EP3028536B1 - Stove top device - Google Patents

Description

The invention is based on a hob device according to the preamble of claim 1.

A cooktop device, namely an induction cooktop device, with two heating elements for heating set-up cookware and with a control unit which is intended to detect a first position of a cookware and to activate a first heating element assigned to the first position, has already been proposed . The documents EP 1 160 590 A1 , EP 2 211 591 A1 , FR 2 984 463 A1 and EP 2 166 290 A1 disclose cooktop devices according to the prior art.

The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with improved properties with regard to high flexibility and / or high comfort for an operator. The object is achieved by the features of claim 1, while advantageous refinements and developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.

The invention is based on a cooktop device, in particular an induction cooktop device, with at least two, in particular at least three, advantageously at least four, particularly advantageously at least six, preferably at least eight, heating elements, at least for heating up cooked dishes and with at least one control unit which is provided for this purpose to detect a first position of a cookware and to activate at least one first heating element assigned to the first position.

It is proposed that, in the event of a change from the first position of the cookware to a second position of the cookware, the control unit is provided to deactivate at least one first heating element assigned to the first position of the cookware and at least one second element assigned to the second position of the cookware To activate the heating element with a different heating power density than the at least one first heating element. A “heating element” is to be understood in particular to mean an element which is intended, at least in one operating state, to transmit at least a large part of electrical energy to a cookware, preferably through at least one base body forming a cooking surface, and / or electrical energy in heat convert to in particular to heat at least one set of cookware, preferably through at least one base body forming a cooking surface. In particular, the heating element is intended to transmit a power of at least 100 W, in particular at least 500 W, advantageously at least 1000 W, preferably at least 2000 W, in at least one operating state in which the heating element is connected to supply electronics. In particular, the heating element is designed as an induction heating element. An “induction heating element” is to be understood in particular as a wound electrical conductor through which high-frequency alternating current flows through in at least one operating state. In particular, the induction heating element is intended to convert electrical energy into an alternating magnetic field which is intended to cause eddy currents and / or magnetic reversal effects in a metallic, preferably at least partially ferromagnetic, cookware, which are converted into heat. The induction heating element is preferably provided to cause the cooking utensils to heat up. The induction heating element is preferably provided in the operating mode to convert electrical energy into electromagnetic field energy, which is ultimately converted into heat in a suitable cookware. In particular, the cooktop device has at least one base body, at least for setting up cookware. In particular, the base body at least essentially forms a cooking surface. A “control unit” is to be understood in particular as an electronic unit which is preferably at least partially integrated in a control and / or regulating unit of a hob and which is preferably provided to control and / or regulate at least the heating elements. The control unit preferably comprises a computing unit and in particular, in addition to the computing unit, a storage unit with a control and / or regulating program stored therein, which is intended to be executed by the computing unit. The cooktop device advantageously has at least one sensor unit, which is formed in particular by the heating elements themselves and is intended to detect cookware set up, in particular by measuring at least one inductance and / or at least one capacitance. In particular, the control unit is provided for evaluating measured values of the sensor unit, calculating at least one heating zone and determining heating elements which form this heating zone. In particular, the control unit is provided to provide a detected cooking utensil with a heating zone adapted in shape, size and / or position assign. In particular, the control unit is provided to enable at least one detection of a set of cooking utensils by the sensor unit by activating at least one of the heating elements, in particular at least a large part of the, advantageously all heating elements. As an alternative, further possibilities for the detection of cookware that have been set up are considered conceivable to a person skilled in the art. In particular, the control unit is provided to effect at least regular detection of cookware set up, in particular by the sensor unit. By the phrase that the control unit is intended to effect at least a "regular" detection of cookware that has been set up, it should in particular be understood that the control unit is intended to detect cookware that has been set up at intervals of less than 30 s, in particular 10 s, advantageously less than 5 s, particularly advantageously less than 1 s, preferably less than 0.1 s. By the phrase that the control unit is intended to "effect" at least a regular detection of cooked dishes, the control unit is intended to mean at least a regular detection of cooked dishes by activating at least one of the, in particular to enable at least a large part of, advantageously, all heating elements. In particular, the control unit, in the event that a cooking utensil is set up, is intended to activate at least one first heating element assigned to a position of the cooking utensil set up. In particular, in the event of a change from a first position of a set of cookware to a second position of the set of cookware, the control unit is provided to deactivate at least one heating element assigned to the first position and / or to activate at least one heating element assigned to the second position. In particular, in the event of a change from the first position of the cookware to the second position of the cookware, the control unit is provided for at least one heating element which is in the activated state and which is in the first position of the cookware and the second position of the cookware Cookware is covered, with changed different heating power densities to become more reactive. In particular, the control unit is provided to activate at least one heating element that is in the deactivated state and / or at least one heating element that is in the activated state to be more reactive with changed different heating power density, in particular by at least one heating element assigned to the second position to activate. The phrase that the control unit is intended to "react" at least one heating element that is in the deactivated state with a different, different heating power density is to be understood in particular that the control unit is intended to convert the heating element that is in the activated state Condition is to change a heating power of the heating element while maintaining an activated state of the heating element and / or that the control unit is provided to deactivate the heating element which is in the activated state and then to reactivate the deactivated heating element with a different, different heating power density . In particular, the control unit is provided to deactivate the heating element, which is in the activated state and is operated with a first heating power density, and then to reactivate it with a second heating power density that differs from the first heating power density. In particular, in the event that a set of cookware is removed from a first position, the control unit is intended to deactivate at least one heating element assigned to the first position of the set of cookware and to activate at least one heating element which is separate from the first heating element, in particular in order to detect that it has been set up to enable at least one cookware, advantageously the cookware removed from the first position, by the sensor unit. A heating element “assigned” to a position of a cooking utensil is to be understood in particular to mean a heating element that is intended, at least in one operating state, to heat, in particular to heat, the cooking utensil that is in particular arranged at the position to which the heating element is assigned. In particular, the heating element assigned to the position is arranged at least essentially at the position. In particular, the heating element assigned to the position and the cookware set up at the position are separated by the base body. “Provided” is to be understood in particular to be specially programmed, designed and / or equipped. The fact that an object is provided for a specific function should in particular be understood to mean that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

A high degree of flexibility and / or a high level of comfort for an operator can in particular be achieved by the configuration according to the invention. In particular, flexible positioning of cookware set up can be achieved. In particular, can low energy consumption can be achieved in one operating state. As a result, low costs can advantageously be achieved for an operator.

