AUTOMATED RANGE HOOD

An automated range hood includes a controller that selects a fan speed for one or more ventilation assemblies by identifying a minimum number of pixels that satisfy a threshold. The controller automatically turns on one or more light sources to illuminate a surface under the range hood when motion is detected or when the one or more ventilation assemblies are in use.

BACKGROUND

A range hood is a device for ventilating an area above a cooking surface to exhaust heat, odors, smoke, grease, and moisture generated from cooking on the cooking surface. Range hoods can be installed under cabinets, can be built into cabinets, or can be mounted to walls or ceilings above cooking surfaces inside a kitchen. Some range hoods send air outside such as through a duct, while other range hoods recirculate filtered air back into the kitchen. In further examples, range hoods can be installed outdoors over cooking surfaces such as barbecues and outdoor grills, or can be installed inside recreational vehicles (RV) and campers.

SUMMARY

In general terms, the present disclosure relates to a range hood. In one possible configuration, the range hood is automated to control ventilation and lighting. Various aspects are described in this disclosure, which include, but are not limited to, the following aspects.

One aspect relates to an automated range hood for ventilating a cooking surface. The automated range hood comprises: a hood housing; a first ventilation assembly mounted inside the hood housing on a first side, the first ventilation assembly including: a first electric motor; a first fan driven by the first electric motor to ventilate the cooking surface; a second ventilation assembly mounted inside the hood housing on a second side, the second side being opposite the first side, the second ventilation assembly including: a second electric motor; a second fan driven by the second electric motor to ventilate the cooking surface; a thermal camera measuring temperature values of the cooking surface; and a controller in communication with the first and second ventilation assemblies, the controller including: at least one processing device; and at least one memory device storing software instructions that, when executed by the at least one processing device, cause the controller to: receive the temperature values from the thermal camera for a plurality of pixels in an array covering the cooking surface, the array being segmented into a first portion covering a first area under the first side of the hood housing, a second portion covering a second area under the second side of the hood housing, and a third portion covering a third area under a central portion of the hood housing overlapping the first and second areas; select a first fan speed from a plurality of fan speeds for the first fan of the first ventilation assembly by identifying a highest threshold from a plurality of thresholds that is satisfied by a minimum number of pixels in the first and third portions of the array; and select a second fan speed from the plurality of fan speeds for the second fan of the second ventilation assembly by identifying a highest threshold from the plurality of thresholds that is satisfied by the minimum number of pixels in the second and third portions of the array.

Another aspect relates to a controller for a range hood. The controller comprises: at least one processing device; and at least one memory device storing software instructions that, when executed by the at least one processing device, cause the controller to: receive temperature values from a thermal camera for a plurality of pixels in an array segmented into a first portion covering a first area under the range hood, a second portion covering a second area under the range hood, and a third portion covering a third area under a central portion of the range hood overlapping the first and second areas; select a first fan speed for a first ventilation assembly by identifying a highest threshold from a plurality of thresholds satisfied by a minimum number of pixels in the first and third portions of the array; and select a second fan speed for a second ventilation assembly by identifying a highest threshold from the plurality of thresholds satisfied by the minimum number of pixels in the second and third portions of the array.

Another aspect relates to a method of operating a range hood. The method comprises: receiving temperature values from a thermal camera for a plurality of pixels in an array segmented into a first portion covering a first area under the range hood, a second portion covering a second area under the range hood, and a third portion covering a third area under a central portion of the range hood overlapping the first and second areas; selecting a first fan speed for a first ventilation assembly by identifying a highest threshold from a plurality of thresholds satisfied by a minimum number of pixels in the first and third portions of the array; and selecting a second fan speed for a second ventilation assembly by identifying a highest threshold from the plurality of thresholds satisfied by the minimum number of pixels in the second and third portions of the array.

Another aspect relates to an automated range hood for ventilating a cooking surface. The automated range hood comprises: a hood housing; a ventilation assembly mounted in the hood housing, the ventilation assembly including: an electric motor; and a fan driven by the electric motor to ventilate the cooking surface; a thermal camera measuring temperature values of the cooking surface; and a controller including: at least one processing device; and at least one memory device storing software instructions that, when executed by the at least one processing device, cause the controller to: receive the temperature values from the thermal camera for a plurality of pixels in an array covering the cooking surface; select a fan speed from a plurality of fan speeds for driving the fan by the electric motor, the fan speed being determined by identifying a highest threshold from a plurality of thresholds that is satisfied by a minimum number of pixels in the array.

Another aspect relates to a controller for a range hood. The controller comprises: at least one processing device; and at least one memory device storing software instructions that, when executed by the at least one processing device, cause the controller to: receive temperature values from a thermal camera for a plurality of pixels in an array segmented into one or more portions; and select a fan speed for a ventilation assembly by identifying a highest threshold from a plurality of thresholds satisfied by a minimum number of pixels in the array.

