COOKTOP APPLIANCE AND METHODS OF BURNER OR UTENSIL DETECTION

A cooktop appliance may include a cooktop plate, a capacitance grid, a plurality of burners, and a controller. The cooktop plate may define an upper cooking surface. The capacitance grid may be mounted to the cooktop plate. Each burner of the plurality of burners may include an electric heating element mounted below the cooktop plate. The controller may be operatively coupled to the capacitance grid and the plurality of burners. The controller may be configured to direct a cooking operation. The controller may include receiving one or more capacitance signals from the capacitance grid, detecting a capacitance increase based on the capacitance signals, identifying an engaged burner based on the detected capacitance increase, and directing a responsive action on the cooktop based on identifying the engaged burner.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to cooktop appliances, and more particularly to features and methods for detecting conditions on a cooktop appliance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cooktop or range appliances generally include heating elements for heating cooking utensils, such as pots, pans, and griddles. A variety of configurations can be used for the heating elements located on the cooking surface of the cooktop. The number of heating elements or positions available for heating on the range appliance can include, for example, four, six, or more depending upon the intended application and preferences of the buyer. These heating elements can vary in size, location, and capability across the appliance.

Existing appliances present a number of drawbacks. For instance, in existing systems, it can be difficult to determine when a burner is active. This can be especially true for burners having electric heating elements. Some systems have attempted to incorporate LED indicators apart from the burners, but these can be difficult to see or determine which burner is hot. Additionally or alternatively, it can be easy for a user to inadvertently place a various objects (e.g., plastic utensils) on a cooktop in a location that might lead to the objects becoming damaged. Further additionally or alternatively, it make be difficult for a user to know if a burner is operating properly (e.g., actively heating or heating to a certain temperature). Although temperature sensors have been incorporated into certain systems, these may have a limited detection coverage or add bulk to the system.

As a result, it would be useful to have an appliance, system, or method to address one or more of the above-identified issues. As an example, it would be advantageous to provide an appliance, system, or method for detecting and alerting a user to the burner status of one or more systems. As an additional or alternative example, it would be advantageous to provide an appliance, system, or method for detecting or addressing objects on a cooktop. As another additional or alternative example, it would be advantageous to provide an appliance, system, or method for detecting temperature at multiple locations on a cooktop (e.g., separately or independently from a dedicated temperature sensor).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a cooktop appliance is provided. The cooktop appliance may include a cooktop plate, a capacitance grid, a plurality of burners, and a controller. The cooktop plate may define an upper cooking surface. The capacitance grid may be mounted to the cooktop plate. Each burner of the plurality of burners may include an electric heating element mounted below the cooktop plate. The controller may be operatively coupled to the capacitance grid and the plurality of burners. The controller may be configured to direct a cooking operation. The controller may include receiving one or more capacitance signals from the capacitance grid, detecting a capacitance increase based on the capacitance signals, identifying an engaged burner based on the detected capacitance increase, and directing a responsive action on the cooktop based on identifying the engaged burner.

In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a cooktop appliance is provided. The method may include receiving one or more capacitance signals from a capacitance grid. The method may further include detecting a capacitance increase based on the capacitance signals. The method may still further include identifying an engaged burner based on the detected capacitance increase. The method may yet still further include directing a responsive action on the cooktop based on identifying the engaged burner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning now to the figures,FIG.1provides a top, plan view of a cooktop appliance100according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Cooktop appliance100can be installed in various locations such as in cabinetry in a kitchen, with one or more ovens to form a range appliance, or as a standalone appliance. Thus, as used herein, the term “cooktop appliance” includes grill appliances, stove appliances, range appliances, and other appliances that incorporate cooktops.