In addition, it is proposed that the control unit be provided to operate at least one heating element associated with a set of cookware depending on a position of the cookware with a different heating power density. In particular, the control unit is provided to operate at least one heating element, which is assigned to a cookware set up at a first position, with a first heating power density. According to the invention, the control unit is intended to operate at least one heating element which is assigned to a cookware set up in a second position, which differs in particular from the first position, with a second heating power density which differs from the first heating power density. This enables a high degree of flexibility to be achieved. In addition, a heating power density with which a set of cookware is to be heated can advantageously be achieved in a pleasantly simple manner by specifically setting the cookware at different positions. In particular, a change in heating power density can be achieved in a comfortable manner by moving the cookware.

It is further proposed that the control unit be provided to operate the heating elements in a position-dependent manner with predefined, different heating power densities, at least in one operating mode. In particular, the control unit is provided to advantageously assign at least one of the heating elements, in particular a large part of them, to a predefined heating power density which differs in particular from a predefined heating power density of further heating elements. In particular, a predefined, individual heating power density is stored in the memory unit of the control unit for at least one of, in particular a large part of, advantageously each of the heating elements. In particular, at least one predefined heating power density of at least one heating element can be changed by an operator, in particular before a cooking process is started and / or during a cooking process and / or after a cooking process has ended. In particular, the control unit is provided to change further heating power densities of further heating elements depending on a change in one of the predefined heating power densities of a first heating element depending on the change in the predefined heating power densities of the first heating element. Under the twist that the control unit does this It is intended to "assign" a heating power density to a heating element, in particular it should be understood that the control unit is intended to operate the heating element with the heating power density assigned to the heating element when the heating element is activated. The phrase that the control unit is intended to “operate” at least one heating element is to be understood in particular to mean that the control unit is intended to control at least one supply electronics that supplies the heating element. In particular, the supply electronics comprise at least one inverter for supplying at least one heating element. As a result, a high level of convenience can be achieved for an operator who can change a change in the heating power density of the cooking utensil by changing a position of the cooking utensil.

It is further proposed that the control unit be provided, at least in one operating mode, to assign a higher heating power density to a heating element which is arranged in an area facing an operator than to a heating element which is arranged in an area facing away from an operator. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the control unit is provided, at least in one operating mode, to assign a heating element arranged in an area facing an operator to a lower heating power density than a heating element arranged in an area facing away from an operator. In particular, the control unit is provided, at least in one operating mode, to assign a heating element, which is arranged in the area facing an operator, a maximum heating power density of all heating elements, in particular in comparison with other heating elements, to at least one cooking surface area. In particular, the control unit is provided, in at least one operating mode, to assign a heating element, which is arranged in the area facing away from an operator, a lowest heating power density of all heating elements, in particular in comparison with other heating elements, to at least one cooking surface area. In particular, the control unit is provided for assigning different heating power densities depending on a distance to the area facing an operator. A high level of comfort for an operator can thereby be achieved in particular. In particular, an operator can prepare food to be cooked in the area facing the operator. In addition, an operator can place cooked food to keep warm in the area facing away from the operator, in particular in to be able to continue cooking food comfortably in the area facing the operator.

In addition, it is proposed that the control unit be provided, depending on an operating input by means of at least one operating unit, between at least a first operating mode, in which the heating elements are operated in a position-dependent manner with predefined, different heating power densities, and at least a second operating mode, in which the Heating elements can be operated with independent heating power densities. In particular, heating power densities can be freely selected in the second operating mode, in particular while avoiding influencing further heating power densities of further heating elements. In particular, in the second operating mode, a first heating power density of a first heating element can be freely selected by an operating input by means of the operating unit. In particular, in the second operating mode, a second heating power density of a second heating element can be freely selected by an operator input by means of the operating unit, in particular while avoiding influencing the first heating power density of the first heating element. An “operator input” is to be understood in particular as an actuation of the operator control unit by an operator. As a result, a flexible configuration can be achieved. In addition, an operator can advantageously conveniently switch between different operating modes at will.

In a further embodiment it is proposed that the hob device comprises at least two, in particular at least four, advantageously at least six, particularly advantageously at least ten, preferably at least twenty, particularly preferably at least thirty and advantageously a plurality of heating elements which advantageously form a variable cooking surface area.

Furthermore, it is proposed as an embodiment not claimed that the control unit is intended to assign, at least in one operating mode, at least one heating element, which is arranged at least substantially in the center of a variable cooking surface area, to a higher heating power density than at least one heating element, which is located within at least one concentric one Web is arranged around the heating element, which is arranged at least essentially in a center of a variable cooking surface area. Under a "center" of a variable cooking surface area, a focus and / or a center of the variable should in particular

Cooking surface area are understood, in particular when projecting the variable cooking surface area into a plane advantageously aligned parallel to a main extension plane of the base body. A "main plane of extent" of a structural unit is to be understood in particular as a plane which is parallel to a largest side surface of a smallest geometric cuboid, which still just completely surrounds the structural unit, and in particular runs through the center of the cuboid. The phrase that a heating element is arranged “at least essentially” in a center of a variable cooking surface area is to be understood in particular to mean that the heating element has a smallest distance in a comparison with other heating elements which, in particular together with the heating element, define the variable cooking surface area to the center of the variable cooktop area. The phrase that at least one heating element is arranged "within" at least one concentric path around a center and / or around at least one further heating element is to be understood in particular to mean that the heating element is directly between a first concentric path and a second concentric path is arranged adjacent to the first concentric path and is at a greater distance from the center and / or from the further heating element than the first concentric path. In particular, this enables comfortable heating of a cooking utensil.

