences, typically application-oriented. In the case of a hearth, the Operating mode programs - too Called automatic programs - such as 'thawing' and certain staple foods such as 'vegetables', 'cereals', 'poultry' etc., for which Preparation certain basic modes are optimally set.

When single mode is in the case of a stove pyrolysis or Self-cleaning conceivable.

Prefers becomes a procedure in which to from the selected mode or subgroup belonging to operating modes Parameters are displayed in a hierarchical arrangement of selection levels. It will do so in a display field after pressing a random access control a related one Context menu open, where the selection levels are hierarchically ordered, e.g. B. hierarchical descending from top to bottom or from left to right. hierarchic equivalent selection levels, ie their parameters are not different from each other depend, can be arranged in any order to each other. The context menu can be scrolled in the display if it is not fully displayed is.

It is preferred if for a selection of a parameter within at least one selection level at least a first navigation control is operated. The first navigation control is preferably a rotary dial, z. As a rotary knob or circular slider, may alternatively, for example also have at least one row or column jump key ('Up' / 'Down' or 'Left' / 'Right').

In an embodiment is for a selection of at least one selection level at least a second one Navigation control element, in particular one for a respective jump direction provided key, actuated, z. B. at least one line or Split key ('Up' / 'Down' or 'Left' / 'Right') or similar. Alternatively, a Drehwählelement can be used.

It Furthermore, a method may be preferred in which at least one Selection level assigned a control element in direct access dynamically will and for a selection of a parameter of that selection level the associated one Operating element is actuated. Preferably, in dynamic allocation, if the Number of selection levels is so low that all Selection levels can be assigned to a separate control, these controls so reprogrammed that when pressed the associated selection level activate. Preferably, the controls are right next to one Display panel arranged so that next to the controls either a description of the selection level or an element of the selection level is displayed becomes. The displayed element of the selection plane is preferably the currently current or activated element of the associated selection level and lets correctly return the user to the type of selection level; so For example, if your oven is the first item you can enter 'vegetables' or 'poultry', causing the user to the type of other, similar parameters this selection level can intuitively close, z. On 'cereals', 'beef', 'fish', and so on. To select the parameters of the selection level, a control element or can Controls like rotary selector or jump buttons are used. Alternatively, the parameters can be replaced by a Actuate the dynamically assigned control element by so-called 'toggle' are selected. In the case of the direct dialing of the parameters, these are preferably alternately next to one another displayed the dynamically assigned control, the straight displayed parameter is the current or activated parameter.

In an alternative embodiment, the selection levels and parameters on a touch-sensitive Display field ('Touchscreen') is displayed, and for one Selection of a selection level and / or a parameter of this selection level is a belonging to this selection level Area of the display touched. Then, in whole or in part on other selection controls for user guidance in the Context menu will be omitted. So one likes in a display field illustrated selection level by touching an associated area (for example, a name or a representative Element of the selection level) are activated; it may be further a parameter of these selection levels by following, possibly multiple, touching this Range ('toggle'). There are also menueuerungsmischformen with separate controls possible.

It For example, a method is preferred in which the context menu and settings to the selected one Operating mode are displayed in a first display field, so the user a clear reference point for the selection of the operating mode which increases operator convenience.

It is then preferred for clear design of user guidance when switchable special and / or additional function controls such. B. to activate a timer function, a memory function, a rapid heating, a child safety device and so on, in a second Anzei displayed separated from the first display field ('split window'). By adding a special and / or additional function by pressing the associated control element in the second display, a further selection level for the selected mode can be opened, eg. B. to set the duration when pressing the timer function. A selection level can also be re-opened after establishing a connection with an external core temperature sensor for setting a desired cooking temperature. The use of the core temperature sensor means that the device only heats until the inside of the food has reached the previously set cooking target temperature.

For household appliances, which the functions of two device types for the same object, z. B. a food, combine, for. B. a microwave function and an oven function, it is preferred if a combined Operating mode can be selected from different device types, eg. B. baking and Microwave at the same time, adding a respective operating mode with associated parameters for at least two of the device types selected one after the other is, of which at least one mode by pressing one for each device type provided direct access control element. Preferably, a Selection of an operating mode for each of the device types initialized by means of a random access control. If, for example the combination of a microwave function and a type of heating Baking oven includes and also forms the microwave buttons as a direct selection buttons are, the combination can be over two pressed one after the other Direct selection keys of each of the device types with each subsequent value setting (if necessary) can be selected. The direct selection keys then jump once a group of modes (Types of oven heating) and once a single value (the microwave power) at.

