MICROWAVE HOOD COMBINATION WITH AIR CLEAN FUNCTION

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 63/637,629, filed on Apr. 23, 2024, entitled “MICROWAVE HOOD COMBINATION WITH AIR CLEAN FUNCTION,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to a microwave hood combination appliance, and more specifically, to a microwave hood combination appliance with an air clean function and a hood function.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance includes a body at least partially defining a recirculation outlet. The body includes a bottom panel defining at least one inlet. A first filter is coupled to the bottom panel and in fluid communication with at least one inlet. A second filter is coupled to the bottom panel and in fluid communication with at least one inlet. The second filter is configured to filter smaller particulates than the first filter. A fan assembly is configured to direct air through at least one inlet and through the recirculation outlet. A cover assembly is operably coupled to the bottom panel. The cover assembly includes at least one inlet cover operable between a first position and a second position. An actuator is operably coupled to at least one inlet cover. The actuator is configured to move at least one inlet cover between the first position to cover the first filter to direct air through the second filter and the second position to cover the second filter to direct air through the first filter.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance includes a body at least partially defining an air inlet and an air outlet. The body includes a mesh structure that extends across the air inlet. The mesh structure includes a first mesh section defining first inlet apertures and a second mesh section defining second mesh apertures. A first air filter is coupled to the body and is in fluid communication with the first inlet apertures. A second air filter is coupled to the body and is in fluid communication with the second inlet apertures. The second air filter is configured to filter at least some different particulates than the first air filter. A fan assembly is configured to direct air through the air inlet into the body and through the air outlet to expel the air from the body. A cover assembly is operably coupled to the body. The cover assembly includes an inlet cover operable between a first position and a second position. The inlet cover includes a first segment defining first guide apertures and a second segment defining second guide apertures. An actuator is operably coupled to the inlet cover. The actuator is configured to move the inlet cover between the first position and the second position to adjust positions of the first and second guide apertures relative to the first and second inlet apertures to, consequently, adjust which of the first and second air filters the air is directed through by the fan assembly.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance includes a body at least partially defining at least one air inlet and an air outlet. At least one first air filter is coupled to the body and is in fluid communication with the at least one air inlet. At least one second air filter is coupled to the body adjacent to the at least one first air filter and is in fluid communication with the at least one air inlet. The at least one second air filter is configured to filter at least some different particulates than the first air filter. A fan assembly is configured to direct air through the at least one air inlet into the body and through the air outlet to expel the air from the body. A cover assembly is operably coupled to the body. The cover assembly includes at least one inlet cover rotatable between a first position and a second position. An actuator is operably coupled to the at least one inlet cover. The actuator is configured to rotate the at least one inlet cover about at least one rotational axis between the first position and the second position to adjust whether the air is directed through the at least one first air filter or the at least one second air filter by the fan assembly.

These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an indoor environment that includes a microwave hood combination appliance and a lower cooktop, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a microwave hood combination appliance, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B is a front perspective view of a microwave hood combination appliance with a top panel and side panels of a body removed to show a recirculation airflow path, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of a microwave hood combination appliance with a filter assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a filter assembly with a first filter and a second filter, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A is a top plan view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance with a cover assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B is a bottom plan view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance with a cover assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional, partially exploded view of a bottom panel and a cover assembly with a sliding cover and an actuator of a microwave hood combination appliance, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional, partially exploded view of a cover assembly with a sliding cover in a first position to allow airflow through a first filter and block airflow through a second filter, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional, partially exploded view of the cover assembly of FIG. 7A with the sliding cover in a second position to block airflow through the first filter and allow airflow through the second filter, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 8A is a bottom perspective view of a microwave hood combination appliance with a filter assembly and a cover assembly with rotating covers in a first position, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 8B is a bottom perspective view of the microwave hood combination appliance of FIG. 8A with the rotating covers in a second position, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance with a cover assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance with a cover assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance with a filter assembly and a cover assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 12A is a bottom plan view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance with a filter assembly and a cover assembly, where the cover assembly includes rotating covers in a first position, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 12B is a bottom plan view of the bottom panel of FIG. 12A where the cover assembly includes the rotating covers in a second position, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance illustrating rotating covers of a cover assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of a bottom panel of a microwave hood combination appliance with a filter assembly and a cover assembly with a single rotating cover, according to the present disclosure; and

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a microwave hood combination appliance, according to the present disclosure.

The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a microwave hood combination with an air clean function. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

The terms “including,” “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by “comprises a . . . ” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

With reference to FIGS. 1-15, reference numeral 10 generally designates a cooking appliance that includes an external enclosure or body 12 at least partially defining at least one air outlet 14, including a recirculation air outlet 14. The body 12 includes a bottom panel 16 defining at least one air inlet 18. A first air filter 20 is coupled to the bottom panel 16 and in fluid communication with the inlet 18. A second air filter 22 is coupled with the bottom panel 16 in fluid communication with the inlet 18. The second filter 22 is configured to filter smaller particulates than the first filter 20. A fan assembly 24 is configured to direct air through the inlet 18 and into the body 12 and the recirculation outlet 14 to expel the air from the cooking appliance 10. A cover assembly 26 is operably coupled with the bottom panel 16. The cover assembly 26 includes at least one inlet cover 28 operable between a first position and a second position. The cover assembly 26 also includes an actuator 30 operably coupled with the inlet cover 28. The actuator 30 is configured to move the inlet cover 28 to the first position to cover the first filter 20 and direct air through the second filter 22 as well as to a second position to cover the second filter 22 and direct the air through the first filter 20. The cover assembly 26 is configured to adjust an airflow path into the body 12 as the position of the inlet cover 28 determines which filter 20, 22 the air is directed through by the fan assembly 24 to provide different cleaning functions to the air.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2B, the cooking appliance 10 is illustrated as a microwave hood combination (MHC) appliance 10, which may also be referred to as a combined microwave and hood system. Other cooking and venting combination appliances 10 may also be utilized without departing from the teachings herein. The MHC appliance 10 is generally positioned over a lower cooktop, such as a stove or range. The MHC appliance 10 may operate as a hood during a cooking process at the lower cooktop for venting fumes, odor, and other particles resulting from the cooking process. Additionally, the MHC appliance 10 may operate to clean air in the area surrounding the MHC appliance 10, such as in a kitchen environment, separate from the cooking process as described herein.