Another aspect relates to a sensor assembly for a range hood. The sensor assembly comprises: a base; a thermal camera mounted at an angle to an interior surface of the base, the angle of the thermal camera directing a field of view of the thermal camera toward a cooking surface; a lens mounted to an exterior surface of the base, the lens made of a silicon material structured for transmission of long-wavelength infrared light emitted from the thermal camera, and for protection of the thermal camera from cooking particles; and a sensor mounted at an angle to the interior surface of the base, the angle of the sensor allowing for detection of motion both under and in front of the range hood.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a front view of an example of a range hood100installed over a cooking surface10. The range hood100is preprogrammed for automated operation. For example, the range hood100can automatically increase and decrease ventilation based on changes detected on the cooking surface10under the range hood. In one example, the range hood100independently operates one or more fans based on temperature changes detected in one or more areas of the cooking surface10. Additionally, the range hood100can automatically illuminate the cooking surface10when a presence of a user is detected, or when the one or more fans of the range hood100are being operated due to changes detected on the cooking surface10.

As used herein, the terms “automatic” and “automated” mean that functions of the range hood100are performed without requiring user input. For example, the speed of one or more fans of the range hood can be increased or decreased to adjust an amount of ventilation without requiring any user input. Similarly, one or more light sources of the range hood can be turned on and off to illuminate the cooking surface10without requiring any user input.

In the example shown inFIG.1, the range hood100is installed underneath a cabinet20. In other examples, the range hood100can be a wall mount range hood, a built-in cabinet range hood, a kitchen island range hood, and the like. In further examples, the range hood100can be installed outdoors over cooking surfaces such as barbecues and outdoor grills, or can be installed inside recreational vehicles (RV) and campers. Accordingly, the concepts described herein are applicable to any type of range hood for installation in various types of environments.

In the example shown inFIG.1, the cooking surface10is a standalone device. In other examples, the cooking surface10can be integrated with an oven or kitchen stove. The cooking surface10can be powered by gas or electricity. The range hood100can be installed over any type of cooking surface including a gas cooking surface, electrical coil cooking surface, an induction cooking surface, a radiant cooking surface, and the like. InFIG.1, a cookware item30, such as cooking pot or pan, is placed on top of the cooking surface10.

In some examples, the range hood100is configured for installation above the cooking surface10by a distance ranging from about 20 inches to about 30 inches. In some examples, the cooking surface10can have a width of about 24 inches to about 36 inches.

FIG.2is a top view of an example of the cooking surface10. In this example, the cooking surface10includes a plurality of burners12. For example, the cooking surface10includes a first burner12aarranged in a lower left corner, a second burner12barranged in an upper left corner, a third burner12carranged in a central portion of the cooking surface10, a fourth burner12darranged in an upper right corner, and a fifth burner12earranged in a lower right corner. The range hood100can be used with cooking surfaces10having any number and/or arrangement of burners, such thatFIG.2is provided only for illustrative purposes.

The cooking surface10further includes a plurality of dials14for controlling or regulating the heat emitted from the burners12. For example, a first dial14acan be used to regulate the first burner12a,a second dial14bcan be used to regulate the second burner12b,a third dial14ccan be used to regulate the third burner12c,a fourth dial14dcan be used to regulate the fourth burner12d,and a fifth dial14ecan be used to regulate the fifth burner12e.

FIG.3is an isometric front view of the range hood100.FIG.4is an exploded view of the range hood100. The range hood100includes a hood housing102having a set of panels104that define a cavity106. For example, the hood housing102includes a top panel104a,a rear panel104b,a first side panel104c,and a second side panel104d.

As shown inFIG.3, the hood housing102defines a length L, a width W, and a height H. In some examples, the length L can range from about 30 inches to about 36 inches, and the height H can be about 8 inches tall, and the width W can be about 22 inches wide. These dimensions are provided by way of example, such that the size of the range hood100may vary.

As further shown inFIGS.3and4, the range hood100includes one or more baffle filters110that cover the cavity106. The baffle filters110are constructed by interlocking baffles that provide a route through which air containing grease particles passes. The grease particles flow down the smooth surface of the baffles and collect within an oil reservoir112. This limits the chance of build-ups that will prevent the airflow through the range hood100.

As shown inFIG.4, the baffle filters110can attach to clips114positioned on the rear panel104bto secure the baffle filters110to the hood housing102. In the example shown inFIG.4, the range hood100includes two baffle filters. In other examples, the range hood100can include a single baffle filter, or can include more than two baffle filters.

As further shown inFIG.4, the range hood100includes first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.The first ventilation assembly120ais disposed on a first side of the cavity106adjacent to the first side panel104c.The second ventilation assembly120bis disposed on a second side of the cavity106adjacent to the second side panel104d.

The first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120beach include a fan124driven by an electric motor122to ventilate an area under the range hood100. The first ventilation assembly120aincludes a fan124adriven by an electric motor122ato ventilate an area under the first side of the cavity106, such as where the first and second burners12aand12bof the cooking surface10are located (seeFIG.2). The first ventilation assembly120acan also at least partially ventilate the area where the third burner12cof the cooking surface10is located.

Similarly, the second ventilation assembly120bincludes a fan124bdriven by an electric motor122bto ventilate the area under the second side of the cavity106, such as where the fourth and fifth burners12dand12eof the cooking surface10are located. Additionally, the second ventilation assembly120bcan be used to ventilate the area at least partially under the range hood100where the third burner12cof the cooking surface10is located.

While the example shown inFIG.4shows the range hood100as having two ventilation assemblies, it is contemplated that the range hood100can have only one ventilation assembly, or can have more than two ventilation assemblies. Accordingly, the concepts described herein are not limited to a range hood having two ventilation assemblies.