It is advantageous for easy selection of a mode, if at least after turning on the home appliance adjacent to each random access control an associated one Label is displayed in a display field, e.g. B. 'type of heating', 'program automatic' and pyrolysis' for a stove.

Preferably is activated by pressing a random access control, a currently open parameter selection, z. The same or another random access control, completed.

It Furthermore, a method is preferred for avoiding incorrect operation. at the start of the mode, a separate activation control actuated must become. Alternatively, for example, with activated direct access to a single operating mode without subordinate parameter selection This mode also without further actuation only by pressing the Direct access control are activated, eg. B. pyrolysis without Stage selection.

The Home appliance, In particular stove, is set up a procedure after a of the preceding claims to expire.

It becomes a household appliance preferred, wherein the operating device comprises at least: a central function block with at least one rotary selector, in particular for adjusting an operating parameter within a selection level, and directly laterally adjacent to and symmetrical to the central Function block one display field each.

These execution is particularly advantageous if in one or more selection levels one high number of parameters selectable is (eg a temperature range in small steps), because then the Selection over a physical one rotary knobs more pleasant and usually faster than a selection over one touch-sensitive Display or buttons. Furthermore, the split display field improves the performance Outline of the display contents achieved.

It is particularly preferred when the operating device further comprises: a random access function block with at least two random access elements and an activation function block with at least one on / off switch (incl. push-button) and a start / stop switch (incl. push button) symmetrical to the central function block.

advantageously, is a display field or both display fields are touch-sensitive.

Of the Random access function block and the activation function block can z. B. on a respective display panel relative to the central function block be arranged or opposite directly adjacent to the central function block on one side no display field adjacent to the central function block, z. B. above and below the central function block.

Preferably has the household appliance an operating device on which the at least one random access control element in physical Embodiment is arranged. This is the random access control preferably equipped with a symbol on the surface.

The at least one random access control element may, for example, be a single rotary selector in which at least two positions correspond to a respective operating mode or group of operating modes. When switching to one of these positions then the respective mode or Group of operating modes started. Alternatively, the at least one random access control element may, for example, comprise at least two random access keys.

Preferably The random access controls are directly adjacent to one Display panel arranged, which in particular furnished and is located associated with the random access controls display graphical elements (text, images, symbols, etc.) next to them.

alternative can use the random access control as a graphical element in one Display panel are displayed, especially in a touch-sensitive Touchscreen in which the graphical element is preferably simultaneously identifies a control panel.

The surface the controls are preferably made of the same material like the surface a surrounding aperture, resulting in a high quality, homogeneous Overall picture and a pleasant feel.

All Elements of the operating device, especially operating elements and display fields, are arranged close to each other so that there is no one between them User more conspicuous Gap is present, which gives a high-quality appearance.

All Controls are preferably flush to arranged the display panels, whereby the operating device easy to clean. The controls are preferable for easy cleanability as keys, in particular sensor keys executed. In a further embodiment can they Keys z. B. as mechanical lifting buttons, in particular short-stroke keys, be designed, resulting in a more pleasant feel, but one slightly worse cleanability.

Preferably is the rotary knob to the transition in a rest position flush with Retractable the display panels. In an alternative embodiment the rotary knob can be made stationary.

It can be used for easier cleanability and optimal integration in the most flat visor body be preferred if the setting of the modes even more on the activity from touch-sensitive Display fields. Then the operating device in extreme cases only a single touch-sensitive Display field have. This display field can then in particular also simulate keys, especially direct access keys, or even rotary dials. As a result, in particular, the optical replica of a 'split window' with two display sub-areas and a central navigation area possible.

It is preferred for easy installation when the operating device as a unit from behind through the control panel can be fastened, in particular so that the surface of Control device flush with the surface Control panel is.

The Placement of the operating device or user interface is done preferably centrally in the center of the control panel.

through this operating device leaves achieve an improved structure of the operating sequences, a strong one visual conciseness of the operating concept, improved cleaning friendliness directly adjacent and flush-mounted operating and display elements, as well as compact board dimensions by a concentration of Display and control elements, which results in cost advantage.

In The following figures illustrate the invention with reference to an embodiment described in more detail schematically. It can for better clarity identical or equivalent elements with the same reference numerals be provided.

