WO2025238196A1

WO2025238196A1 - Safety device for an induction stove top

Info

Publication number: WO2025238196A1
Application number: PCT/EP2025/063500
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jan Lindekilde HANSEN
Original assignee: Handigood Aps
Current assignee: Handigood Aps
Priority date: 2024-05-16
Filing date: 2025-05-16
Publication date: 2025-11-20
Anticipated expiration: 2026-11-16

Abstract

The present invention relates to a safety device for an induction stove top with an induction plate.

Description

Safety device for an induction stove top

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to a safety device for an induction stove top with a flat induction plate.

Background of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to safety devices for cooking appliances, and more particularly to safety accessories for induction stove tops configured to secure cooking vessels during use.

Induction stove tops have become increasingly popular in modem kitchens due to their energy efficiency, sleek design, and precise temperature control. These stove tops typically comprise a flat surface, often made of ceramic glass, beneath which is arranged at least one electromagnetic induction coil. When an alternating current (AC) is passed through the coil, it generates a rapidly changing magnetic field. Placing a compatible ferromagnetic cooking vessel on the surface enables the magnetic field to induce an electric current within the base of the vessel. The resistance of the cookware to this current causes the vessel itself to heat up, providing an efficient and localized heating process.

Although induction cooking is generally safe and efficient, the inherently smooth surface of the induction plate can present practical challenges. In particular, cooking vessels placed on the stove top can easily slide or shift, especially when bumped or stirred forcefully. This poses a risk of spillage, bums, or other safety hazards, particularly in environments with young children, individuals with reduced mobility, or in commercial kitchens. US patent application publication US2015/0382407 A1 describes an induction stove assembly that employs pads between the stove’s cook-top and cooking vessels. These pads are removable and interchangeable and serve primarily to protect the cook-top surface, facilitate cleaning, and provide thermal insulation. However, such pads do not contribute to stabilizing or securing the position of cookware on the stove top. In some cases, the presence of a pad may even reduce the friction between the cookware and the stove surface, potentially increasing the risk of slippage.

European patent application EP 3 981 299 A1 discloses a holder designed to secure an item via suction. The device includes a face with a suction port, a vacuum pump, a controller, and a bleed valve system operable via a manual control element. While effective for securing objects in general, the disclosed system is not designed for use in combination with an induction stove top, nor does it address the specific thermal and spatial constraints associated with high- temperature cooking appliances.

There is therefore a need for a safety device that is compatible with induction stove tops and that can effectively secure a cooking vessel to the induction plate during operation without interfering with the heating process. The present invention addresses this need by providing a vacuum-assisted plate member that adheres both to the induction surface and to the underside of a cooking vessel, thereby enhancing cooking safety and stability.

Object of the Invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a safety device for an induction stove top that is easy to use and provides the necessary protection against unwanted movement of the cookware on the induction stove top. Summary of the Invention

To address the limitations of existing induction stove top accessories and to improve cooking safety, the present invention provides a safety device that is configured to secure a cooking vessel to the surface of an induction stove top during use. The device does so without interfering with the induction heating process and is compatible with the thermal and spatial constraints of such cooking environments.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a safety device for use with an induction stove top having a flat induction plate. The safety device comprises a plate member configured to be positioned on a heating area of the induction plate. The plate member includes a through hole and is operably connected to a vacuum pump unit, which is preferably battery driven. The plate member is constructed from a material and dimensioned such that, in use, a vacuum generated by the vacuum pump unit through the through hole enables the plate member to be secured simultaneously to the surface of the induction plate and to the underside of a cooking vessel. The plate member is further characterized by being non-ferromagnetic and of a thickness, such as of a thickness within the range of 1-5 mm, that permits inductive heating of the cooking vessel by the induction stove top without thermal conduction by the plate member.

To facilitate safe and convenient handling, the safety device may also include a handle attached to or integrally formed with the plate member. In such embodiments, the vacuum pump unit may be integrated within the handle, which may also include an air outlet configured to discharge air to the exterior.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for cooking food. The system comprises an induction stove top including a flat induction plate, and a safety device as described in the first aspect. In an alternative configuration of the system, the induction stove top itself includes a vacuum pump unit that is operably connectable to the through hole in a plate member positioned on the heating area of the induction plate. The plate member, in such systems, is dimensioned and formed from a material that enables it to be secured both to the induction plate and to a cooking vessel via the applied vacuum. The plate member may also have a thickness in the range of 1 to 5 millimeters.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided an induction stove top that integrates the vacuum mechanism. The stove top comprises a flat induction plate defining at least one heating area and a vacuum pump unit operably connectable to a through hole of a plate member adapted to be positioned on the heating area. The vacuum pump unit is configured to generate a vacuum sufficient to secure the plate member simultaneously to the induction plate and to a cooking vessel.