The MHC appliance 10 includes the body 12 with a top panel 50, opposing side panels 52, 54, a rear panel 56, a front panel 58, and the bottom panel 16. One or more of the panels 50-58 may be integrally formed with one another and/or fastened to one another. The top panel 50 is configured to be coupled to surrounding cabinetry, and the rear panel 56 is oriented toward a surrounding or adjacent surface or wall. The bottom panel 16 is oriented toward and spaced from the lower cooktop.

The MHC appliance 10 includes an interior housing 70 disposed within the body 12 and which defines a cooking cavity 72. A door assembly 74 is operably coupled with the body 12 and is movable relative to the front panel 58. Generally, the front panel 58 defines an opening into the cooking cavity 72, and the door assembly 74 can selectively close and provide access to the cooking cavity 72. The door assembly 74 generally includes a user interface 76, which can include various buttons or touch features for controlling the MHC appliance 10, including activating or controlling different functions of the MHC appliance 10. It is also contemplated that the user interface 76 may be disposed on the body 12 or a combination of the body 12 and the door assembly 74.

The MHC appliance 10 also includes a recirculation outlet cover 80 operably coupled with the front panel 58. The recirculation outlet cover 80 is disposed above the door assembly 74 and is operable between an opened position and a closed position. In the illustrated configuration, the body 12 defines recirculation outlets 14 at a front of the MHC appliance 10. The recirculation outlets 14 may be defined in the front panel 58, a front bracket operably coupled with the front panel 58, or both. The illustrated configuration includes two recirculation outlets 14, however, a single elongated recirculation outlet 14 or multiple recirculation outlets 14 may be included in the MHC appliance 10 without departing from the teachings herein.

Referring still to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the MHC appliance 10 includes the recirculation outlets 14 at the front of the appliance 10 and an outside exhaust outlet 82 at a rear of the appliance 10. The outside exhaust outlet 82 is typically defined in the top panel 50 proximate to the rear panel 56 or may be defined in the rear panel 56. The MHC appliance 10 is configured to operate in a recirculation mode to vent air through the recirculation outlets 14 to an indoor area surrounding the MHC appliance 10 and an exhaust mode to vent air through the exhaust outlet 82, where the air is directed to an outdoor area. When operating in the recirculation mode, the recirculation outlet cover 80 is opened, uncovering the recirculation outlets 14, and when the MHC appliance 10 if off or inactive, the recirculation outlet cover 80 is closed, concealing the recirculation outlets 14. In the exhaust mode, the recirculation outlet cover 80 is closed, directing the air through the exhaust outlet 82. Further, when in the recirculation mode, a cover may be positioned over the exhaust outlet 82 to direct air toward the front of the appliance.

The recirculation outlets 14 are defined above the opening into the cooking cavity 72 and above the door assembly 74. The recirculation outlet cover 80 is configured to open and close the recirculation outlet 14, allowing the recirculation air to exit through the front recirculation outlet 14 in the recirculation mode and through the exhaust outlet 82 when in the exhaust mode. The MHC appliance 10 may switch between the recirculation mode and the exhaust mode. In certain aspects, an installation configuration of the MHC appliance 10 may determine the mode of the MHC appliance 10. Alternatively, the MHC appliance 10 may actively switch between the recirculation and exhaust modes.

Referring still to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the MHC appliance 10 includes electronics 84, such as a heating component or magnetron. A cooling fan 86 is disposed between the body 12 and the interior housing 70. The cooling fan 86 is configured to direct air proximate to the electronics 84 to guide heat from the electronics 84 away from the electronics 84. In the illustrated configuration, the electronics 84 are disposed primarily between a side of the interior housing 70 and the side panel 54; however, the electronics 84 may be disposed in a variety of locations, including on either side of, below, above, or behind the interior housing 70. The cooling fan 86 may be disposed in any of the locations around the interior housing 70 with the electronics 84. For example, as illustrated, the cooling fan 86 is positioned on an upper side area of the MHC appliance 10 to direct into the MHC appliance 10 and proximate to the electronics 84.

The MHC appliance 10 includes the fan assembly 24, which may also be referred to as a hood fan or vent fan. As illustrated, the fan assembly 24 includes a motor 90 and two impellers 92A, 92B. The impellers 92A, 92B are located on opposing sides of the motor 90 to be driven concurrently by the motor 90. Further, the impellers 92A, 92B are illustrated as “squirrel cages” although other fan assembly 24 configurations may be utilized without departing from the teachings herein. The “squirrel cage” configuration may be advantageous for maximizing airflow through the MHC appliance 10. The fan assembly 24 is disposed between the interior housing 70 and the body 12. In the illustrated configuration, the fan assembly 24 is centrally located along a width of the MHC appliance 10, proximate to the top panel 50 and the rear panel 56. Other locations, such as to sides, above, or below the interior housing 70 are also contemplated. While one fan assembly 24 is illustrated, it is contemplated that more than one fan assembly 24 can be utilized without departing from the teachings herein.

