Patent Description:
Embodiments of the present disclosure relates generally to a cooking device and components thereof, and more specifically, a multifunction device configured to perform the operation of a plurality of distinct cooking devices, the multifunctional cooking device optionally employing various components for cooking in the distinct cooking modes.

Conventional cooking devices, such as pressure cookers and air fryers each perform a single cooking operation, and as such, these devices employ different components and method for cooking food items. As such, multiple devices are required to perform various cooking operations. For consumers that wish to enjoy food cooked in different ways via different operations, an accumulation of these devices can occur. Such an accumulation of cooking devices is often prohibitive from a standpoint of cost and storage space. For at least these reasons, it would be desirable to integrate the functionality of several cooking devices into a single user-friendly cooking device.

<CIT> discloses a cooking oven including a food temperature sensor wherein the temperature data is sent to the controller.

According to an example, a cooking system for cooking food includes a housing defining a hollow chamber configured to receive the food, a lid movable relative to said housing between an open position and a closed position to form a pressure-tight cooking volume between said hollow chamber and said lid, at least one heating element associated with at least one of said housing and said lid, and a temperature probe positionable within said pressure-tight cooking volume. The cooking system is operable in a pressure cooking mode and during said pressure cooking mode. The temperature probe is operable to detect a temperature of the food in said pressure-tight cooking volume.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in said pressure cooking mode, a pressure of said cooking volume is at least <NUM> kPa.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims in said pressure cooking mode, said pressure of said cooking volume is between <NUM> kPa and 100kPa.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims in said pressure cooking mode, said pressure of said cooking volume is at least 70kPa.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims in said pressure cooking mode, said pressure of said cooking volume is at least 100kPa.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said temperature probe is permanently affixed to one of said housing and said lid.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples said temperature probe is removably connectable to one of said housing and said lid.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims comprising: a first connector associated with said temperature probe and a second connector mounted to one of said housing and said lid, said first connector being removably connectable to said second connector.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said second connector is mounted to said lid.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said first connector is a male connector and said second connector is a female connector.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said first connector has a shaft and a first housing and said second connector has a second housing including a central opening, and both said shaft and said first housing being receivable within said central opening.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said first connector has a shaft and a first housing and said second connector has a second housing including a central opening, wherein said shaft is receivable within said central opening and said first housing is received about an outer periphery of said second housing.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims a seal is formed at an interface between said first connector and said second connector.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims pressure builds within said pressure-tight cooking volume during said pressure cooking mode assists with formation of said seal.

According to an embodiment, a temperature measurement system for measuring food temperature includes a temperature probe including a probe end insertable into the food and a data transmission end and a connector including a data receiving orifice. The data transmission end of said temperature probe is insertable into said data receiving orifice An interior of said connector is sealed from an environment surrounding said connector. When said data transmission end of said probe is inserted into said data receiving orifice a pressure tight seal is formed in said data receiving orifice.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said connector is an encapsulated socket.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims the temperature measurement system is installed within a cooking system, the cooking system including: a housing defining a hollow chamber configured to receive food, a lid movable relative to said housing between an open position and a closed position to define a cooking volume between said hollow chamber and said lid, and at least one heating element associated with at least one of said housing and said lid.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said connector is located remotely from said cooking volume.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said connector is mounted within an interior of said lid.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims a pressure within said interior of said connector is equal to a pressure of said cooking volume when said data transmission end of said temperature probe is not inserted within said data receiving orifice.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims a pressure within said interior of said connector is equal to a pressure of said cooking volume when said data transmission end of said temperature probe is inserted within said data receiving orifice.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims said data transmission end is insertable into said data receiving orifice to seal said interior of said socket from said cooking volume.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments said temperature probe is operable during a pressure cooking mode of the cooking system.

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification embodies several aspects of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serves to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings:.