As further shown inFIG.4, each of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bcan further include an oil ring seal126, an oil ring guide128, an oil ring cover130, and an oil drain tube132that allow collected grease to flow down into the oil reservoir112. Also, the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bcan each include a filter grid134to filter the air before it reaches the fans124a,124brespectively driven by the electric motors122a,122b.

The range hood100further includes a bottom plate136to shield the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120band other internal components of the range hood100including a controller148, one or more capacitors152, and a transformer154inside the cavity106of the hood housing102. The bottom plate136includes apertures138for allowing air under the range hood to reach the fans124a,124bof the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.

As further shown inFIG.4, the range hood100further includes a lighting fixture holder140for mounting one or more light sources142that can be used to illuminate a surface under the range hood100such as the cooking surface10. The lighting fixture holder140is mounted to a front end of the hood housing102. In other examples, the lighting fixture holder140can be mounted to a rear end of the hood housing102. As will be described in more detail, the range hood100is preprogrammed to have the light sources142automatically turn on when the presence of a user is detected near the range hood100, and to have the light sources142automatically turn off after a predetermined amount of time. In some examples, the predetermined amount of time can be set by a user of the range hood100.

The range hood100further includes a holder144for an electronics housing146in which the controller148is housed. The electronics housing146can include a removable cover150for providing access to the controller148. As will be described in more detail, the controller148is programmed to automate the operation of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bsuch that the speed of the fans124a,124brespectively driven by the electric motors122a,122bare automatically controlled without requiring user input.

As further shown inFIG.4, the range hood100further includes a bracket116for securing a housing118of a user interface108to the hood housing102. The user interface108can include a display156such as to display the time and settings of the range hood100. Also, the user interface108can include one or more controls158that can be operated by a user of the range hood100to adjust one or more settings of the range hood100.

FIG.5schematically illustrates an example of the range hood100. As shown inFIG.5, the range hood100includes the controller148(see alsoFIG.4). The controller148includes at least one processing device160and a memory device162. In some examples, the controller148includes electronic switching components such as triodes for alternating current (TRIACs) to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) with other electronic appliances that are nearby. The TRIACs can replace mechanical switching relays.

The processing device160is an example of a processing unit such as a central processing unit (CPU). The processing device160can include one or more CPUs. In some examples, the processing device160is a microcontroller that can include one or more digital signal processors, field-programmable gate arrays, and other types of electronic circuits.

The memory device162operates to store data and instructions for execution by the processing device160, including instructions for automating the operation of the range hood100. For example, the memory device162is preprogrammed to include a fan speed control algorithm164and a light control algorithm166, which are described in more detail below.

The memory device162includes computer-readable media, which may include any media that can be accessed by the processing device160. By way of example, computer-readable media include computer readable storage media and computer readable communication media.

Computer readable storage media includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable, and non-removable media implemented in any device configured to store information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer readable storage media can include, but is not limited to, random access memory, read only memory, electrically erasable programmable read only memory, flash memory, and other memory technology, including any medium that can be used to store information that can be accessed by the processing device160. The computer readable storage media is non-transitory.

As shown inFIG.5, the range hood100further includes a sensor assembly200that includes a thermal camera168and a user detection sensor170that are in communication with the controller148. The thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170connect to the controller148through one or more wired or wireless connections, or combinations thereof.

The thermal camera168is an example of a sensor that can be used to measure heat under the hood housing102. The thermal camera168detects temperature distribution in a two-dimensional area without contact. For example, the thermal camera168provides thermal mapping of the cooking surface10to detect which areas on the cooking surface10are being used for cooking, and to quantify heat emitted from these areas. In certain examples, the thermal camera168is an 8×8, 64-pixel infrared array sensor. The thermal camera168can generate an array having a plurality of pixels, in which each pixel has a separate temperature value. Examples of arrays generated by the thermal camera168are shown inFIGS.6and7.

The data acquired from the thermal camera168can be used by the controller148to determine a desired level of ventilation by the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.For example, the data collected from the thermal camera168can be used by the controller148adjust the speed of the speed of the fans124a,124bdriven by the electric motors122a,122b.

InFIG.5, the sensor assembly200further includes the user detection sensor170that is in communication with the controller148. In some examples, the user detection sensor170is a time-of-flight sensor that emits a beam of infrared light, and detects changes in a return signal to determine whether an object has moved relative to the range hood100or cooking surface10. The controller148can use the sensed data acquired from the user detection sensor170to determine whether a user is present next to the range hood100and/or cooking surface10, such as to automatically turn on the light sources142to illuminant the cooking surface10, and to automatically turn off the light sources142when it is detected that the user is not present next to the range hood100and/or cooking surface10to conserve electricity.

In alternative examples, the sensor assembly200does not include a user detection sensor170that is separate from the thermal camera168. Instead, the controller148can use the sensed data acquired from the thermal camera168to determine whether a user is present next to the range hood100and/or cooking surface10. In such examples, the functions of measuring heat under the hood housing102and detecting user presence under the hood housing102are both performed by a single sensor such as the thermal camera168.

Also, in some further examples, the sensor assembly200can further include an additional sensor to measure a distance between the range hood100and the cooking surface10to optimally adjust one or more algorithms for operating the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.In some examples, user detection sensor170can be used to measure the distance to the cooking surface10. In such examples, the functions of detecting user presence and measuring the distance between the range hood100and the cooking surface10are both performed by a single sensor such as the user detection sensor170.