Generally, the MHC appliance 10 is positioned over the lower cooktop that is used for various cooking processes, which can generate fumes, vapors, odors, smoke, or other particles. The MHC appliance 10 is configured to filter the air during the cooking process in either the recirculation mode or the outdoor exhaust mode. In the outdoor exhaust mode, the fan assembly 24 is activated to draw air into the MHC appliance 10 through the first filter 20 (which may be referred to as the hood filter 20) and the inlet 18. The air is drawn upwards in the MHC appliance 10, generally between the first side panel 52 and the interior housing 70, between the second side panel 54 and the interior housing 70, and/or between the rear panel 56 and the interior housing 70. The air is drawn through the fan assembly 24 and then expelled from the MHC appliance 10 via the exhaust outlet 82.

In the recirculation mode, the air initially follows the same airflow path, being drawn by the activated fan assembly 24 through the hood filter 20 and the inlet 18. The air flows around the interior housing 70 and into the fan assembly 24. The air is then directed toward the front of the MHC appliance 10, between the top panel 50 and an upper surface of the interior housing 70. The recirculation outlet cover 80 is opened and the air is directed through the recirculation outlets 14.

The MHC appliance 10 may have at least one divider 96 to direct air from each impeller 92A, 92B along different channels to separate recirculation outlets 14. In the illustrated configuration, the MHC appliance 10 has multiple dividers 96. The MHC appliance 10 includes two outer dividers 96 and two inner dividers 96 forming two channels along an upper portion of the MHC appliance 10 to direct air to the recirculation outlets 14. The outlet cover 80 is operably coupled with a cover actuator 98, which is illustrated as a motor assembly disposed between the two inner dividers 96. The motor assembly may operate to control the movement of the outlet cover 80. Additional biasing members may also be operably coupled with the outlet cover 80 to assist with closing the outlet cover 80. The motor assembly may be arranged outside of the recirculation airflow path. The divider(s) 96 may be omitted and/or a single recirculation outlet 14 may be utilized without departing from the teachings herein.

Referring to FIGS. 3-14, when operating in the recirculation mode, the MHC appliance 10 may provide different functions, including a recirculation hood function and an air clean function. The recirculation hood function is utilized during the cooking process, drawing the air through the hood filter 20. The MHC appliance 10 may adjust components at the bottom panel 16, such as the cover assembly 26, to direct air through different filters 20, 22 based on the selected or current operational function of the MHC appliance 10. Once the air enters the MHC appliance 10 (e.g., after the air flows through the selected filter 20, 22), the air flows along the same recirculation flow path to and through the recirculation outlets 14. When the MHC appliance 10 is operating in the air clean mode, the air is generally directed through the second or air clean filter 22 and then along the recirculation flow path. Typically, the air clean function is not utilized in combination with the outdoor exhaust mode as the air is directed to the outdoor location and additional filtering of the air may not be desired.

The MHC appliance 10 includes the cover assembly 26, which is configured to adjust the MHC appliance 10 between the recirculation hood function and the air clean function. Generally, the recirculation hood function is used to filter the fumes and odor from the air that are generated during the cooking process from the air that is vented back into the indoor location. In the air clean mode, the MHC appliance 10 is configured to filter smaller particulates to further clean or purify the air, which may generally be performed in combination with the cooking process on the lower cooktop or separate from the cooktop operations to improve air quality in the indoor location.

Referring still to FIGS. 3-7B, the MHC appliance 10 includes the inlet 18 defined along a width of the MHC appliance 10 between two light sources 100A, 100B. The elongated inlet 18 may be advantageous for drawing air from different burner locations on the cooktop. The MHC appliance 10 includes the first filter 20, which may also be referred to as the hood filter 20 for use in the recirculation hood function, and the second filter 22, which may also be referred to as a particulate filter 22 or an air clean filter 22 for use during the air clean function. The air clean filter 22 is configured to capture particulates of a lesser size from the air being drawn into the MHC appliance 10 compared to the hood filter 20.

The first and second filters 20, 22 may be inserted into or otherwise be in fluid communication with the inlet 18. The filters 20, 22 may fill a single inlet 18, as illustrated in FIG. 3, or may be disposed in separate inlets 18. The filters 20, 22 may be different types of filters 20, 22 to filter at least some different types of particulates. The first filter 20 generally includes one or both of a grease filter and a charcoal filter. The grease and charcoal filters, are configured to filter particulates having a size between about 0.5 μm and about 50 μm. The grease filter may be a mesh structure, such as an aluminum, stainless steel, and/or acrylic mesh that can trap grease and food particulates. The charcoal filter may be a charcoal or carbon-based filter medium that can trap smoke, fumes, or other chemical particulates. The hood filter 20 may capture larger particles from the air, which typically result from the cooking process at the lower cooktop.

Referring to FIG. 4, the air clean filter 22 is configured to filter or capture at least some different particulates from the air compared to the hood filter 20. In certain aspects, the air clean filter 22 can filter particles of a smaller size, generally between about 0.03 μm and about 0.4 μm or larger. The air clean filter 22 may be configured as a total volatile organic compound (TVOC) filter, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, both the TVOC and HEPA filter, or similar air purifying or small particulate filters 22. TVOC filters may capture or remove air pollutants such as VOCs from the air. The air clean filter 22 may also capture pollen, dander, dust, pet dander, odor, etc. from the air flowing through the MHC appliance 10.

The hood filter 20 can assist with reducing or removing odors from the air that come from the cooking process. The air clean filter 22 can further improve air quality in an area surrounding the MHC appliance 10 by removing or reducing small particles, odor, and other contaminated air, which may be accomplished separately from the cooking process. Accordingly, the hood filter 20 can clean air that is contaminated by the cooking process, and the air clean filter 22 can clean or purify air separate from the cooking process (e.g., the MHC appliance 10 can act as an air cleaner or air purifier).