1 shows in front view a section of a stove with an operating device;

2 shows in front view of the operating device 1 after switching on;

3 shows in front view of the operating device 1 upon actuation of a first random access control element;

4 shows in three subfigures 4A to 4C in front view of the operating device 1 upon actuation of a second random access control element at various stages of a subsequent parameter selection;

5 shows in front view of the operating device 1 upon actuation of a third random access control element;

6 shows in three subfigures 6A to 6C an operating device of a combined oven / microwave oven domestic appliance in various stages of a parameter selection.

1 shows in front view a section of a stove 1 with an oven. The stove 1 has a oven door 2 for opening and closing a stovepipe opening (not shown) with a door handle 3 , outer panels 4 brushed stainless steel and a window 5 on. about the door 2 is a control panel 6 arranged the same width, in the middle of an operating device 7 is present for the operation of the oven, in 2 is shown in more detail. This operating device 7 does not serve the operation of on the top of the stove 1 arranged cooktops (not shown), which by means of a separate, also on the top of the stove 1 existing operating device (not shown).

• A) Der am weitesten links angeordnete Direktzugriffsfunktionsblock weist drei in einer Spalte angeordnete Direktzugriffsbedienelemente 8, 9, 10 für Betriebsarten und Gruppen von Betriebsarten (Primärparameter) in Form von berührungsempfindlichen Sensortasten auf. Durch diese Anordnung kann der Benutzer zu Beginn des Bedienablaufes klar differenzieren, welche Primärparameter er nutzen will bzw. er hat während der Bedienung direkten Zugriff auf die Primärparameter.
• B) Rechts daneben befindet sich ein programmierbares erstes LCD-Anzeigefeld 11 insbesondere zur Anzeige von aktuell ge wählten Betriebseinstellungen (Betriebsartparameter, Parameterwerte, Sonder-/Zusatzfunktionen) und/oder zugehörigen Informationen.
• C) In der Mitte der Bedienvorrichtung 7 ist ein Navigationsblock zur Navigation in Bedienmenus mit einem Drehknebel 12 mit quadratischer Grundplatte zur Verstellung von Parametern und/oder Parameterwerten und darüber zwei Navigations-Sensortasten 13, 14 zur Zeilennavigation der Inhalte im ersten LCD-Anzeigefeld 11 angeordnet. Alternativ können die Navigations-Sensortasten auch unterhalb oder seitlich des Drehknebels 12 angeordnet sein.
• D) Rechts neben dem Navigationsblock befindet sich ein berührungsempfindliches zweites LCD-Anzeigefeld 15 zur Anzeige und Aktivierung von Sonder- und/oder Zusatzfunktionen (Sekundärparameter). Die Auswahl erfolgt durch eine Berührung des entsprechenden Symbols im zweiten LCD-Anzeigefeld 15. Dabei kann eine Anzeige sowohl im rechten Anzeigefeld 15 erfolgen (Quittierung des Sekundärparameters wie z. B. Zeiteinstellungen) als auch im linken Anzeigefeld 11 (bloße Quittierung oder ergänzende Untermenü- bzw. Werteinformation wie z. B. Dauer, Ende, Startzeit usw. bei Zeitfunktionen).
• E) Der am weitesten rechts angeordnete Aktivierungsfunktionsblock weist eine An/Aus-Sensortaste 16 zum Ein- und Ausschalten des Herds 1 und darunter eine Start/Stopp-Sensortaste 17 zum Beginnen bzw. Anhalten oder Unterbrechen eines Betriebsablaufs auf.

The operating device 7 has a frontally closed, rectangular contour with rounded edges. The operating device 7 is divided into laterally adjoining areas or function blocks of rectangular basic shape, as in 2 described in more detail. The function blocks have the following elements:

• A) The leftmost random access function block has three random access controls arranged in a column 8th . 9 . 10 for operating modes and groups of operating modes (primary parameters) in the form of touch-sensitive sensor keys. By this arrangement, the user can clearly differentiate at the beginning of the operation, which primary parameters he wants to use or he has during operation direct access to the primary parameters.
• B) Right next to it is a programmable first LCD display panel 11 in particular for displaying currently selected operating settings (operating mode parameters, parameter values, special / additional functions) and / or associated information.
• C) In the middle of the operating device 7 is a navigation block for navigation in operating menus with a rotary knob 12 with square base plate for adjusting parameters and / or parameter values and above that two navigation sensor keys 13 . 14 for line navigation of the contents in the first LCD display 11 arranged. Alternatively, the navigation sensor keys may also be below or to the side of the rotary knob 12 be arranged.
• D) To the right of the navigation pad is a touch-sensitive second LCD panel 15 for displaying and activating special and / or additional functions (secondary parameters). The selection is made by touching the corresponding symbol in the second LCD display 15 , It can display both in the right panel 15 (acknowledgment of the secondary parameter such as time settings) as well as in the left display field 11 (mere acknowledgment or supplementary submenu or value information such as duration, end, start time, etc. for time functions).
• E) The rightmost activation function block has an on / off sensor button 16 for switching the oven on and off 1 and below that a start / stop sensor button 17 to start or stop or interrupt an operation.

The actuating surface of the sensor keys 8th - 10 . 13 - 14 . 16 - 17 and the base plate and toggle top of the rotary knob 12 is made of the same material as the surface of the surrounding panel 6 , resulting in a high-quality, homogeneous overall picture and a pleasant feel. The shape of the function blocks A to E is symmetrical about the navigation block C; ie that the two display fields 11 . 15 have the same shape, and also (mirror-inverted) the random access function block A and the activation function block E. Neighboring controls and display panels 9 - 17 are arranged close to each other, so that there is no obvious gap between them, which gives a high-quality appearance. All buttons 8th - 10 . 13 - 14 . 16 - 17 are also flush with the display fields 11 . 15 , which causes the operating device 7 easy to clean. This is also helped by the fact that the buttons 8th - 10 . 13 - 14 . 16 - 17 are designed as sensor keys.

In an alternative embodiment, the keys 8th - 10 . 13 - 14 . 16 - 17 z. B. also be designed as mechanical lifting buttons, in particular short-stroke keys, resulting in a more pleasant feel, but a slightly worse cleanability. In the case of the rotary knob 12 At least its base plate is flush. In the embodiment shown, the rotary knob 12 also retractable flush to the transition to a rest position. In an alternative embodiment, the rotary knob 12 be executed fixed.

The spatial summary of the keys 8th - 10 . 12 - 4 . 16 - 17 and display fields 11 . 15 (the buttons are directly linked to the display fields) allows the operating device 7 designed so that they are preassembled and as a unit from behind through the control panel 6 can be attached by dipping, so that the surface of the operating device 7 flush with the control panel 6 lies.

2 shows the operating device 7 in more detail, how it turns off after turning on the stove by pressing the on / off button 16 during normal operation.

The three shortcut keys 8th . 9 . 10 of the random access function block A are provided for direct access to a mode or group of top-level operating modes. Due to the direct access, therefore, it is not necessary to activate any menu control or preselection control element which provides all operating modes for selection. Rather, it is through the random access buttons 8th . 9 . 10 an operation only for a single mode or a group of modes for setting and activation to choose from. In a single mode now no Bedienmenu needs to be searched, while for a Group of operating modes needs only a limited and contentwise preferably intuitively related set of operating modes needs to be searched. This makes operation easier and more pleasant. In other words, by using the three shortcut keys 8th . 9 . 10 the possible operating modes are divided into three better operable subsets.

The direct access keys provided in this embodiment 8th . 9 . 10 are (from top to bottom) a heating direct access key 8th , an automatic program direct access key 9 and a pyrolysis shortcut key. Before selection and / or after termination of a mode is laterally at each of the random access buttons 8th . 9 . 10 in the adjacent first display field 11 the designation of the assigned operating mode or group of operating modes is displayed, here 'heating modes', 'program automatic' and 'self-cleaning'. The designation can be adapted to a previously set national language. Upon actuation (touch) of the respective direct access button 8th . 9 . 10 will be in the first display field adjacent to it 11 an associated menu control is displayed.

Specifically, when the types of heating are actuated, the hot-key direct access key 8th the menu control for the individual Grundheizarten the oven activated, which in the adjacent first display panel 11 is shown. Both the name 'Heating modes' and the corresponding selection levels are displayed in the first display field 11 displayed as below with reference to 3 will be described in more detail.

Analogously, when the program automatic direct access key is pressed 9 or pyrolysis direct access key 10 the menu control for the individual automatic programs or the pyrolysis of the oven activated, which in the adjacent first display panel 11 is shown. In this case, both the term 'automatic program' and 'self-cleaning' as well as the associated selection levels in the first display field 11 displayed as below with reference to 4 respectively. 5 will be described in more detail.

