GAS COOKTOP WITH GRIDDLE ASSEMBLY INCLUDING TEMPERATURE PROBE FOR MONITORING FAILURE MODES

A gas cooktop includes a primary gas burner, an auxiliary gas burner positioned adjacent to the primary gas burner, a fuel supply system, a griddle positioned over the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner, and a temperature probe configured for receipt within the griddle proximate the auxiliary gas burner. A controller is configured to initiate operation of the fuel supply system in the auto griddle mode where a flow of fuel is supplied to operate the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner at a target heat level, obtain a griddle temperature of the griddle using the temperature probe, identify a heating failure based at least in part on the griddle temperature, and implement a responsive action in response to identifying the heating failure.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to gas cooktops, and more particularly, to the use of multiple gas burners to uniformly heat a griddle assembly.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional gas cooktop appliances have one or more gas burners, e.g., positioned at a cooktop surface for use in heating or cooking an object, such as a cooking utensil and its contents. These gas burners typically combust a mixture of gaseous fuel and air to generate heat for cooking. These gas cooktops may include a grate or other support structure for receiving various cooking utensils, such as a griddle. For example, griddles may be positioned on the grate of the gas cooktop and may extend across multiple gas burners to provide a large, flat cooking surface.

Notably, when the griddle extends over multiple gas burners, each burner must be activated and controlled to provide uniform heat to the griddle. Many gas cooktops have individual control inputs for each heating element, e.g., such as control knobs or dials utilizing analog inputs to adjust heat output or flame size. Thus, identically controlling two or more gas heating elements with independent analog inputs to provide even heating is difficult. The gas burners may be synced or configured to operate at the same heat output, but the fuel supply conduits and control valves that facilitate this syncing process may fail. Moreover, detection of such a failure may be difficult, resulting in uneven heating of the griddle, poor cooking performance, and potentially hazardous situations.

Conventional gas cooktops may include a griddle having a removable temperature probe that is received within the griddle for providing temperature feedback, e.g., to facilitate a closed loop cooking cycle using the griddle. However, the positioning of the temperature probes within the griddle is typically limited to the griddle ends, where excessive heating of the probes from burner heat may be avoided. As a result, a single temperature probe at an end of the griddle may not be capable of detecting failures of more than one burner, and the use of multiple temperature probes may be costly and cumbersome.

Accordingly, a gas cooktop including a removable griddle with temperature measuring capabilities would be useful. More specifically, a temperature probe that may be conveniently used with a griddle on a gas cooktop to identify failures in gas burners would be particularly beneficial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one exemplary embodiment, a gas cooktop defining a vertical direction, a lateral direction, and a transverse direction is provided. The gas cooktop includes a primary gas burner, an auxiliary gas burner positioned adjacent to the primary gas burner, a fuel supply system that is operably coupled to the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner, the fuel supply system being configured to operate in an auto griddle mode where a flow of fuel is supplied to operate the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner at a target heat level, a griddle positioned over the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner, the griddle defining a probe receptacle proximate the auxiliary gas burner, a temperature probe configured for receipt within the probe receptacle, and a controller in operative communication with the fuel supply system and the temperature probe. The controller is configured to initiate operation of the fuel supply system in the auto griddle mode, obtain a griddle temperature of the griddle using the temperature probe, identify a heating failure based at least in part on the griddle temperature, and implement a responsive action in response to identifying the heating failure.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a gas cooktop is provided. The gas cooktop includes a primary gas burner, an auxiliary gas burner, a fuel supply system, and a griddle assembly comprising a griddle and a temperature probe positioned proximate the auxiliary gas burner. The method includes initiating operation of the fuel supply system in an auto griddle mode where a flow of fuel is supplied to operate the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner at a target heat level, obtaining a griddle temperature of the griddle using the temperature probe, identifying a heating failure based at least in part on the griddle temperature, and implementing a responsive action in response to identifying the heating failure.

According to still another exemplary embodiment, a gas cooktop defining a vertical direction, a lateral direction, and a transverse direction is provided. The gas cooktop includes a primary gas burner and an auxiliary gas burner positioned adjacent to the primary gas burner, a griddle assembly comprising a griddle positioned over the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner and a temperature probe positioned proximate the auxiliary gas burner, a manifold for supplying a flow of fuel, a primary supply line providing fluid communication between the manifold and the primary gas burner, an auxiliary supply line providing fluid communication between the manifold and the auxiliary gas burner, a bridge line providing fluid communication between the primary supply line and the auxiliary supply line, a supplemental line providing fluid communication between the manifold and the bridge line, a bridge line valve operably coupled to the bridge line for regulating the flow of fuel through the bridge line, a supplemental line valve operably coupled to the supplemental line for regulating the flow of fuel through the supplemental line, and a controller in operative communication with the temperature probe. The controller is configured to initiate an operation of the bridge line valve and the supplemental line valve in an auto griddle mode where the flow of fuel is supplied to operate the primary gas burner and the auxiliary gas burner at a target heat level, obtain a griddle temperature of the griddle using the temperature probe, determine that the griddle temperature changes at a rate that is below a predetermined heating rate when the auto griddle mode is initiated, identify a heating failure corresponding to a failure of the bridge line valve to open, and implement a responsive action in response to identifying the heating failure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG.1illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a cooktop appliance, e.g., a gas cooktop100, of the present disclosure. Gas cooktop100may be fitted integrally with a surface of a kitchen counter, may be configured as a slide-in cooktop unit, may be a part of a free-standing range cooking appliance, etc. Gas cooktop100may generally define a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. References to the horizontal direction or plane may refer generally to the plane defined by the lateral direction L and the transverse direction T.

