CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.

62/366,942, filed July 26, 2016 and entitled "Temperature Notification System for a Cooking Application," the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a notification system for a pot, pan, or other cookware. More specifically, the present invention relates to a combination digital and audible temperature notification device that can selectively provide a digital notification and/or an audible notification of a selected temperature condition at the cookware.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Temperature notification devices for use in cooking applications are generally known in the art. For example, known tea kettles include a whistle that provides an audible notification, in the form of a whistling sound, to indicate the contents of the kettle (typically water or a similar liquid) has reached a boiling point. The whistling sound is activated by a buildup of steam or other vapor that escapes through the whistle. Other types of cookware, (e.g., pots, pans, Dutch ovens, double boilers, etc.) can have similar audible temperature notification devices.

[0004] Unfortunately, these known temperature notification devices have certain limitations. Notably, the audible sound emitted by these devices generally has a limited detection range. An individual has to physically remain in proximity to the device to hear the notification.

Accordingly, there is a need for a temperature notification device that provides an increased range of notification, freeing the individual from remaining in proximity to the device (e.g., allowing the individual to travel to another room or floor of a home, etc.) and still receive a temperature notification. SUMMARY

[0005] In one embodiment, the invention provides a temperature detection and notification device that includes a digital temperature notification assembly, and an audible temperature notification assembly that is adjustably connected to the digital notification assembly. The audible temperature notification assembly is configured to be positioned between a first configuration where the audible notification is not operable, and a second configuration where the audible notification is operable.

[0006] In other embodiments, the invention provides a temperature notification system that includes a temperature detection and notification device that includes a digital temperature notification assembly, a transmitter in wireless communication with the temperature detection and notification device by a first communication link, and a mobile device in wireless communication with the transmitter by a second communication link. The transmitter is configured to receive a temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device across the first communication link, and is configured to transmit the temperature reading to the mobile device across the second communication link.

[0007] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic layout of a temperature notification system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 1, showing the device in a first configuration with the analog whistle turned off.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 1, showing the device in a second configuration with the analog whistle turned on.

[0011] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 1. [0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 2, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 2, taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 4.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 2, showing the cover assembly removed to illustrate a biasing member received by a base member.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 2, taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 4.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 2, taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the temperature detection and notification device of FIG. 2 connected to cookware, and specifically a lid of a pot.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a transmitter of the temperature notification system of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the transmitter of FIG. 11.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a temperature notification application for use in association with the temperature notification system of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of another appliance in communication with the mobile device shown in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

[0023] For ease of discussion and understanding, the following detailed description will refer to the temperature notification system innovation in association with "cookware," while illustrating aspects of the system in association with a lid of a pot. It should be appreciated that the pot and associated lid are provided for purposes of illustration, and the temperature notification system disclosed herein can be used in association with any cookware, including, but not limited to, kettles, pots, pans, Dutch ovens, double boilers, etc. In addition, the temperature notification system can be used in association with any suitable vessel where it is desirable to receive a notification when the contents reach a predetermined temperature.

[0024] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic layout of a temperature notification system 10. The system 10 includes a temperature detection and notification device 100, a transmitter 200, and a mobile device 300 that carries a temperature notification application 400. The temperature detection and notification device 100 is in communication with the transmitter 200 by a communication link 14. Similarly, the transmitter 200 is in communication with the mobile device 300 by a communication link 18.

[0025] The communication links 14, 18 are shown in broken lines to illustrate a wireless communication link that facilitates communication of a wireless communication protocol. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication protocol is ANT+. However, in other embodiments, any suitable wireless communication protocol can be employed, including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, wireless local area network (Wi-Fi or other LAN), cellular, ANT, or any other suitable known or future developed protocol for communicating wirelessly. In addition, in other embodiments, a combination of wireless communication protocols can be employed (e.g., the first communication link 14 is ANT+ or a Bluetooth connection, while the second

communication link 18 is a Wi-Fi connection). In yet other embodiments, at least one communication link 14, 18 can be a wired or physical connection (e.g., by universal serial bus (USB), Category 5 or Cat5, etc.).

