SI23686A - Universal device for energy control in the form of a button - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an energy regulating device in the form of a button preferably for use in cooking and heating. The device for regulating energy in the shape of a button when cooking and heating, effectively reduces energy consumption by automatically regulating the level of energy input based on the measured parameters through the control logic. The shape of the button is most useful for the user. The operation of the device is complex and very user friendly for the user. The wireless operation of the button elements provides a protocol that connects the buttons to a comprehensive network of operations. The button consists of a controlling, interactive, power supply, sensing and fastening part, which is customarily combined.

Description

UNIVERSAL BUTTON CONTROLLING ENERGY DEVICE

The invention relates to an apparatus for regulating energy in the form of a button. The invention belongs to class F 24C 07/08 and G 05D 23/00.

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The invention relates to a button-type energy-regulating device for use in cooking and heating. There are many known energy control solutions for heating and cooking appliances. Energy is still classic in electric, but in gas, it is almost always controlled by a knob. The user determines the position by rotating the button. In most cases, the measure of regulation is the degree of energy, but also temperature. The button is the interface between the human and the cooking device. In most cases, the button is placed directly on a switch, valve, or some rheostat. Users have become accustomed to regulators on cookers.

More modern cookers, especially those with glass-plate heaters, have standard control via digital interface between the unit and the user. One of the very popular designs is the digital keys placed under the touch screen glass panel. Many users find this control complicated and they reject it. Although digital technology is much more accurate than the old analog in cooking energy regulation, it is a consequence of the impracticality of touch keyboards for the user that the regulation is also less accurate.

The technical problem solved by the invention is the combination of modern miniature digital control technology and analogue control. There are no known and unknown cases on the market today when the benefits of digital control technology would be used in the universal form of known analog buttons. Although digital technology enables us to capture the data needed for quality process management with different sensors, the design itself, despite its complexity, must be simple and universal.

The solution to the problem of combining digital technology with a button-like analog is an object of the invention. The invention provides a device for regulating energy in the form of a button for cooking and heating. The classic button that users want also offers efficient energy reduction by automatically adjusting the level of energy input based on measured parameters. The button design is most useful for the user, as it is well known, even though it has state-of-the-art features including wireless operation. The device for automatic energy regulation consists of electronic part, housing and control logic. The regulation itself is known from digital cookers and is not the subject of the invention. The microprocessor determines the moment of switching off of the heater by various power control algorithms so that no unnecessary energy supply is presented which represents a loss. The devices also provide pre-configurable and in-process controlled regulation to the user's specific preference. Special quality control is made possible by the use of various sensors that are easily analyzed by digital technology and transmit the signals needed for regulation. Sensors can be anything from temperature sensors, sound sensors, pressure sensors, humidity sensors or special state change sensors, such as IR sensors or other state change sensors, Even chemical analyzers that define the state of food are already known. Digital technology offers many more functions when the device is in the form of a button than conventional control, especially when wireless communication between the button and the cooker is built into it.

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The device according to the invention relates to a device for regulating energy in the form of a button will be explained in more detail on the basis of embodiments and pictures, of which shows:

Figure 01 shows the control knob

Figure 02 shows a combined gas and electricity cooker, where the control knob is easy to remove

Figure 03 shows an example embodiment of a control knob with movable io ring, battery and sensors

Fig. 04 shows the control knob on the lid Fig. 05 shows the control knob mounted on the lid handle Fig. 06 shows the control knob on the universal pan or pan Fig. 07 shows the knob on the handle of the baking pan on the stove Fig. 8 shows the control knob on the universal receptacle button holder Figure 09 shows the control knob assembly Painter shows the control knob assembly in wireless use Figures 1 shows the method of attaching the control knob to the cap with a magnet Fig. 2 shows the method of attaching the control knob to the cap by means of a screw Fig. 13 shows the mode fixing the control knob to the cover by means of a silicone rubber grip in the form of a handle for the cover Fig. 14 shows the method of attaching the control knob to the cover by means of a · · silicone teat on the knob Fig. 15 shows the supply of the control knob by induction coils Fig. 1 6 shows the power supply of the control knob by means of the connector Fig. 17 shows the power supply of the control knob by the peltier element Fig. 18 shows the power supply of the control knob by the PV module for solar energy Fig. 19 shows the control knob with position selector with spring contact Fig. 20 shows the knob for potentiometer position controller io Fig. 21 shows a control knob with a position selector with a reed relay Fig. 22 shows a control knob with a position selector with buttons Fig. 23 shows a control knob in the form of a water heater base Fig. 24 shows a knob control mounted on the pan with three temperature sensors possible Fig. 25 shows the control knob mounted on the water circulation pump Fig. 26 shows the control knob mounted on the lid cover Fig. 27 shows the control knob with position light

With a more detailed description of the operation of the device by pictures, in the examples, which do not preclude a different use, we will show the operation to the necessary details.