According to exemplary embodiments, appliance100includes a cabinet102that is generally configured for containing or supporting various components of appliance100and which may also define one or more internal chambers or compartments of appliance100. In this regard, as used herein, the terms “cabinet,” “housing,” and the like are generally intended to refer to an outer frame or support structure for appliance100, (e.g., including any suitable number, type, and configuration of support structures formed from any suitable materials, such as a system of elongated support members, a plurality of interconnected panels, or some combination thereof.) It should be appreciated that cabinet102does not necessarily require an enclosure and may simply include open structure supporting various elements of appliance100. By contrast, cabinet102may enclose some or all portions of an interior of cabinet102. It should be appreciated that cabinet102may have any suitable size, shape, and configuration while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

Cabinet102generally defines a mutually orthogonal vertical, lateral, and transverse direction. Cabinet102extends between a top and a bottom along the vertical direction, between a first side (e.g., the left side when viewed from the front as inFIG.1) and a second side (e.g., the right side when viewed from the front as inFIG.1) along the lateral direction L, and between a front and a rear along the transverse direction T. In general, terms such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “top,” or “bottom” are used with reference to the perspective of a user accessing appliance100.

Cooktop appliance100includes a cooktop plate110(e.g., mounted to cabinet102) for supporting cooking utensils, such as pots or pans, on a cooking or top surface114of cooktop plate110. Optionally, cooktop plate110may be fixed or secured to cabinet102at its perimeter edge (e.g., such that the sides or edges of cooktop plate110rest on a more rigid structure—or are otherwise prevented from deflected more than—a central portion of cooktop plate110). When assembled, a top cook surface114is directed vertically upward to contact cooking utensils, while a bottom interior surface is directed vertically downward opposite the top surface114(e.g., toward a support panel mounted below cooktop plate110). Cooktop plate110may be any suitable rigid plate, such as one formed of ceramic or glass (e.g., glass ceramic). As will be described in greater detail below, one or more burners or heating assemblies120,122,124are mounted below cooktop plate110such that heating assemblies120,122,124, and126are positioned below cooktop plate110(e.g., below a bottom interior surface along the vertical direction). Cooktop plate110may be continuous over heating assemblies120,122,124, and126. Thus, no holes may extend vertically through cooktop plate110above heating assemblies120,122,124, and126.

While shown with four heating assemblies120,122,124, and126in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG.1, cooktop appliance100may include any number of heating assemblies120,122,124, and126in alternative embodiments. Heating assemblies120,122,124, and126can also have various diameters. For example, each heating assembly of heating assemblies120,122,124, and126can have a different diameter, the same diameter, or any suitable combination thereof. In addition, the heating elements120,122,124, and126may include differing numbers or shapes of electric heating elements, as would be understood. Nonetheless, cooktop appliance100is provided by way of example only and is not limited to the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG.1. For example, a cooktop appliance having one or more radiant heating assemblies in combination with one or more electric resistance or gas burner heating elements can be provided. In addition, various combinations of number of heating assemblies, position of heating assemblies or size of heating assemblies can be provided.

Generally, a user interface130provides visual information to a user and allows a user to select various options for the operation of cooktop appliance100. For example, displayed options can include a desired heating assemblies120,122,124, and126, a desired cooking temperature, or other options. User interface130can be any type of suitable input device and can have any suitable configuration. InFIG.1, user interface130is located within a portion of cooktop plate110. Alternatively, user interface130can be positioned on a vertical surface near a front side of cooktop appliance100or at another location that is convenient for a user to access during operation of cooktop appliance100.

In some embodiments, such as that shown inFIG.1, user interface130includes a capacitive touch screen input device component132. Capacitive touch screen input device component132can allow for the selective activation, adjustment or control of any or all heating assemblies120,122,124, and126as well as any timer features or other user adjustable inputs. One or more of a variety of electrical, mechanical, or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, push buttons, toggle/rocker switches, or touch pads can also be used singularly or in combination with capacitive touch screen input device component132. User interface130also includes a display component134, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user.

Generally, cooktop appliance100includes a controller140. Operation of cooktop appliance100is regulated by controller140(e.g., according to one or more cooking operation, such as method500or600, described below). Controller140is operatively coupled or in communication with various components of cooktop appliance100, including user interface130. In response to user manipulation of the user interface130, controller140operates the various components of cooktop appliance100to execute selected cycles and features.