With reference now to <FIG>, an example of the cooking system <NUM> is illustrated. As shown, the cooking system <NUM> includes a base <NUM> and a lid <NUM> permanently or removable attached to the base <NUM>. The base <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> made of any suitable material, such as glass, aluminum, plastic, or stainless steel for example. A bottom of the housing <NUM> of the cooking system <NUM> (see FIG. 1B) may be supported on a surface by one or more feet <NUM>, which may include shock absorbing pads 28a (of a material such as but not limited to rubber) at a bottom surface thereof. The feet <NUM> may extend from the housing <NUM> to define a surface on which the cooking system <NUM> may contact an adjacent supporting surface, such as a countertop for example. The bottom surface of the feet <NUM> or pads 28a may be flush with, or alternatively, may extend out of plane from the bottom surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In the illustrated, example which is not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the housing <NUM> includes two feet <NUM> arranged on opposing sides of the housing <NUM>; however, it should be understood that a housing having any suitable number of feet <NUM> is within the scope of the disclosure.

A liner <NUM> may be disposed within the hollow interior <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The liner <NUM> may be formed from any suitable conductive material, such as aluminum for example. In an example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the liner <NUM> forms an interior surface of the housing <NUM> and thereby defines the hollow interior <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Alternatively, the liner <NUM> may be offset from the interior surface of the housing <NUM>. However, it should be understood that other components of the cooking system <NUM>, or surfaces thereof, may also define the hollow interior <NUM>.

A cooking container <NUM> is receivable within the hollow interior <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Although the cooking container <NUM> is described herein as being removable from the housing <NUM> of the base <NUM>, embodiments where the cooking container <NUM> is integrally formed with the housing <NUM> are also contemplated herein. Spacing components, such as silicone bumpers (not shown) may be disposed along the inner surface of the liner <NUM> to keep the cooking container <NUM> aligned properly within the hollow interior <NUM> during cooking.

The cooking container <NUM> has an interior <NUM> designed to receive and retain one or more consumable products, such as food products for example, therein. Examples of food products suitable for use with the cooking system <NUM>, include but are not limited to, meats, fish, poultry, bread, rice, grains, pasta, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products, among others. The cooking container <NUM> may be a pot formed from a ceramic, metal, or die cast aluminum material. In an embodiment, an interior surface of the cooking container <NUM> includes a nano-ceramic coating and an exterior surface of the cooking container <NUM> includes a silicone epoxy material. However, any suitable material capable of withstanding the high temperatures required for cooking food products is contemplated herein. Further, one or more handles may be associated with the cooking container <NUM> to allow a user to easily grasp and manipulate the cooking container <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM>.

One or more accessories, may be compatible for use with the cooking system <NUM>. Examples of such accessories include, but are not limited to, a diffuser, a crisping insert, grill plate, and a griddle for example. In such embodiments, the accessories may be receivable within the hollow interior <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, or alternatively, within the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM>.

Referring with more detail to the lid <NUM>, it should be noted that the lid <NUM> is connectable to a surface of the cooking container <NUM> and/or housing <NUM> to close off entry to the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM>. Accordingly, a cooking volume may be defined between the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM> and the closed lid <NUM>, such as the bottom surface of the closed lid, or alternatively, between the hollow interior <NUM> defined by the housing <NUM> and the closed lid <NUM>. In an embodiment, a diameter of the lid <NUM> is generally complementary to a diameter of the housing <NUM> such that the lid <NUM> covers not only the cooking container <NUM>, but also an upper surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

The lid <NUM> is movable relative to the base <NUM> between an open position, in which the cooking container <NUM> is accessible, and a closed position to selectively cover the hollow interior <NUM> and interior <NUM>. The lid <NUM> may be distinct and separable from the base <NUM>, or alternatively, the lid <NUM> may be movably connected to the base <NUM>. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of <FIG>, the lid <NUM> is pivotable or rotatable relative to the base <NUM> via a hinge, such that the lid is rotatable about a pivot axis P. However, other types or movement of the lid <NUM> are also within the scope of the disclosure.