The bottom panel 16 is illustrated in defining a single inlet 18 in which the first and second filters 20, 22 are positioned. In this way, both the first and second filters 20, 22 are in fluid communication with the single inlet 18. The first and second filters 20, 22 may be operably coupled with one another via a filter frame 110 to form a filter assembly 112. The filter frame 110 may include handles for adding and removing the filters 20, 22 to the MHC appliance 10, as well as coupling features for retaining the filters 20, 22 in the inlet 18. In certain aspects, the air clean filter 22 has a greater thickness than the hood filter 20, and the filter frame 110 can have different thicknesses to accommodate the different thicknesses of the filter 20, 22. As illustrated, a bottom of the filter assembly 112 may be generally flat, while the filter frame 110 and the air clean filter 22 protrude internally within the MHC appliance 10.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-6, the filters 20, 22 are operably coupled with the bottom panel 16 to fill the inlet 18. The hood filter 20 is generally positioned forward of the air clean filter 22 (closer to the front panel 58), which may better align the hood filter 20 with a center portion of the lower cooktop to maximize fumes, odors, etc. captured in the air being drawn into the MHC appliance 10. The hood filter 20 and the air clean filter 22 may extend a same distance along a width of the bottom panel 16 to maximize airflow through each filter 20, 22. Additionally, the filters 20, 22 may extend a same distance fore-and-aft to be substantially similar in area along the bottom panel 16. In configurations where the air clean filter 22 is thicker than the hood filter 20, the air clean filter 22 extends further into the MHC appliance 10 such that both filters 20, 22 are aligned or flush with the bottom panel 16 to form a flat bottom of the MHC appliance 10.

The MHC appliance 10 includes a mesh structure 130 that extends across and generally fills the inlet 18. This mesh structure 130 may be a separate component coupled to the bottom panel 16 or may be integrally formed with the bottom panel 16. The mesh structure 130 includes a first mesh section 132 and a second mesh section 134 that is offset from the first mesh section 132. One or both of the mesh sections 132, 134 may be recessed relative to the bottom surface 136 of the bottom panel 16. For example, the first mesh section 132 is a first distance from the bottom surface 136 of the bottom panel 16, and the second mesh section 134 is a second greater distance from the bottom surface 136 to form a stepped configuration. A connecting section may extend between the two mesh sections 132, 134 and may be a solid or continuous component. The bottom panel 16 and the mesh sections 132, 134 form receiving spaces for receiving the first and second filters 20, 22 and the filter frame 110. As the air clean filter 22 is thicker, the air clean filter 22 aligns with the second mesh section 134 and the hood filter 20 aligns with the first mesh section 132.

Referring still to FIG. 6, as well as FIGS. 7A and 7B, the first mesh section 132 includes first inlet apertures 142 disposed over/downstream of and in fluid communication with the hood filter 20. The second mesh section 134 defines second inlet apertures 144 disposed over/downstream of and in fluid communication with the air clean filter 22. The cover assembly 26 includes the inlet cover 28 configured as a sliding mesh cover 150 (e.g., the at least one inlet cover 28) and the actuator 30 configured as a linear actuator 152 with a motor 154 and a connector 156. In the illustrated configuration, the linear actuator 152 is disposed at a rear of the inlet 18 and engages the sliding mesh cover 150 to move the sliding cover 150 fore and aft relative to or over an inner surface of the mesh structure 130. The cover assembly 26 with the linear actuator 152 and the sliding mesh cover 150 is disposed proximate to the inner surface of the bottom panel 16.

The mesh cover 150 includes a first segment 158, which is configured to engage with the first mesh section 182 of the mesh structure 130, and a second segment 160, which is configured to engage the second mesh section 184 of the mesh structure 130. In this way, the sliding mesh cover 150 forms a stepped configuration with the second segment 160 offset from the first segment 158 to generally align with the stepped configuration of the mesh structure 130. This provides space for the greater thickness of the second filter 22 while allowing the filters 20, 22 to remain generally flush or coplanar with the bottom surface 136. The first segment 158 of the sliding mesh cover 150 defines the first guide apertures 162, and the second segment 160 defines the second guide apertures 164.

The linear actuator 152 is configured to translate the sliding mesh cover 150 between the first and second positions relative to the two mesh sections 132, 134 of the mesh structure 130. Accordingly, the linear actuator 152 adjusts the guide apertures 162, 164 relative to the inlet apertures 142, 144 to selectively cover and uncover the inlet apertures 142, 144 for directing air through the select filter 20, 22. In other words, the actuator 152 is configured to move the mesh cover 150 between the first position and the second position to adjust positions of the first and second guide apertures 162, 164 relative to the first and second inlet apertures 142, 144 to, consequently, adjust which of the first and second filters 20, 22 the air is directed through by the fan assembly 24. In this regard, the position of the sliding mesh cover 150 changes the function of the MHC appliance 10.

Referring still to FIGS. 6-7B, the linear actuator 152 may include the motor 154 and the connector 156. The connector 156 is configured to engage the sliding mesh cover 150. In certain aspects, the movement of the connector 156 is configured to push and pull the sliding mesh cover 150 between the first and second positions as the connector 156 extends and retracts. In additional or alternative aspects, the linear actuator 152 may push the sliding mesh cover 150, and the cover assembly 26 may include a biasing member that imparts a pulling biasing force on the sliding mesh cover 150 to return the sliding mesh cover 150 to an initial state upon the connector 156 being retracted. The mesh cover 150 is configured to slide horizontally between the first and second positions.

When the actuator 152 is in a first or retracted state, the sliding mesh cover 150 is in the first position for the recirculation hood function. The first guide apertures 162 of the sliding mesh cover 150 are aligned and in fluid communication with the first inlet apertures 142 of the mesh structure 130. In this way, the sliding mesh cover 150 is moved to vertically align the first guide apertures 162 with the first inlet apertures 142.