As an alternative or in addition, it is proposed that the control unit be provided, at least in one operating mode, to assign at least one heating element, which is at least partially covered by a cooking utensil, a higher heating power density than at least one heating element which is within at least one concentric path around the cooking utensil at least partially covered heating element is arranged. The phrase that the heating element is "at least partially" covered by a cookware is to be understood in particular to mean that the heating element is at least 30%, in particular at least 40%, advantageously at least 50%, particularly advantageously at least 60 % and preferably at least 70% of a main extension plane of the heating element is covered by the cookware. A good cooking result and / or a quick cooking process can thereby be achieved in particular. In particular, a high degree of flexibility can be achieved.

It is further proposed that the control unit be provided, at least in one operating mode, for the heating elements in an oblique direction, which is connected to a Depth direction includes an angle between 10 ° and 80 °, in particular between 20 ° and 70 °, advantageously between 30 ° and 60 ° and preferably between 40 ° and 50 °, to assign different heating power densities. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the control unit is provided, at least in one operating mode, to assign different heating power densities to the heating elements in an oblique direction, which includes an angle between 0 ° and 90 ° with a depth direction. An angle “between α and β” is to be understood in particular as an angular range which is spanned in particular by the angle α forming a first boundary and by the angle β forming a second boundary and advantageously comprises all angles within the boundaries with the exception of the two boundaries . A “depth direction” is to be understood in particular to mean a direction which, in an installed position, in particular of a hob comprising the hob device, is oriented from an area facing an operator into an area facing away from an operator. A high level of comfort for an operator can thereby be achieved in particular.

In addition, it is proposed that the control unit be provided to assign different heating power densities to the heating elements in an orthogonal direction, which is oriented perpendicular to a depth direction, at least in one operating mode. In particular, the control unit is provided, in at least one operating mode, to assign at least one heating element, which is arranged in a first lateral area of the variable cooking surface area, a higher heating power density than at least one heating element, which is arranged in a second lateral area of the variable cooking area area, the the first area of the variable cooking area area and the second area of the variable cooking area area are in particular arranged opposite one another and are advantageously spaced apart from one another in the orthogonal direction. Alternatively, the control unit could in particular be provided, in at least one operating mode, to assign at least one heating element, which is arranged in the first lateral area of the variable cooking surface area, to a lower heating power density than at least one heating element, which is arranged in the second lateral area of the variable cooking area area. A high level of satisfaction with an operator and / or a high level of comfort can thereby be achieved in particular.

It is further proposed that at least some of the heating elements form a variable cooking area. A “variable cooking surface area” is to be understood in particular to mean a cooking surface area which is intended to form at least one cooking zone adapted to at least one set of cooking utensils. In particular, the variable cooking surface area differs from a cooking surface in which heating zones are fixed, in particular by markings on the cooking surface. In particular, the variable cooking surface area is formed by at least two, in particular at least three, advantageously at least four heating elements. According to the invention, the heating elements forming the variable cooking surface area are arranged in a single row. A “row” is to be understood in particular as a row and / or a column and / or a stripe. In particular, the heating elements are arranged along one another, in particular lined up, along a longitudinal direction connecting the heating elements, which is in particular formed as a straight line. In particular, the longitudinal direction connects the focal points of the heating elements. It is also conceivable for the heating elements to be arranged offset, the focal points of the heating elements being at a distance which is less than 50% from a straight line which is aligned at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the row and which connects the heating elements to one another at least substantially in the center. , in particular less than 40%, advantageously less than 30% of an amount of at least one extension, in particular a longitudinal extension and / or a transverse extension, of at least one of the heating elements forming the row. A "single" row of at least two heating elements is to be understood in particular to mean a row in which the heating elements are arranged adjacent, in particular precisely, to a row longitudinal direction, the control unit being provided to at least one of the heating elements arranged adjacent in the row longitudinal direction to form a cooking zone adapted to the cookware set up. In particular, at least one further heating element, which is formed separately from the heating elements forming the row and is part of a further row formed separately from the row, is arranged spaced apart from each of the heating elements forming the row. In particular, the further heating element is at a distance from each of the heating elements forming the row with respect to a row transverse direction, which is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the row longitudinal direction, which is greater than 15%, in particular greater than 30%, advantageously greater than 40%, preferably greater than 50%, particularly preferably greater than 75% of an amount of at least one extension, in particular a longitudinal extent and / or a transverse extent, at least one of the heating elements forming the row. The expression that a straight line and / or plane is oriented “at least substantially perpendicularly” to a further straight line and / or plane which is separate from the one straight line and / or plane is to be understood in particular to mean that the straight line and / or Plane with the further straight line and / or plane when projecting onto at least one projection plane, in which at least one of the straight lines and / or one of the planes is arranged, encloses an angle which is preferably less than 15 °, advantageously less than 10 ° and in particular deviates by less than 5 ° from an angle of 90 °. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that at least some of the heating elements form a classic hob. It is also conceivable that part, in particular essentially 50%, of a cooking surface is designed as a classic hob and a further part, in particular essentially 50%, of the cooking surface is designed as a variable cooking surface area. This enables a high degree of flexibility to be achieved.