For easy identification of the random access buttons 8th . 9 . 10 also with missing designation in the display field 11 Each of them has an individual 'speaking' symbol on the surface.

In the first LCD display panel 11 At least all relevant parameters or selected setting options relevant to the currently selected or activated operating mode are displayed (operating mode parameters, parameter values, special / additional functions) and / or associated information.

In the central navigation block C is the rotary knob 12 with respect to an activation of an operating mode intended to select by rotation between different setting options within a selection level or hierarchical menu level. The two navigation touch buttons 13 respectively. 14 are intended to jump in the direction of the arrow displayed on them between different hierarchical levels of the mode selection menu (line navigation).

In the touch-sensitive second LCD display panel 15 become symbols for several special and / or additional functions that can be switched to a mode, such. B. 'M' for a memory function ('memory function'), '>>∫∫∫' for a rapid heating, a clock symbol for a timer function, a key symbol for a child safety lock and so on.

Touch the icon on the display panel 15 If possible, this function is added for the currently selected operating mode and in the left display field 11 displayed.

By means of the activation / pause or start / stop sensor button 17 of the activation block E, a selected operating sequence is activated or an activated operating sequence is stopped.

3 shows the operating device 7 after pressing the heating direct access button 8th in 2 , In the left display field 11 Now a menu control with two selection levels is displayed, which are displayed under the direct access designation 'Heating modes' in hierarchical graduation. For each of the selection levels, only one element or parameter of several is displayed, namely the currently selected and therefore active parameter.

On the first selection level, the currently active upper / lower heat mode is displayed as a parameter from the group of operating modes. By turning the rotary knob 12 The other operating modes of this group can be displayed and thus determined to the active operating mode. Other operating modes of this selection level or group include, by way of example, 'upper heat', 'lower heat', 'upper / lower heat', 'intensive heat', 'pizza' and '3D hot air'.

On the second selection level arranged therebelow, which is arranged hierarchically downstream of the first selection level, a temperature value which is standard for the active operating mode, in this case 160 ° C., is first displayed and thus activated. This temperature value can be adjusted by turning the rotary knob 12 increase (turn clockwise) or decrease (counterclockwise rotation). To switch between the Auswahlebe The operating mode and the temperature (generally a selection parameter and its value) become the navigation sensor keys 13 . 14 operated according to their NEN arrow direction. The currently active selection level is enclosed by a bracket. Alternatively, the marking of the respective active selection level or input line in the display field 11 be highlighted differently, for. Example by enlarging the font, flashing, color change, inverted display or the like.

If the desired settings have been selected or activated, possibly including a special or additional function, the start / stop button is used to start the heating process 17 actuated. In the example shown, all selection levels are simultaneously in the display field 11 visible, noticeable.

4 shows the operating device 7 after pressing the heating direct access button 9 in 2 in different stages of a subordinate parameter selection.

The operation or selection of the settings is done in a similar way to 3 However, if a desired program automatic is selected on the first selection level of the group of program automatics, here: 'poultry', as in 4A shown. Other program automata may include, for example, 'thawing', 'cereal products', 'vegetables', etc. In a program automatic different heating parameters and / or values, which are freely selectable in the basic heating, for a specific purpose (type of heating, type of food, etc.) preprogrammed. Also, an automatic program may use several basic modes in alternation. In the directly downstream selection levels, various settings assigned to the selected mode 'Poultry' can be made. First, this is done by pressing the down-going navigation key 14 jumped into the directly downstream selection level, within which by turning the rotary knob 12 the poultry species is selected, here: 'chicken fresh'.

In another, in 4B shown selection level by pressing the down-arrow navigation key again 14 is reached, a weight of the previously selected food by turning the rotary knob 12 in steps of z. B. 0.1 kg adjusted. Because the display panel 11 If only two selection levels can be displayed at the same time, the selection levels are scrolled up one position so that the first selection level 'Poultry' is no longer visible. In order to indicate to the user whether further selection levels are available in front of or behind the current selection level, small arrows directed upwards or downwards are displayed next to the always-displayed direct access designation, indicating further selection levels in the direction indicated. So an operator knows when looking at the operating device 7 to 4B in that there are further selection levels above the weight setting (arrow "^" upwards), namely the already activated selection levels, and also below.