FIGS.6and7respectively illustrate examples of an array174that includes a plurality of pixels176for thermally mapping an area under the range hood100, such as the cooking surface10. The array174is produced by the thermal camera168. In this example, the array174is an 8×8, 64-pixel array. Alternative sizes for the array174are also possible.

Each pixel176in the array174has a value detected from a surface under the range hood100, such as the cooking surface10. In the examples shown inFIGS.6and7, the values are temperature values in degrees Celsius. In other examples, the values can have other units of temperature (e.g., degrees Fahrenheit), or can have other units that quantify heat emission including, for example, watts (W), joules (J), British Thermal Units (BTU), calories, and the like.

As shown inFIGS.6and7, the pixels176in the upper left corner have higher values than the remaining pixels of the array174. This indicates that the burner12b(seeFIG.2) in the upper left corner of the cooking surface10is being used for cooking, while the remaining burners12a,12c,12d,and12eare not being used for cooking. The controller148uses this information to activate the first ventilation assembly120adisposed on the first side of the cavity106adjacent to the first side panel104cto ventilate the area above the burner12b.Also, the controller can use this information to determine that the second ventilation assembly120bdisposed on the second side of the cavity106adjacent to the second side panel104ddoes not need to be activated because the burners12a,12c,12d,and12eare not being used for cooking. Advantageously, this can make the range hood100more energy efficient and reduce fan noise.

The controller48can independently operate the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bsuch that the fan124of one ventilation assembly is powered on for ventilation, while the fan124of the other ventilation assembly is inactive. For example, the fan124aof the first ventilation assembly120acan be powered by the electric motor122afor ventilation while the electric motor122band fan124bof the second ventilation assembly120bare inactive. Also, the fan124bof the second ventilation assembly120bcan be powered by the electric motor122bwhile the electric motor122aand fan124aof the first ventilation assembly120aare inactivate. Also, both fans124a,124bof the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bcan be powered by the electric motors122a,122bsimultaneously such as when burners on both sides of the cooking surface10are being used for cooking, and/or when the burner12cin the central portion of the cooking surface10is being used for cooking.

As shown in the example ofFIGS.6and7, the pixels176in the upper left corner inFIG.7have higher values (e.g., a maximum value of 73 degrees Celsius) than the pixels176in the upper left corner inFIG.6(e.g., a maximum value of 67 degrees Celsius). This indicates that the cookware item30(seeFIG.1) on the burner12bhas increased in temperature such as due to increased cooking time and/or increased heat emitted from the burner12b(e.g., by regulation of the second dial14b). The controller148uses this information to operate the electric motor122ato increase the speed of the fan124ato increase the ventilation of the area above the burner12b.

The controller48can also independently operate the speed of the fans124a,124bof the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bto have different fan speeds based on the values of the pixels176in the array174. This can occur when both the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bare being powered by their respective electric motors.

FIG.8illustrates an example of temperature thresholds178a-178ffor operating the fans124a,124bof the range hood100. The temperature thresholds178a-178fare variable and programmable, and can be stored on the memory device162of the controller148. In this example, there are six temperature thresholds for operating the fans124a,124bunder six different fan speeds. In further example embodiments, there can be more than six temperature thresholds or fewer than six temperature thresholds for operating the fans124a,124bof the ventilation assemblies under additional or fewer fan speeds.

InFIG.8, the temperature thresholds178a-178frange between about 40° C. and about 100° C. For example, a first temperature threshold178ais 40° C., a second temperature threshold178bis 52° C., a third temperature threshold178cis 64° C., a fourth temperature threshold178dis 76° C., a fifth temperature threshold178eis 88° C., and a sixth temperature threshold178fis 100° C. The temperature thresholds178a-178fare variable such that the temperature thresholds shown inFIG.8are provided by way of illustrative example. Also, the units of measurement used for measuring the pixels and for defining the temperature thresholds may vary to include degrees Fahrenheit, watts (W), joules (J), British Thermal Units (BTU), calories, and the like.

In some examples, the temperature thresholds178a-178fcan be adjusted based on the type of heating by the cooking surface10such as gas, induction, electrical coil, radiant, and the like. In further examples, the temperature thresholds178a-178fcan be adjusted based on a distance to the cooking surface10that can be detected by the sensor assembly200. The adjustment of the temperature thresholds178a-178fallows the range hood100to be used with various types of cooking surfaces10by different manufacturers.

In some further examples, the temperature thresholds178a-178fare adjusted based on the type of food items and/or type of cooking on the cooking surface such as boiling pasta, grilling meat, stir-fry, and the like. In some examples, the type of cooking surface, the type of food items being cooked on the cooking surface, and/or the type of cooking being done on the cooking surface can be manually entered by a user of the range hood100such as by using the user interface108or a mobile application connected to the range hood100.

In further examples, the type of cooking surface, the type of food items being cooked on the cooking surface, and/or the type of cooking being done on the cooking surface can be automatically detected by the controller148based on data from the thermal camera168. In some examples, the controller148determines the type of cooking surface, the type of food items being cooked, and/or the type of cooking done on the cooking surface by using artificial intelligence such as machine learning algorithms that use the data from the thermal camera168.