When using cooking appliances, it turned out that people still prefer to use appliances that have buttons. The device according to the invention integrates state-of-the-art technology into user-friendly technology. Figure 1 shows the classic button found on all types of cooking appliances. The operation control is manual and the user selects the operating mode by turning the knob. The button has a position mark (1) that the user rotates to a specific mark (4) marked on the cooker housing. The button according to the invention has the same operation. The knob (2) is mounted on the housing and acts as a classic knob in manual operation. The button may also have a button (3) to further confirm the functions of the button. At the same time, the knob can be raised from the basic position. The details of the operation will be explained below.

io Figure 2 shows the version of the cooker (6) with one electric and one gas heater. Turning the knob selects a specific position. The knob of the invention may be placed in a bay (7) or removed (8). The following will explain how the two positions work.

Figure 3 shows the details of one of the possible button designs, which is not the only way, since the design is flexible and changes according to the specifications of manufacturers of cookers and vessels. The basic element known in the field of classic cooking appliances is a ring (9) which can be fixed on the cooker, mounted on a knob (15) fixed or movable. Most often, there are labels indicating possible choices for devices. In a specific embodiment, the cylinder carrier (11) is provided on the cylinder button (10). The button (12) is on the upper side. Using the magnet (13), the button carrier is attached to the base position of the button on the hob or to the lid. More details on the attachment will be given below in the description of the other pictures. The knob (15) can be mounted on the lid (14) from the holder, as shown in Figure 4.

Figure 5 shows how the knob (16) can be fitted to the handle (17) that is known on all covers (18).

Figure 6 shows an embodiment when the button is integrated into the universal detachable handle (19), which is a standard component of kitchen equipment. Many times we cook without a lid and there we can solve the control problem by placing the knob (21) on the handle. In this case, the container (23) does not have its handles and the handle has a movable part (22) that hugs the edge of the container. The button (20) releases the part (22) and the handle can be removed. The operation of the button as a control and mounting device will be described below. The image also shows an illuminated symbol (24), which shows the user how to operate.

Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a hob control, where a knob (26) previously placed on the tray (28) is placed on the handle (27) of the pan. The control logic of the cooker when changing the knob to the knob changes the mode of operation and automatically starts the automatic cooking process. In the same way, operation of the button (28) returns to manual mode. The connection between position (28) and the cooker and knob is wireless. It is implemented in this embodiment with radio waves and a specific protocol.

Figure 8 illustrates a similar solution to Figure 7 only to be more useful for conventional containers (30) which already have handles and a lid but must be open when operated, such as in a milk cooker or typically in a spaghetti cookware. The button (31) is positioned on the smallest bracket (29) so as not to disturb the user.

Figure 9 explains the components of the control knob (32) of the device of the invention. The device has:

A. user interface - module (33) for data entry, which is specific

B. explained below.

C. The basic part that guides the process of regulation, oversees the sensors, and carries out communication is the microprocessor electronics module (34).

D. The power module (36) is responsible for powering the module. Some of the possible power modes are explained in detail below.

E. Sensor module requires sensors, which are most often a sensor of temperature, sound, pressure, and any sensor can be required for quality data capture.

F. A mounting module (37) is inserted to attach the knob (32) to the base. The operation is explained in detail below in the description.

Different combinations of modules are possible, depending on the mode of use.

Figure 10 shows an embodiment where modules (38) and (39) are arbitrarily arranged in groups of 15 and arranged in groups. All modules can be on one circuit or individually, or in any combination. The interconnection can be with connectors or wireless.