Gas cooktop100includes a top panel102that includes one or more heating sources, such as heating elements104for use in, e.g., heating or cooking. Top panel102, as used herein, refers to any upper surface of gas cooktop100over which utensils may be heated and therefore food cooked. In general, top panel102may be constructed of any suitably rigid and heat resistant material capable of supporting heating elements104, cooking utensils, and/or other components of gas cooktop100. By way of example, top panel102may be constructed of enameled steel, stainless steel, glass, ceramics, and combinations thereof.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the heating elements104of gas cooktop100are gas burners. However, although referred to as “gas cooktop” herein, it should be appreciated that aspects of the present subject matter may be applicable to other cooktop appliances, e.g., such as electrical resistance cooktops, inductive cooktops, etc. In addition, gas cooktop100may include one or more grates106configured to support a cooking utensil, such as a pot, pan, etc. In general, grates106include a plurality of elongated members108, e.g., formed of cast metal, such as cast iron. The cooking utensil may be placed on the elongated members108of each grate106such that the cooking utensil rests on an upper surface of elongated members108during the cooking process. Heating elements104are positioned underneath the various grates106such that heating elements104provide thermal energy to cooking utensils above top panel102by combustion of fuel below the cooking utensils.

In some embodiments, the heating elements104of gas cooktop100may include a plurality of gas burners that are positioned on and/or within top panel102and have various sizes, as shown inFIG.1, so as to provide for the receipt of cooking utensils (i.e., pots, pans, etc.) of various sizes and configurations and to provide different heat inputs for such cooking utensils. For example, the gas cooktop100may include a first gas burner, referred to herein as primary gas burner110, disposed on the top panel102and a second gas burner, referred to herein as auxiliary gas burner112, spaced apart from the primary gas burner110on the top panel102. For example, as illustrated, the primary gas burner110and the auxiliary gas burner112may be aligned along the transverse direction T. The top panel102may also include a recessed portion, e.g., which extends downward along the vertical direction V. The primary gas burner110and the auxiliary gas burner112may be positioned within the recessed portion. The recessed portion may collect spilled material, e.g., foodstuffs, during operation of the gas cooktop100.

In the illustrated example embodiments, each gas burner110,112includes a generally circular shape from which a flame may be emitted. As shown, each gas burner110,112includes a plurality of fuel ports defined circumferentially in fluid communication with an internal passage of each respective gas burner110,112. In some embodiments, one or both of the primary gas burner110and the auxiliary gas burner112may be a multi-ring burner. For example, the primary gas burner110may include a first plurality of fuel ports defining a first ring of the primary gas burner110and a second plurality of fuel ports defining a second ring of the primary gas burner110. In such embodiments, a first fuel chamber in fluid communication with the first plurality of fuel ports may be separated from a second fuel chamber in fluid communication with the second plurality of fuel ports by a wall within the primary gas burner110, and fuel may be selectively supplied to one or both of the fuel chambers within primary gas burner110. In some embodiments of a cooktop appliance, multiple burners of differing types may be provided in combination, e.g., one or more single-ring burners as well as one or more multi-ring burners. Moreover, other suitable burner configurations are also possible.

According to the illustrated example embodiment, a user interface panel or control panel120is located within convenient reach of a user of gas cooktop100. For this example embodiment, control panel120includes control knobs122that are each associated with one of heating elements104. Control knobs122allow the user to activate each heating element104and regulate the amount of heat input each heating element104provides to a cooking utensil located thereon. Although gas cooktop100is illustrated as including control knobs122for controlling heating elements104, it will be understood that control knobs122and the configuration of gas cooktop100shown inFIG.1is provided by way of example only. More specifically, control panel120may include various input components, such as one or more of a variety of touch-type controls, electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, push buttons, and touch pads.

According to the illustrated embodiment, control knobs122are located within control panel120of gas cooktop100. However, it should be appreciated that this location is used only for the purpose of explanation, and that other locations and configurations of control panel120and control knobs122are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter. Indeed, according to alternative embodiments, control knobs122may instead be located directly on top panel102or elsewhere on gas cooktop100, e.g., on a backsplash, front bezel, or any other suitable surface of gas cooktop100. Control panel120may also be provided with one or more graphical display devices, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user.

Referring again toFIG.1, operation of the gas cooktop100may be regulated by a controller124that is operably coupled to (i.e., in operative communication with) the user inputs (e.g., control knobs122) and/or heating elements104. In this regard, control panel120, control knobs122, and other suitable inputs/outputs may be in communication with controller124such that controller124may regulate operation of gas cooktop100. For example, signals generated by controller124may operate gas cooktop100, including any or all system components, subsystems, or interconnected devices, in response to the position of control knobs122and other control commands. Control panel120and other components of gas cooktop100may be in communication with controller124via, for example, one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. In this manner, Input/Output (“I/O”) signals may be routed between controller124and various operational components of gas cooktop100.