One or more fastening mechanisms (not shown) may but need not be used to secure the lid <NUM> or a portion thereof to the base <NUM> when the lid <NUM> is in the closed position. In an embodiment, the fastening mechanism is selectively engaged when the lid <NUM> is in the closed position, or alternatively in some embodiments based on a selected cooking operation, such as pressure cooking for example, of the system <NUM>. Any suitable type of fastening mechanism capable of withstanding the heat and pressure associated with the cooking system <NUM> is considered within the scope of the disclosure.

In the example not encompassed by the wording of the claims of <FIG> and <FIG>, the cooking system <NUM> additionally includes a secondary lid <NUM> configured to removably couple to the housing <NUM> and/or cooking container <NUM> to seal the hollow interior <NUM>. The secondary lid <NUM> may be press-fit onto an upper surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> or directly to the cooking container <NUM>, or alternatively, may be configured to threadably couple to the upper surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> or the cooking container <NUM>.

The secondary lid <NUM> can be made of any suitable material, such as glass, aluminum, plastic, or stainless steel, or any combination thereof for example. In an embodiment, the secondary lid <NUM> is formed from a stamped stainless steel material and may have a decorative plastic exterior. In addition, the secondary lid <NUM> may, but need not, include one or more handles, such as handle <NUM> for removably coupling the secondary lid <NUM> to the cooking system <NUM>. The handle <NUM> may be integrally formed with the secondary lid <NUM>, such as via a molding process, or may be a separate component coupled to the secondary lid <NUM>.

It should be noted that in an example not encompassed by the wording of the claims the secondary lid <NUM> is a pressure lid. That is, the secondary lid <NUM> is connectable to the housing <NUM> in a manner that creates a pressure tight seal with an upper portion of the cooking container <NUM>. This seal can be achieved by locking or fastening the lid to the housing <NUM>, while a component of the secondary lid <NUM>, such as a flexible/resilient gasket, forms the pressure tight seal with the upper portion of the cooking container <NUM>. This gasket may be made of rubber, silicone, or other similar materials.

By affixing the secondary lid <NUM> to the housing <NUM> and cooking container <NUM>, a pressure-tight cooking volume may be defined between the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM> and the closed secondary lid <NUM>. Within this volume, a high pressure cooking environment is achievable, with pressure levels reaching at least 40kPa, and in some instances at least 70kPa. Pressure ranges between 40kPa and 100kPa, as well as between 70kPa and 100kPa are contemplated, and may reach a threshold of 100kPa, 200kPa, 300kPa, 400kPa, 500kPa, or even greater.

To couple the secondary lid <NUM> to the housing <NUM>, the lid <NUM> must be in an open position (see <FIG>). Further, in an embodiment, the lid <NUM> is not movable to the closed position relative to the housing <NUM> when the secondary lid <NUM> is affixed thereto. This may be due to the outer diameter of the secondary lid <NUM>, or alternatively, because one or more components extending upwardly from the secondary lid <NUM>, such as handle <NUM>, would interfere with a portion of the lid <NUM>. However, in other examples at least a portion of the secondary lid <NUM> may be nestable or receivable within the lid <NUM>. In such embodiments, the outer diameter of the secondary lid <NUM> may be smaller than the inner diameter of the lid <NUM>, such that the lid <NUM> substantially surrounds the secondary lid <NUM> when in the closed position. Accordingly, the enclosure defined by the hollow interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM> and the secondary lid <NUM> is smaller than the enclosure formed by the hollow interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM> and the lid <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, in another embodiment, the lid <NUM> is the only lid connectable to the housing <NUM> and/or the cooking container <NUM> during all modes of operation of the cooking system <NUM>. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the lid includes a generally convex outer lid or lid housing <NUM> made from any suitable material. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the material of the lid housing <NUM> may be substantially identical to the material of the housing <NUM>. An inner lid liner (or sealing liner) <NUM> is arranged within the hollow interior <NUM> of the lid housing <NUM>. Although the inner lid liner <NUM> is illustrated as also having a generally convex shape, embodiments where the shape of the inner lid liner <NUM> is different than the shape of the lid housing <NUM> are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, the inner lid liner <NUM> can be made of any suitable material, such as glass, aluminum, plastic, or stainless steel, or any combination thereof for example. The inner lid liner <NUM> may but need not be made from the same material as the lid housing <NUM>.