In a further embodiment, which is not claimed, it is proposed that the heating elements forming the variable cooking surface area are arranged in the form of a hob matrix. A "hob matrix" is to be understood in particular to mean an arrangement of heating elements in which the heating elements are arranged in a mounting position, advantageously in a direction of gravity below the base body, in a regular grid, in particular in the form of rows and / or columns, in particular at least three of the heating elements are arranged in a row and in particular at least three of the heating elements in a column. A region which can be heated by means of the heating elements arranged in the form of a hob matrix, in particular a cooking surface, comprises in particular at least 60%, advantageously at least 70%, particularly advantageously at least 80% and preferably at least 90% of a total surface of the heatable region. This enables a high degree of flexibility to be achieved.

It is also proposed that at least some of the heating elements form a classic hob. In particular, at least two, in particular at least three, advantageously at least four of the heating elements form a classic hob. A “classic hob” is to be understood in particular as a cooking surface in which heating zones, which are each formed by at least one heating element, are fixed. For example, the fixed heating zones could be marked the cooking surface is displayed to an operator. In particular, the heating zones are arranged at a distance from one another on the cooking surface. In particular, the heating zones are at a distance from one another which is greater than 15%, in particular greater than 30%, advantageously greater than 40%, preferably greater than 50%, particularly preferably greater than 75%, of an amount of at least one extension of at least one heating zone. In this way, an inexpensive configuration can be achieved in particular.

Further advantages result from the following description of the drawing. In the drawing, embodiments of the invention and embodiments that are not part of the invention are shown. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination.

Fig. 1

ein erfindungsgemäßes Kochfeld mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Kochfeldvorrichtung in einer schematischen Draufsicht, wobei zwei Gargeschirre jeweils in einer ersten Position dargestellt sind,

Fig. 2

das erfindungsgemäße Kochfeld mit der erfindungsgemäßen Kochfeldvorrichtung aus Fig. 1 in einer schematischen Draufsicht, wobei die Gargeschirre jeweils in einer zweiten Position dargestellt sind,

Fig. 3

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel eines Kochfelds, welches nicht Teil der Erfindung ist,

Fig. 4

das aus Fig. 3 in einer schematischen Draufsicht, wobei das Gargeschirr in einer zweiten Position dargestellt ist

Fig. 5

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel eines Kochfelds, welches nicht Teil der Erfindung ist, mit einer Kochfeldvorrichtung in einer schematischen Draufsicht,

Fig. 6

das Kochfeld aus Fig. 5 in einer schematischen Draufsicht in einem ersten Betriebsmodus,

Fig. 7

das Kochfeld mit einer Kochfeldvorrichtung aus Fig. 5 in einer schematischen Draufsicht in einem dritten Betriebsmodus,

Fig. 8

das Kochfeld mit einer Kochfeldvorrichtung aus Fig. 5 in einer schematischen Draufsicht in einem vierten Betriebsmodus,

Fig. 9

das Kochfeld mit einer Kochfeldvorrichtung aus Fig. 5 in einer schematischen Draufsicht in einem fünften Betriebsmodus,

Fig. 10

das Kochfeld mit einer Kochfeldvorrichtung aus Fig. 5 in einer schematischen Draufsicht in einem sechsten Betriebsmodus und

Fig. 11

das Kochfeld mit einer Kochfeldvorrichtung aus Fig. 5 in einer schematischen Draufsicht in einem siebten Betriebsmodus.

Show it:

Fig. 1

an inventive hob with an inventive hob device in a schematic plan view, two cooking utensils are each shown in a first position,

Fig. 2

the hob according to the invention with the hob device according to the invention Fig. 1 in a schematic plan view, the cooking utensils each being shown in a second position,

Fig. 3

another embodiment of a hob, which is not part of the invention,

Fig. 4

the end Fig. 3 in a schematic plan view, wherein the cookware is shown in a second position

Fig. 5

2 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a hob, which is not part of the invention, with a hob device in a schematic plan view,

Fig. 6

the hob Fig. 5 in a schematic plan view in a first operating mode,

Fig. 7

the hob with a hob device Fig. 5 in a schematic top view in a third operating mode,

Fig. 8

the hob with a hob device Fig. 5 in a schematic top view in a fourth operating mode,

Fig. 9

the hob with a hob device Fig. 5 in a schematic top view in a fifth operating mode,

Fig. 10

the hob with a hob device Fig. 5 in a schematic plan view in a sixth operating mode and

Fig. 11

the hob with a hob device Fig. 5 in a schematic plan view in a seventh operating mode.

Fig. 1 shows an inventive hob 28a, which is designed as an induction hob, with an inventive hob device 10a, which is designed as an induction hob device. The hob device 10a has a base body 30a for setting up cooking utensils 14a. The base body 30a forms a cooking surface. The hob device 10a comprises eight heating elements 12a for heating cookware 14a that has been set up. In 1 to 4 only one of the heating elements 12a is provided with a reference symbol for the sake of clarity. The heating elements 12a, which are designed as induction heating elements, are arranged below the base body 30a. The heating elements 12a are each intended to heat cookware 14a placed on the base body 30a above the heating elements 12a. The heating elements 12a are designed as elongated heating elements 12a. Each heating element 12a has a longitudinal extent 32a, which is larger than a transverse extent 34a of the heating element 12a.

Four of the heating elements 12a each form a variable cooking surface area 24a. The two variable cooking surface areas 24a are arranged side by side. A first of the variable cooking surface areas 24a is arranged on a first side of the base body 30a. A second of the variable cooking surface areas 24a is on a second side of the base body 30a, which is opposite to the first side. The the variable Heating elements 12a forming cooking surface areas 24a are each arranged in a single row. The heating elements 12a forming the single row are arranged adjacent to one another with respect to a row longitudinal direction 36a. The row longitudinal direction 36a is aligned essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal extent 32a of the heating elements 12a. The row longitudinal direction 36a extends from a region of the base body 30a facing an operator in the installed state in the direction of a region of the base body 30a facing away from an operator in the installed state. The heating elements 12a forming the individual row are at a distance with respect to the row longitudinal direction 36a which is significantly smaller than the transverse extension 34a of the heating elements 12a, which is essentially parallel to the row longitudinal direction 36a.