As used herein, the terms “processing device,” “computing device,” “controller,” or the like may generally refer to any suitable processing device, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor, a microcontroller, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a logic device, one or more central processing units (CPUs), a graphics processing units (GPUs), processing units performing other specialized calculations, semiconductor devices, etc. In addition, these “controllers” are not necessarily restricted to a single element but may include any suitable number, type, and configuration of processing devices integrated in any suitable manner to facilitate appliance operation. Alternatively, controller124may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND/OR gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

Controller124may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements or non-transitory computer-readable storage mediums, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, EPROM, flash memory devices, magnetic disks, or other suitable memory devices (including combinations thereof). These memory devices may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. In addition, these memory devices can store information and/or data accessible by the one or more processors, including instructions that can be executed by the one or more processors. It should be appreciated that the instructions can be software written in any suitable programming language or can be implemented in hardware. Additionally, or alternatively, the instructions can be executed logically and/or virtually using separate threads on one or more processors.

For example, controller124may be operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with an operating cycle of gas cooktop100. In this regard, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations, such as running one or more software applications, displaying a user interface, receiving user input, processing user input, etc. Moreover, it should be noted that controller124as disclosed herein is capable of and may be operable to perform any methods, method steps, or portions of methods as disclosed herein. For example, in some embodiments, methods disclosed herein may be embodied in programming instructions stored in the memory and executed by controller124.

The memory devices may also store data that can be retrieved, manipulated, created, or stored by the one or more processors or portions of controller124. The data can include, for instance, data to facilitate performance of methods described herein. The data can be stored locally (e.g., on controller124) in one or more databases and/or may be split up so that the data is stored in multiple locations. In addition, or alternatively, the one or more database(s) can be connected to controller124through any suitable network(s), such as through a high bandwidth local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN). In this regard, for example, controller124may further include a communication module or interface that may be used to communicate with one or more other component(s) of gas cooktop100, controller124, an external appliance controller, or any other suitable device, e.g., via any suitable communication lines or network(s) and using any suitable communication protocol. The communication interface can include any suitable components for interfacing with one or more network(s), including for example, transmitters, receivers, ports, controllers, antennas, or other suitable components.

As shown inFIGS.1through4, gas cooktop100may further include a griddle assembly128that may be installed on gas cooktop100as a cooking utensil. In general, griddle assembly128may include a griddle130that it selectively disposed over (e.g., directly above) one or more spaced-apart heating elements104. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, griddle130is positioned over a pair of burners, e.g., primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112to define a single, flat cooking surface collectively heated by gas burners110,112. Specifically, during use, a top surface132of griddle130(i.e., a cooking surface) faces away from top panel102to receive a cooking item (e.g., food) thereon. By contrast, a bottom surface134may be opposite from top surface132and faces top panel102during use. Thus, the bottom surface134may face top panel102to receive a thermal output from the corresponding burners110,112.

The bottom surface134of the griddle130may be supported by grate106when positioned on gas cooktop100. For example, bottom surface134of the griddle130may be in contact with one or more elongated members108of grate106, such as with a peripheral support surface and an intermediate support surface thereof. In addition, it should be appreciated that grate106and/or griddle130may define complementary features to facilitate proper positioning and alignment of griddle130on gas cooktop100. In this regard, grate106may define engagement features (e.g., such as elongated members108) and griddle130may define complementary features (e.g., such as a geometry of outer side150or feet138as shown inFIG.4), such that the engagement features and the complementary features are configured to engage when griddle130is mounted on grate106to secure the position of griddle130. For example, the edges or perimeter of griddle130may have a complementary footprint designed for seating on elongated members108of grate106. In addition, or alternatively, feet138may be sized and positioned on bottom surface134of griddle130to securely engage elongated members108when griddle130is properly positioned on grate106. Grate106and griddle130may further define one or more protrusions and complementary detents, complementary ribs and grooves, etc.

Griddle130may be formed from any material that is suitably rigid and suitable for high temperature cooking operations. In this regard, for example, griddle130may be formed from a nonferrous material, such as aluminum alloy. According to still other embodiments, griddle130may be formed from a ferrous material, such as cast iron or stainless steel. Other materials and griddle constructions are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

In some embodiments, gas cooktop100may be configured for closed-loop cooking. For example, controller124may be operable to receive a set temperature (such as from a user input of the gas cooktop100or wirelessly from a remote device such as a smartphone) and compare the set temperature to temperature measurements from one or more temperature sensors, such as a temperature sensor associated with a cooking utensil (such as griddle130), to each gas burner110,112. Controller124may be further programmed to automatically adjust each burner, such as a fuel flow rate to each burner, based on the comparison of the corresponding temperature measurement to the set temperature.

Accordingly, gas cooktop100or griddle assembly128may include a removably embedded temperature sensor140to provide temperature feedback to facilitate such a closed loop cooking process. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, temperature sensor140may generally include a sensor housing142and a temperature probe144extending therefrom for receipt within griddle130, as described in more detail below. In general, sensor housing142may contain operating electronics and a wireless communication module, e.g., for communicating with controller124of gas cooktop100. For example, the sensor housing142and temperature probe144may be formed as a single, hermetically sealed package.