[0026] The mobile device 300 is a hand held mobile or remote device that includes a screen or touchscreen, random access memory (RAM) 304, a computer readable storage medium 308 (or a storage device or a hard drive 308), and a processor 312. The mobile device 300 also stores or carries the temperature notification application 400 (e.g., in the computer readable storage medium 308. Further, a user can operate (or otherwise employ) the temperature notification application 400 on the mobile device 300. In one or more examples of embodiments, the mobile device 300 can be any known or future developed programmable computer processor system suitable to receive, store, and transmit data, and operate the temperature notification application 400. For example, the mobile device 300 can be a wireless phone, a wireless tablet computer, or any other known or future developed wireless device. In other embodiments, the computer readable storage medium 308 may include any data storage device configured to store data that can be thereafter read by a computer system. Examples of such medium 308 can include readonly memory, Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive, or any other optical, solid state, or other suitable data storage device. The medium 308 can also be distributed over a network in communication with the mobile device 300 so that the computer readable code or application, including the temperature notification application 400, is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

[0027] In other examples of embodiments of the system 10, the transmitter 200 can be eliminated from the system 10. In these embodiments, each temperature detection and notification device 100 can be in direct communication with the mobile device 300 by the communication link 14. The communication link 14 can be by ANT+ direct, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, or any other suitable wireless communication protocol.

[0028] FIGS. 2-10 further illustrate the temperature detection and notification device 100 detached from cookware. With specific reference to FIG. 4, the temperature detection and notification device 100 includes a cover assembly 104 having a bottom cover 108 that is removably connected to a top cover 112 by a threaded connection. The bottom cover 108 defines a first aperture 116 that penetrates through the bottom cover 108 (shown in FIG. 5), while the top cover 112 defines a second aperture 120 that penetrates through the top cover 112 (shown in FIG. 6). When the top and bottom covers 108, 112 are in threaded connection, the apertures 116, 120 are generally in axial alignment, defining a passage into a first central channel 124 of a base member 128. The base member 128 defines the first central channel 124, which passes entirely through the base member 128. The first central channel 124 receives a biasing member 132 (shown in FIG. 7) that contacts a portion of the top cover 112 at one end, and a stem 136 of an intermediate member 140 at a second, opposite end. The stem 136 and the intermediate member 140 together define a second central channel 144, which passes entirely through the intermediate member 140. The stem 136 also includes a radial opening 148 extending through a sidewall of the stem 136 and leading into the second central channel 144. The biasing member 132 is received in a channel (not shown) positioned on the top cover 112, allowing the biasing member 132 to engage with and apply a biasing force to the top cover 112 without contacting a seal member 168, discussed in additional detail below. By not contacting the seal member 168, the biasing member 132 does not interfere with temperature detection.

[0029] The base member 128 and the intermediate member 140 together define an audible notification assembly or analog notification assembly 152. The intermediate member 140 is rotatably and slidably received by the base member 128 to facilitate selective adjustment between a first configuration (shown in FIG. 2) and a second configuration (shown in FIG. 3). However, the intermediate member 140 and the base member 128 are keyed to maintain a connection between the members 128, 140. More specifically, the stem 136 includes at least one projection 154 that extends along a portion of the outer circumference of the stem 136. The central channel 124 includes a complimentary at least one projection (not shown) that extends along a portion of the inner circumference of the central channel 124. When in the first configuration (shown in FIG. 2), the projection 154 is positioned into contact with a bottom cover 108 side of the projection on the central channel 124, restricting the biasing member 132 from sliding the intermediate member 140 relative to the base member 128.

[0030] To transition from the first configuration (shown in FIG. 2) to the second

configuration (shown in FIG. 3), the intermediate member 140 is rotated with respect to the base member 128 to disengage contact between the projection 154 and the projection on the central channel 124. This frees the biasing member 132 to apply a bias on the intermediate member, sliding the intermediate member 140 relative to the base member 128 in a direction away from the bottom cover 108.

[0031] To transition from the second configuration (shown in FIG. 3) to the first

configuration (shown in FIG. 2), a user applies a force on the intermediate member 140 in a direction towards the bottom cover 108 that is sufficient to overcome the bias from the biasing member 132. Once the intermediate member 140 is in contact with the base member 128, the user rotates the intermediate member 140 with respect to the base member 128 until the projection 154 is in axial alignment with the projection on the central channel 124. Once in alignment, the force applied by the user can be released, and the biasing member 132 directs the projection 154 into contact with the bottom cover 108 side of the projection on the central channel 124. This force applied by the biasing member 132 restricts the biasing member 132 from sliding the intermediate member 140 relative to the base member 128.