The cooktop device 10a comprises a sensor unit for detecting cookware 14a that has been set up. The sensor unit is essentially formed in one piece with the heating elements 12a and is intended to detect cookware 14a set up by measuring at least one inductance. The cooktop device 10a comprises a control unit 16a for controlling and regulating the heating elements 12a. The control unit 16a is connected to the sensor unit. The control unit 16a and the sensor unit are electrically connected. The control unit 16a is provided to combine heating elements 12a covered by the sensor unit of the cookware 14a that has been set up, as a function of a detection of the cookware 14a that has been set up, to form heating zones. The control unit 16a is provided to operate the heating elements 12a combined into heating zones.

In a method for operating the cooktop device 10a, the sensor unit detects a first position 18a of a set of cookware 14a. The control unit 16a activates heating elements 12a assigned to the first position 18a of the cookware 14a. For example, a set of cookware 14a covers a single heating element 12a - as shown in FIG Fig. 1 the control unit 16a activates the heating element 12a assigned to the first position 18a of the cookware 14a set up. In the event of a change from the first position 18a of the cookware 14a to a second position 20a of the cookware 14a, the control unit 16a deactivates a first heating element 12a assigned to the first position 18a of the cookware 14a. In addition, the control unit 16 activates one assigned to the second position 20a of the cookware 14a second heating element 12a with a different heating power density than the first heating element 12a (cf. Fig. 2 ).

If the sensor unit detects a first position 18a of a set of cookware 38a which is to be assigned to two heating elements 12a (cf. Fig. 1 ), the control unit 16a activates heating elements 12a associated with the first position 18a of the cookware 38a. In the event of a change from the first position 18a of the cookware 38a to a second position 20a of the cookware 38a, the control unit 16a deactivates a first of the heating elements 12a associated with the first position 18a of the cookware 38a, which is in the first position 18a of the cookware 38a Cookware 38a is covered and is uncovered in the second position 20a of the cookware 38a. In addition, the control unit 16a activates a second heating element 12a assigned to the second position 20a of the cooking utensil 38a, which is uncovered in the first position 18a of the cooking utensil 38a and is covered by the cooking utensil 38a in the second position 20a of the cooking utensil 38a, with a different heating power density than the first Heating element 12a (cf. Fig. 2 ). In the event of a change from the first position 18a of the cookware 38a to a second position 20a of the cookware 38a, the control unit 16a reactivates a heating element 12a which is in the activated state and which is in the first position 18a of the cookware 38a and the second position 20a of the cookware 38a is covered by the cookware 38a with a different heating power density. A case in which a set of cookware covers more than two heating elements is analogous to this.

The control unit 16a operates a heating element 12a associated with a set of cookware 14a, 38a, depending on a position 18a, 20a of the cookware 14a, 38a with a different heating power density. The control unit 16a operates the heating elements 12a with respect to the row longitudinal direction 36a with different heating power densities. In this case, the control unit 16a operates a heating element 12a arranged in an installed state in an area facing an operator with a different heating power density than a heating element 12a arranged in an installed state in an area facing away from an operator. The control unit 16a comprises a storage unit in which a heating power density is stored for each heating element 12a depending on a position of the heating element 12a. The heating power densities of a majority of the heating elements 12a, namely each of the heating elements 12a, differ from one another. The control unit 16a operates in an operating mode the heating elements 12a are position-dependent with predefined, different heating power densities. A predefined heating power density of a heating element 12a arranged in the installed state in the area facing an operator is greater than a predefined heating power density of a heating element 12a arranged in the area facing away from an operator. In the operating mode, the control unit 16a assigns a higher heating power density to a heating element 12a which is arranged in the region facing an operator than a heating element 12a which is arranged in the region facing away from an operator.

The hob device 10a has a control unit 22a in the installed state for an operator to enter operating parameters. For example, the control unit is provided for selecting and / or changing a heating zone. In addition, the control unit could be provided for setting a heating power and / or heating power density of a heating zone. It is also conceivable that the control unit is designed to select and / or change a cooking time and / or a cooking program. It is also conceivable that the operating unit is provided for changing an operating mode and / or operating state. Alternatively, further configurations of the operating unit and / or the operating parameter that appear to be useful to a person skilled in the art are conceivable. The cooktop device 10a has a control unit 16a which is provided to carry out actions and / or to change settings as a function of the operating parameters entered by means of the operating unit 22a.

The control unit 16a changes a predefined heating power density of one of the heating elements 12a, which is stored in the storage unit, as a function of an operator input by means of the operating unit 22a. When a predefined heating power density of a first heating element 12a changes, the control unit 16a changes heating power densities of the further three heating elements 12a, which together with the first heating element 12a form the variable cooking surface area 24a, depending on the change in the predefined heating power density of the first heating element 12a. In addition, the control unit 16a changes as a function of an operating input by means of the operating unit 22a between the first operating mode, in which the heating elements 12a are operated in a position-dependent manner with predefined, different heating power densities, and a second one Operating mode in which the heating elements 12a are operated with independent heating power densities. In the first operating mode, a heating element 12a arranged in the area facing an operator in the installed state has a greatest predefined heating power density of the heating elements 12a forming the variable cooking surface area 24a. The heating power densities of the further heating elements 12a decrease in the direction of the row longitudinal direction 36a. Depending on an operating input by means of the operating unit 22a, the control unit 16a changes an assignment of the predefined, different heating power densities to the individual heating elements 12a. After an operating input by means of the operating unit 22a, a heating element 12a arranged in the area facing an operator in the installed state has a smallest predefined heating power density of the heating elements 12a forming the variable cooking surface area 24a. The heating power densities of the further heating elements 12a increase in the direction of the row longitudinal direction 36a.