In an embodiment, a sealing surface <NUM> of the lid <NUM> is connectable to the upper surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> or directly to the cooking container <NUM> to form a pressure-tight seal between the lid <NUM> and the cooking container <NUM> or housing <NUM>. As a result, an interior surface <NUM> of the inner lid liner <NUM> defines a relatively upper boundary of a heating volume through which a fluid can circulate. In an embodiment, the sealing surface <NUM> is arranged at the end of the inner lid liner <NUM> adjacent to the cooking container <NUM>. The sealing surface <NUM> may be formed by a portion of the inner lid liner <NUM> itself, or as best shown in the <FIG>, a flexible/resilient gasket <NUM> connected to a portion of the inner lid liner <NUM>, such as the end thereof, may define the sealing surface <NUM>. This gasket <NUM> may be made of rubber, silicone, or other similar materials, and may include a flange that is received within an interior of the cooking container <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the pressure tight seal formed between the lid <NUM> and the cooking container <NUM> or housing <NUM> may occur during all cooking modes, or just select cooking modes such as those modes that involve pressure or conductive cooking.

In examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims wherein the pressure tight seal is just formed in select cooking modes, this seal may not be formed in air fry or convection modes, and the lid <NUM> may simply rest on the upper surface <NUM> of the housing or the cooking container <NUM> when the lid <NUM> is closed.

In an example not encompassed by the wording of the claims closing the lid <NUM> relative to the base <NUM> may form a pressure-tight press-fit connection between the sealing surface <NUM> and/or the cooking container <NUM>.

Regardless of whether rotation of the lid lock <NUM> is required to form a pressure-tight seal, the lid lock <NUM> is operable as a locking mechanism that retains or locks the lid <NUM> in the closed position relative to the base <NUM>. For example, the lid lock <NUM> may include a first portion of a bayonet locking system such that by rotating the lid lock <NUM>, one or more engagement members <NUM> (see <FIG>) formed on the lid lock <NUM> abut or intermesh with one or more engagement members <NUM> (<FIG>) of a complementary second portion of the bayonet locking system extending from an upper portion of the housing <NUM> to restrict movement of the sealing surface <NUM> away from the cooking container <NUM> in response to an increased pressure within the heating volume. In other embodiments where a pressure-tight seal is formed upon closing the lid <NUM> relative to the base <NUM>, another locking mechanism, distinct from the lid lock <NUM> may be operable to maintain the sealing surface <NUM> in sealing engagement with the cooking container <NUM> once a pressurized environment is generated.

At least a portion of or a part connected to and extending from the lid lock <NUM> may be accessible at an exterior surface of the cooking system <NUM> for manipulation by a user to selectively lock the lid <NUM> to the base <NUM> so as to form and/or maintain a pressure-tight heating volume defined between the interior surface <NUM> of the inner lid liner <NUM> and the cooking chamber of the cooking container <NUM> (to be described in more detail below). In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, best shown in <FIG>, the lid lock <NUM> includes an outwardly extending protrusion in the form of a mode selector <NUM>, also referred to herein as a mode selector, arranged within an opening <NUM>, for example a slot, formed at an exterior surface of the lid housing <NUM>. In such embodiments, a user may transform the lid lock <NUM> between locked and unlocked configurations by translating the mode selector <NUM> within the opening <NUM> between a first position and a second position. Although the inner lid liner <NUM> is described herein as being stationary and the lid lock <NUM> is described as being movable relative to the inner lid liner <NUM>, embodiments where the inner lid liner <NUM> is coupled to or is formed as a unitary body with the lid lock <NUM>, such that both the inner lid liner <NUM> and the lid lock <NUM> are movable relative to the lid housing <NUM> in unison are also within the scope of the disclosure.