[0032] The first and second configurations provide a user the option to selectively use, or not use, the audible notification assembly 152. More specifically, the user is able to adjust the temperature detection and notification device 100 to deploy (or not deploy) the audible (or analog) notification assembly 152, which is a whistle in the illustrated embodiment. The whistle is partially defined by the radial opening 148 in the stem 136 of the intermediate member 140 (see FIGS. 3-4). In the first configuration (shown in FIG. 2), the whistle is not deployed, as the radial opening 148 is positioned (or otherwise received) within the central channel 124 of the base member 128. In the second configuration (shown in FIG. 3), the whistle is deployed, as the radial opening 148 is removed from the central channel 124 of the base member 128, exposing the whistle (see FIGS. 3-4). Vapor from the heated liquid in the cookware is free to pass through the first and second apertures 116, 120, through the central channels 124, 144 of the respective base and intermediate members 128, 140 (shown in FIGS. 5-6), to vent through the radial opening 148. Generally, as the liquid heats and transitions to a gas phase, the expanding vapor builds pressure in the cookware. When the vapor reaches a predetermined pressure in the cookware, it will travel with sufficient velocity through the audible notification assembly 152 (e.g., whistle) to generate an audible tone (e.g., generate a whistling sound). It should be appreciated that the vapor pressure necessary to generate the audible tone can be correlated to a temperature (or temperature range). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the audible notification assembly 152 generates an audible tone at a temperature range for the heated liquid of approximately 56° C to approximately 62° C, and more specifically at approximately 58° C. It should be appreciated that the disclosed temperature range is for purposes of example, and not intended to be limiting. In other embodiments the audible notification assembly 152 can be tuned to provide the audible tone at a different temperature or temperature range. [0033] In addition to the audible notification assembly 152, the temperature detection and notification device 100 also includes a digital (or electronic) notification assembly 156.

Referring FIGS. 4 and 8, the digital notification assembly 156 includes a recess 158 positioned in the intermediate member 140. The recess 158 is defined between an outer wall 160 and an inner wall 162 of the intermediate member 140, with the inner wall 162 defining a portion of the central channel 144. While the illustrated embodiment depicts the recess 158 as an annular recess, in other embodiments, the recess 158 can be any suitable shape.

[0034] The recess 158 receives a plurality of conducting members (or slices) 164 that are spaced apart by a pad or spacer 166. The spacer 166 is formed of a nonconductive material (e.g., plastic, etc.) to limit an electrical short. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the seal member 168 is positioned in the central channel 144. The seal member 168 is formed of copper or a copper alloy that provides moisture insulation from vapor in the central channel 144 of the intermediate member 140, along with heat conductivity. An electrical contact 169 connects the seal member

168 to each of the conducting members 164. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical contact

169 is a temperature detection member 169 in the form of a thermocouple 169 that is in physical contact with the seal member 168 and the conducting members 164. In other examples of embodiments, the electrical contact 169 can be a resistance thermometer, thermistor, or any other suitable temperature detection device.

[0035] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 9, an upper member 170 is removably connected to the intermediate member 140 by a threaded connection. The upper member 170 can carry a gasket 171 to facilitate a liquid and/or thermal seal between the upper and intermediate members 170, 140. The upper member 170 houses a printed circuit board (or PCB) 172. The printed circuit board 172 includes a plurality of electrical contacts 174. Each contact 174 is configured to engage one of the plurality of conducting members 164. The printed circuit board 172 also includes a transmitter operably connected to an antenna 176 for transmitting a temperature reading (or temperature signal) to the transmitter 200 (and/or the mobile device 300). The upper member 170 also defines an opening 178 that receives a power source (or battery) 180. The power source 180 is in electrical communication with the printed circuit board 172 to provide electricity (or power) to the digital notification assembly 156. A plurality of fasteners 182 (e.g., screws, etc.) couple the printed circuit board 172 to the upper member 170. A cover 184 is positioned on the upper member 170, and can be formed of a transparent or semi-transparent material. In addition, the cover 184 can include indicia 186, such as a visual notification, to selectively provide a visual indication of an increase in measured temperature. For example, a light source (e.g., light emitting diode or LED, etc.) (not shown) in electrical communication with the printed circuit board 172 can emit light at a predetermined temperature (or range of temperatures), illuminating the indicia 186 to provide a visual notice to a user of a measured increase in temperature by the digital notification assembly 156.

[0036] FIG. 10 illustrates the temperature detection and notification device 100 operably connected to the cookware. In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature detection and notification device 100 is coupled to a lid 188 of the cookware, and specifically a pot. The lid 188 is positioned between the intermediate member 140 and the top cover 112 (shown in FIG. 4), with a portion of the stem 136 being received by an aperture (or other suitable opening) in the lid 188. The threaded connection between the intermediate member 140 and the top cover 112 couples (and retains) the temperature detection and notification device 100 to the lid 188.