As an illustrative example, the first temperature threshold178acan be defined for a first fan speed of about 755 RPM, the second temperature threshold178bcan be defined for a second fan speed of about 950 RPM, the third temperature threshold178ccan be defined for a third fan speed of about 1300 RPM, the fourth temperature threshold178dcan be defined for a fourth fan speed of about 1400 RPM, the fifth temperature threshold178ecan be defined for a fifth fan speed of about 1525 RPM, and the sixth temperature threshold178fcan be defined for a sixth fan speed of about 1650 RPM. The fan speeds associated with each of the temperature thresholds178a-178fmay vary in other example embodiments. In some examples, the fan speeds associated with the temperature thresholds178a-178fare adjustable based on the type of cooking surface (e.g., gas, induction, electrical coil, radiant, etc.) and/or the distance to the cooking surface. In further examples, the fan speeds associated with the temperature thresholds178a-178fare adjustable based on the type of food items being cooked on the cooking surface, and/or the type of cooking (e.g., boiling, grilling, stir-fry, etc.) being done on the cooking surface.

FIG.9illustrates an example of the array174segmented into a first portion180covering an area above the burners12a,12b,a second portion182covering an area above the burners12d,12e,and a third portion184covering an area above the burner12c.The first portion180is associated with control of the first ventilation assembly120a,the second portion182is associated with control of the second ventilation assembly120b,and the third portion184is associated with control of both the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.In this example, the array174includes a pixel176in the second portion182having a value that satisfies at least one of the temperature thresholds178shown inFIG.8.

In this example, a pixel176in the second portion182has a value of 45° C. that satisfies the first temperature threshold178awhile the remaining pixels in the array174have values less than 40° C., such that they do not satisfy any of the temperature thresholds178a-178f.In this illustrative example, the array174is an 8×8, 64-pixel array, the first and second portions180,182are each 3×8 and each have 24 pixels, and the third portion184is 2×8 and has 16 pixels. Alternative sizes for the first, second, and third portions are possible.

FIG.10schematically illustrates a table186for calculating fan speeds for the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bbased on the values of the pixels176shown in the array174inFIG.9, and the temperature thresholds178shown inFIG.8. The table186can be part of the fan speed control algorithm164that is used by the controller148to determine appropriate fan speeds based on the values of the pixels176in the array174.

FIG.9shows the value of the pixel176in the second portion182of the array174as having a value of 45° C. which exceeds the first temperature threshold178a(i.e., 40° C.), but does not exceed the second temperature threshold178b(i.e., 52° C.). The table186provides the first temperature threshold178awith a count of 1 pixel, and the other temperature thresholds178b-178feach have a count of 0 pixels because the remaining pixels all have values less than 40° C.

The fan speed control algorithm164when performed by the controller148uses the counts in the table186to determine fan speeds for powering the fans124a,124bby their respective electric motors122a,122bin the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.This determination is based on a minimum number of pixels that is set for satisfying the temperature thresholds178a-178f.For example, when the minimum number of pixels is set to one pixel, the first fan speed of the first temperature threshold178ais selected by the controller148for the second ventilation assembly120bbecause at least one pixel in the second and third portions182,184of the array174satisfies the first temperature threshold178a.

In contrast, when the minimum number of pixels is set to two, the controller148does not select a fan speed for the second ventilation assembly120bbecause none of the temperature thresholds178a-178fare satisfied by at least two pixels in the second and third portions182,184of the array174shown inFIG.9. In such a scenario, the controller148does not instruct the electric motor122bto power the fan124bsuch that the fan124bremains idle.

While the above examples describe the minimum number of pixels as being set to at least one pixel or at least two pixels, in further examples, the minimum number of pixels can be set to at least three pixels, at least four pixels, at least five pixels, at least six pixels, and so on.

In some examples, the minimum number of pixels is set based on the type of heating by the cooking surface10such as gas, induction, electrical coil, radiant, and the like. In further examples, the minimum number of pixels is set based on a distance to the cooking surface10that can be detected by the sensor assembly200. The adjustment of the minimum number of pixels allows the range hood100to be used with various types of cooking surfaces10. In some further examples, the minimum number of pixels is set based on the type of food items and/or type of cooking on the cooking surface such as boiling pasta, grilling meat, stir-fry, and the like.

When the minimum number of pixels increases, the sensitivity of the fan speed control algorithm164decreases because an increased number of pixels must satisfy a particular threshold. When the minimum number of pixels decreases, the sensitivity of the fan speed control algorithm164increases because fewer pixels must satisfy a particular threshold. The highest sensitivity of the fan speed control algorithm164is established when the minimum number of pixels is set to one pixel because only one pixel needs to satisfy each threshold.

Additionally, the sensitivity of the fan speed control algorithm164can be adjusted based on the temperature thresholds178a-178f.For example, when the first temperature threshold178ais lowered from 40° C. to 35° C., the fans124a,124bwill turn on more quickly because the lower threshold can be reached more quickly. Conversely, when the first temperature threshold178ais increased from 40° C. to 45° C., the fans124a,124bwill turn on more slowly because it will take longer for the burners12to reach the higher threshold.