In 3 to 11 are further embodiments which are not part of the claimed invention are shown. The following descriptions are essentially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, with the components, features and functions remaining the same as in the description of the exemplary embodiment in FIG 1 to 2 can be referred. To distinguish the exemplary embodiments, the letter a is in the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiment in the 1 to 2 by the letters b to c in the reference numerals of the embodiments of the 3 to 11 replaced. With regard to components with the same designation, in particular with respect to components with the same reference numerals, it is also possible in principle to refer to the drawings and / or the description of the exemplary embodiment in FIG 1 to 2 to get expelled.

Fig. 2 shows an inventive hob 28b, which is designed as an induction hob, with an inventive hob device 10b, which is designed as an induction hob device. The hob device 10b comprises four heating elements 12b for heating cookware 14a that has been set up. The heating elements 12b, which are designed as induction heating elements, are arranged below a base body 30b. The heating elements 12b are designed as classic heating elements 12b. Two of the heating elements 12b are arranged one behind the other with respect to a row longitudinal direction 36b. The heating elements 12b form a classic hob 26b.

The cooktop device 10b comprises a sensor unit for detecting cookware 14b that has been set up. In a method for operating the cooktop device 10b, the sensor unit detects a first position 18b of a set of cookware 14b. The cooktop device 10b comprises a control unit 16b which activates heating elements 12b associated with the first position 18b of the cookware 14b. In the event of a change from the first position 18b of the cookware 14b to a second position 20b of the cookware 14b, the control unit 16b deactivates a first heating element 12b assigned to the first position 18b of the cookware 14a and activates a second heating element assigned to the second position 20b of the cookware 14b 12b with a different heating power density than the first heating element 12b (cf. Fig. 4 ). It is conceivable that - for example in the case of more than four heating elements, where three heating elements are arranged one behind the other with respect to the longitudinal direction of the row - the control unit, in the event of a change from the first position of the cooking utensil to a second position of the cooking utensil, a heating element which is in the activated state State and that in the first position of the cookware and the second position of the cookware is covered by the cookware, reactivated with changed different heating power density.

The control unit 16b operates a heating element 12b assigned to a set of cookware 14b in dependence on a position 18b, 20b of the cookware 14b with different heating power density. The control unit 16b operates the heating elements 12b with respect to the row longitudinal direction 36b with different heating power densities. In this case, the control unit 16b operates a heating element 12b arranged in an installed state in an area facing an operator with different heating power density than a heating element 12b arranged in an installed state in an area facing away from an operator. The control unit 16b comprises a storage unit in which a heating power density is stored for each heating element 12b depending on a position of the heating element 12b. The heating power densities of a majority of the heating elements 12b, namely each of the heating elements 12b, differ from one another. In one operating mode, the control unit 16b operates the heating elements 12b in a position-dependent manner with predefined, differing heating power densities. In the operating mode, the control unit 16b assigns a heating element 12b to the area facing an operator is arranged, a higher heating power density than a heating element 12b, which is arranged in the area facing away from an operator.

The control unit 16b changes a predefined heating power density of one of the heating elements 12b, which is stored in the storage unit, as a function of an operator input by means of an operating unit 22b. When a predefined heating power density of a first heating element 12b changes, the control unit 16b changes a heating power density of the further heating element 12b, which is arranged closest to the first heating element 12b with respect to the longitudinal direction 36b, as a function of the change in the predefined heating power density of the first heating element 12b. Depending on an operating input by means of the operating unit 22b, the control unit 16b changes an assignment of the predefined, differing heating power densities to the individual heating elements 12b. In addition, the control unit 16b changes depending on an operating input by means of the operating unit 22b between the first operating mode, in which the heating elements 12b are operated depending on the position with predefined, different heating power densities, and a second operating mode, in which the heating elements 12b are operated with independent heating power densities will.

Fig. 5 shows a hob 28c with a hob device 10c. The hob device 10c comprises a plurality of heating elements 12c for heating cookware 14c, 46c, 48c which has been set up. In an installed position, the heating elements 12c are arranged below a base body 30c. The base body 30c is designed as a hob plate. The heating elements 12c form a variable cooking surface area 24c. The heating elements 12c forming the variable cooking surface area 24c are arranged in the form of a hob matrix. Here, the heating elements 12c are arranged in columns and rows. In the present exemplary embodiment, the term “matrix” is to be understood in the mathematical sense. In an alternative embodiment, it is conceivable that columns and / or rows of a hob matrix are arranged offset from one another. In 6 to 11 the heating elements 12c have been omitted for the sake of clarity.

The cooktop device 10c comprises a control unit 16c which, in a method for operating a first position 18c of a set of cookware 14c, activates first heating elements 12c (cf. Fig. 6 ). In the event of a change from the first Position 18c of the cookware 14c to a second position 20c of the cookware 14c, the control unit 16c deactivates at least one first heating element 12c assigned to the first position 18c of the cookware 14c and activates at least one second heating element 12c assigned to the second position 20c of the cookware 14c with a different heating power density than that at least one first heating element 12c. In this case, the control unit 16c reactivates at least one heating element 12c, which is in the activated state and which is covered by the cookware 14c in the first position 18c of the cookware 14c and the second position 20c of the cookware 14c, with a different, different heating power density. A case of a change from the second position 20c of the cookware 14c to a third position 42c of the cookware 14c is analogous to the case of a change from the first position 18c of the cookware 14c to the second position 20c of the cookware 14c.