[0037] In operation, the electricity from the power source 180 is introduced through the printed circuit board 172, to one of the electrical contacts 174 (e.g., a positive contact), and to one of the conducting members 164 (e.g., a positive conducting member). The electricity then flows through the thermocouple 169, to the other of the conducting members 164 (e.g., a negative conducting member), to the other of the electrical contacts 174 (e.g., a negative contact), and back to the printed circuit board 172. The printed circuit board 172 then measures the temperature of the seal member 168, which is exposed (on an opposite side of the seal member 168) to vapor from the heated liquid in the cookware traveling through the central channels 124, 144 of the respective base and intermediate members 128, 140 (shown in FIGS. 5- 6). Based on the measured voltage (or resistance, etc.), the printed circuit board 172 can calculate a temperature. In other embodiments, the printed circuit board 172 can illuminate the light source (not shown) based on the measured voltage (or resistance, etc.) to provide a visual notice to a user, and/or can transmit the measured voltage (or resistance, or calculated temperature, etc.), by the antenna 176, to the mobile device 300 (directly or through the transmitter 200) by the wireless communication protocol (e.g. ANT+, etc.). [0038] FIGS. 1 1-12 illustrate an embodiment of the transmitter 200. The transmitter 200 communicates with one or more temperature detection and notification devices 100. The transmitter 200 generally detects and forms a communication link 14 with a plurality of temperature detection and notification device 100 positioned within a predetermined physical range or distance of the transmitter 200. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the transmitter 200 can form a communication link 14 with up to nine (9) temperature detection and notification devices 100 that are positioned within a ten (10) meter radius of the transmitter 200. However, in other embodiments, the transmitter 200 can communicate with more than nine temperature detection and notification devices 100, fewer than nine temperature detection and notification devices 100, or any suitable number of temperature detection and notification devices 100. In addition, the transmitter 200 can communicate with one or more temperature detection and notification devices 100 over any suitable predetermined distance from the transmitter 200, for example from approximately two (2) meters to approximately ten (10) meters. In other embodiments, the predetermined distance can exceed approximately ten (10) meters, and/or can be less than approximately two (2) meters. The transmitter 200 communicates with each of the associated temperature detection and notification devices 100 for measured temperature. Generally, the transmitter 200 continuously communicates with the temperature detection and notification devices 100 to receive streamed measured temperature data. However, in other embodiments, the transmitter 200 can periodically interrogate (or query or poll) each of the associated temperature detection and notification devices 100. Once received, the transmitter 200 then communicates the temperature information from each temperature detection and notification devices 100 to the mobile device 300 (by the second communication link 18).

[0039] With specific reference to FIG. 12, the transmitter 200 includes a base housing 204 that receives a primary printed circuit board (PCB) 208. The primary printed circuit board 208 receives power (e.g., electricity) from a battery (or power source) (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the battery is a rechargeable battery that is recharged through a universal serial bus (USB) connection 212 (e.g., a USB cord can be configured to provide by electricity from a source, such as a power outlet, electronic device, etc., to the transmitter 200 by the USB connection 212). A fastener 216 (e.g., a screw, etc.) couples the USB connection 212 to the base housing 204. A cover housing 220 is coupled to the base housing 204 by a plurality of fasteners 224 (e.g., screws, etc.) The cover housing 220 can carry a light source 228, shown as an array of light emitting diodes (LED's). The light source 228 is in communication with a diffusion plate 232, which directs (or diffuses) light from the light source 228 through a front panel 236. The light can then illuminate a portion of the front panel 236 (such as an indicia 240, shown as a logo or brand illustration, and/or a power switch 244). The cover housing 220 also carries a touch pad or touch printed circuit board 248 that is in communication with the power switch 244.