The set minimum number of pixels can be stored in the memory device162such as during manufacture of the range hood100. In such examples, the range hood100is preprogrammed to have a predetermined level of sensitivity. In some examples, the user interface108provides controls for a user to increase or decrease the sensitivity after installation of the range hood100. In such examples, the minimum number of pixels are adjusted based on a selection of a sensitivity setting by the user. In some further examples, the user can adjust the sensitivity setting using a mobile application connected to the range hood100.

In the example shown inFIG.10, the controller148does not instruct the electric motor122ato power the fan124aof the first ventilation assembly120aregardless of the set minimum number of pixels because none of the pixels in the first and third portions180,184of the array174shown inFIG.9have values that exceed any of the temperature thresholds178a-178fshown inFIG.8. In this example, the fan124aremains idle.

FIG.11illustrates another example of the array174with at least two pixels having values that satisfy the temperature thresholds178a-178ffromFIG.8.FIG.12schematically illustrates the table186for calculating the fan speeds based on the values of the pixels176shown inFIG.11, and the temperature thresholds shown inFIG.8.

Referring now toFIGS.8,11, and12, when the minimum number of pixels is set to one pixel, the sixth fan speed associated with the sixth temperature threshold178fis selected by the controller148for the second ventilation assembly120bbecause at least one pixel in the second and third portions182,184of the array174satisfies the sixth temperature threshold178f.

In contrast, when the minimum number of pixels is set to two, the controller148selects the third fan speed associated with the third temperature threshold178cfor the fan124bof the second ventilation assembly120bbecause the third temperature threshold178c(e.g., 64° C.) is satisfied by at least two pixels in the second and third portions182,184of the array174.

When the minimum number of pixels is set to three, the controller148does not select a fan speed for the second ventilation assembly120bbecause none of the temperature thresholds178a-178fare satisfied by at least three pixels in the second and third portions182,184of the array174. In such a scenario, the fan124bremains idle.

In the example provided inFIGS.8,11, and12, the controller148does not instruct the electric motor122ato power the fan124aof the first ventilation assembly120abecause none of the pixels176in the first and third portions180,184of the array174shown inFIG.11have values that exceed any of the temperature thresholds178a-178fshown inFIG.8. In this example, the fan124aof the first ventilation assembly120aremains idle

In the examples described above, the fan speed selected for the first ventilation assembly120ais different from the fan speed selected for the second ventilation assembly120bwhen the minimum number of pixels176in the first portion180of the array174have values satisfying a threshold higher than a highest threshold satisfied by the minimum number of pixels176in the second and third portions182,184of the array174. Also, the fan speed selected for the second ventilation assembly120bis different from the fan speed selected for the first ventilation assembly120awhen the minimum number of pixels176in the second portion182of the array174have values satisfying a threshold higher than a highest threshold satisfied by the minimum number of pixels176in the first and third portions180,184of the array174.

The fan speed selected for the first ventilation assembly120aequals the fan speed selected for the second ventilation assembly120bwhen the minimum number of pixels176in the first portion180of the array174satisfy a highest threshold that is equal to a highest threshold satisfied by the minimum number of the pixels176in the second portion182of the array174. Also, the fan speed selected for the first ventilation assembly120aequals the fan speed selected for the second ventilation assembly120bwhen the minimum number of pixels in the third portion184of the array174satisfy a threshold that is higher than highest thresholds satisfied by the pixels176in the first and second portions180,182of the array174.

FIG.13schematically illustrates an example of a method1300of operating the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bof the range hood100. The method1300can be performed by the controller148using data acquired from the thermal camera168. In some examples, the method1300is performed as part of the fan speed control algorithm164that is stored on the memory device162of the controller148.

As shown inFIG.13, the method1300includes an operation1302of receiving a signal from the thermal camera168detecting values for the plurality of pixels176in the array174segmented into the first portion180covering the area under the first side of the cavity106, the second portion182covering the area under the second side of the cavity106, and the third portion184covering the area overlapping the first and second sides of the cavity106.

Next, the method1300includes an operation1304of determining a fan speed for the fan124adriven by the electric motor122aof the first ventilation assembly120aby identifying the highest of the temperature thresholds178a-178fsatisfied by the minimum number of pixels176in the first and third portions180,184of the array174. The fan speed for the first ventilation assembly120acan be determined in operation1304by using the table186shown inFIGS.10and12. The fan speed selected from the table186in operation1304is an optimal fan speed for ventilating the area above the burners12a,12b,and12cof the cooking surface10.

In some examples, the temperature thresholds178a-178fand/or the minimum number of pixels for determining the fan speed for the fan124ain operation1304is adjustable based on the type of cooking surface (e.g., gas, induction, electrical coil, radiant, etc.), the distance between the range hood100and the cooking surface10, the type of food items being cooked, and/or the type of cooking on the cooking surface (e.g., boiling, grilling, stir-frying, etc.).

In examples where the range hood100includes the second ventilation assembly120b,the method1300further includes an operation1306of determining a fan speed for the fan124bdriven by the electric motor122bof the second ventilation assembly120bby identifying the highest of the temperature thresholds178a-178fsatisfied by the minimum number of pixels176in the second and third portions182,184of the array174. The fan speed can be determined in operation1306such as by using the table186shown inFIGS.10and12. The fan speed selected from the table186in operation1306is an optimal fan speed for ventilating the area above the burners12c,12d,and12eof the cooking surface10.