In one operating mode, the control unit 16c operates heating elements 12c assigned to a cookware 14c that has been set up, depending on a position 18c, 20c, 42c of the cookware 14c with a different heating power density. The control unit 16c operates the heating elements 12c in the operating mode in a position-dependent manner with predefined, differing heating power densities. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c changes the predefined heating power densities of the heating elements 12c as a function of an operator input by means of an operator unit 22c. A plurality of configurations of predefined heating power densities of the heating elements 12c are stored in a storage unit of the control unit 16c. In each of the configurations, a heating power density is assigned to the heating elements 12c depending on the position of the corresponding heating element 12c. In addition to the saved configurations, it is conceivable that an operator can create further configurations by means of an operator input using the operator unit.

The control unit 16c maintains given predefined heating power densities of the heating elements 12c until a change in at least one heating power density of one of the heating elements 12c takes place by an operating input by means of the operating unit 22c. For example, the control unit could maintain given predefined heating power densities of the heating elements 12c beyond a rest phase. In particular, the rest phase could occur, for example, due to a deactivation of the hob and / or a power failure and / or an emergency shutdown.

According to a first configuration, the control unit 16c in the operating mode assigns a higher heating power density to heating elements 12c arranged in an area facing an operator than heating elements 12c arranged in an area facing away from an operator (cf. Fig. 6 ). By changing a position 18c, 20c, 42c of the cookware 14c in a depth direction 40c, a heating power density supplied to the cookware 14c in the operating mode can be reduced as a function of the position 18c, 20c, 42c of the cookware 14c (cf. Fig. 6 ). Such a change in a position 18c, 20c, 42c of the cookware 14c in the depth direction 40c could, for example, take place from the first position 18c of the cookware 14c to the third position 42c of the cookware 14c. In an installed position, the depth direction 40c is oriented from the area facing an operator in the direction of the area facing away from an operator.

In the event of a change from a first position 18c of the cooking utensil 14c to a second position 20c of the cooking utensil 14c opposite the depth direction 40c, the control unit 16c operates a heating element 12c associated with the second position 20c of the cooking utensil 14c with a higher heating power density than one of the first position 18c the heating element 12c assigned to the cookware 14c (cf. Fig. 7 ). When changing from the first position 18c of the cookware 14c to a third position 42c of the cookware 14c, the control unit 16c operates a heating element 12c assigned to the first position 18c of the cookware 14c with a higher heating power density than a heating element 12c assigned to the third position 42c of the cookware 14c. Starting from the first position 18c of the cooking utensil 14c, the third position 42c of the cooking utensil 14c is arranged in a direction which is oriented obliquely to the depth direction 40c and is directed toward the region facing away from an operator.

If, for example, a second cookware 46c is set up adjacent to the third position 42c of the cookware 14c, the control unit 16c in the operating mode operates a heating element 12c, which is assigned to the second cookware 46c, with essentially the same heating power density as a heating element 12c, which is switched on the third position 42c of the cookware 14c is set up cookware 14c (cf. Fig. 7 ). For example, a third cookware 48c is set up at substantially the same height as the second position 20c of the cookware 14c. The third cookware 48c is arranged adjacent to the second position 20c of the cookware 14c with respect to an orthogonal direction 44c. A distance of the third cookware 48c from a front edge of the base body 30c is substantially equal to a distance of the second position 20c of the cookware 14c from the front edge of the base body 30c. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c operates a heating element 12c, which is assigned to the third cookware 14c, with essentially the same heating power density as a heating element 12c, which is assigned to the cookware 14c set up at the second position 20c of the cookware 14c.

For example, in the operating mode, an operator changes the predefined heating power densities of the heating elements 12c by an operating input by means of the operating unit 22c and selects a second configuration. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns different heating power densities to the heating elements 12c in an oblique direction, which includes an angle between 10 ° and 80 ° with the depth direction 40c (cf. Fig. 8 ). In the present exemplary embodiment, the control unit 16c assigns a maximum heating power density to a first heating element 12c, which is arranged in the area facing an operator in a corner of the cooking surface area 24c. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns heating elements 12c, which are spaced in the depth direction 40c to the first heating element 12c, lower heating power densities than the first heating element 12c. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns heating elements 12c, which are spaced in an orthogonal direction 44c to the first heating element 12c, lower heating power densities than the first heating element 12c. The orthogonal direction 44c is aligned perpendicular to the depth direction 40c.

For example, a cookware 14c is set up in a vicinity of the first heating element 12c, which is arranged in the area facing a user in a corner of the cooking surface area 24c, at a first position 18c of the cookware 14c. In the event of a change from the first position 18c of the cooking utensil 14c to a second position 20c of the cooking utensil 14c in a first oblique direction, which includes an angle of substantially 40 ° with the depth direction 40c, the control unit 16c operates one of the first position 18c des Cooking element 14c assigned to cooking utensil 12c with a higher heating power density than a heating element 12c assigned to second position 20c of cooking utensil 14c (cf. Fig. 8 ). When changing from the second position 20c of the cooking utensil 14c to a third position 42c of the cooking utensil 14c in a second oblique direction, which includes an angle of substantially 55 ° with the depth direction 40c, the control unit 16c operates in the second position 20c the heating element 12c assigned to the cooking utensil 14c with a higher heating power density than a heating element 12c assigned to the third position 42c of the cooking utensil 14c.

Depending on an operating input by means of the operating unit 22c, by means of which an operator selects a further configuration, the control unit 16c changes the predefined heating power densities of the heating elements 12c in the operating mode. For example, in the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns higher heating power densities to heating elements 12c which are arranged in a first lateral area of the variable cooking area area 24c than heating elements 12c which are arranged in a second lateral area of the variable cooking area area 24c (cf. Fig. 9 ). The first area of the variable cooktop area 24c and the second area of the variable cooktop area 24c are arranged opposite one another. The second area of the variable cooking surface area 24c is arranged in the orthogonal direction 44c at a distance from the first area of the variable cooking area area 24c. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c operates a second heating element 12c, which in the orthogonal direction 44c is at a greater distance from the first lateral region of the variable cooking surface region 24c than a first heating element 12c, with a lower heating power density than the first heating element 12c.