Controller140may include memory (e.g., non-transitory media) and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller140may be constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry, such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Heating assemblies (e.g.,120,124,122, or126), user interface130and other components of cooktop appliance100may be in communication with controller140via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

In some embodiments, controller140includes a network interface and is configured to communicate with a separate device external to cooktop appliance100, referred to generally herein as a remote user device150. As described in more detail below, these communications may be facilitated using a wired or wireless connection, such as via a network. Such a network may include one or more of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a personal area network (PAN), the Internet, a cellular network, any other suitable short- or long-range wireless networks, etc. In addition, communications may be transmitted using any suitable communications devices or protocols, such as via Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, wireless radio, laser, infrared, Ethernet type devices and interfaces, etc. In addition, such communication may use a variety of communication protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g., HTML, XML), or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

In general, remote user device150may be any suitable device separate from cooktop appliance100that is configured to provide or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user. In this regard, remote user device150may be, for example, a personal phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or personal computer, a wearable device, a smart home system, or another mobile or external device.

Optionally, the remote user device150may include or be able to access a software application for interacting with the one or more appliances. For instance, the remote user device150may be provided or associated with a particular user profile to interact with and operate multiple discrete home appliances (e.g., oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, or dryer appliances).

Turning now toFIGS.1through4, various portions of the exemplary appliance100are illustrated and will be described in greater detail. In particular, a capacitance grid152is illustrated. Generally, capacitance grid152is configured for detecting variations in the capacitance electrical field across the horizontal area covered by capacitance grid152. Such embodiments may be configured to analyze and identify one or more points, protrusions, or surfaces (e.g., of an object or utensil154A,154B) coming into contact with cooktop surface114. As shown, capacitance grid152includes multiple discrete (e.g., parallel) conductive wires or electrode elements arranged according to a set coordinate system array and intersecting each other at separate mutual capacitance keys156. For instance, capacitance grid152may include a multi-layer capacitance array. In exemplary embodiments, two perpendicular electrode layers and may be joined (e.g., to one or more substrates) to facilitate directly analyzing points across the X-axis and the Y-axis. Specifically, a first electrode layer may include a plurality of mutually-parallel detection electrode elements158extending in the same direction (e.g., transverse direction T). A second electrode layer may include a plurality of mutually-parallel detection electrode elements160extending in the same direction (e.g., the lateral direction L) orthogonal to the direction of the first electrode layer. Both electrode layers may then be positioned adjacent to each other in attachment with a uniform substrate.

When assembled, capacitance grid152generally extends across or over at least a portion of the cooktop plate110. In turn, capacitance grid152is generally positioned above the heating assemblies120,122,124,126. Moreover, capacitance grid152is operatively coupled (e.g., with one or more wires or busses) to controller140such that controller140may receive one or more capacitance signals from capacitance grid152. The electrode layers (e.g., with mutual capacitance keys156) may form a predetermined or set coordinate system. In turn, variations in capacitance may be detected at the keys156(e.g., as would be understood) and identified as coordinate locations on the set coordinate system.

Turning especially toFIGS.3and4, in some embodiments, a corresponding outline162is provided for each burner120,122,124,126. For instance, each burner120,122,124, or126may have an outline162that is predefined to surround the corresponding burner120,122,124, or126. Such an outline162may be generally matched to the burner120,122,124, or126and radially spaced apart from the same (e.g., by a set horizontal or radial distance). As shown, the outline162may intersect one or more location keys156adjacent to the corresponding burner120,122,124, or126. Optionally, one or more keys156may be linked to a corresponding burner120,122,124, or126. Such location keys156may line within the outline162for the corresponding burner120,122,124, or126. As an example, the location keys156at F10, J14, F19, and B14 may be linked to the burner120. As an additional or alternative example, the location keys156at F1, I4, F8, and C4 may be linked to the burner122. As another additional or alternative example, the location keys156at P1, S4, P8, and M4 may be linked to the burner124. As yet another additional or alternative example, the location keys156at P10, S14, P19, and M14 may be linked to the burner126.