[0040] In operation, the user contacts (e.g., presses, etc.) the power switch 244. The contact is received by the touch pad 248, which communicates with the primary printed circuit board 208 to initiate operation of the transmitter 200. The primary printed circuit board 208 can also initiate operation of the light source 228 to illuminate the power switch 244 and/or the indicia 240. The primary printed circuit board 208 then begins to communicate with the one or more associated temperature detection and notification devices 100, receiving detected temperature (or the measured voltage, resistance, etc. at the temperature detection member 169) by the first communication link 14. The detected temperature (or the measured voltage, resistance, etc. at the temperature detection member 169) is then transmitted to the mobile device 300 by the second communication link 18 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0041] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of the temperature notification application 400 that uses temperature information acquired from the temperature detection and notification device 100 to provide a notification to a user. By remotely notifying the user of the temperature, the user has the option to vacate the area where the temperature detection and notification device 100 is located, while still receiving a notification when cookware reaches a predetermined temperature. As a practical, non-limiting example, a user has the option to leave a kitchen with the mobile device 300, where a pot having the temperature detection and notification device 100 is heating on a stove, to attend to other items (e.g., a crying child in a different room, etc.). While in one or more areas not in proximity to the cookware carrying the temperature detection and notification device 100 (e.g., physically spaced away from the temperature detection and notification device 100), the temperature notification application 400 will provide the user with notifications of the detected temperature through the mobile device 300. The notification will indicate to the user when to return to the temperature detection and notification device 100 when a targeted temperature is achieved (or a critical temperature is reached). [0042] The temperature notification application 400 is an application that is installed on the mobile device 300 (either wholly installed or partially installed), and further configured to operate on the mobile device 300. In various embodiments, the application 400 can be a module that is distributed (i.e. operates on a remote server or from a remote location) and is in communication with the mobile device 300. In yet other embodiments, the application 400 can be an application or module that operates in a local environment. The application 400 includes a series of processing instructions or steps that are depicted in flow diagram form.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 13, the process begins with activation of the application 400. Prior to activation, the application 400 has been downloaded or otherwise installed on the mobile device 300. To activate the application 400, the user initiates an executable file (or other similar, operational file) that begins operation of the application 400. For example, a user can touch an icon on a touch screen to activate and initiate operation of the application 400.

[0044] After activation, the application 400 proceeds to an application setup at step 404. During the setup, which is depicted as the processing steps contained in the broken lines, a user or other individual configures operation of the application 400.

[0045] At step 408, the user reviews and accepts one or more operational policies associated with the application 400. The operational policies can include terms of service, terms and conditions, a privacy policy, an end user license agreement (EULA), and/or any other suitable policy or terms of use. Once the user reviews and affirmatively accepts (or otherwise approves) the policies, the application 400 proceeds to step 412. At step 412, the user establishes a communication link between the application 400 and the transmitter 200. More specifically, the application 400 links the mobile device 300 to the transmitter 200 by the second communication link 18. For example, the user can select the second communication link 18 to communicate by Wi-Fi through a wireless access point, such as a local area network generated by a router or other wireless device. As another example, or optionally, the user can select the second

communication link 18 to communicate by Wi-Fi direct, which directly connects the mobile device 300 to the transmitter 200 without requiring a wireless access point (e.g., a hotspot, router, or other physical intermediary that facilitates a wireless connection). For example, the transmitter 200 can emit the Wi-Fi direct signal. In embodiments of the system 10 without the transmitter 200, step 412 establishes a direct communication link between the temperature detection and notification device 100 and the mobile device 300 (e.g., by ANT+ direct, Wi-Fi direct, etc.).

[0046] Once the communication link 18 is selected and established, the application proceeds to step 416. At step 416, the user can select the temperature units that are communicated by the application 400 (e.g., degrees Fahrenheit (°F), degrees Celsius (°C), etc.). After selection of the temperature units and completion of the application setup steps 404, the application 400 proceeds to step 420.

[0047] Generally, the setup steps 404 automatically occur the first time the application 400 is activated following installation on the mobile device 300. The parameters entered during the setup steps 404 are generally saved, and subsequent activation of the application 400 leads directly to step 420. However, the application 400 includes functionality to change one or more of the parameters established in the application setup steps 404, for example by a selective drop down menu.

[0048] At step 420, the application 400 is in communication with at least one temperature detection and notification device 100. More specifically, the application 400 is receiving temperature readings from each of the temperature detection and notification devices 100 linked to the application 400. The remaining processing steps (step 420 thru step 452) will be described in association with a single temperature detection and notification device 100. However, it should be appreciated that in embodiments where a plurality of temperature detection and notification devices 100 are in communication with the application 400, the remaining processing steps can separately occur (either concurrently, partially overlapping, or

independently) in association with each of the temperature detection and notification devices 100 that are in communication with the application 400.

[0049] At step 424, the application 400 analyzes the temperature reading received from the temperature detection and notification device 100 to ascertain whether it exceeds a set point. The set point is a programmed temperature that initiates a notification signal. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the set point is between approximately 57° C and 58° C (or

approximately 134.6° F and 136.4° F), which is the temperature range where a known whistle provides an audible notification in cooking applications. The set point can be preprogrammed into the application 400, and further can be hard coded (cannot be edited or otherwise changed by a user) or can be editable by the user to select a different temperature set point.

