APPLIANCE NETWORK WITH A SMART CONTROL, HOST MULTI-FUNCTION AND EXTERNAL APPLIANCE WITH FOOD CONTAINERS AND METHODS

Abstract

An appliance or compact multi-function appliance for use with a perishable food, product or container that are configured to track, monitor and report food freshness and cooking status and to order, purchase, process payments and provide home delivery for a product.

Claims

1. A system for identifying a food product in a container in a refrigerator and determining a stimulus or a level of freshness, spoilage or contamination of the food product, comprising: a radio frequency tag inside the container or connected to the container; a computing device configured to communicate with a user interface device, the computing device comprising a processor and a non-volatile, non-transitory memory; a radio frequency reader in communication with the computing device, the radio frequency reader configured to send a radio wave to the container and the radio frequency tag, and receive a signal from the radio frequency tag; the radio frequency tag is configured to send identity information about the food product or the container to the computing device; the radio frequency tag is configured to receive the radio wave from the radio frequency reader to power the radio frequency tag; the radio frequency tag comprising a sensor portion that contacts or interacts with the stimulus when present in the container, wherein the stimulus comprising a solid compound, a liquid compound, or a gaseous compound from the food product or a contaminate in the container; the radio frequency tag sending a signal to the radio frequency reader, the signal containing information about the stimulus measured by the sensor; an application stored in the non-volatile, non-transitory memory and executable by the processor to: identify the food product or the container based on the identity information received from the radio frequency reader and send the identity of the food product or the container to the user interface device; interpret the signal to detect the stimulus or to determine a level or quantity of the stimulus; determine at least one of, the stimulus or that the food product is spoiled, the food product is contaminated or a level of freshness of the food product based on whether the level or quantity of the stimulus reaches or exceeds a profile; and send to the user interface device a notice of the detection of the stimulus or that the food product is spoiled, the food product is contaminated, or a level of freshness of the food product.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the radio frequency tag comprises a radio frequency identification tag, an NFC tag, or a radio frequency tag configured to use a Bluetooth protocol and the radio frequency reader and the computing device are configured to read and interpret the signal containing information about the stimulus measured by the sensor from the radio frequency identification tag, the NFC tag or the tag using a Bluetooth protocol.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the stimulus comprises one of an analyte, a mold, an ethylene, an alkene, an alkyne, an acid, a ketone, an ester, an aldehyde, an alcohol, an ether, a thiol, an ammonia, mono-nitrogen oxide or an amine.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface device comprises at least one of a smart speaker, a smartphone, a handheld device, a client device, a tablet, a beacon or a display to display information.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the application further comprising transmitting an order request or placing the food product on a digital list.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the order request or the digital list comprises a purchase, an order, a replacement, or inventory management for the food product for a manufacturer, a wholesaler, a retailer, order chain, or a consumer.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the radio frequency tag is attached to an exterior of the container.

8. A system for identifying a food product in a container and determining a stimulus or a level of freshness, spoilage or contamination of the food product with an appliance, comprising: a radio frequency tag inside the container or connected to the container; an appliance computing device comprising a processor and a non-volatile, non-transitory memory; a radio frequency reader in communication with the computing device, the radio frequency reader configured to send a radio wave to the container and the radio frequency tag, and receive a signal from the radio frequency tag; the radio frequency tag is configured to send identity information about the food product or the container to the computing device; the radio frequency tag is configured to receive the radio wave from the radio frequency reader to power the radio frequency tag; the radio frequency tag comprising a sensor portion that contacts or interacts with the stimulus when present in the container, wherein the stimulus comprising a solid compound, a liquid compound, or a gaseous compound from the food product or a contaminate in the container; the radio frequency tag sending a signal to the radio frequency reader, the signal containing information about the stimulus measured by the sensor; an application stored in the non-volatile, non-transitory memory and executable by the processor to: identify the food product or container based on the identity information received from the radio frequency reader and send the identity of the food product or the container to the appliance; interpret the signal to detect the stimulus or to determine a level or quantity of the stimulus; determine at least one of, the stimulus or that the food product is spoiled, the food product is contaminated or a level of freshness of the food product based on whether the level or quantity of the stimulus reaches or exceeds a profile; and send to the appliance a notice of the detection of the stimulus or that the food product is spoiled, the food product is contaminated, or a level of freshness of the food product.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the radio frequency tag comprises a radio frequency identification tag, an NFC tag, or a radio frequency tag configured to use a Bluetooth protocol and the radio frequency reader and the computing device are configured to read and interpret the signal containing information about the stimulus measured by the sensor from the radio frequency identification tag, the NFC tag or the tag using a Bluetooth protocol.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the stimulus comprises one of an analyte, a mold, an ethylene, an alkene, an alkyne, an acid, a ketone, an ester, an aldehyde, an alcohol, an ether, a thiol, an ammonia, mono-nitrogen oxide or an amine.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein the appliance comprises one of a smart speaker, a tablet, a smartphone, a beacon, a handheld device, a client device, a server, a display to display information, or a refrigerator.