With reference to FIG. 7A, when the sliding mesh cover 150 is in the first position, the second guide apertures 164 are offset or misaligned from the second inlet apertures 144. In this way, the second guide apertures 164 are disposed over and aligned with the mesh structure 130 between the second inlet apertures 144 (e.g., solid portions of the mesh structure 130). Accordingly, when the sliding mesh cover 150 is in the first position, there is little to no air that can flow through the second inlet apertures 144 as they are blocked or covered by the misaligned second segment 160. The first apertures 142, 162 are aligned to allow airflow therethrough, and the second apertures 144, 164 are misaligned to reduce or prevent airflow therethrough.

With the first inlet apertures 142 being aligned with the first guide apertures 162 and when the fan assembly 24 is active, air is drawn through the hood filter 20 as the airflow path is open or defined through the first apertures 142, 162. Accordingly, the effect formed by the fan assembly 24 at the inlet 18 is generated proximate to the first apertures 142, 162 to draw air through the hood filter 20. The airflow path formed by the fan assembly 24 is generally blocked at the air clean filter 22 due to the second inlet apertures 144 being blocked by the sliding mesh cover 150.

As illustrated in FIG. 7B, when the linear actuator 152 is in a second or extended state, the sliding mesh cover 150 is moved forward to the second position for the air clean function. The second guide apertures 164 of the sliding mesh cover 150 are aligned and in fluid communication with the second inlet apertures 144 of the mesh structure 130. In this way, the sliding mesh cover 150 is moved to vertically align the second guide apertures 164 with the second inlet apertures 144.

When the sliding mesh cover 150 is in the second position, the first guide apertures 162 are offset or misaligned from the first inlet apertures 142. In this way, the first guide apertures 162 are disposed over and aligned with the mesh structure 130 between the first inlet apertures 142 (e.g., solid portions). Accordingly, when the sliding mesh cover 150 is in the second position, there is little to no air that can flow through the first inlet apertures 142 as they are blocked or covered by the misaligned first segment 158.

With the second inlet apertures 144 being aligned with the second guide apertures 164 and when the fan assembly 24 is active, air is drawn through the air clean filter 22 as the airflow path is open or defined through the second apertures 144, 164. Accordingly, the effect formed by the fan assembly 24 at the inlet 18 is generated proximate to the second inlet apertures 144 to draw air through the air clean filter 22. The airflow path formed by the fan assembly 24 is generally blocked at the hood filter 20 due to the first inlet apertures 142 being blocked or covered by the sliding mesh cover 150.

Referring again to FIGS. 3-7B, the guide apertures 162, 164 of the sliding mesh cover 150 may be substantially or fully aligned with the inlet apertures 142, 144 of the mesh structure 130 to provide the airflow through the select filter 20, 22 and substantially or fully misaligned to at least substantially block airflow through the other filter 20, 22. The sliding mesh cover 150 may abut and slide along the mesh structure 130 to reduce any airflow between the two components. This may be advantageous for increasing the longevity of the filters 20, 22. Additionally, this may be advantageous for the air clean filter 22 to reduce or prevent collection of fumes from cooking processes caught by the air clean filter 22. While the sliding mesh cover 150 is illustrated in the first position when the linear actuator 152 is retracted and in the second position when the linear actuator 152 is expanded, the sliding mesh cover 150 may be in the second position when the linear actuator 152 is retracted and in the first position when the linear actuator 152 is expanded. Further, the actuator 152 may be configured to move the mesh cover 150 from side-to-side or other patterns to selectively align and misalign the apertures 142, 144, 162, 164.

Additionally, it is contemplated that the filters 20, 22 may be arranged side-by-side. In such configurations, the actuator 30 may be disposed on a side of the MHC appliance 10 and configured to move the sliding mesh cover 150 in a lateral translation. Further, different actuators 30 may be used for moving or sliding the sliding mesh cover 150 between the first and second positions.

Referring again to FIGS. 8A-13, in additional or alternative configurations, the MHC appliance 10 includes a bottom panel 170 that defines multiple inlets 172, including four inlets 172A-172D, though a single inlet 172 may be used without departing from the teachings herein. In the illustrated configuration, there are four inlets 172A-172D arranged side-by-side between the light sources 100A, 100B. The MHC appliance 10 includes two hood filters 174, including first and second hood filters 174A, 174B, and two air clean filters 178, including first and second air clean filters 178A, 178B, arranged in an alternating pattern in the inlets 172. The hood filters 174A, 174B may be the same or may be different, and/or the air clean filters 178A, 178B may be the same of different. For example, the hood filters 174A, 174B can include the grease filter and the charcoal filter, the first air clean filter 178A may be a TVOC filter, and the second air clean filter may be a HEPA filter to maximize filtration of the air. Accordingly, the first inlet 172A includes the first hood filter 174A, the second inlet 172B includes the first air clean filter 178A, the third inlet 172C includes the second hood filter 174B, and the fourth inlet 172D includes the second air clean filter 178B.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the body 12 may include the mesh structure 130 with a first mesh section 182 and a second mesh section 184 spaced from one another. The first and second mesh sections 182, 184 of the mesh structure 130 may be aligned with and disposed above the hood filters 174A, 174B. The air clean filters 178A, 178B may have increased thicknesses compared to the hood filters 174A, 174B and extend beyond the mesh structure 130. Additional mesh sections may be aligned with air clean filters 178A, 178B without departing the teachings herein. The hood filters 174A, 174B and the air clean filters 178A, 178B may be configured and operate as the filters 20, 22 described with respect to FIGS. 3-7B, and may be coupled to one another via a filter frame 110 or may be separate components.