The lid <NUM>, or the secondary lid <NUM> in examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims including a distinct lid for a pressure cooking application, may additionally include a pressure relief mechanism <NUM>, such as a vent or valve. The pressure relief mechanism <NUM> may be configured to automatically open to release air from within the heating volume formed between the interior <NUM> of the inner lid liner <NUM> and the cooking container <NUM> or between the secondary lid <NUM> and the cooking container <NUM> when the pressure therein exceeds a predetermined threshold, such as during operation of the cooking system in a first cooking mode performing a pressure cooking operation. Alternatively, or in addition, the pressure relief mechanism <NUM> is manually operable, such as rotatable about a vertically oriented axis for example, to release air from within the chamber. In a closed position, the pressure relief mechanism <NUM> prevents steam (or air and/or other fluids) from leaving the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM>. In an open position, the pressure relief mechanism <NUM> allows steam (or air and/or other fluids) to exit the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM>.

The cooking system <NUM> includes at least one heating element operable to impart heat to the cooking volume during one or more of a plurality of cooking modes of the cooking system <NUM>. In the illustrated example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, a first heating element <NUM> is positioned generally at or above an upper extent of the cooking container <NUM>, such as proximate a center of the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM> for example. As shown, the at least one first heating element <NUM> is mounted within the lid <NUM>, and therefore completely outside of the cooking container <NUM>, and vertically offset from the upper extent thereof. In embodiments where the lid <NUM> has an inner lid liner <NUM>, the first heating element <NUM> is arranged within the interior <NUM> of the inner lid liner <NUM>. Alternatively, or in addition, a second heating element <NUM> may be disposed within the housing <NUM>, generally adjacent the bottom <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM>.

The at least one first and second heating element <NUM>, <NUM> may be capable of performing any suitable type of heat generation. For example, a first and second heating element <NUM>, <NUM> configured to heat the cooking container <NUM> or one or more food items located within the interior <NUM> of the cooking container <NUM> via conduction, convection, radiation, and induction are all within the scope of the disclosure. In the illustrated example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the first heating element <NUM> is operable to cook food within the cooking container <NUM> via a non-contact cooking operation. As used herein, the term "non-contact cooking operation" includes any cooking operation where a heating element or heat source is not arranged in direct or indirect contact with a food item, such as, but not limited to, convective and radiant heating. In such embodiments, the cooking system <NUM> additionally includes an air movement device, such as a fan <NUM> for example, operable to circulate air within the cooking volume. The air is heated as it flows along its path of circulation, such as by flowing over a portion of the at least one first heating element <NUM>. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the fan <NUM> is arranged within the interior <NUM> of the lid <NUM>, downstream from the first heating element <NUM> relative to the path of circulation of the air. The fan <NUM> is driven by a motor <NUM> having a separate cooling mechanism coupled thereto.

In an example not encompassed by the wording of the claims the second heating element <NUM> is operable to cook food within the cooking container <NUM> via a contact cooking operation. As used herein, the term "contact cooking operation" includes a cooking operation where heat is transmitted via direct or indirect contact between a heating element or heat source and a food item, such as, but not limited to, conductive and inductive cooking.