4C shows the operating device 7 after another press of the down-going navigation key 14 , The selection levels or the menu structure is in the display field 11 one more line upwards, so that under the weight selection level a selection level or row for selecting crunchiness of the crust appears in five steps. Within this selection level, turn the rotary knob 12 the crispness in five steps (far left: little crispy to the right: very crispy) set. The single arrow "^" up next to the direct access designation indicates that there is no further one below the current selection level and that it can only be scrolled upwards (by means of the upwards scrolling navigation key 13 ).

Usually, the selection levels are arranged hierarchically, that is, a subordinate selection level, which contains elements which are dependent on the element selection on an upstream selection level, is displayed after the upstream selection level. The arrangement can be done, for example, from top to bottom or from left to right; possibly also from right to left for cultures that usually use such a direction for their writing. For sibling selection levels that have no interdependent elements, such. B. the selection levels for the weight and crunchiness of the crust, which together in 4C can be selected, any order can be selected, for. B. for an intuitive importance.

The current settings for the respective selection levels are those which - if necessary by scrolling with the navigation keys 13 . 14 - displayed in the display field. The selection levels are not all at the same time in the display field 11 visible, noticeable. The start button 17 at the beginning of the heating operation can be operated on each level.

5 shows the operating device 7 after pressing the pyrolysis shortcut button 10 in 2 , The operation is in the first display field 11 only a single selection level opened or offered for selection, which includes the pyrolysis strength in three stages, of which here currently stage 1 is active. The other steps can be done by turning the knob 12 to be selected. The start button 17 starts the pyrolysis operation.

For the alternative case, that the pyrolysis is only single-stage, the pyrolysis direct access key is activated 10 no further selection level opened; Rather, only the start of the pyrolysis operation remains by pressing the start / stop button 17 ,

6A shows an operating device 18 a combination device from a stove with oven as after the 1 to 5 and a microwave. The operating device 18 now has no continuous contour, but are next to the operating device 18 similar to the one from the 1 to 5 left and right in symmetrical arrangement in two sub-blocks F1 and F2 direct access elements 20 arranged for the microwave function. The direct access items 20 for the microwave function directly select a mode or a primary parameter that corresponds to the desired wattage for the microwave, but are not directly on the display panels 11 . 15 arranged. After turning on the household appliance, as shown in 6A is shown in the display 11 first a prompt appears to select a function.

By pressing a direct access button 8th . 9 . 10 . 20 such a function is selected, wherein in 6B the operating device 18 as shown after pressing the right middle random access element 20 for a 600 watt microwave operation looks like. In the top line of the first display field 11 is the function 'microwave' displayed, in the bottom line the only associated selection level with the rotary knob 12 selectable expiry time as an element, which is currently active for selection. The display of the selected wattage or actuated random access element 20 is achieved in this embodiment by the lighting of an LED ring (not shown) to the 600 W button; Alternatively, the current wattage z. But in addition or alternatively in the display field 11 being represented. After pressing the start button 17 Now a pure microwave function would be started.

On the other hand, in order to achieve a combination mode for the common operation of the oven and the microwave, the start button is not used 17 pressed, but a shortcut button 8th . 9 . 10 the oven function. The label then jumps from 'microwave' to 'combination' as in 6C shown. As already described above, an associated oven operating mode with the corresponding settings can then be selected. The oven settings are displayed above the operating time display. At the beginning of the thus combined operation, the start button 17 pressed.

Of course it is the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown limited.

So is the user guide not limited to an oven or stove, or an oven / microwave oven combination appliance, but rather For example, it can also be applied to other household appliances such as a compact device Washing machine, tumble dryer, a washer-dryer, a dishwasher, a fridge or similar be applied analogously.

Also can the marking of the respective active selection level or input line or input column in the display field ('Display') except by means of enclosing in one Bracket, for example, by means of an enlargement, a flashing, a Frame, a color change, a color inversion or similar be achieved.

A activity an operating element can additionally be accompanied acoustically.

Further can be an identification of the active controls, in particular Keys, for parameter selection, for example, either by a illuminated version the operating elements (also backlit text and / or symbols), Light-emitting diodes next to the respective control element or an acknowledgment done in the display field.