Referring to FIGS. 11-13, the MHC appliance 10 includes two inlet covers 28, which are configured as rotating covers 190, 192 (e.g., first and second inlet covers 190, 192) that are configured to rotate between the first and second positions. The rotating covers 190, 192 are generally coupled with the bottom panel 16 between two types of filters 174, 178. For example, the first rotating cover 190 may be operably coupled to the bottom panel 16 between the first hood filter 174A and the first air clean filter 178A, and the second rotating cover 192 may be operably coupled to the bottom panel 16 between the second hood filter 174B and the second air clean filter 178B. The rotating covers 190, 192 may be coupled to an outer surface of the bottom panel 16 or may extend through openings in the bottom panel 16 to cover the filters 174, 178. The rotating covers 190, 192 are configured to be rotated together in a same direction to cover the hood filters 174A, 174B or to cover the air clean filters 178A, 178B.

The cover assembly 26 includes the actuator 30, which is configured as a motor 200, a connector link 202, and a linkage 204, which may be disposed inside the body 12 proximate to the inner surface of the bottom panel 16. In other words, the actuator 30 may be on an opposing side of the bottom panel 16 compared to the rotating covers 190, 192. Accordingly, one or both of the rotating covers 190, 192 and the actuator 30 may extend through the bottom panel 16. The linkage 204 is operably coupled with the motor 200 via the connector link 202. The motor 200 is configured to drive rotation of the connector link 202, which drives movement of the linkage 204. Generally, the linkage 204 may slide or move laterally along the bottom panel 16. The rotational motion of the motor 200 and the connector link 202 is translated into linear and/or lateral motion of the linkage 204, which drives rotational movement of the rotating covers 190, 192 about horizontal axes. Rotational axes of the rotating covers 190, 192 may be parallel with the bottom surface 136 of the bottom panel 16 and may extend fore-aft, as illustrated in FIGS. 11-13, or side to side (see FIG. 14).

The linkage 204 may move linearly or linearly and vertically (e.g., rotational movement) based on an engagement with the connector link 202. For example, the engagement between the connector link 202 and the linkage 204 may be a fixed rotational point, resulting in vertical and linear movement of the linkage 204 as the connector link 202 rotates. Alternatively, the connector link 202 and/or the linkage 204 may have a slot at the engagement that reduces vertical movement of the linkage 204. The linkage 204 may directly engage the covers 190, 192, such as rotating shafts of the covers 190, 192, or may indirectly engage the covers 190, 192, such as via connectors.

As illustrated in FIG. 12A, when in the first position, the rotating covers 190, 192 are configured to be disposed below, aligned with, or otherwise extend along an outer surface of the air clean filters 178A, 178B to at least substantially block or cover the air clean filters 178A, 178B. In the first position, the hood filters 174A, 174B are exposed for the recirculation hood function. Accordingly, when the fan assembly 24 is activated, air is drawn through the hood filters 174A, 174B, and minimal or no air is drawn through the blocked air clean filters 178A, 178B.

As illustrated in FIG. 12B, when in the second position, the rotating covers 190, 192 are configured to be disposed below, aligned with, or otherwise extend along an outer surface of the hood filters 174A, 174B to at least substantially block or cover the hood filters 174A, 174B. In the second position, the air clean filters 178A, 178B are exposed for the air clean function. Accordingly, when the fan assembly 24 is activated, air is drawn through the air clean filters 178A, 178B, and minimal or no air is drawn through the blocked hood filters 174A, 174B.

The linkage 204 is configured to move in one direction to rotate the rotating covers 190, 192 to the first position, and in the opposing direction to rotate the rotating covers 190, 192 to the second position. The rotating covers 190, 192 have a distal end that is disposed adjacent to or abuts the bottom panel 16 when fully in the first or second position. The rotating covers 190, 192 are configured to rotate about axes that extend in a z-direction along a depth of the MHC appliance 10. The distal end is configured to rotate away from the bottom panel 16 and then toward the bottom panel 16 on an opposing side of a proximal end of the rotating cover 190, 192. When the rotating covers 190, 192 are directly between the first and second positions, the rotating covers 190, 192 extend generally vertically downward from the bottom panel 16. When in the first and second positions, the rotating covers 190, 192 are generally substantially parallel with a bottom surface 136 of the bottom panel 16. As illustrated, a single actuator 30 is configured to move both covers 190, 192. However, multiple or designated actuators 30 may be utilized without departing from the teachings herein. In such examples, the covers 190, 192 may move separately, rotate in different directions, etc.

In the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 8A-13, the bottom panel 16 includes four inlets 172. The bottom panel 16 may also include one, two, or three inlets 172 for the four filters 20, 22. Additionally, the MHC appliance 10 may include one hood filter 174A, one air clean filter 178A, and one rotating cover 190 without departing from the teachings herein. Further, the MHC appliance 10 may include uneven numbers of the hood filters 174 compared to the air clean filters 178.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the filters 174, 178 are arranged in a front-to-back configuration (similar to FIGS. 3-7B). A single elongated rotating cover 190 may be rotated between the first position to cover the hood filter 174A for the air clean function and the second position to cover the air clean filter 178A for the recirculation hood function. The actuator 30, such as the motor 200, the connector link 202, and the linkage 204, may be disposed on a side of the inlet 18. The actuator 30 may be configured to rotate the elongated cover 190 about a rotation axis that generally extends in an x-direction along the width of the MHC appliance 10.

The actuator 30 with the motor 200, the connector link 202, and the linkage 204 are illustrated as rotating the covers 190, 192. It is also contemplated that the actuator 30 may slide the covers 190, 192 to selectively cover and uncover the filters 174, 178. In such examples, the linkage 204 may be configured to move a greater distance along with the width of the MHC appliance 10 to fully move the covers 190, 192 over the selected filters 174,178. The covers 190, 192 may move along guides or rails between the first and second positions.