The invention thereby provides a novel and effective solution to a safety challenge in induction cooking by stabilizing cooking vessels without compromising performance, hygiene, or compatibility with existing stove technologies. It also opens pathways for future integration in smart appliances and automated cooking systems.

Another aspect relates to a safety device for use on an induction stove top with a flat induction plate, the safety device comprising:

- a plate member adapted for use on a heating area of said induction plate; said plate member comprising a through hole; and

- a vacuum pump unit, preferably battery driven, operably connected to the through hole of the plate member; wherein the plate member is adapted in material and size so that it can be secured to the surface of the induction plate and to the lower side of the cooking vessel, respectively, by the use of a by the vacuum pump unit generated vacuum within the through hole. Preferably, the plate member is of a material that can withstand the heat generated in the cooking vessel by the induction plate.

Another aspect relates to a system for cooking food, said system comprising:

- an induction stove top with a flat induction plate; and

- a safety device according to the present invention.

Another aspect relates to a system for cooking food, said system comprising:

- an induction stove top with a flat induction plate; and

- a plate member adapted for use on a heating area of said induction plate; wherein the plate member comprises a through hole; wherein the induction stove top further comprises a vacuum pump unit operably connectable to the through hole of the plate member; wherein the plate member is adapted in material and size so that it can be secured to the surface of the induction plate and to the lower side of a cooking vessel, respectively, by the use of a by the vacuum pump unit generated vacuum within the through hole.

Another aspect relates to a safety device for use with an induction stove top having a flat induction plate, the safety device comprising:

- a plate member configured to be positioned on a heating area of the induction plate; the plate member including a through hole; and

- a vacuum pump unit, preferably battery driven, operably connected to the through hole of the plate member; wherein the plate member is constructed from a material and dimensioned such that, in use, a vacuum generated by the vacuum pump unit through the through hole enables the plate member to be secured simultaneously to a surface of the induction plate and to an underside of a cooking vessel; wherein the plate member is non-ferromagnetic and of a thickness, that permits inductive heating of the cooking vessel by the induction stove top, such as of a thickness within the range of 1-5 mm, without thermal conduction by the plate member.

Brief description of the figures

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a safety device according to the invention, where the safety device is shown transparent to better see individual components.

Fig. 2 shows an exploded view of a safety device according to the invention.

References

100 Safety device

110 Plate member

112 Through hole

120 Vacuum pump unit

122 Vacuum pump

124 Control unit

126 First tube

127 Second tube

128 Pressure release valve

130 Battery unit

140 Energy harvesting circuit

150 Handle

Detailed description of the invention

The present invention provides a safety device for securing a cooking vessel to the surface of an induction stove top. This improved safety solution significantly mitigates the risk of the vessel being accidentally dislodged, for example, by unintentional contact, user distraction, or children playing in the vicinity. By stabilizing the cooking vessel during use, the invention contributes to preventing spills, bums, and other injuries associated with cookware displacement on smooth induction surfaces.

In one or more embodiments, the safety device comprises a plate member configured to be positioned on a heating area of an induction stove top, particularly over a flat induction plate. The plate member includes at least one through hole and is operably connected to a vacuum pump unit, which may be battery-driven. When in use, the vacuum pump unit generates a partial vacuum through the through hole, creating a pressure differential sufficient to secure the plate member both to the surface of the induction plate and to the underside of the cooking vessel. This vacuum attachment effectively stabilizes the cooking vessel during cooking.

The plate member is preferably constructed from a polymeric or composite material having a thermal resistance corresponding to a melting point exceeding 150°C. Suitable high-performance thermoplastic polymers include polyether ether ketone (PEEK), with a melting point of approximately 343°C, and polyetherimide (PEI), with a melting point of about 217°C. These materials exhibit high strength and thermal stability suitable for sustained contact with heated cookware on induction plates.