Further, in examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims including first heating element <NUM> and second heating element <NUM>, it should be understood that the first and second heating elements <NUM>, <NUM> may be operable independently or in combination to apply one or more predetermined power settings to cook the food products within the cooking container. In operation, the first and second heating elements <NUM>, <NUM> may be capable of cooking the food independent of the loading of the food. In other words, the first and second heating elements <NUM>, <NUM> may be capable of cooking the food independent of the amount of food within the cooking container <NUM>. The cooking operations that may be performed by the cooking system <NUM> include but are not limited to pressure cooking, steam cooking, slow cooking, searing, sautéing air frying, broiling, baking/roasting, dehydrating, and grilling. Parameters associated with the various described cooking modes are shown at <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the lid <NUM> may include a fan cover <NUM> that protects a user from the first heating element <NUM> and fan <NUM> and protects the first heating element <NUM> and fan <NUM> from the areas of the cooking system <NUM> where food is cooked. In the illustrated example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the cover <NUM> is mounted within the lid <NUM>, such as adjacent, and more specifically upstream from, the first heating element <NUM> relative to an air flow. The cover <NUM> generally includes a body having formed from any suitable heat-resistant material. The body of the cover <NUM> has a plurality of openings (not shown) formed therein to allow hot air circulating within the chamber of the cooking container <NUM> to pass there through. In the illustrated example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the cover <NUM> has a nano-ceramic coating and is mounted via any suitable mounting mechanism, such as via one or more fasteners for example, and may be removably or permanently arranged therein. The cover <NUM> may be sized to substantially overlap, and therefore protect, the entire surface of the first heating element <NUM> facing the cooking volume. In an example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, a contour of the cover <NUM> is generally complementary to the shape of the first heating element <NUM> to protect the surface of the first heating element <NUM> closest to the cooking volume. However, in other embodiments, the contour of the cover <NUM> may be complementary to the interior of the lid <NUM>. Accordingly, when the lid <NUM> is in the closed position, the cover <NUM> is arranged generally above the first open end of the cooking container <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG>, the cooking system <NUM> may additionally include a temperature measurement system <NUM> for monitoring a temperature within the cooking chamber during a cooking operation, such as during a pressure cooking operation for example. In an embodiment, the temperature measurement system <NUM> is used to measure the environment within the cooking chamber. Alternatively, the temperature measurement system <NUM> may be used to measure the temperature of a food item or a liquid within the cooking chamber. In an embodiment, best shown in <FIG>, the temperature measurement system <NUM> includes a positionable temperature probe <NUM>. A temperature probe <NUM> including any suitable type of temperature sensor (not shown), such as a thermometer, a thermistor, a thermocouple, or a resistance temperature detector for example, is within the scope of the disclosure. In such embodiments, the temperature sensor may be configured to measure a change in voltage which is then converted to a temperature. However, a temperature sensor operable to measure another parameter within the cooking chamber is also contemplated herein. Further, although the probe <NUM> is illustrated and described herein for use during a pressure cooking operation, it should be understood that embodiments where the probe <NUM> is also suitable for use in another cooking mode, such as during an air frying cooking operation for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

In an embodiment, the temperature probe <NUM> is removably connectable to a portion of the cooking system <NUM>, such as the lid <NUM> or the secondary lid <NUM> for example. In such examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the temperature measurement system <NUM> includes a first connector <NUM>, such as a male connector, associated with the temperature probe <NUM>, and a second connector <NUM>, such as a female connector, mounted to the cooking system <NUM> and configured to couple to the first connector <NUM>. However, in other examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims, at least a portion of the temperature measurement system <NUM>, such as the temperature probe <NUM> for example, may be permanently affixed to cooking system <NUM> at a fixed point, such as located at the lid <NUM> or the lid housing <NUM> or inner lid liner <NUM> for example. When a portion of the temperature measurement system <NUM> is affixed to the system <NUM> at the fixed point, the temperature probe <NUM> may be movable relative to the fixed point, such as via a cable <NUM> extending between the temperature probe <NUM> and the fixed point. In such examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the permanent connection between the cable and the fixed point may be used in place of the first and second connectors <NUM>, <NUM><NUM>.

In the illustrated examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims of <FIG>, the first connector <NUM>, which defines a data transmission end opposite the probe end of the temperature probe <NUM>, includes a shaft <NUM> divided into a plurality of sections, such as including a sleeve <NUM> and a tip <NUM>. In some examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the shaft <NUM> additionally includes at least one ring <NUM> disposed between the sleeve <NUM> and the tip <NUM>. Further, the first connector <NUM> may include one or more contactors <NUM> (see <FIG>) corresponding to each of the sleeve <NUM>, tip <NUM>, and at least one ring <NUM> of the shaft <NUM>. The first connector <NUM> additionally includes a housing <NUM> within which a portion of the shaft <NUM> is located. This housing <NUM> is typically formed from an insulating, non-conductive material, such as a polymer for example, and is contoured to provide strain relief at the first connector <NUM>. In the illustrated example not encompassed by the wording of the claims the sleeve <NUM>, tip <NUM>, and at least one ring <NUM> extend beyond an end of the housing <NUM>, such as at a center thereof. Further, a protective or insulative cable <NUM> connected to or integrally formed with the housing <NUM> extends from the housing <NUM> to an end of the temperature probe <NUM>. One or more wires (not shown) positioned within the cable <NUM> may be electrically connected to the one or more contactors <NUM> associated with or connected to the shaft <NUM>, as well as to the temperature sensor or another component within the temperature probe <NUM>.