In some examples, the temperature thresholds178a-178fand/or the minimum number of pixels for determining the fan speed for the fan124bin operation1306is adjustable based on the type of cooking surface (e.g., gas, induction, electrical coil, radiant, etc.), the distance between the range hood100and the cooking surface10, the type of food items being cooked, and/or the type of cooking being done above the burners12c,12d,and12eon the cooking surface (e.g., boiling, grilling, stir-frying, etc.). Thus, the method1300allows the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bto be independently controlled and operated.

As shown inFIG.13, operations1304,1306can occur simultaneously such that the controller148computes the fan speeds for the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bat substantially the same time. As shown inFIG.13, the method1300repeats operations the1302-1306to update the optimal fan speeds for the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bbased on changes on the cooking surface10detected from the thermal camera168during cooking. In some examples, the thermal camera168continuously monitors for temperature changes and the fan speeds are continuously updated based on the temperature changes.

In alternative examples, the thermal camera168checks for temperature changes during predetermined intervals of time (e.g., every 2, 5, 10 seconds, and the like), and the fan speeds of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120are updated based on the temperature changes detected during the predetermined intervals of time. This can provide a smooth transition between the fan speeds of the ventilation assemblies by reducing fluctuation between the fan speeds while the temperature on the cooking surface10stabilizes.

Accordingly, when the temperatures of one or more areas on the cooking surface10increase during cooking, the fan speeds of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bwill automatically increase. Also, when cooking is completed such that the temperatures of the one or more areas on the cooking surface10gradually cool off, the fan speeds of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bwill automatically decrease and eventually shut off when the lowest of the temperature thresholds178a-178fis no longer satisfied.

While the foregoing examples describe an automated mode of operation of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bbased on detected changes on the cooking surface10, the range hood100can also provide controls to disable the automated operation. Such controls can be provided on, for example, the user interface108. When disabled, the range hood100can operate under a manual mode of operation where the user can manually increase or decrease the fan speeds of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bsuch as by using the one or more controls158provided on the user interface108.

FIG.14schematically illustrates an example of a method1400of operating the one or more light sources142of the range hood100. In certain examples, the method1400is performed by the controller148to automatically turn on the one or more light sources142of the range hood100without requiring any user input. The method1400can be performed as part of the light control algorithm166stored on the memory device162of the controller148.

The method1400includes an operation1402of checking a status of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.When either one of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bare being used to ventilate the cooking surface10under the range hood100(i.e., “Yes” at operation1404), the method1400proceeds to operation1408where controller148turns on the one or more light sources142to illuminate the cooking surface.

When neither of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bare being used to ventilate the cooking surface10under the range hood100(i.e., “No” at operation1404), the method1400proceeds to an operation1406of determining whether motion is detected under the hood housing102. This determination can be based on data received from the user detection sensor170such as time of flight data that can determine whether an object such as a user has moved relative to the range hood100or cooking surface10. Alternatively, this determination can be based on data received from the thermal camera168, such as based on detected changes in the values of the pixels in the array174that can occur due to a user moving their hand and arms across the cooking surface10, or moving a cookware item30on the cooking surface.

When motion is detected under the hood housing102(i.e., “Yes” at operation1406), the method1400proceeds to operation1408where controller148turns on the light sources142to illuminate the cooking surface. When motion is not detected under the hood housing102(i.e., “No” at operation1406), the method1400returns to operation1402. As shown inFIG.14, the controller148can repeat the operations1402-1406to continuously determine whether to turn on the light sources142to illuminate the cooking surface10. In this manner, the range hood100can automatically turn on the light sources142without requiring user input. In some further examples, the method1400can further include automatically turning off the light sources142when no motion is detected under the hood housing102after a predetermined amount of time.

FIG.15schematically illustrates another example of a method1500of operating the one or more light sources142of the range hood100. In certain examples, the method1500is performed by the controller148to automatically turn off the one or more light sources142without requiring any user input. The method1500can be performed as part of the light control algorithm166stored on the memory device162of the controller148.

As shown inFIG.15, the method1500includes an operation1502of checking a status of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.When at least one of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bis being used to ventilate the cooking surface10under the range hood100(i.e., “Yes” at operation1504), the method1500returns to operation1502. Thus, the light sources142remain turned on while the either one or both of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bare being used to ventilate the cooking surface10.

When neither of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120bare in operation for ventilation of the cooking surface10(i.e., “No” at operation1504), the method1500proceeds to operation1506of determining whether a user presence is detected within a predetermined amount of time. In some examples, the predetermined amount of time is about 10 seconds. In some further examples, the predetermined amount of time can be set or adjusted by a user of the range hood100. When a user presence is detected (i.e., “Yes” at operation1506), the method1500returns to operation1502such that the one or more light sources142remain turned on when a user presence is detected within the predetermined amount of time.

When a user presence is not detected within the predetermined amount of time (i.e., “No” at operation1506), the method1500proceeds to operation1508where the controller148turns off the one or more light sources142. In this manner, the controller148can automatically turn off the one or more light sources142without requiring user input to conserve energy, and thereby make the range hood100more energy efficient.

While the foregoing examples describe an automated mode of operation of the one or more light sources142, the range hood100can also provide controls to disable the automated operation of the one or more light sources142. Such controls can be provided on, for example, the user interface108. When disabled, the range hood100can operate under a manual mode of operation where the user can manually turn on and off the one or more light sources142such as by using the one or more controls158provided on the user interface108.