As used herein, “temperature sensor” or the equivalent is intended to refer to any suitable type of temperature measuring system or device positioned at any suitable location for measuring the desired temperature. Thus, for example, temperature sensor140may each be any suitable type of temperature sensor, such as a thermistor, a thermocouple, a resistance temperature detector, a semiconductor-based integrated circuit temperature sensor, etc. In addition, temperature sensor140may be positioned at any suitable location and may output a signal, such as a voltage, to a controller that is proportional to and/or indicative of the temperature being measured. Although exemplary positioning of temperature sensors is described herein, it should be appreciated that gas cooktop may include any other suitable number, type, and position of temperature sensors according to alternative embodiments.

As shown, griddle130may be configured to removably and securely receive temperature sensor140. For example, as illustrated in the figures, griddle130may define an outer side150, e.g., an outer perimeter of griddle130within a horizontal plane (e.g., defined by the lateral direction L and the transverse direction T). Temperature sensor140may be slidably received within griddle130through outer side150. More specifically, for example, griddle130may define a probe receptacle152within outer side150. Probe receptacle152may generally include a probe channel154that is configured for slidably receiving temperature probe144and a housing recess156that is generally configured for receiving sensor housing142.

According to example embodiments, probe receptacle152may be designed to securely receive temperature sensor140in a predetermined orientation. In this regard, probe receptacle152and temperature sensor140may be “poka-yoked,” or designed such that improper installation of temperature sensor140is unlikely or not possible at all. In this regard, for example, housing recess156may have a specific geometry or footprint that corresponds to the geometry of sensor housing142, e.g., such that sensor housing142may only be received within housing recess156in a particular orientation. In addition, temperature probe144may be offset relative to a center of sensor housing142and probe channel154may be similarly offset relative to housing recess156. In this manner, temperature sensor140may need to be oriented in a particular manner for receipt within probe receptacle152. Other means for ensuring proper alignment and installation of temperature sensor are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

It should be appreciated that probe receptacle152may be positioned at any suitable location on griddle130. According to the example illustrated embodiments, probe receptacle is defined on a front side (e.g., forward along the transverse direction) of outer side150, e.g., to facilitate ease of manipulation by a consumer. In addition, probe receptacle152may be defined on a front, corner of griddle130(e.g., on a front, left corner as shown inFIG.2) or at a center of griddle130along the lateral direction (not shown). In this manner, temperature sensor140may be maintained at a suitable distance from auxiliary gas burner112, thereby lowering its operating temperature and extending its operating lifetime.

As explained above, gas cooktop100may use temperature feedback to facilitate a closed loop cooking process on a cooking utensil, such as griddle130. In this regard, for example, controller124may be in operative communication with temperature sensor140, e.g., via a wireless communication protocol, to receive real time temperature measurements of griddle130. As explained in more detail below with respect toFIG.5, gas cooktop100may further include a fuel supply system200that includes a system of fuel supply conduits and associated valve assemblies that may regulate the flow of fuel to primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner. Although an exemplary fuel supply system200is illustrated in the drawings and described herein, it should be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

According to example embodiments, controller124may generally be configured to operate in a “manual control” mode of operation, e.g., where the flow of fuel passed to each burner110,112is independently controlled by the position of a corresponding control knob122. For example, this may be the standard mode of operation when heating a cooking utensil on a single heating element104. However, when heating a cooking utensil than spans two or more heating elements104, such as griddle130positioned over primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112, it may be desirable to regulate the operation of fuel supply system200to ensure that the flow of fuel supplied to each gas burner110,112facilitates even heating of the entire surface of the griddle130. Accordingly, controller124may be further configured to operate in an “auto griddle” mode of operation, whereby fuel supply system200is regulated by controller124to achieve a target heat level of griddle130.

Controller124may be configured to enter the “auto griddle” or the “griddle mode” through any suitable trigger or instruction. According to example, embodiments, griddle mode may be entered when the control knobs122associated with primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112are rotated to an auto griddle or griddle mode position. More specifically, referring now toFIGS.6through9, each control knob122may include a manual input knob210that is rotatable by a user of the appliance to adjust operation of gas cooktop100. In this regard, according to the example embodiment illustrated inFIG.6, manual input knob210associated with primary gas burner110may be generally rotatable about an axis A. Control knob122may further include a temperature control ring, e.g., a temperature input ring212. The temperature input ring212may also be rotatable about an axis. The axis of the temperature input ring212may be coaxial with the axis A of the manual input knob210.

The manual input knob210may include indicia214which corresponds with a relative operating condition of gas cooktop100. For instance, the indicia214may correspond with a low temperature, marked as “LO,” a high temperature, marked as “HI,” a simmer temperature, marked as “SIM,” and an automatic operating mode, marked as “AUTO GRIDDLE.” For the embodiments described herein, it should be understood that the “AUTO GRIDDLE” input may correspond to a minimum flow of fuel (e.g., as provided by a supply valve to a gas burner). Thus, when manual input knob210is turned to “AUTO GRIDDLE,” the supply valve (described below) provides a minimum flow of fuel (e.g., gas) to the corresponding gas burner.