[0050] If the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does not meet (or exceed) the set point (i.e., the analysis at step 424 is "no"), the application 400 proceeds to step 428, where the application 400 analyzes the temperature reading received from the temperature detection and notification device 100 to ascertain whether it exceeds a low temperature set point. The low temperature set point is a programmed temperature that initiates a second notification signal that indicates the temperature is increasing, but below the temperature that triggers the notification signal. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the low temperature set point is approximately 40° C (or approximately 104° F), which is generally above an ambient temperature surrounding the temperature detection and notification device 100, but below the notification set point. The low temperature set point can be preprogrammed into the application 400, and further can be hard coded (cannot be edited or otherwise changed by a user) or can be editable by the user to select a different low temperature set point. If the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does not meet (or exceed) the low temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 428 is "no"), the application 400 returns to step 420 and subsequently repeats. However, if the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does meet (or exceed) the low temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 428 is "yes"), the application 400 proceeds to step 430, where an icon is displayed on the mobile device 300 that indicates the temperature detected by the temperature detection and notification device 100 is increasing. For example, the icon can flash, have radiating concentric rings, or provide some other suitable visual cue indicating an increase in temperature that is above ambient (i.e., the cookware associated with the temperature detection and notification device 100 is heating up). In addition, the indicia 186 on the digital notification assembly 156 can be illuminated to provide an additional, visual notification that the temperature at least meets (or exceeds) the low temperature set point. For example, the light source (not shown) can emit light (e.g., be turned on) to illuminate the indicia 186. To initiate illumination of the indicia 186 (e.g., turn on the light source (not shown)), the temperature detection and notification device 100 can include preprogrammed instructions to illuminate the indicia 186 when the low temperature set point is reached (or exceeded). In other embodiments, the application 400 can transmit a signal to the temperature detection and notification device 100 that includes instructions to illuminate the indicia 186. The selectively illuminated indicia 186 provides a visual notification (when illuminated) indicating the associated cookware is hot (e.g., too hot to handle or touch, etc.), while conserving electricity (or power) from the power source 180 by not continuously illuminating the indicia 186. Once the icon is displayed at step 430, the application 400 returns to step 420 and repeats.

[0051] Returning back to step 424, if the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does meet (or exceeds) the set point (i.e., the analysis at step 424 is "yes"), the application 400 proceeds to step 432. At step 432, the application 400 analyzes the temperature reading received from the temperature detection and notification device 100 to ascertain whether it exceeds a high temperature set point. The high temperature set point is a programmed temperature that initiates a third notification signal that indicates the temperature has reached a critical level, such as a high temperature level. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the high temperature set point is approximately 95° C (or approximately 203° F). The high temperature set point can be preprogrammed into the application 400, and further can be hard coded (cannot be edited or otherwise changed by a user) or can be editable by the user to select a different high temperature set point. If the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does not meet (or exceed) the high temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 432 is "no"), the application 400 proceeds to step 436.

[0052] At step 436, the application 400 displays a visual notification on the mobile device 300 that the set point has been reached. For example, an illustration of a pot, kettle, or other cookware discharging steam is shown. In addition, or alternatively, an audible tone or alarm is generated from the mobile device, and/or a haptic alarm is generated by the mobile device (i.e., the mobile device can vibrate, etc.). The application 400 proceeds to step 440 while the visual, audible, and/or haptic notifications continuing to be emitted. At step 440, the user is prompted to choose to delay further notifications for a period of time (e.g., select a "snooze" functionality) or can entirely stop the notifications (e.g., select a "dismiss" functionality).

[0053] If the user selects the "snooze" functionality at step 440, the application 400 proceeds to step 444 where a preset timer is reset. For example, if the preset delay for further notifications is five minutes, the timer is set to five minutes at step 444. It should be appreciated that the length of the delay (i.e., the length of the timer) can be preset to any suitable amount of time. Further, in various embodiments, the length of time for the timer can be hard coded (cannot be edited or otherwise changed by a user) or can be editable by the user to select a different length of time.

[0054] Once the time is reset, the application 400 proceeds to step 446 where a unit of time is removed from the timer (e.g., one second, etc.) to create an adjusted time. Next, at step 448 the adjusted time is analyzed to determine if it has reached zero. If the timer has not reached zero (i.e., the analysis at step 448 is "no"), the application 400 returns back to step 446 and repeats. When the timer reaches zero (i.e., the analysis at step 448 is "yes"), the application 400 returns to step 436, where the application 400 again displays visual, audible, and/or haptic notifications and proceeds to step 440 where the process repeats. It should be appreciated that the timer disclosed in steps 446 to 448 is disclosed as a countdown timer. In other embodiments, the timer can be a count-up timer (i.e., the timer is reset to zero, and time is incrementally added until the timer reaches a preset value).