Generally, variations in capacitance at one or more keys156may be detected and used to determine one or more conditions on the cooktop surface114. Optionally, the presence of an item or object (e.g., utensil154A or154B) on one or more keys156(and the corresponding change or increase in capacitance) may facilitate identifying or locating such an item or object. As an example, the presence of a utensil154A on one or more matched keys156may indicate the that the corresponding burner120,122,124, or126is being engaged (e.g., prepared for use). As an additional or alternative example, the presence of an offset utensil154B (and the corresponding change or increase in capacitance) spaced apart from a burner120,122,124, or126on one or more keys156(e.g., apart from the matched keys156), may indicate that such an item may need to be moved or protected (e.g., by limiting heat output at one or more adjacent burner120,122,124,126). Additionally or alternatively, increases in heat (and the corresponding change or increase in capacitance) from an active burner164may facilitate identifying or measuring temperature from the active burner164. As an example, heat-generated capacitance changes at one or more matched keys156may indicate the corresponding burner120,122,124, or126is being engaged (e.g., in use as an active burner164).

Now that the construction of cooktop appliance100according to exemplary embodiments has been presented, exemplary methods (e.g., methods500and600) of operating a cooktop appliance will be described. Although the discussion below refers to the exemplary methods500and600of operating cooktop appliance100, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary methods500and600are applicable to the operation of a variety of other cooktop appliances, such as an oven or range appliance. In exemplary embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed (e.g., in whole or part) by controller140or another separate controller.

FIGS.5and6depict steps performed in a particular order for purpose of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that (except as otherwise indicated) methods500and600are not mutually exclusive. Moreover, the steps of the methods500and600can be modified, adapted, rearranged, omitted, interchanged, or expanded in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

Advantageously, methods in accordance with the present disclosure may detect and alert a user to the burner status of one or more systems. Additionally or alternatively, such methods may advantageously address objects on a cooktop (e.g., automatically or without direct user input). Additionally or alternatively, such methods may advantageously detect temperature at multiple locations on a cooktop (e.g., separately or independently from a dedicated temperature sensor).

Turning especially toFIG.5, at510, the method500includes receiving one or more capacitance signals from a capacitance grid. In particular,510may include one or more signals received from the capacitance grid at one or more keys. As described above, mutual capacitance keys may generally form a predetermined or set coordinate system such that variations in capacitance detected on the capacitance grid (e.g., as would be understood) may be located according to the corresponding coordinates and keys. In some embodiments,510includes monitoring the capacitance grid (e.g., over time or according to a set rate or schedule) such that capacitance signals and variations in capacitance over time may be received, recorded, or otherwise tracked

At520, the method500includes detecting a (e.g., first) capacitance increase based on the capacitance signals at510. In particular, the capacitance signals received at510may indicate a capacitance increase at one or more discrete keys. Thus, an individual capacitance increase may correspond to one or more discrete keys (e.g., over time).

In some embodiments, the increase at520is gradual. In other words, the detected capacitance increase at520may include a gradual increase having multiple discrete rises in the capacitance value (e.g., over a predetermined period of time). Thus, there may be a ramp up from an initial spike in capacitance to a later-detected maximum (e.g., at the same location, point, coordinate, or key on the capacitance grid). The gradual increase may be within a predetermined range or rate of capacitance increase. Additionally or alternatively, the detected gradual increase may be determined to be located at a plurality of points, coordinate, or keys. Such points, coordinates, or keys may be along a predetermined outline surrounding the corresponding burner. Optionally, the detected gradual increase may be correlated to a rise in temperature (e.g., according to a predetermined formula, chart, graph, or lookup table, as would be understood). Thus, temperature at the corresponding coordinates or locations (e.g., one or more locations) on the capacitance grid may be determined based on the detected capacitance increase. Additionally or alternatively, it may be determined that temperature at the corresponding locations is maintained at a constant temperature (e.g., above a set temperature threshold) over or in excess of a predetermined time threshold. Thus, it may be detected if the temperature at a burner is elevated or constant for too long (e.g., without requiring or relying solely on a dedicated temperature sensor).