The manual input knob210illustrated inFIG.6is disposed in the OFF position whereby a corresponding gas burner (e.g., burner110,112) receives no gas flow. The manual input knob210illustrated inFIG.7is in a simmer mode whereby the cooktop appliance is operating in a manual mode at a simmer setting. The manual input knob210illustrated inFIG.8is in an automatic operating mode (e.g., AUTO GRIDDLE mode) with the temperature input ring212set for approximately 465 degrees Fahrenheit. The manual input knob210illustrated inFIG.9is in the automatic operating mode (e.g., AUTO GRIDDLE mode) with the temperature input ring212set for approximately 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

According to example embodiments, manual input knob210may be infinitely adjustable. That is, the manual input knob210may be adjustable to any location between rotational end points or stops. It should be understood that rotating the manual input knob210between the HI and SIM settings may allow for the operator to adjust the flame to any desired flame height. In certain instances, the cooktop appliance may include tactile feedback when the manual input knob210is rotated from the manual operating mode to the automatic operating mode. The tactile feedback may include, for example, a detent or the like which causes a tactile indication when manual input knob210rotates to the automatic operating mode position.

When manual input knob210is positioned in the automatic operating mode (e.g., AUTO GRIDDLE mode), the operating temperature may be regulated by rotating temperature input ring212. It should be understood that the temperature input ring212may be set before or after the manual input knob210is set to the automatic operating mode. Moreover, the operator may adjust the temperature input ring212after the manual input knob210is in the automatic operating mode position, thereby allowing the operator to change the temperature or heat level of heating elements104being controlled in this mode.

Although griddle mode is described above as being entered and regulated using control knobs122, according to still other example embodiments, griddle mode may be entered and controlled in any other suitable manner. For example, a user may instruct controller124to enter the griddle mode by pressing a button, interacting with a touch screen display, or providing a command via a mobile software application (e.g., a software application on the user's cell phone). In addition, after the griddle mode is entered, the user will have the opportunity to or be prompted to enter a target heat level for the griddle130during the griddle mode of operation. For example, the user could input a target heat level in degrees Fahrenheit or select a generic heating range, e.g., such as low, medium-low, medium, medium-high, high, etc.

Referring again toFIG.5, fuel supply system200will be described in more detail according to example embodiments of the present subject matter. As shown, fuel supply system200may include a manifold220that is in fluid communication with a fuel supply222for providing the flow of fuel. Manifold220may be provided within, e.g., top panel102of gas cooktop100. Manifold220may include a gas inlet224through which gas or fuel is supplied to manifold220from fuel supply222, for instance, a municipal gas source. Accordingly, manifold220may be a conduit through which the gas or fuel may flow (e.g., at a predetermined pressure).

Fuel supply system200may include a primary supply valve226. Primary supply valve226may be fluidly connected with manifold220. For instance, the gas flowing through manifold220may be selectively supplied to primary supply valve226. Primary supply valve226may be a manual valve controlled by a relative angular position of the manual input knob210. With primary supply valve226in the fully open position and fuel supply system200in manual operating mode, gas can flow at a maximum flow rate to, e.g., primary gas burner110. With primary supply valve226in the closed position in manual operating mode, gas may not flow to primary gas burner110. Thus, the closed position of the primary supply valve226may restrict or halt gas flow to primary gas burner110. In certain instances, manifold220may supply gas flow to one or more other control assemblies which may be tapped into or connected with manifold220.

Fuel supply system200may include a primary supply line228. Primary supply line228may fluidly connect primary supply valve226with primary gas burner110. In detail, primary supply line228may be in upstream fluid communication with primary gas burner110to direct fuel thereto. Primary supply line228may be a conduit defining a passageway or channel through which the fuel (e.g., gas) is selectively supplied to primary gas burner110. For instance, an amount of fuel supplied through primary supply line228may be dictated by a relative position of primary supply valve226(e.g., as influenced by manual input knob210).

Fuel supply system200may include an auxiliary supply valve230. Auxiliary supply valve230may be fluidly connected with manifold220. For instance, the gas flowing through manifold220may be selectively supplied to auxiliary supply valve230. Auxiliary supply valve230may be a manual valve controlled by a relative angular position of the manual input knob210. With auxiliary supply valve230in the fully open position and fuel supply system200in manual operating mode, gas can flow at a maximum flow rate to, e.g., auxiliary gas burner112. With auxiliary supply valve230in the closed position in manual operating mode, gas may not flow to auxiliary gas burner112. Thus, the closed position of the auxiliary supply valve230may restrict or halt gas flow to auxiliary gas burner112. In certain instances, manifold220may supply gas flow to one or more other control assemblies which may be tapped into or connected with manifold220.

Fuel supply system200may include an auxiliary supply line232. Auxiliary supply line232may fluidly connect auxiliary supply valve230with auxiliary gas burner112. In detail, auxiliary supply line232may be in upstream fluid communication with auxiliary gas burner112to direct fuel thereto. Auxiliary supply line232may be a conduit defining a passageway or channel through which the fuel (e.g., gas) is selectively supplied to auxiliary gas burner112. For instance, an amount of fuel supplied through auxiliary supply line232may be dictated by a relative position of auxiliary supply valve230(e.g., as influenced by manual input knob210). Additionally or alternatively, auxiliary supply line232may be in fluid parallel with primary supply line228. Each of primary supply valve226and auxiliary supply valve230may be controlled by a dedicated control manual input knob210, e.g., for independent control of primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112.