As shown, the second connector <NUM> is arranged at a surface <NUM> of the cooking system <NUM>, such as at the lid <NUM> or <NUM> for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, surface <NUM> is the interior surface <NUM> of the inner lid liner <NUM> of lid <NUM>. It should be understood that in other embodiments, surface <NUM> may be the interior surface of lid <NUM>. Further, it should be understood that the second connector <NUM> may be located at any location about the interior of the cooking system <NUM>, including a portion of the base <NUM>. In each of the illustrated examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the second connector <NUM> has a central opening <NUM> within which the shaft <NUM> of the first connector <NUM> is receivable. The second connector <NUM> defines a data receiving orifice configured to receive the data transmission end of the temperature probe <NUM>.

Various configuration of the interface between the data transmission end or first connector <NUM> and the data receiving orifice or second connector <NUM> are contemplated herein. In the example not encompassed by the wording of the claims of <FIG>, <FIG>, a contour of the exterior of the housing <NUM> of the first connector <NUM> is complementary in size and shape to the central opening <NUM> formed in the second connector <NUM>. Accordingly, when the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> are coupled, both the shaft <NUM> and a portion of the housing <NUM> are received within opening <NUM> of the second connector <NUM>. Further, as shown, the housing <NUM> of the first connector <NUM> may include a radially outwardly extending protrusion or flange <NUM> receivable within a corresponding groove <NUM> formed at an interior surface of the second connector <NUM>. This interface between the protrusion <NUM> and the groove <NUM> not only restricts movement of the first connector <NUM> relative to the second connector <NUM> but also forms a seal between the first and second connector <NUM>, <NUM>.

In another embodiment, best shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, only the shaft <NUM> of the first connector <NUM> is receivable within the opening <NUM> of the second connector <NUM>. As shown, the housing <NUM> of the first connector <NUM> is receivable about an outer periphery of the second connector <NUM>. In the illustrated example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the exterior of a housing <NUM> of the second connector <NUM> includes a first plurality of threads <NUM> and the first connector <NUM> includes a coupling component <NUM> mounted concentrically about the shaft <NUM>, having a second plurality of threads <NUM>. When the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> are coupled, the coupling component <NUM> of the first connector <NUM> is threadably engaged with the housing <NUM> of the second connector <NUM>. As a result, movement of the first connector <NUM> relative to the second connector <NUM> is restricted and a seal is formed between the second connector <NUM> and the coupling component <NUM>. In an embodiment, an o-ring, gasket, or other sealing mechanism <NUM> is additionally formed at a face of the coupling component <NUM> configured to abut the surface <NUM> adjacent to the second connector <NUM>. Inclusion of this sealing mechanism <NUM> prevents air from passing between the end of the first connector <NUM> and the lid <NUM>.