[0055] Returning back to step 440, if the user selects to entirely stop or "dismiss" the notifications, the application 400 proceeds to step 450. At step 450, the application 400 continues to receive temperature readings from the temperature detection and notification device 100 and then analyzes the temperature readings. At step 452 the application 400 analyzes the temperature reading received from the temperature detection and notification device 100 to ascertain whether it exceeds the high temperature set point (e.g., effectively the same analysis as at step 432). If the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does meet (or exceeds) the high temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 452 is "yes"), the application 400 proceeds to step 456, which is discussed in additional detail below. If the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does not meet (or exceed) the high temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 452 is "no"), the application 400 proceeds to step 454.

[0056] At step 454 the application 400 analyzes the temperature reading received from the temperature detection and notification device 100 to ascertain whether it exceeds the low temperature set point (e.g., effectively the same analysis as at step 428). If the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does meet (or exceed) the low temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 454 is "yes"), the application 400 returns to step 450 and repeats. However, if the reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does not meet (or exceed) the low temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 454 is "no"), the application 400 returns to step 420 and subsequently repeats. Not meeting (or exceeding) the low temperature set point at step 454 is an indicator that the temperature detection and notification device 100 has been removed from a heat source. It should be appreciated that upon returning to step 420, the application 400 maintains communication with and continues to receive temperature readings from the temperature detection and notification device 100.

[0057] Referring back to step 432, if the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does meet (or exceeds) the high temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 432 is "yes"), the application 400 proceeds to step 456.

[0058] At step 456, the application 400 displays a visual notification on the mobile device 300 that the high temperature set point has been reached. For example, a critical temperature alert, such as an exclamation point in a triangle, along with the phrases "alert" and "critical temperature" can be shown on the screen of the mobile device 300. In addition, an audible tone or alarm is generated from the mobile device, and/or a haptic alarm is generated by the mobile device (i.e., the mobile device can vibrate, etc.). This critical alert generated by the application 400 cannot be dismissed or delayed by the user. To stop the critical alert, a user has to remove or reduce the heat source from the cookware that carries the temperature detection and notification device 100 (e.g., turn down the heat source, turn off the heat source, physically remove the cookware from the heat source, etc.). Accordingly, the critical alert continues while the application 400 returns to step 432. Once the temperature reading from the temperature detection and notification device 100 does not meet (or does not exceed) the high temperature set point (i.e., the analysis at step 432 is "no"), the critical alert terminates, and the application 400 repeats the steps associated with step 432.

[0059] In other examples of embodiment of the system 10, one or more components can be in communication with a data storage or server or computer processing system that is remote to the system 10. The communication can be through the Internet, a local area network, a cloud computing arrangement, or any other communication suitable for transmitting data. The data storage can include a database (or similar storage structure) for receiving and storing data acquired by the one or more components of the system 10. For example, temperature readings measured by the temperature detection and notification device 100 can be transmitted (or uploaded, or streamed) to the database for storage and later access. The transmission (or uploading or streaming) can be performed by one or more of the temperature detection and notification device 100, the transmitter 200, the mobile device 300, and/or the temperature notification application 400. The database can be accessed through the cloud (e.g., an Internet portal, an application, etc.) to acquire the data.

[0060] Further, while the system 10 disclosed herein references the measurement and communication of temperature by the temperature detection and notification device 100 to the mobile device 300, in other examples of embodiments, additional or alternative information can be detected and communicated through the system 10. For example, the application 400 can communicate (e.g., receive, transmit, etc.) any suitable digital information. In addition, the application 400 can be in communication with one or more devices 500 other than the temperature detection and notification device 100. For example, the application 400 can be in communication with one or more other kitchen related appliances or devices 500. These appliances 500 can include, but are not limited to, a blender, a juicer, a water filtration system (e.g., a standalone water filtration system or a system integrated into a refrigerator or other appliance, etc.), or any other suitable appliance or device. The application 400 can be configured to communicate with the other appliance 500, receive data from the appliance 500, send commands to the appliance 500, and/or communicate information received from the appliance 500 to another device (e.g., display on the mobile device 300, communicate to the database for storage, etc.).

[0061] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of the kitchen related appliance 500 in operable communication with the mobile device 300 to communicate digital information from the appliance 500 to the mobile device 300. More specifically, the appliance 500 is in

communication with the transmitter 200 by communication link 14, while the transmitter 200 is in communication with the mobile device 300 by the communication link 18. In effect, the appliance 500 is in communication with the mobile device 300 and/or transmitter 200 in the substantially same manner as the temperature detection and notification device 100 as described in association with FIG. 1. While one appliance 500 is illustrated in operable communication with the mobile device 300 and/or transmitter 200, in other embodiments a plurality of appliances 500 and/or one or more temperature detection and notification device(s) 100 are in communication with the mobile device 300 and/or transmitter 200. In other embodiments the transmitter 200 can be eliminated, with one or more appliance(s) 500 in direct communication with the mobile device 300 by the communication link 14. The communication link 14 can be by ANT+ direct, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, or any other suitable wireless communication protocol.