Referring still toFIG.5, fuel supply system200may include a fuel balancing circuit240fluidly coupled to manifold200, primary supply line228, and auxiliary supply line232. In general, fuel balancing circuit240is intended to supply primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112with flows of fuel that achieve uniform heating of griddle130in the auto griddle mode. In this regard, fuel balancing circuit240may provide a fluid connection from primary supply valve226to each of primary supply line228and auxiliary supply line232(e.g., during an automatic control operation). In detail, fuel balancing circuit240may have a first end connected at primary supply valve226. According to some embodiments, the first end of fuel balancing circuit240is fluidly coupled to an outlet of primary supply valve226. Fuel balancing circuit240may be a fixed flow line. In detail, fuel balancing circuit240may constantly receive a manifold pressure of fuel or gas (e.g., a maximum pressure within manifold220). Accordingly, fuel balancing circuit240may selectively provide a predetermined amount of fuel to each of primary supply line228and auxiliary supply line232.

Fuel balancing circuit240may include a bridge line242and a supplemental line244. In detail, bridge line242may connect primary supply line228to auxiliary supply line232. Supplemental line244may fluidly connect bridge line242to primary supply valve226. Thus, supplemental line244may extend from primary supply valve226to bridge line242to supply the fuel thereto. Bridge line242may then supply the fuel to each of primary supply line228and auxiliary supply line232. Advantageously, when fuel balancing circuit240is active, a matching fuel pressure may be supplied to each of primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112. For example, when operating in the griddle mode, a griddle plate (e.g., griddle130) covering primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112may be more evenly heated by increasing or decreasing the heat output of primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112in concert.

Fuel supply system200may include a valve assembly250that is operably coupled to fuel balancing circuit240for regulating the flow of fuel flowing therethrough. In this regard, for example, valve assembly250may include a supplemental line valve252that is operably coupled to supplemental line244for regulating the flow of fuel therethrough. For instance, supplemental line valve252may be positioned between primary supply valve226and bridge line242, e.g., to selectively open and close fuel balancing circuit240. Accordingly, when supplemental line valve252is opened, fuel is supplied to each of primary supply line228and auxiliary supply line232(e.g., at a matching pressure or amount to each). Similarly, when supplemental line valve252is closed, the supplemental fuel (e.g., at manifold pressure) is not supplied to either primary supply line228or auxiliary supply line232. Supplemental line valve252may be operably connected with controller124. For instance, supplemental line valve252may selectively open and/or close according to an input signal from controller124.

Additionally or alternatively, supplemental line valve252may selectively open and/or close according to an input from a control knob122(e.g., control knob122associated with primary gas burner110). For example, if a user rotates control knob122associated with primary gas burner110to the “AUTO GRIDDLE” setting, a signal is sent to supplemental line valve252to open (e.g., during a griddle operation mode). More specifically, when the griddle mode is initiated, controller124may implement a closed loop feedback control system, e.g., by opening supplemental line valve252when the temperature of griddle130(e.g., measured by temperature sensor140) falls below the target temperature (e.g., as set by temperature input ring212). By contrast, if the temperature of griddle130exceeds the target temperature, controller124may close supplemental line valve252. By modulating or pulsing the operation of supplemental line valve252on and off, the temperature of griddle130may be maintained at the target temperature due to the flow of fuel through fuel balancing circuit240.

According to some embodiments, fuel supply system200includes a bridge valve. Bridge line valve254may be provided on bridge line242. In detail, bridge line valve254may be positioned between auxiliary supply line232and a connection point270between supplemental line244and bridge line242. Accordingly, bridge line valve254may selectively open or close a fluid communication between supplemental line244and auxiliary supply line232. For example, when only primary gas burner110is operational, bridge line valve254is closed to prohibit a flow of supplemental fuel from supplemental line244to auxiliary supply line232. Thus, in the griddle mode, bridge line valve254is opened to allow fluid communication between supplemental line244and auxiliary supply line232.

Supplemental line valve252may be a solenoid valve. For instance, supplemental line valve252may be a normally closed solenoid valve. Supplemental line valve252may be controllable between a fully closed position and a fully open position. Accordingly, supplemental fuel from manifold220may be selectively supplied to primary supply line228or each of primary supply line228and auxiliary supply line232at an equal pressure. Bridge line valve254may be a solenoid valve. For instance, bridge line valve254may be a normally closed solenoid valve. Bridge line valve254may be controllable between a fully closed position and a fully open position. Accordingly, supplemental fuel from manifold220may be selectively supplied to auxiliary supply line232according to the position of bridge line valve254. For instance, when bridge line valve254is closed, only primary gas burner110may be cycled between a high and a low setting (e.g., high and low flame output). Auxiliary gas burner112may be prohibited from receiving fuel from fuel balancing circuit240due to the closed position of bridge line valve254.