In additional or alternative, the increase at520is static or constant. In other words, the detected capacitance increase at520may be substantially instant. Moreover, the detected capacitance increase at520may remain constant over a predetermined period of time. Thus, there may be an instant and steady spike in capacitance. Such an instant and steady spike may rise to its maximum immediately or otherwise above a predetermined range, rate, or threshold of capacitance increase. Additionally or alternatively, the detected static or constant increase may be determined to be located at a plurality of points, coordinate, or keys. Such points, coordinates, or keys may be along a predetermined outline surrounding the corresponding burner. Optionally, values of the capacitance increase or the shape of capacitance increases on the grid may be correlated to specific utensils or metals. Thus, one or more characteristics of a detected utensil may be identified (e.g., based on the capacitance signals at510).

At530, the method500includes optionally determining alternating current (AC) input. For instance, the controller may evaluate the AC signal to one or more burners. Thus, the controller may determine if a significant AC signal is being directed to one or more of the burners.

As an example,530may include detecting an AC signal to a particular burner above a set threshold. In other words, it may be detected and determined that the particular burner is receiving a significant AC load to activate the same. Optionally, the particular burner may be the same burner that is determined to have a gradual capacitance increase (e.g., at520).

As an additional or alternative example,530may include detecting an AC signal below the set threshold. In other words, it may be detected and determined that the particular burner is not receiving a significant AC load and is, thus, not intended to be active (i.e., intended to be inactive). Optionally, the particular burner may be the same burner that is determined to have a constant capacitance increase (e.g., at520).

At540, the method500includes identifying an engaged burner (i.e., one or more heating elements). Such an identification may be based, at least in part, on the detected capacitance increase at520. As an example, wherein the detected capacitance increase includes a gradual increase having multiple discrete rises in the capacitance value over a predetermined period of time (e.g., along a predetermined outline surrounding the corresponding burner), it may be indicated that the corresponding burner is being engaged (e.g., as an active burner). As an additional or alternative example, when the detected capacitance increase includes an increased capacitance remaining constant over a predetermined period of time (e.g., along a predetermined outline surrounding the corresponding burner), it may be indicated that the corresponding burner is being engaged (e.g., as a burner that has received a utensil placement thereon).

In some embodiments, the identification at540is further based on the determined AC input or detected AC signal at530. As an example, identification of an engaged burner (e.g., as an active burner) may further include detecting an AC signal above the set threshold. Optionally, identification of an active burner may be contingent on one or both determinations of a significant AC load and a gradual capacitance increase. As an additional or alternative example, identification of an engaged burner (e.g., as an inactive burner receiving a utensil placement thereon) may further include detecting an AC signal below the set threshold.

At550, the method500includes optionally detecting a (e.g., second) capacitance increase based on the capacitance signals at510. For instance, separate from or in addition to520through540, the capacitance signals received at510may indicate a capacitance increase at one or more discrete keys (e.g., separate or spaced apart from those corresponding to520). Thus, an individual capacitance increase may correspond to one or more discrete keys. Optionally, the capacitance increase at550may be located at keys spaced apart from those corresponding to the outline at any burners.

In some embodiments, the increase at540is static or constant. In other words, the detected capacitance increase at540may be substantially instant. Moreover, the detected capacitance increase at540may remain constant over a predetermined period of time. Thus, there may be an instant and steady spike in capacitance. Such an instant and steady spike may rise to its maximum immediately or otherwise above a predetermined range, rate, or threshold of capacitance increase. Additionally or alternatively, the detected static or constant increase may be determined to be located at a plurality of points, coordinate, or keys. Such points, coordinates, or keys (e.g., at least some of the points, coordinates, or keys) may be apart from any predetermined outline surrounding (or according to a set radial distance from) the corresponding burner. Optionally, values of the capacitance increase or the shape of capacitance increases on the grid may be correlated to specific utensils or metals. Thus, one or more characteristics of a detected utensil may be identified (e.g., based on the capacitance signals at540).

At560, the method500includes optionally detecting an offset utensil (e.g., apart from one or more burners). For instance, the detected offset utensil may be spaced apart from an engaged burner (e.g., as identified at540). As an alternative example, wherein the detected capacitance increase at550comprises an increased capacitance remaining constant over a predetermined period of time (e.g., apart from a predetermined outline surrounding any burner), it may be indicated that an offset utensil is on the cooktop surface.