If an operator changes the predefined heating power densities of the heating elements 12c in the operating mode by means of an operating input by means of the operating unit 22c, for example by the operator selecting a further configuration, the control unit 16c operates the heating elements 12c as a function of the operating input by means of the operating unit 22c with position-dependent, predefined ones different heating power densities. For example, in the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns a higher heating power density to a heating element 12c, which is arranged essentially in a center of the variable cooking surface area 24c, than heating elements 12c, which are arranged within concentric paths around what is essentially arranged in the center of the variable cooking surface area 24c Heating element 12c are arranged (cf. Fig. 10 ). In the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns a maximum heating power density to the heating element 12c which is arranged essentially in the center of the variable cooking surface area 24c. In the operating state, the control unit 16c assigns the same heating power density as that to heating elements 12c which are arranged within a first concentric path around the heating element 12c arranged essentially in the center of the variable cooking surface area 24c heating element 12c arranged essentially in the center of the variable cooking surface area 24c. In the present exemplary embodiment, the control unit 16c selects a radius of the first concentric path in a region of a diameter of the cookware 14c, which is set up on the heating element 12c arranged essentially in the center of the variable cooking surface region 24c (cf. Fig. 10 ). In the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns a lower heating power density to heating elements 12c which are arranged in a region between the first concentric path and a second concentric path which is directly adjacent to the first concentric path, than heating elements arranged within the first concentric path 12c. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns a heating element 12c which is arranged between two concentric tracks which are at a smaller distance from the heating element 12c which is essentially arranged in the center of the variable cooking surface area 24c than a heating element 12c which is arranged between two further concentric tracks is a greater heating power density than the heating element 12c, which is arranged between the two further concentric tracks.

In a further case, an operator selects a further configuration of the configurations stored in the memory unit of the control unit 16c by means of an operating input by means of the operating unit 22c. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c assigns a higher heating power density to heating elements 12c, which are partially covered by a cooking utensil 14c, than heating elements 12c, which are arranged within concentric paths around the heating elements 12c partially covered by the cooking utensils 14c. Here, the cookware 14c can be set up at any position 18c, 20c, 42c. When setting up a second cookware 46c between a first concentric path around the cookware 14c and a second concentric path which is arranged directly adjacent to the first concentric path, the control unit 16c arranges one of the heating elements 12c, which are partially covered by the second cookware 46c lower heating power density than heating elements 12c, which are partially covered by the cookware 14c and are arranged in particular within the first concentric path. In the operating mode, the control unit 16c arranges heating elements 12c, that of a third cookware 48c, that between the second concentric path around the cookware 14c and a third concentric path that is directly adjacent to the second concentric path is partially covered, a lower heating power density than heating elements 12c, which are arranged between the first concentric path and the second concentric path.

Reference numerals

10th

Hob device

12th

Heating element

14

Cookware

16

Control unit

18th

First position

20th

Second position

22

Control unit

24th

Variable hob area

26

Classic hob

28

Cooktop

30th

Basic body

32

Longitudinal extension

34

Transverse extension

36

Row longitudinal direction

38

Cookware

40

Depth direction

42

Third position

44

Orthogonal direction

46

Second cookware

48

Third cookware

Claims (7)

1. Hob device with at least two heating elements (12a-c) at least for heating up positioned cookware (14a-c) and with at least one control unit (16a-c) which is provided to activate at least one first heating element (12a-c) assigned to a first position (18a-c) of a positioned cookware (14a-c), wherein in the event of a change from the first position (18a-c) of the cookware (14a-c) to a second position (20a-c) of the cookware (14a-c) the control unit (16a-c) is provided to deactivate at least one first heating element (12a-c) assigned to the first position (18a-c) of the cookware (14a-c) and to activate at least one second heating element (12a-c) assigned to the second position (20a-c) of the cookware (14a-c) with a different heat output density than the at least one first heating element (12a-c), wherein the control unit (16a-c) is provided to alternate, as a function of a user input by means of at least one control unit (22a-c) between at least one first operating mode, in which the heating elements (12a-c) are operated in a position dependent manner with predefined heat output densities which differ from another, and at least one second operating mode, in which the heating elements (12a-c) are operated with heat output densities which are independent of one another, wherein at least one part of the hearing elements (12a; 12c) forms a variable cooktop area (24a; 24c), characterised in that the heating elements (12a) forming the variable cooktop area (24a) are arranged in a single row.
2. Hob device according to claim 1, characterised in that in the event of a change from the first position (18a; 18c) of the cookware (14a; 14c) to the second position (20a; 20c) of the cookware (14a; 14c) the control unit (16a; 16c) is provided to reactivate at least one heating element (12a; 12c), which is in the activated state and which, in the first position (18a; 18c) of the cookware (14a; 14c) and the second position (20a; 20c) of the cookware (14a; 14c) is covered by the cookware (14a; 14c), with a changed different heat output density.
3. Hob device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the control unit (16a-c) is provided to operate at least one heating element (12a-c) assigned to a positioned cookware (14a-c) as a function of a position (18a-c, 20a-c) of the cookware (14a-c) with a different heat output density.
4. Hob device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the control unit (16a-c) is provided, at least in one operating mode, to operate the heating elements (12a-c) in a position dependent manner with predefined heat output densities which differ from one another.
5. Hob device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the control unit (16a-c) is provided, at least in one operating mode, to assign a higher heat output density to a heating element (12a-c) which is arranged in a region facing an operator than a heating element (12a-c) which is arranged in a region facing away from an operator.
6. Hob device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that at least one part of the heating elements (12b) forms a conventional hob (26b), namely a cooktop in which heating zones, which are formed in each case by at least one heating element (12b), are fixedly predetermined.
7. Hob, in particular induction hob, having at least one hob device (10a-c) according to one of the preceding claims.

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