[0062] In the embodiment illustrate in FIG. 14, the appliance 500 is a water filtration unit 500 (or water filtration assembly 500). The water filtration unit 500 includes a removable water filter 504 (or filter cartridge 504). The water filter 504 includes a memory device 508. In the illustrated embodiment, the memory device 508 is a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag 508. However, in other embodiments, the memory device 508 can be any suitable programmable device that contains information that can be programmed, stored, and/or accessed by a separate transmitter, emitter, or communication device. In the illustrated embodiment the RFID tag 508 can be a passive tag or an active tag.

[0063] The water filtration unit 500 also includes an emitter 512 (or a transmitter 512 or a communication device 512). The emitter 512 is in communication with the water filter 504. More specifically, the emitter 512 can include a interrogator 516 (or other suitable

communication device 516) that is configured to communicate with the memory device 508 (the RFID tag 508) by a communication link 520. The communication link 520 is shown in broken lines to illustrate a wireless communication link that facilitates communication of a wireless communication protocol. For example, the RFID tag 508 can be positioned in physical proximity to the interrogator 516 in order to facilitate wireless communication there between. In other embodiments, the memory device 508 and the interrogator 516 can be in physical contact to facilitate communication (e.g., by Near-field Communication, etc.), or can be a wired or physical connection. The emitter 512 is also in communication with the mobile device 300. More specifically, the emitter 512 is in communication with the transmitter 200 by the communication link 14, while the transmitter 200 is in communication with the mobile device 300 by the communication link 18.

[0064] The memory device 508 on the water filter 504 contains data (or other information) that can be accessed by the mobile device 300. For example, the memory device 508 can include information relating to the water filter 504. More specifically, the memory device 508 can include NSF / ANSI (National Sanitation Foundation / American National Standards Institute) certification information for the associated water filter 504. This information provides a user an identification as to the relevant NSF / ANSI national standard level (or certification level) for the associated water filter 504 (e.g., NSF / ANSI 42; NSF / ANSI 53; NSF / ANSI P231, or NSF / ANSI 401, etc.). The memory device 508 can also include an authenticity certification allowing a user to validate that the water filter 504 is a genuine water filter 504 provided by an approved supplier. Further, the memory device 508 can include the quantity of water (in gallons) that has passed though the water filter 504 (i.e., been filtered). For example, the water filtration unit 500 can keep a log of the number of gallons of water filtered by the unit 500 from the last water filter 504 installation. This log can be transmitted to and stored on the memory device 508 (e.g., transmitted to the memory device 508 by the emitter 512, etc.), allowing the log to travel with the removable water filter 504. Thus a "used" water filter will have a log of gallons of filtered water, and cannot be confused as "new" based solely on removal and reinstallation (or installation at a different water filtration unit 500).

[0065] The mobile device 300 can selectively access the information stored on the memory device 508. The mobile device 300 sends a request to the appliance 500 (directly or through the transmitter 200) for the information. The emitter 512 can receive the request, and query the memory device 508 (e.g., through the interrogator 516, etc.). In response to the request, the memory device 508 communicates the requested information (e.g., the NSF / ANSI national standard level for the associated water filter 504, the authenticity certification of the water filter 504, the quantity of water (in gallons) that has passed though the water filter 504, etc.) to the emitter 512. The emitter 512 can then transmit the information from the memory device 508 to the mobile device 300 (directly or through the transmitter 200). The mobile device 300 can then utilize this information to provide feedback to a user, such as confirmation of the water filter NSF / ANSI national standard level, confirmation of authenticity, and/or an indication as to whether the water filter 504 needs to be changed (e.g., a graphic indicating how many more gallons the water filter 504 can filter before requiring replacement, etc.).

[0066] The temperature notification system and associated temperature notification application disclosed herein advantageously provides, among other things, an increase in the range of temperature notification. A user can receive various alerts (audible, visual, and/or haptic alerts) associated with cookware temperature while in areas that are not in proximity to the cookware (e.g., another floor of a house, etc.). The temperature notification system

simultaneously (and/or optionally) provides visual and/or audible notification of increases in temperature at the temperature detection and notification device for a user that is in proximity to the cookware. Various additional features and advantages of the invention are set forth herein and in the following claims.