In some embodiments, the thermoplastic material is coated with a heat-resistant elastomeric layer, such as fluorosilicone, fluoroelastomers (e.g., Viton), or silicone rubber. These coatings serve multiple functions: they maintain elasticity and structural integrity under high temperatures, enhance sealing properties for vacuum retention, and provide a non-slip interface with both the induction plate and the cooking vessel. For example, silicone rubber provides elasticity and thermal resistance, allowing it to form an effective seal against smooth glass or ceramic induction plates. The plate member is generally between 1 and 5 mm thick, preferably between 2 and 5 mm, and more preferably between 3 and 5 mm. This thickness range ensures sufficient structural integrity while maintaining compatibility with the electromagnetic properties of induction heating zones.

In some embodiments, the plate member is flexible, allowing it to conform slightly to the contours of the induction plate and cooking vessel to create a better seal when vacuum is applied.

The vacuum pump unit is preferably battery-powered and may be housed in a handle attached to or integrally formed with the plate member. The handle is ergonomically designed and may house electronic components, including the vacuum pump, control electronics, battery, and optionally a pressure release valve. In some embodiments, the handle comprises an air outlet operatively connected to the vacuum pump, allowing air to be discharged to the exterior of the handle. A valve mechanism is also provided in one or more embodiments to allow selective release of the vacuum, enabling easy detachment of the safety device from the induction plate and the cooking vessel.

In further embodiments, the plate member includes an energy harvesting circuit embedded within or attached to the plate member, adapted to supply energy to the battery unit. This circuit may include a coil, spool, or ring-shaped conductive element, and is preferably made from non-ferromagnetic conductive materials such as copper, silver, gold, or nickel, which avoid unintended heating by the induction field.

While the safety device may include a single vacuum pump connected to a single through hole, alternative embodiments contemplate multiple through holes, each connected to one or more vacuum pump units, either individually or via a shared vacuum conduit. The invention also extends to a system for cooking food, comprising an induction stove top with a flat induction plate and a safety device as described.

Alternatively, the system may comprise an induction stove top in which the vacuum pump unit is integrated within the stove top itself, and operably connectable to the through hole of a plate member configured to rest on the induction surface. In this configuration, the vacuum system may be activated via the stove’s control interface, or even automatically based on detection of a cooking vessel.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides an induction stove top comprising a built-in vacuum pump unit, configured to generate a vacuum at a heating zone via a vacuum port positioned on or adjacent to the induction plate. This allows the user to attach a compatible plate member and secure a cooking vessel through the vacuum system without the need for an external pump. In some embodiments, the integrated stove top further includes a control unit adapted to monitor vacuum levels and issue alerts or initiate safety shut-off procedures when the vacuum falls below a defined threshold.

In all described configurations, the vacuum created is typically a partial vacuum, not a complete vacuum, but is sufficient to generate the pressure differential necessary for effective adherence. When the plate member is sandwiched between the cooking vessel and the induction plate, the space within the through hole forms an enclosed volume. Upon evacuation, this volume enables a secure connection that prevents movement during cooking.

In certain embodiments, the vacuum pump unit comprises a miniature diaphragm pump capable of producing a vacuum level in the range of -50 to -300 millibar. The pump may be activated manually or via an automatic control circuit based on user input or vessel detection. In certain embodiments, the energy harvesting circuit is a thermoelectric generator (TEG) positioned near the surface of the plate member to utilize heat from the cookware. Alternatively, the circuit may passively couple to residual electromagnetic energy from the induction field via a non-ferromagnetic conductive loop, carefully shielded to avoid interference with the stove's operation.

The valve mechanism may comprise a mechanical push-button valve or an electronically controlled solenoid valve integrated with the control unit. In some embodiments, the valve is configured to automatically release the vacuum upon power-down or in response to a user command.

The plate member may include a peripheral sealing lip or a compliant gasket integrated into its upper and lower faces to improve vacuum retention. In some embodiments, the top surface is slightly concave to conform to the base of common cookware shapes.

In further embodiments, the safety device comprises a visual or auditory indicator (e.g., LED or buzzer) to alert the user when a secure vacuum has been established. Optionally, the system may interface with the induction stove to disable heating if vacuum loss is detected.

The safety device is particularly suited for use with flat-bottomed cookware, such as ferromagnetic pots and pans with diameters ranging from 16 to 28 centimeters. The plate member may include centering guides or alignment markings to assist in proper vessel positioning.

As used herein, the term “vacuum” refers to a partial vacuum sufficient to generate a pressure differential that holds the plate member in contact with both the induction plate and the cooking vessel. The term “configured to” indicates that a component is adapted or designed to perform the stated function, regardless of whether such configuration is achieved structurally, functionally, or through control logic.