Figure 11 shows the ways of attaching the button device (40) to the cover (43). One possible embodiment is with magnets. The magnet (41) may be in the housing of the device or the magnet (42) may be located on or under the cover. The attraction of a magnet can also be realized with non-magnetic metal. In one embodiment, the magnet on the base, on the other hand, is the part attracted by the metal (iron) magnet of a certain size and shape. In another embodiment, a magnet is used in the housing, which is mounted on an iron base.

Figure 12 shows another classically known attachment method. Mechanical connection to the screw (44) is a known method of attaching the handles to the covers. By means of a screw, a plastic part may also be attached to the cover (43), which has wedges for the second dividing part on the handle. Such possible solutions are known and are not the subject of the invention.

Figure 13 is a view of the attachment of a button attached to a cover with a special rubber teat shaped to contain a channel (45). Pressing your fingers on this duct will expel air from the teat. When released, the rubber shape generates a certain force due to underpressure, which, after the pressure is released, creates a force that holds the button on the io cap. These are not the only ways. In this case, the electronics are protected from water.

Fig. 14 is a similar embodiment, but held by the magnet is a cylindrical silicone rubber (46) which also protects the system from water. A special feature is the second metal part, which can also be covered in silicone (47), which can be placed on the underside of the lid. This is especially useful for glass covers or other non-magnetic materials.

For the operation of the device, it is very important that the user does not have to worry too much about the power supply to the microprocessor module. Since the device is in certain positions in the wireless mode, it is necessary to maximize the available energy with the operating mode. In most cases, similar electronic devices are powered by batteries. Even with the button of the invention, the battery can be the primary mode of power. The battery must be capable of at least 6 months of operation. Because batteries are extremely environmentally friendly, there are some battery-free modes shown in embodiments.

Figure 15 shows a button that has a capacitor or digital energy storage device instead of a battery for energy storage. The charging of the energy storage in this case is by means of electromagnetic inductive charging via coils (49). The coils are located on the knob and in the housing. With the help of an electronic circuit, the coil on the cooker creates an electromagnetic field, which in the coil in the button induces energy, which is then prepared for storage via the electronic circuit. Ferrite cores may be used for better energy transfer, and coils may also be used to transfer information between modules in different embodiments.

Figure 16 shows an example of a button embodiment when information and power between the button carrier and the button is provided with the connector (50).

Figure 17 shows an interesting mode of power supply using a peltier element. Because the cover is located in an area where we have enough heat energy, in one embodiment, in one embodiment, it is used to power the module and to fill the energy storage unit, a peltie element (51) that converts thermal energy into electrical energy.

Fig. 18 shows in a manner similar to Fig. 17 by adjusting different voltage levels, which is not an object of the invention, a photovoltaic cell (52) can be filled at the knob. It is very important for the user, when using the device, to see the position in which he placed the button - the device.

Figure 19 explains the interaction between the cooker and the user as a confirmation of his desire. In the manual mode described in previous cases, the user sees the position in which a button is placed with a mark on the button and a position facing one of the symbols. In automatic control, this mode of interaction can be maintained. The manner in which the functions are selected is the object of the invention and represents the embodiment of a button position selector relative to the mounting ring. In the embodiment, contacts (57) connected to the electronics are on the one hand on the electronic circuit board (53). By means of a selector (55) which rotates about its axis and has a contact spring (54) mounted on it, which connects contacts (57) when it reaches a certain position. The shape of the slider (55) is such that with the tab, which fits into the channel (56) on the cylindrical shape of the button. This can be done by turning the knob or turning the cylindrical part around the knob to determine the desired positions for the io to determine the desired control mode.

20 shows an embodiment where the positions are determined by a potentiometer. A potentiometer (58) is attached to the electronic plate. In the center of the potentiometer is a part (59). By turning around the common axis, the user can select a particular control mode. In certain embodiments, both control modes are required. One example is to determine the cooking garden by using symbools, such as baking, roasting, and boiling milk, with another choice to determine the continuous temperature or anything else, such as the temperature of the oil at baking. The interactive rendering method will be explained in detail below.

Figure 21 shows a very interesting way of choosing because of its contactlessness and thus the safety of magnets. The reed relay (61) is switched on or off by means of a magnet (60). Only some possible use combinations are shown. Basic but not the only one of the invention is that there is a relay on the electronics in the button and a magnet on the other part (61). Use in the opposite way is also possible. By rotating the magnet through the electronics, the positions are engaged. In a certain situation, the electronics can also be switched off and thus there is no stand by power consumption, which will be explained further in the description below.