FIG.16is an exterior view of an example of the sensor assembly200mounted to the lighting fixture holder140of the range hood100(see alsoFIG.4). In this example, the sensor assembly200includes the thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170. Additionally, in this example the sensor assembly200is positioned in a central location on the lighting fixture holder140between apertures141for the light sources142. In this example, the thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170are horizontally aligned, and the thermal camera168is mounted for alignment with a central axis C of the lighting fixture holder140.

FIG.17is an exterior view of another example of a sensor assembly200′ mounted to the lighting fixture holder140. Like in the example described above, the sensor assembly200′ includes the thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170, and the sensor assembly200′ is positioned in a central location on the lighting fixture holder140between apertures141for the light sources142. In this example, the thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170are vertically aligned such that both the thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170are mounted for alignment with the central axis C of the lighting fixture holder140.

In the examples shown inFIGS.4,16, and17, the thermal camera168is positioned in a central location toward a front end of the hood housing102. For example, the thermal camera168positioned on the lighting fixture holder140between the light sources142, and the lighting fixture holder140is installed toward the front end of the hood housing102. In some examples, the thermal camera168is angled relative to the lighting fixture holder140.

The placement and orientation of the thermal camera168on the range hood100can increase the field of view for the thermal camera168allowing the thermal camera168to capture temperature values across the entire surface area of the cooking surface10, and to optimize heat detection from a variety of different types of cooking surfaces. Additionally, the placement and orientation of the thermal camera168can allow the range hood100to have a single thermal camera rather than multiple temperature sensors positioned in different areas of the range hood, which can simplify the manufacture and operation of the range hood.

FIG.18is a bottom exploded view of the sensor assembly200.FIG.19is top exploded view of the sensor assembly200. As shown inFIGS.18and19, the thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170are mounted to an interior surface190of a base188of the sensor assembly200. The thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170can be mounted to the interior surface190of the base188by fasteners such as screws, and the like.

As shown inFIG.19, the user detection sensor170is angled with respect to the base188. The angle of the user detection sensor170increases the field of view of the user detection sensor170allowing the sensor to detect motion both under and in front of the range hood. This can improve motion detection for determining presence of a user of the range hood100.

As shown inFIG.19, the thermal camera168is also angled relative to the base188. The angle of the thermal camera168relative to the base188allows the field of view of the thermal camera168to be optimally directed toward the cooking surface10. In some examples, the angle of the thermal camera168relative to the base188is less than the angle of the user detection sensor170with respect to the base188such that the thermal camera168is more planar for covering the cooking surface10, while the user detection sensor170is more vertical for covering both the cooking surface10and the area in front of the range hood100.

As shown inFIG.18, a lens172mounts to an exterior surface192of the base188to cover the thermal camera168and thereby protect the thermal camera168from harsh environmental conditions under the range hood100such as heat, steam, humidity, smoke, soot, grease particles, and the like from cooking on the cooking surface10. In some examples, the lens172is fixed to the base188by a fastener such as glue. The lens172is configured for use with the thermal camera168by allowing infrared signals including long wave infrared (LWIR) signals to pass through the lens172. In some examples, the lens172is made of a silicon material that allows for high transmissivity of long-wavelength infrared light (LWIR).

FIG.20is a view of a cover194positioned relative to the base188of the sensor assembly200.FIG.21is an isometric view of the cover194mounted to the base188of the sensor assembly200. As shown inFIGS.20and21, the cover194attaches to the baseboard by one or more latches196on the base188that can removably engage one or more surfaces198on the cover194. In this example, the cover194snap-fits onto the base188.

FIG.22is a view of the sensor assembly200positioned relative to an interior surface143of the lighting fixture holder140.FIG.23is a view of the sensor assembly200mounted to the interior surface143of the lighting fixture holder140. As shown inFIGS.22and23, the lighting fixture holder140includes apertures145,147that align with the thermal camera168and the user detection sensor170, respectively. As further shown, the sensor assembly200includes arms202that can each receive a fastener such as a screw for attaching the arms202to brackets149on the lighting fixture holder140. The brackets149are fixed to the interior surface143of the lighting fixture holder140by a fastener such as glue or welding.

FIG.24is a cross-sectional view of the range hood100. As shown inFIG.24, the placement of the sensor assembly200on the lighting fixture holder140, such as between the apertures141for the light sources142, can reduce exposure of the thermal camera168to contaminants such as steam, humidity, smoke, soot, grease particles, and the like that can result from cooking on the cooking surface10because the thermal camera168is not in the path of the airflow generated by the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.Instead, the thermal camera168is offset from the path of the airflow. This can prevent the build-up of grease and sook around the thermal camera168which can negatively impact its operation.

Also, the placement of the user detection sensor170on the lighting fixture holder140, such as between the apertures141for the light sources142, can improve detection of user presence. The placement of the user detection sensor170can also reduce exposure to contaminants such as steam, humidity, smoke, soot, grease particles, and the like from cooking on the cooking surface10because the user detection sensor170is not positioned in the path of the airflow generated by operation of the first and second ventilation assemblies120a,120b.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to be limiting in any way. Various modifications can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the true spirit and scope of the disclosure.