In some embodiments, the plate member is generally disc-shaped with a central through hole and two opposing flat surfaces. The surface intended to contact the cooking vessel may be slightly textured or include radial grooves to improve contact and minimize slippage. The edge of the plate member may include a raised lip or a compliant gasket ring to enhance sealing against the cooking vessel and induction surface. In alternative embodiments, the plate member is rectangular or oval, conforming to non-circular cookware bases.

In one embodiment, the plate member is formed as a monolithic molded structure with an integrated vacuum channel leading from the through hole to the periphery where it connects to the vacuum pump. In another embodiment, the plate member comprises a base layer of thermoplastic polymer and a top elastomeric sealing layer bonded or overmolded onto it. The energy harvesting circuit may be laminated between these two layers.

The plate member may have a diameter ranging from 10 cm to 30 cm to accommodate cookware of various base sizes. In preferred embodiments, the plate is dimensioned to support cooking vessels weighing up to 5 kilograms while maintaining vacuum integrity during standard induction heating cycles.

In various embodiments, the plate member may be substantially circular, elliptical, rectangular, or polygonal in shape, depending on the type and geometry of the cookware it is intended to support. The upper and lower surfaces of the plate member are preferably smooth or slightly textured, and may include shallow concentric grooves, raised ribs, or low-friction zones to assist with thermal transfer, alignment, or anti-slip characteristics.

The plate member may be manufactured as a single-piece molded structure, or as a multi-layer assembly, depending on the desired thermal, mechanical, and electrical characteristics. In a multi-layer configuration, the plate may comprise a rigid core layer, a thermally resistant surface layer, and, optionally, a functional layer for embedding sensors, conductive tracks, or energy harvesting elements.

In embodiments where the vacuum pump unit is not integrated into the handle, the vacuum conduit may be routed through an internal channel or integrated duct within the body of the plate member. This channel connects the through hole to an external coupling interface for attaching a pump.

In an integrated configuration, the vacuum pump, control electronics, and battery unit may be embedded in a modular housing affixed to the edge or underside of the plate member. Such housing may be heat-isolated using an insulating barrier or air gap to prevent thermal overload during cooking.

In energy-harvesting configurations, printed circuit tracks, copper coils, or thermoelectric elements may be laminated between polymer layers or embedded in the molded core during overmolding or insert molding. Electrical interconnects may run through flexible printed circuits (FPCs) or embedded wires terminating at the battery housing.

The plate member may further include a peripheral sealing ridge or gasket ring extending slightly from the surface to improve vacuum retention. In some embodiments, the plate comprises a recessed central region to partially accommodate the base of the cookware, thereby enhancing alignment and stability. This concavity may be formed as a shallow depression centered around the through hole.

Additionally, one or more alignment features, such as positioning tabs, grooves, or laser-etched indicators, may be provided on the top surface to visually or mechanically guide the placement of cookware. The plate member may be dimensioned to accommodate a wide range of standard cooking vessels. In some embodiments, the diameter (or major axis) of the plate ranges from 100 mm to 300 mm, preferably from 150 mm to 250 mm, which corresponds to common pot and pan base sizes. The thickness of the plate member lies within the range of 1 mm to 5 mm, more preferably 2 mm to 4 mm, balancing flexibility, structural support, and compatibility with the induction field.

The weight-bearing capacity of the plate member may be adapted for cookware of up to 5 kilograms, including contents. The design tolerates continuous exposure to temperatures up to 250°C on the top surface during typical cooking cycles, while maintaining vacuum retention and mechanical integrity.

In embodiments with flexible plate members, the bending radius may be limited to ensure conformity to the induction surface without introducing thermal distortion. In such cases, a central stiffening ring or embedded support web may be included to maintain geometric stability under heat and load.

It should be noted that the plate member itself does not transfer or convey heat from the induction stove top to the cooking vessel. Rather, the functionality of the induction stove remains unchanged in that heat is generated directly within the ferromagnetic base of the cooking vessel through electromagnetic induction. The plate member is generally constructed from non-ferromagnetic, electrically non- conductive, and thermally stable materials that do not interfere with the magnetic field produced by the induction coil. The key aspect of the design is that the plate member is sufficiently thin, preferably within the range of 1 to 5 mm, to allow the magnetic field generated by the induction coil to pass through the plate member and couple effectively with the cooking vessel. This ensures that the heating process remains efficient, and that the presence of the plate member does not act as a thermal barrier or affect the energy transfer efficiency of the induction process.