With reference to FIG. 15, as well as FIGS. 1-14, the MHC appliance 10 includes a controller 210, which includes a processor 212, a memory 214, and other control circuitry. Instructions or routines 216 are stored within the memory 214 and executable by the processor 212. These routines 216 may include the air clean function and the hood function. The controller 210 may be a standalone dedicated controller 210 or may be an overall controller 210 integrated with other functions of the MHC appliance 10. The controller 210 is communicatively coupled with the actuator 30 (including the motor 154 and the connector 156 of the linear actuator 152 in FIGS. 3-7B and/or the motor 200, the connector link 202, and the linkage 204 in FIGS. 8A-14). The controller 210 is configured to activate the actuator 30 to adjust the inlet cover 28 (such as the sliding mesh cover 150 and/or the rotating covers 190, 192) between the first and second positions.

The controller 210 is communicatively coupled with the user interface 76. A user may select the mode and function of the MHC appliance 10 via the user interface 76. In this way, the user may select the outdoor exhaust mode or the recirculation mode and then select the recirculation hood function or the air clean function. Alternatively, the MHC appliance 10 may be installed for the recirculation mode, and the user may select between the recirculation hood function or the air clean function. The controller 210 is configured to receive an input from the user interface 76 and adjust the fan assembly 24 and the cover assembly 26 based on the input. For example, when the outdoor exhaust mode is selected or the recirculation mode with the recirculation hood function, the cover assembly 26 may be moved and positioned to expose the hood filters 20, 174A, 174B and cover the air clean filters 22, 178A, 178B. When the recirculation mode and the air clean function are selected, the cover assembly 26 may be moved and positioned to expose the air clean filters 22, 178A, 178B and cover the hood filters 20, 174A, 174B. Further, the controller 210 is communicatively coupled with the outlet cover actuator 98 that is operably coupled with the recirculation outlet cover 80. The controller 210 may activate the cover actuator 98 to open the recirculation outlet cover 80 when the MHC appliance 10 is operating in the recirculation mode.

Additionally or alternatively, the MHC appliance 10 may include one or more sensors 224 that are configured to detect various conditions and communicate sensed information to the controller 210, which may adjust the mode or function of the MHC appliance 10 in response. The sensors 224 may sense one or more of a cooking condition, a flow rate of airflow, a motor condition, air quality, etc. The sensors 224 may include any type of sensor for sensing the selected information, including, but not limited to, infrared sensor(s), optical sensor(s), particulate sensor(s), air quality sensor(s), etc.

In certain aspects, the controller 210 may be configured to automatically adjust the MHC appliance 10 from the air clean function to the recirculation hood function upon detection of certain vapors or level/quantity of vapors associated with the cooking process being detected by the sensors 224. Additionally, using the air quality sensor, the controller 210 may automatically activate the air clean function to clean the air. The MHC appliance 10 may operate in at least the outdoor exhaust mode and the recirculation mode and can operate in different functions within these modes, including the recirculation hood function and the air clean function to provide a better and more customizable user experience.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-15, the MHC appliance 10 may be configured to receive two different kinds of filters 20, 22, 174, 178 for two different filtering processes. The hood filters 20, 174 may be advantageous for cleaning or filtering air for particles/particulates generated from the cooking process on the cooktop. The air clean filter 22, 178 may be advantageous for cleaning or filtering other particles/particulates, including smaller particles/particulates, from the air that can increase air quality in the surrounding environment. The air clean function may operate separately from the cooking process on the cooktop. Accordingly, the MHC appliance 10 may operate as a hood to ventilate the air with the recirculation hood function and operate as an air cleaner to clean or purify the air with the air clean function. The different thicknesses of the filters 20, 22, 174, 178 may assist with properly inserting and aligning the filters 20, 22, 174, 178 to operate the recirculation hood function and the air clean function.

The different filters 20, 22 174, 178 may provide different functions of the MHC appliance. Additionally, the hood filters 20, 174 may also increase longevity of the air clean filters 22, 178. The hood filters 20, 174 may capture a large majority or all of the food-related particles from the cooking process. This may increase longevity of the air clean filter 22, 178 by reducing the food-related particles that are captured by the air clean filters 22, 178. However, the air clean filters 22, 178 may also operate to reduce food-related particles and improve air quality.

Use of the present device may provide for a variety of advantages. For example, the MHC appliance 10 may operate in the outside exhaust mode and the recirculation mode. In the recirculation mode, the MHC appliance 10 may operate in the hood function or mode and the air clean function or mode. When operating in the air clean function, the air is directed through the air clean filter 22, 178, which may reduce or eliminate small particulates, VOCs, and other particles that can improve air quality. The air directed through the MHC appliance 10 in the air clean function is recirculated back into the surrounding area after being filtered by the air clean filter 22, 178. Further, the MHC appliance 10 may include two different types of filters 20, 22, 174, 178, and the cover assembly 26 may switch positions to change which filter 20, 22, 174, 178 through which the air is directed. Moreover, the MHC appliance 10 may automatically switch between two functions based on information sensed by the sensors 224. Further, the MHC appliance 10 may be advantageous for cleaning air from the cooking process and improving air quality in an area surrounding the MHC appliance 10. Additional benefits or advantages of using this device may be realized and/or achieved.

The device disclosed herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by combinations of any and all the various aspects described herein.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance includes a body at least partially defining a recirculation outlet. The body includes a bottom panel defining at least one inlet. A first filter is coupled to the bottom panel and in fluid communication with at least one inlet. A second filter is coupled to the bottom panel and in fluid communication with at least one inlet. The second filter is configured to filter smaller particulates than the first filter. A fan assembly is configured to direct air through at least one inlet and through the recirculation outlet. A cover assembly is operably coupled to the bottom panel. The cover assembly includes at least one inlet cover operable between a first position and a second position. An actuator is operably coupled to at least one inlet cover. The actuator is configured to move at least one inlet cover between the first position to cover the first filter to direct air through the second filter and the second position to cover the second filter to direct air through the first filter.