Primary supply line228may include a first portion260and a second portion262. In detail, first portion260may extend from primary supply valve226. The flow of fuel from primary supply valve226may thus enter first portion260of primary supply line228. Bridge line242of fuel balancing circuit240may connect with primary supply line228at a terminus of first portion260. For instance, fuel supplied from primary supply valve226into first portion260may selectively mix with supplemental fuel supplied into fuel balancing circuit240(e.g., via bridge line242). Accordingly, second portion262may selectively include fuel from first portion260and bridge line242. For example, during an operation (e.g., an automatic operation), a minimum flow is supplied to primary gas burner110through primary supply line228. A maximum flow may be temporarily added to the minimum flow via fuel balancing circuit240by opening supplemental line valve252. Thus, a heat output of primary gas burner110may be controlled via supplemental line valve252without an adjustment of control knob122associated with primary gas burner110.

Auxiliary supply line232may include a first portion264and a second portion266. In detail, first portion264may extend from auxiliary supply valve230. The flow of fuel from auxiliary supply valve230may thus enter first portion264of auxiliary supply line232. Bridge line242of fuel balancing circuit240may connect with auxiliary supply line232at a terminus of first portion264. For instance, fuel supplied from auxiliary supply valve230into first portion264may selectively mix with supplemental fuel supplied into fuel balancing circuit240(e.g., via bridge line242). Accordingly, second portion266may selectively include fuel from first portion264and bridge line242. For example, during an operation (e.g., an automatic operation), a minimum flow is supplied to auxiliary gas burner112through auxiliary supply line232. A maximum flow may be temporarily added to the minimum flow via fuel balancing circuit240by opening supplemental line valve252. Thus, a heat output of auxiliary gas burner112may be controlled via supplemental line valve252without an adjustment of control knob122associated with auxiliary gas burner112.

FIG.5illustrates fuel balancing circuit240as including bridge line valve254, e.g., to prevent flow between primary supply line228and auxiliary supply line232in a manual operating mode, to prevent backflow into supplemental line244, etc. However, it should be appreciated that fuel balancing circuit240may include any other suitable number of conduits, valves, check valves, or other flow regulating features for achieving the same purpose. For example, according to alternative embodiments, fuel balancing circuit240may include a pair of check valves, each being positioned on bridge line242opposite of the connection point270where supplemental line244connects to bridge line242. For instance, these check valves may allow fuel to flow from supplemental line244into primary supply line228and/or auxiliary supply line232while prohibiting fuel from flowing in the reverse direction. Advantageously, fuel may not be inadvertently supplied to an unused burner (e.g., when only primary gas burner110is used) via fuel balancing circuit240.

As mentioned above, gas cooktop100may selectively operate in a griddle mode. The griddle mode may include placing or attaching a griddle plate (e.g., griddle130) over each of primary and auxiliary burners110and112. To facilitate the closed loop griddle mode, temperature sensor140may be included on griddle130. Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, temperature sensor140is positioned on a front end of griddle130, e.g., facilitating quick and easy user access. For example, auxiliary gas burner112may be positioned between probe receptacle152and primary gas burner110when griddle130is installed on gas cooktop100. More specifically, probe receptacle152may be defined at a front corner of the griddle130. In this manner, temperature sensor140is particularly suited for obtaining a temperature of griddle130proximate the front end of griddle130, or otherwise obtaining temperature measurements that may be associated with or more proportionally controlled by the operation of auxiliary gas burner112than primary gas burner110. As explained in more detail below, this configuration may be particularly useful for identifying faults with fuel supply system200, and more particularly, faults with fuel balancing circuit240.

During operation, controller124may determine that gas cooktop100has been instructed to enter an automatic or closed loop cooking cycle, such as the auto griddle mode. For example, controller124may determine that control knobs122associated with primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112have both been set to the AUTO GRIDDLE position. In addition, controller124may determine that the griddle130has been placed on grates106via one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, proximity sensors, contact sensors, etc.), after which controller124may establish a connection with temperature sensor140for receiving temperature feedback. Additionally or alternatively, controller124may detect the presence of griddle130via one or more other means, such as a wireless connection between griddle130and gas cooktop100, a camera, a weight sensor, an optic sensor, a proximity sensor, or the like.

After confirming that the auto griddle mode has been activated and that griddle130is properly positioned on grate106, controller may implement the closed loop griddle cooking process. In this regard, as explained above, a minimum flow of fuel may be supplied through first portion260of primary supply line228and first portion264of auxiliary supply line232. Simultaneously, controller124may regulate valve assembly250of fuel balancing circuit240to supply additional fuel to both primary supply line228and auxiliary supply line232, e.g., to maintain the griddle temperature at a target temperature. For example, this target temperature may be selected using temperature input ring212.

Now that the construction of gas cooktop100and the configuration of fuel supply system200and controller124according to exemplary embodiments have been presented, an exemplary method300of operating a gas cooktop will be described. Although the discussion below refers to the exemplary method300of operating gas cooktop100, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary method300is applicable to the operation of a variety of other cooking appliances. In exemplary embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller124or a separate, dedicated controller.