Figure 22 shows the most common way when a user selects a function using the buttons on a button. One embodiment has three keys. Button (64) is to confirm the operation of keys (63) and (62) are plus + and minus - by which the settings can be changed digitally.

Figure 23 shows a specific example of a button according to the invention used on a water heater (65) The invention solves the problem of regulating energy in a water heater, which in most cases rotates 360 degrees and can be removed from the base. In our io case, we installed electronics in the base, which has a few reed relays in sections (67) from A to G. There is a magnet (66) placed on the rotating part of the heater, which allows to determine the positions we want when turning. In a certain position, the power consumption of the electronic circuit may be switched off and the heater switched off. This is a safe contactless process control and very good for cases such as a water heater. As the technical ways of using the device according to the invention have been described so far, the operation of the control button in the specific case of data capture will be further explained.

Figure 24 shows some possible uses of the temperature sensors on the handle (68). The sensor can be positioned as an external one (72), which is of the type of temperature at the outside of the container not less than approx. Experiments show that such a touch can be terminated to the temperature of the container. On a similar principle to IR, the temperature of a particular cooking device is measured. The temperature sensor (71) can be mounted directly into the handle or as a temperature sensor (70) directly into the tank. It can be set to directly measure the temperature of the oil or milk. Particularly interesting is the case where the sensor is placed directly on the meat and type temperature in the depth of the meat. The sensors can be wired or wirelessly connected to the handle and the cooker.

Fig. 25 shows an embodiment of a button according to the invention for controlling a circulating pump with a centrifugal turbine (75). Sensors (73) are primarily used for sound, as well as temperature and pressure are possible. In this case, the sensor part (74) is connected wirelessly behind the control knob (76), which is also connected wirelessly to the pump.

Figure 26 illustrates possible connections to connectors or contacts (78). The io control knob (77) connects the contact (78) to the sensors (79) and (80) when mounted on the handle.

It is very important for the user about the position they have chosen.

Figure 27 shows one of the possible ways by illuminating the symbols on the selector (83). An electronic LED (81) is placed on the electronic plate, which illuminates in the part (82), which directs the light to the symbol (84) as a light conduit. By rotating the knob (85) relative to the part (83), light moves in the symbols.

The construction of the appliance according to the invention provides a user-friendly way of regulating the cooking process for a variety of quality cooking methods that cookers are not familiar with today. The wireless connection between the knob and the cooker allows the device to be regulated very precisely as the sensors can be located on the lid or on the handle of the pan. Together with the temperature sensor in the cooker, the power of dynamic control of heat flows at several points is achieved. Because the sensors can also be audible or pressure sensors, it is also possible to accurately determine the boiling and other cooking processes. The cooking intensity is very important when cooking. When the water in the tank is heated, an acoustic signal is detected simultaneously with the formation of bubbles. With microphone and digital sound analysis we can differentiate the boiling state.

The most important phase we want for the control component is when the bubbles begin to reach the surface when heated. At this point, we have a very desirable light fermentation ideal for food. Soup is known to remain clear when boiling. As you continue to add energy, the boiling point turns into a bubble when large bubbles rise to the surface causing high turbulence and boiling. The problem of classical regulation is the recognition of this sensitive moment, which in turn is related to system inertia and phase shift.

Determination of the cooking condition, of course, depends not only on the temperature, but the physical condition is determined by different sensors. The physical condition of the cooking can also be determined by moisture, pressure and sound data when determining the size of the bubbles when boiling. The energy-regulating device, with its button-shaped sensor work, allows the data to be captured precisely where it is most needed, on the lid or handle. The knob can be either on the lid or on the cooker. By measuring sound, we can determine the exact moment when point boiling occurs and also when it changes to a bubble. With the additional sound control, we can control the quality of slow boiling, which is often desirable in cooking. The results of the experiments show that the energy consumption of such a device is reduced by at least half.