The following figures illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention:

Figures 1 and 2 show a safety device 100 positioned on an induction stove top. The safety device comprises a plate member 110 having a through hole 112 and two opposing flat surfaces, one facing the cooking vessel and the other facing the induction plate. A handle 150 is mounted on the rim of the plate member and serves as a housing for the vacuum pump unit 120 and battery unit 130. An energy harvesting circuit 140 is optionally embedded in the plate member to charge the battery.

The vacuum pump unit 120 includes a vacuum pump 124 and a control unit 122 and is connected to the through hole 112 via a first conduit 126. The enclosed space formed between the induction plate and the cooking vessel is evacuated to create suction, thereby securing both. A pressure release valve 128 is operatively connected via the same or a separate tube to allow atmospheric air to re-enter the sealed space and break the vacuum. A second conduit 127 may serve as an air inlet/outlet through the handle housing.

The described device is particularly advantageous in both domestic and commercial cooking settings. It reduces the risk of accidental spillage and injuries, enhances cooking stability, and can be integrated into future generations of induction stoves with built-in safety features.

It is noted that features and embodiments described in the context of one aspect of the invention may also be applicable to other aspects unless otherwise indicated.

Claims

1 . A safety device (100) for use with an induction stove top having a flat induction plate, the safety device (100) comprising:

- a plate member (110) configured to be positioned on a heating area of the induction plate; the plate member (110) including a through hole (112); and

- a vacuum pump unit (120), preferably battery driven, operably connected to the through hole (112) of the plate member (110); wherein the plate member (110) is constructed from a material and dimensioned such that, in use, a vacuum generated by the vacuum pump unit (120) through the through hole (112) enables the plate member (110) to be secured simultaneously to a surface of the induction plate and to an underside of a cooking vessel; characterized in that the plate member (110) is non-ferromagnetic and of a thickness, such as of a thickness within the range of 1-5 mm, that permits inductive heating of the cooking vessel by the induction stove top without thermal conduction by the plate member.

2. The safety device (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the vacuum pump unit (120) is powered by a battery unit (130), and the plate member (110) includes an embedded energy harvesting circuit (140) configured to supply electrical energy to the battery unit (130) during operation.

3. The safety device (100) according to any one of the claims 1-2, wherein the plate member (110) is formed from a polymeric or composite material having a thermal resistance corresponding to a melting point exceeding 150°C.

4. The safety device (100) according to any one of the claims 1-3, further comprising a valve mechanism configured to selectively release the vacuum formed within the through hole (112).

5. The safety device (100) according to any one of the claims 1-4, further comprising a handle (150) attached to, or integrally formed with, the plate member (110).

6. The safety device (100) according to claim 5, wherein the vacuum pump unit (120) is integrated within the handle (150).

7. The safety device (100) according to claim 6, wherein the handle (150) comprises an air outlet operatively connected to the vacuum pump unit (120), the air outlet being configured to discharge air to the exterior of the handle (150).

8. A system for cooking food, said system comprising:

- an induction stove top including a flat induction plate; and

- a safety device (100) according to any one of the claims 1-7.

9. A system for cooking food, said system comprising:

- an induction stove top including a flat induction plate and a vacuum pump unit (120); and

- a plate member (110) configured to be positioned on a heating area of the induction plate and comprising a through hole (112) operably connectable to the vacuum pump unit (120); wherein the plate member (110) is formed from a material and dimensioned such that a vacuum applied through the through hole (112) enables the plate member (110) to be secured to the induction plate and to a cooking vessel.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the plate member (110) is of a thickness within the range of 1-5 mm.

11 . An induction stove top comprising:

- a flat induction plate defining at least one heating area; and - a vacuum pump unit operably connectable to a through hole of a plate member adapted to be positioned on the heating area; wherein the vacuum pump unit is configured to generate a vacuum to secure the plate member simultaneously to the induction plate and to a cooking vessel.

12. The induction stove top according to claim 11 , wherein the vacuum pump unit is integrated within the body of the stove top housing.

13. The induction stove top according to any one of the claims 11-12, wherein the vacuum pump unit is activated automatically upon detection of a cooking vessel.

14. The induction stove top according to any one of the claims 11-13, further comprising a control unit configured to monitor the vacuum level and generate alerts or safety cut-off signals when below a threshold.

15. The induction stove top according to any one of the claims 11-14, further comprising a vacuum line port located adjacent or within the heating area for connecting to a plate member.