At570, the method500includes directing a responsive action (e.g., in response to540or560). Such responsive actions may include one or more alerts (e.g., prompted at the control panel or remote user device), such as a visual or auditory message, visual indicator (e.g., illuminated icon or visible engagement map), audible alarm or alert tone, etc. As an example, identification of an engaged burner may displayed (e.g., on the control panel or remote user device). As an additional or alternative example, an alarm may be prompted or directed (e.g., on the control panel or remote user device). For instance, an excess-time alarm may be prompted or directed at the control panel (e.g., in response to detecting a constant temperature over a predetermined time threshold). As another additional or alternative example, identification of an offset utensil may displayed (e.g., on the control panel or remote user device).

Such response actions may further include controlling one or more burners. As an example, if a utensil is not detected on a burner, activation thereof may be restricted. For instance, detection of a utensil on one burner may prompt a responsive action permitting activation of the corresponding engaged burner (e.g., while restricting activation of any remaining non-engaged burners). As an additional or alternative example, if certain utensils (e.g., characteristics thereof) are detected, activation of one or more burners may be restricted. For instance, detection of an offset utensil or identification of a predetermined unsuitable utensil may prompt a responsive action restricting activation of one or more burners. As another additional or alternative example, an active burner may be restricted or adjusted to an inactive state (e.g., in response to detecting a constant temperature over a predetermined time threshold).

Turning now especially toFIG.6, at610, the method600includes monitoring the capacitance grid of the cooktop. In particular,610may includes monitoring or measuring variations in capacitance levels at the capacitance grid. Thus,610may include receiving one or more capacitance signals from the capacitance grid. For instance,610may include one or more signals received from the capacitance grid at one or more keys. As described above, mutual capacitance keys may generally form a predetermined or set coordinate system such that variations in capacitance detected on the capacitance grid (e.g., as would be understood) may be located according to the corresponding coordinates and keys. In some embodiments,610includes monitoring the capacitance grid (e.g., over time or according to a set rate or schedule) such that capacitance signals and variations in capacitance over time may be received, recorded, or otherwise tracked.

At612, the method600includes detecting a capacitance increase based on the capacitance signals at610. Thus, the monitoring at610may lead to a detected variation representing an increase in capacitance values on the cooktop surface.

At614, the method600includes locating keys on the grid coordinate system corresponding to the capacitance increase at612. In particular, the capacitance signals received at610and detected at612may indicate a capacitance increase at one or more discrete keys. Thus, an individual capacitance increase may correspond to one or more discrete keys (e.g., a discrete location, point, coordinate, or key on the capacitance grid) that may be referenced from the memory of the controller to determine the location on the coordinate system that corresponds to the detected capacitance increase. Optionally, such points, coordinates, or keys may be along a predetermined outline surrounding the corresponding burner.

At616, the method600includes evaluating the consistency of the capacitance increase. In other words, it may be evaluated if the capacitance increase is constant or, alternatively, gradual. As an example, if constant, the detected capacitance increase at6120may be substantially instant. Moreover, the detected capacitance increase at612may remain constant over a predetermined period of time. Thus, there may be an instant and steady spike in capacitance on the located keys. Such an instant and steady spike may rise to its maximum immediately or otherwise above a predetermined range, rate, or threshold of capacitance increase. As an additional or alternative example, if not constant, the detected capacitance increase at612may include a gradual increase having multiple discrete rises in the capacitance value (e.g., over a predetermined period of time). Thus, there may be a ramp up from an initial spike in capacitance to a later-detected maximum at the located keys. The gradual increase may be within a predetermined range or rate of capacitance increase.

If the capacitance increase is constant, the method600may proceed to620. By contrast, if the capacitance increase is not constant, the method600may proceed to630.

At620, the method600includes determining alternating current (AC) input. For instance, the controller may evaluate the AC signal to one or more burners. Thus, the controller may determine if a significant AC signal is being directed to one or more of the burners. As an example,620may include detecting an AC signal below the set threshold. In other words, it may be detected and determined that the particular burner is not receiving a significant AC load and is, thus, not intended to be active (i.e., intended to be inactive).