Smurfs Albin

Ljubljanska 1

Claims (48)

PATENT APPLICATIONS 1. Button-shaped energy control device, 5, characterized in that it is shaped as a button for user friendly use. Button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that it automatically regulates the level of energy input based on the measured io parameters by means of control logic. 3. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that it also operates wirelessly by means of a special protocol. 4. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, 15, characterized in that the buttons are connected to the operating network. 5. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the button-controlled device can be any heater capable of controlling 20 microprocessor electronics: such as gas or electric. 6. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that it can have various sensors that enable the capture of data necessary for quality process control. 7. Button-shaped energy control device, characterized in that it consists of an electronic part, a housing and a control logic. 8. Button-shaped energy control device, characterized in that it also provides pre-adjustable and in-process controlled regulation to the user's specific preference. 9. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the operation control is manual and the user selects the operating mode by rotating the button. 10. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that there is a position mark on the button 11. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that it can also have a button 12. Button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the knob can be removed from the basic position and placed in a new position, for example, on the cap A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a ring (9) which can be fixed to the carrier or movable. 12. A button-shaped energy-regulating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the markings 5 are mounted or mounted on the ring 13. A button-shaped energy-regulating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the button can be placed also on the handle (17) A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the symbol (24) can be illuminated. 15. Button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the button (26) can be transferred from the tray (28) to the handle (27), thereby changing the control logic of the cooker when transferring the knob to the handle 15 operation and starts the automatic cooking process automatically. When the button is returned to the base bracket, the operation returns to manual control. 16. Button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection between the position (28) - the cooking device and the buttons is 20 wireless and realized by radio waves and a specific protocol or any information transmission - IR , sound and other possible modes. 17. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the button (31) is mounted on the smallest bracket (29) when used on the classic 25 containers having handles. 18. Button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that it consists of a user interface, microprocessor electronics, 5 a power module, a sensor module, and a mounting module. 19. Button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that modules (38) and (39) can be arbitrarily sorted by modules 20. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 28, characterized in that the modules can be interconnected with connectors or wirelessly. 21. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device is attached to the substrate by magnets. The magnet can be in the housing of the device 15 or under the base. 22. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the fastening method is a mechanical connection to the screw. 23. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 30, 20, characterized in that the screw is also secured to the base by a plastic or metal part, which is then used for mounting another split part on the handle. 24. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that 25 that the knob is attached to a base with a special rubber teat shaped to contain a duct to create a vacuum 25. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that 5 to protect the device from moisture by means of a rubber bellows. 26. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the magnet-coated silicone rubber holds the button on the underside of the lid 27. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, io characterized in that the power is by means of a battery, 28. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that a capacitor, digital energy storage devices or a similar system is used for the power supply. 29. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the energy storage is charged by electromagnetic inductive charging via a coil. 20 30. Button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the coils are also used for transmitting information 31. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that 25 that the connectors supply power and transmit information. 32. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that a peltie element is used to fill the energy storage unit, which converts the thermal energy into electrical energy. 33. A button-shaped energy-regulating device according to claim 1, characterized in that a photovoltaic cell is used to fill the energy storage device 34. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the button selector has a knob and a ring for positioning. 35. A button-shaped energy-regulating device according to claim 1, characterized in that different settings are made by means of contacts (57) connected by the 15 contactor (54) on the selector (55). 36. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the position of the controller is determined by a potentiometer. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, 20, characterized in that a potentiometer and a contactor selector are used to determine the data 38. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that 25 to select a position by means of a magnet and magnetic switches. 39. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the magnet is used to disconnect the circuit by means of a magnetic switch. 5 40. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the mode of operation is selected by means of buttons. 41. Button-type energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the energy control knob is used to control the energy of the water heater 42. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the base is electronics with reed relays and a magnet is placed on the rotating part of the heater. Turning the heater determines the position. 43. A button-shaped energy control device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that it has sensors on the handle (68), namely an external (72), a temperature sensor (71) directly in the handle, or as a temperature sensor (70). which 20 directly type into the container 44. A button-shaped energy control device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the sensor is placed directly in the meat and type temperature in the depth of the meat and is wired or wirelessly connected to the handle and the cooker. A button-type energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the button is mounted on a circulating pump by a centrifugal turbine and the pump is controlled by 5 sensors. 46. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that sound is also used to control the pump operation. 47. A button-shaped energy control device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the button is mounted on the handle of the lid and the two parts are electrically connected to the contacts (78) 48. A button-shaped energy control device according to claim 1, characterized in that 15 that the relevant position information selected is displayed to the user by illuminating the symbols (84) on the selector (83) with an LED and a light line.