According to another aspect, a controller is operably coupled with a cover assembly. The controller is configured to activate an actuator to move at least one inlet cover to a first position covering a first filter for an air clean function. The controller is configured to activate the actuator to move the at least one inlet cover to a second position covering a second filter for a hood function.

According to yet another aspect, a first filter includes at least one of a grease filter and a charcoal filter. A second filter includes at least one of a total volatile organic compounds filter and a high-efficiency particulate air filter.

According to yet another aspect, at least one inlet cover includes a first inlet cover and a second inlet cover. At least one inlet includes a first inlet and a second inlet. The first filter is in fluid communication with the first inlet and the second filter is in fluid communication with the second inlet.

According to yet another aspect, an actuator includes a motor operably coupled with a linkage. The linkage is coupled with a first inlet cover and a second inlet cover. The motor and the linkage are configured to rotate the first and second inlet covers between a first position and a second position.

According to yet another aspect, at least one inlet cover is a mesh cover having a first portion defining first guide apertures and a second portion defining second guide apertures. An actuator includes a linear actuator for moving the mesh cover relative to first inlet apertures in fluid communication with a first filter and second inlet apertures in fluid communication with a second filter.

According to yet another aspect, first guide apertures are aligned with first inlet apertures and second guide apertures are offset from second inlet apertures when a mesh cover is in a first position for a hood function. The first guide apertures are offset from the first inlet apertures and the second guide apertures are aligned with the second inlet apertures when the mesh cover is in a second position for an air clean function.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance includes a body at least partially defining an air inlet and an air outlet. The body includes a mesh structure that extends across the air inlet. The mesh structure includes a first mesh section defining first inlet apertures and a second mesh section defining second mesh apertures. A first air filter is coupled to the body and is in fluid communication with the first inlet apertures. A second air filter is coupled to the body and is in fluid communication with the second inlet apertures. The second air filter is configured to filter at least some different particulates than the first air filter. A fan assembly is configured to direct air through the air inlet into the body and through the air outlet to expel the air from the body. A cover assembly is operably coupled to the body. The cover assembly includes an inlet cover operable between a first position and a second position. The inlet cover includes a first segment defining first guide apertures and a second segment defining second guide apertures. An actuator is operably coupled to the inlet cover. The actuator is configured to move the inlet cover between the first position and the second position to adjust positions of the first and second guide apertures relative to the first and second inlet apertures to, consequently, adjust which of the first and second air filters the air is directed through by the fan assembly.

According to yet another aspect, first guide apertures are aligned with first inlet apertures when an inlet cover is in a first position to direct air through a first air filter. Second guide apertures are aligned with second inlet apertures when the inlet cover is in a second position.

According to yet another aspect, first guide apertures are offset from first inlet apertures when an inlet cover is in a second position. Second guide apertures are offset from second inlet apertures when the inlet cover is in a first position.

According to yet another aspect, a second filter has a greater thickness than a first filter. A second segment of an inlet cover is offset from a first segment of the inlet cover to provide space for the greater thickness of the second filter.

According to yet another aspect, a body includes a bottom panel defining an air inlet. A cover assembly is coupled to an inner surface of the bottom panel.

According to yet another aspect, a first filter is closer to a front panel of a body than of a second filter. The first filter is at least one of a grease filter and a charcoal filter. The second filter is at least one of a total volatile organic compounds filter and a high-efficiency particulate air filter.

According to yet another aspect, an actuator is a linear actuator with a motor and a connector. The linear actuator is configured to move an inlet cover fore and aft relative to first and second mesh sections.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cooking appliance includes a body at least partially defining at least one air inlet and an air outlet. At least one first air filter is coupled to the body and is in fluid communication with the at least one air inlet. At least one second air filter is coupled to the body adjacent to the at least one first air filter and is in fluid communication with the at least one air inlet. The at least one second air filter is configured to filter at least some different particulates than the first air filter. A fan assembly is configured to direct air through the at least one air inlet into the body and through the air outlet to expel the air from the body. A cover assembly is operably coupled to the body. The cover assembly includes at least one inlet cover rotatable between a first position and a second position. An actuator is operably coupled to the at least one inlet cover. The actuator is configured to rotate the at least one inlet cover about at least one rotational axis between the first position and the second position to adjust whether the air is directed through the at least one first air filter or the at least one second air filter by the fan assembly.

According to yet another aspect, at least one inlet cover extends along an outer surface of at least one first air filter when the at least one inlet cover is in a first position for the air to be directed through at least one second air filter. The at least one inlet cover extends along an outer surface of the at least one second air filter when the at least one inlet cover is in a second position for the air to be directed through the at least one first air filter.

According to yet another aspect, at least one first air filter includes a first hood filter and a second hood filter. At least one second air filter includes a first air clean filter and a second air clean filter. At least one inlet cover includes a first inlet cover to selectively cover the first hood filter and the first air clean filter and a second inlet cover to selectively cover the second hood filter and the second air clean filter.

According to yet another aspect, a body includes a bottom panel defining at least one air inlet. At least one air inlet includes a first air inlet in fluid communication with at least one first air filter and a second air inlet in fluid communication with at least one second air filter. A cover assembly is coupled to the bottom panel.

According to yet another aspect, an actuator includes a motor, a connector link, and a linkage. Rotational motion of the motor is translated to motion of the linkage by the connector link which, consequently, drives rotation of at least one inlet cover.

According to yet another aspect, at least one first air filter is at least one of a grease filter and a charcoal filter. At least one second air filter is at least one of a total volatile organic compounds filter and a high-efficiency particulate air filter.

It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.