At622, the method600includes detecting a utensil placement (e.g., based on612,614,616, or620). As an example, when the detected capacitance increase includes an increased capacitance remaining constant over a predetermined period of time (e.g., along a predetermined outline surrounding the corresponding burner), it may be indicated a burner corresponding to the located keys has received a utensil placement thereon. As an additional or alternative example, wherein620includes detecting an AC signal below the set threshold, a burner corresponding to the located keys may be determined to be inactive. As a further additional or alternative example, the located keys may be determined to be spaced apart from the burners. In turn, an offset utensil may be detected.

Optionally, values of the capacitance increase or the shape of capacitance increases on the grid may be correlated to specific utensils or metals. Thus, one or more characteristics of a detected utensil of the utensil placement may be identified (e.g., based on the capacitance signals at610).

At624, the method600includes directing a responsive action (e.g., in response to620or622). Such responsive actions may include one or more alerts (e.g., prompted at the control panel or remote user device), such as a visual or auditory message, visual indicator (e.g., illuminated icon or visible engagement map), audible alarm or alert tone, etc. As an example, a determined utensil or utensil placement may displayed (e.g., on the control panel or remote user device). As an example, such response actions may include controlling one or more burners. As an additional or alternative example, detection of a utensil on one burner may prompt a responsive action permitting activation of the corresponding engaged burner (e.g., while restricting activation of any remaining non-engaged burners). As another additional or alternative example, if certain utensils (e.g., characteristics thereof) are detected, activation of one or more burners may be restricted. For instance, detection of an offset utensil or identification of a predetermined unsuitable utensil may prompt a responsive action restricting activation of one or more burners.

Returning to630, at630, the method600includes determining alternating current (AC) input. For instance, the controller may evaluate the AC signal to one or more burners. Thus, the controller may determine if a significant AC signal is being directed to one or more of the burners. As an example,630may include detecting an AC signal above the set threshold. In other words, it may be detected and determined that the particular burner is receiving a significant AC load and is, thus, intended to be active.

At632, the method600includes determining an active burner. As an example, wherein the detected capacitance increase includes a gradual increase having multiple discrete rises in the capacitance value over a predetermined period of time (e.g., along a predetermined outline surrounding the corresponding burner), it may be indicated that the corresponding burner is being engaged as an active burner. As an additional or alternative example, determination of an active burner may further include detecting an AC signal above the set threshold at630.

At634, the method600includes determining burner temperature (i.e., of the active burner based on612,614,616,630, or632). Generally, the detected gradual increase in capacitance may be correlated to a rise in temperature (e.g., according to a predetermined formula, chart, graph, or lookup table, as would be understood). Thus, temperature at the corresponding locations (e.g., active burner) on the capacitance grid may be determined based on the detected capacitance increase.

At636, the method600includes optionally detecting a constant temperature over a predetermined time threshold (e.g., at the active burner). In other words, it may be determined that temperature at the active burner is maintained at a constant temperature (e.g., above a set temperature threshold) over or in excess of a predetermined time threshold. Thus, it may be detected if the temperature at the active burner is elevated or constant for too long (e.g., without requiring or relying solely on a dedicated temperature sensor).

At638, the method600includes directing a responsive action (e.g., in response to632,634, or636). Such responsive actions may include one or more alerts (e.g., prompted at the control panel or remote user device), such as a visual or auditory message, visual indicator (e.g., illuminated icon or visible engagement map), audible alarm or alert tone, etc. As an example, identification of an engaged burner may displayed (e.g., on the control panel or remote user device). As an additional or alternative example, an alarm may be prompted or directed (e.g., on the control panel or remote user device). For instance, an excess-time alarm may be prompted or directed at the control panel (e.g., in response to detecting a constant temperature over a predetermined time threshold).

Such response actions may further include controlling one or more burners. As an example, an active burner may be restricted or adjusted to an inactive state (e.g., in response to detecting a constant temperature over a predetermined time threshold).