In yet another example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, the second connector <NUM> includes a coupling component <NUM> that extends substantially perpendicular to the surface <NUM> of the lid <NUM>. Further, an end of the cable <NUM> includes a cable housing <NUM> arranged within the interior of the housing <NUM>, and the shaft <NUM> may be directly coupled to the inner cable housing <NUM> rather than housing <NUM>. In the illustrated example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, a clearance <NUM> is defined between an exterior surface of the inner cable housing <NUM> and an interior surface of the housing <NUM>. When the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> are coupled, at least a portion of the coupling component <NUM> of the second connector <NUM> is received within the clearance <NUM> defined between the housing <NUM> and the inner cable housing <NUM>. Further, in an example not encompassed by the wording of the claims, the inner cable housing <NUM> includes a radially outwardly extending protrusion or flange <NUM> receivable within a corresponding groove <NUM> formed at an interior surface of the coupling component <NUM>. This interface between the protrusion <NUM> and the groove <NUM> restricts movement of the first connector <NUM> relative to the second connector <NUM> and forms a seal there between. Further, in each of the examples not encompassed by the wording of the claims <FIG>, the increased pressure present within the cooking chamber during a pressure cooking operation exerts a force on the first connector <NUM>, facilitating the formation of a seal at the interface between the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG>, <FIG>, in yet another embodiment, the second connector <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> including a first portion <NUM> arranged adjacent the surface <NUM> of the inner lid liner <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> arranged adjacent an opposite side of the lid inner lid liner <NUM>. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> of the second connector <NUM> includes an at least partially hollow encapsulated socket. The interior of the encapsulated socket is constructed to have its own pressurized environment that is separate from and unaffected by the pressure of the surrounding environment within the lid.

The central opening <NUM> formed in the first portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is axially aligned with an opening or orifice (not shown) formed in the second portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Accordingly, the interior of the encapsulated socket is arranged in fluid communication with the cooking volume. As a result, regardless of the cooking operation being performed, a pressure within the interior of the encapsulated socket may be equal to the pressure within the cooking volume when the temperature probe <NUM> is not connected to the lid. The data transmission end <NUM> of the temperature probe <NUM> is insertable into the encapsulated socket via the data receiving orifice <NUM>. When the temperature probe <NUM> is coupled to the encapsulated socket, the pressure within the encapsulated socket may remain equal to the pressure within the cooking volume. However, insertion of the temperature probe <NUM> into the encapsulated socket sealss off the interior of the socket from the cooking volume.

In an embodiment, the second portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> includes a face element <NUM> arranged in contact with the inner lid liner <NUM>. The face element <NUM> is functions as a shield and is configured to prevent debris from entering into the interior of the encapsulated socket. As best shown in <FIG>, the face element <NUM> may be formed from a plurality of layers of material. For example, the face element <NUM> may include at least one layer of a low friction material <NUM>, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), to facilitate insertion of the shaft into the second portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Alternatively, or in addition, the face element <NUM> may include one or more layers of resilient material <NUM>, such as elastic or silicone for example, to allow the face element <NUM> to recover in response to insertion or removal of the shaft <NUM>. Although the layer of low friction material <NUM> is illustrated as being positioned between the layer of resilient material <NUM> and the inner lid liner <NUM>, embodiments where the layer of resilient material <NUM> is disposed between the layer of low friction material <NUM> and the inner lid liner 45are also contemplated herein.

Claim 1:
A cooking system (<NUM>) having a temperature measurement system (<NUM>) for measuring food temperature, the cooking system (<NUM>) comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) defining a hollow chamber (<NUM>) configured to receive food, and having a lid (<NUM>) that defines a cooking volume within the hollow chamber (<NUM>) when the lid (<NUM>) is in a closed position relative to the housing (<NUM>);
at least one heating element (<NUM>, <NUM>) associated with at least one of said housing (<NUM>) and said lid (<NUM>);
a temperature probe (<NUM>) including a probe end insertable into food disposed within the hollow chamber, and a data transmission end (<NUM>); and
a connector (<NUM>) mounted within an interior of the lid (<NUM>), the connector (<NUM>) including a data receiving orifice, said data transmission end (<NUM>) of said temperature probe (<NUM>) being insertable into said data receiving orifice, wherein an interior of said connector (<NUM>) is sealed from an environment within the lid (<NUM>) surrounding said connector (<NUM>) and is in fluid communication with the cooking volume when said data transmission end (<NUM>) of said temperature probe (<NUM>) is not inserted therein;
wherein said data transmission end (<NUM>) of said probe (<NUM>) is insertable into said data receiving orifice to form a pressure tight seal in said data receiving orifice to seal off the interior of the connector (<NUM>) from the cooking volume.