Provided it allows the type and number of adjustable parameters, it is alternatively also possible, the Operating elements, in particular keyboards, in each case to occupy, each control element has direct access to a selection level or a parameter allowed. The display of the directly assigned Parameter or parameter value appears next to the assigned one Operating element in the respective display field ('Dis play'). The adjustment takes place in one Configuration continues with the central rotary selector (possibly with the elimination of Navigation keys 'Up' / 'Down' or 'Left' / 'Right').

alternative can Controls, especially keypads, are so populated that each control element direct access to a selection level or a parameter (eg time functions, options) allowed. The display of the directly assigned parameter or value appears directly next to the control element in the respective display field. The value adjustment Now preferably takes place according to the 'toggle' principle by multiple Actuate the correspondingly assigned control element. The central rotary selector can then as a parent Operating element z. B. be used for direct selection of the main programs.

In a further embodiment, the operating device can be equipped with two touch-sensitive display fields ('touch displays'). As a result, the (line) navigation keys above the rotary selector can be omitted by activating the respective selection level by touch. If necessary, the navigation keys can be used to switch between the touch-sensitive panels (left / right), or the change can be made by touching the left or right panel. In a further step, in a further embodiment, the physical random access control elements can be omitted or otherwise occupied.

Generally can have an on / off functionality integrated into a retractable mechanism of the retractable central rotary selector become; a sinking of the rotary selector thus switches the device off, an extension turns the device on.

Generally the technology of display fields is not limited. So can the second, touch-sensitive Display field, symbols displayed at predetermined positions instead in LCD technology, LEDs are backlit. Generally can different types of LCD displays are used, for example a TFT LCD display. As an alternative to the LCD display are, for example also plasma, SED or OLED screens, etc. can be used, as well LED displays.

1

stove

2

oven door

3

door handle

4

outer door panel

5

window

6

control panel

7

operating device

8th

Direct access control element

9

Direct access control element

10

Direct access control element

11

first display

12

rotary knob

13

Navigation sensor key

14

Navigation sensor key

15

second display

16

On / off sensor

17

Activation / Pause sensor key

18

operating device

20

Direct access control element

A

Direct Access function block

B

first ad unit

C

navigation block

D

second ad unit

e

Activation function block

Claims (15)

Method for operating a household appliance ( 1 ) in a mode of operation of a plurality of modes, characterized in that for selecting that mode or a subset of modes containing that mode, an associated random access control element ( 8th . 9 . 10 . 20 ) is pressed. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that a subset of operating modes is a subset of basic operating modes includes. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized a subset of operating modes comprises a subset of operating mode programs. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all modes of operation via direct access control elements ( 8th . 9 . 10 . 20 ) are selectable. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that from to the selected mode or subgroup belonging to operating modes Parameters are displayed in a hierarchical arrangement of selection levels. A method according to claim 5, characterized in that for a selection of a parameter within at least one selection level at least a first navigation control element, in particular Drehwählelement ( 12 ), is operated. Method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, for a selection of at least one selection level, at least one second navigation control element, in particular a button provided for a respective jump direction (FIG. 13 . 14 ), is operated. Method according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized that at least one selection level is an operating element in direct access is allocated dynamically and for a selection of a parameter of this selection level the associated control element actuated becomes. Method according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized that the parameters are on a touch-sensitive Display field and for a selection of a selection level and / or a parameter of this selection level, a selection level associated Area of the display touched becomes. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that settings for the selected operating mode in a first display field ( 11 ) being represented. A method according to claim 10, characterized in that switchable special / additional functions in a second, in particular touch-sensitive, display panel ( 15 ) displayed by the first display panel ( 11 ) is disconnected. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a combined operating mode from different types of equipment is selectable by a respective operating mode with associated parameters for at least two of the device types by means of actuating a provided for the respective device type random access control element ( 8th . 9 . 10 ; 20 ) is selected one after the other. Household appliance ( 1 ), in particular hearth, characterized in that it is adapted to run a method according to one of the preceding claims. Household appliance ( 1 ) according to claim 13, characterized in that the operating device ( 7 ; 18 ) at least: - a central function block (C) with at least one rotary selector ( 12 ) for adjusting an operating parameter; and - directly laterally adjacent to and symmetrically to the central function block (C) in each case a display field (B, 11 ; D 15 ). Household appliance ( 1 ) according to claim 14, characterized in that the operating device ( 7 ; 18 ) further comprises: - a random access function block (A) having at least two random access elements (A) 8th . 9 . 10 ) and an activation function block (E) with at least one on / off switch ( 16 ) and a start / stop switch ( 17 ) symmetrical to the central functional block (C).