Referring now toFIG.10, method300includes, at step310, initiating operation of a fuel supply system in an auto griddle mode where a flow of fuel is supplied to operate a primary gas burner and an auxiliary gas burner at a target heat level. For example, continuing the example from above, controller124may initiate the auto griddle mode when primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112are set to operate in the AUTO GRIDDLE mode. In addition, the target heat level may be regulated according to input from the temperature input ring212or through any other suitable user input.

As explained above, operation in the auto griddle mode may include selectively opening and closing valve assembly250of fuel balancing circuit240to supply flows of fuel that achieve even heat output from primary gas burner210and auxiliary gas burner212. Specifically, this auto griddle mode may be achieved by supplementing the minimum flow of fuel through primary supply valve226and auxiliary supply valve230with fuel from fuel balancing circuit240, e.g., by regulating bridge line valve254and supplemental line valve252.

Notably, bridge line valve254and supplemental line valve252may be solenoid valves that move between the open position and the closed position but do not provide positional feedback to controller124. Notably, these valves may periodically fail, resulting in poor cooking performance or potentially hazardous conditions. Accordingly, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to methods for determining when such a failure has occurred and taking remedial action. For example, the failure detection method may rely on temperature feedback from temperature sensor140.

Accordingly, step320may include obtaining a griddle temperature of the griddle using the temperature probe. As explained above, temperature sensor140may be positioned for monitoring the side of griddle130closest to the front edge or proximate auxiliary gas burner112. So positioned, temperature sensor140may be particularly suited for identifying various faults associated with fuel balancing circuit240. Thus, step330includes identifying a heating failure based at least in part on the griddle temperature. Exemplary faults are described below, but it should be appreciated that the present subject matter is not limited to detecting only these example faults.

According to an example embodiment, identifying the heating failure based on the griddle temperature may include determining that there is no significant change in the griddle temperature when the auto griddle mode is operating (e.g., no temperature change greater than a couple degrees or beyond a predetermined threshold). In this regard, when the auto griddle mode is initiated, supplemental line valve252and bridge line valve254may open simultaneously to provide a full flow of fuel to both primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112. Accordingly, if there is no significant change in temperature in response to a change in heating, this indicates that supplemental line valve252failed to open, so the heating failure may be identified as the failure of supplemental line valve252to open.

According to an example embodiment, identifying the heating failure based on the griddle temperature may include determining that the griddle temperature increases when the auto griddle mode calls for reduced heating. In this regard, when the auto griddle mode is operating and a temperature target has been satisfied, supplemental line valve252may close, such that only the minimum flow of fuel continues to flow to both primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112. Accordingly, if the griddle temperature continues to increase, this may indicate that supplemental line valve252is stuck in the open position. Accordingly, the heating failure may be identified as the failure of supplemental line valve252to close.

According to an example embodiment, identifying the heating failure based on the griddle temperature may include determining that the griddle temperature changes at a rate that is below a predetermined heating rate when the auto griddle mode is initiated. In this regard, when the auto griddle mode is initiated, supplemental line valve252and bridge line valve254may open simultaneously to provide a full flow of fuel to both primary gas burner110and auxiliary gas burner112. If the supplemental line valve252opens but the bridge line valve254stays closed, primary gas burner110will heat while auxiliary gas burner112will remain at the minimum flow state. Notably, the rate of temperature change when only half of the griddle is heated may be identifiable by controller (e.g., by a predetermined rate of change, by a temperature threshold, etc.). For example, identifying this heating failure mode may include determining that the griddle rate of heating falls below the target rate by greater than a predetermined threshold. Accordingly, the heating failure may be identified as the failure of bridge line valve254to open. Notably, positioning temperature sensor140at the front of griddle130as described herein allows for sensing of this failure mode. By contrast, placing temperature sensor140at another location, e.g., proximate primary gas burner110, may not be as effective, as the rate of heating would be much larger at that location.

Step340may include implementing a responsive action in response to identifying the heating failure. In this regard, implementing the responsive action may include shutting off all fuel flow within gas cooktop100, e.g., using a master supply valve. In addition, or alternatively, implementing the responsive action may include providing a user notification regarding the heating failure, e.g., via a display or via wireless communication with a user's mobile device. Other suitable responsive actions are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

FIG.10depicts steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that the steps of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged, expanded, omitted, or modified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, although aspects of method300are explained using gas cooktop100as an example, it should be appreciated that this method may be applied to the operation of any gas cooking appliance.

As explained herein, aspects of the present subject matter are generally directed to a griddle for use on a gas cooking appliance, where the griddle includes a removable wireless temperature probe. Either one or multiple burners may be used to heat the griddle and the temperature probe may be used to provide temperature feedback to facilitate a closed loop control scheme. The griddle may have a rectangular shape, a handle at two ends, and a receptacle at one end of griddle to house the wireless temperature probe. The temperature probe can be removed before cleaning the griddle.

The burners may include an extra outlet that provides manifold pressure at the lowest valve setting. This outlet may feed a master solenoid that controls the flow of gas from the extra outlet to one or both burners depending on the mode of operation. The griddle's temperature sensor may be positioned at the slave end burner of the gas cooktop, where the fault is detectable when only half of the griddle is heated and only if the probe is on slave end when the slave solenoid valve fails to open. Here, the master burner operates when the slave burner fails. This fault detection can thereby be identified easily.