12. The system of claim 8, wherein the application further comprising transmitting an order request or placing the food product on a digital list.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the order request or the digital list comprises a purchase, an order, a replacement, or inventory management for the food product for a manufacturer, wholesaler, retailer, order chain, or consumer.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the radio frequency tag is attached to an exterior of the container.

15. A method for identifying a food product in a container in a refrigerator and determining a stimulus or a level of freshness, spoilage or contamination of the food product, comprising: providing a radio frequency tag inside the container or connected to the container, a computing device configured to communicate with a user interface device, the computing device comprising a processor and a non-volatile, non-transitory memory, a radio frequency reader in communication with the computing device, the radio frequency reader configured to send a radio wave to the container and the radio frequency tag, and receive a signal from the radio frequency tag, the radio frequency tag is configured to send identity information about the food product or the container to the computing device; the radio frequency tag is configured to receive the radio wave from the radio frequency reader to power the radio frequency tag, the radio frequency tag comprising a sensor portion that contacts or interacts with the stimulus when present in the container, wherein the stimulus comprising a solid compound, a liquid compound, or a gaseous compound from the food product or a contaminate in the container; the radio frequency tag sending a signal to the radio frequency reader, the signal containing information about the stimulus measured by the sensor, and an application stored in the non-volatile, non-transitory memory and executable by the processor to: identifying the food product or container based on the identity information received from the radio frequency reader and sending the identity of the food product or the container to the user interface device; interpreting the signal to detect the stimulus or to determine a level or quantity of the stimulus; determining at least one of, the stimulus or that the food product is spoiled, the food product is contaminated or a level of freshness of the food product based on whether the level or quantity of the stimulus reaches or exceeds a profile; and sending to the user interface device a notice of the detection of the stimulus or that the food product is spoiled, the food product is contaminated or a level of freshness of the food product.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the radio frequency tag comprises a radio frequency identification tag, an NFC tag, or a radio frequency tag configured to use a Bluetooth protocol and the radio frequency reader and the computing device are configured to read and interpret the signal containing information about the stimulus measured by the sensor from the radio frequency identification tag, the NFC tag or the tag using a Bluetooth protocol.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein the stimulus comprises one of an analyte, a mold, an ethylene, an alkene, an alkyne, an acid, a ketone, an ester, an aldehyde, an alcohol, an ether, a thiol, an ammonia, mono-nitrogen oxide or an amine.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the user interface device comprises at least one of a smart speaker, a smartphone, a handheld device, a client device, a tablet, a beacon or a display to display information.

19. The system of claim 15, wherein the application further comprising transmitting the order request or placing the food product on a digital list.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the order request or the digital list comprises a purchase, an order, a replacement, or inventory management for the food product for a manufacturer, wholesaler, retailer, order chain, or consumer.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a housing with compartments.

[0063] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an appliance drawer.

[0064] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an appliance with containers.

[0065] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a schematic diagram of a control system.

[0066] FIG. 5 illustrates a perishable food or item inside a container with a container technology and brand logos or names.

[0067] FIG. 6 describes a food or goods management system.

[0068] FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart for an appliance.

[0069] FIG. 8 illustrates a flow chart for an appliance.

[0070] FIG. 9 illustrates a flow chart for an appliance.

[0071] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart for an appliance.

[0072] FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of a host appliance with an appliance.

[0073] FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of an appliance with an induction plate.

[0074] FIG. 13 illustrates an appliance input/output port or connection and interface with cable for a smart control or host appliance.

[0075] FIG. 14 illustrates a front view of a smart control in a base.

[0076] FIG. 15 illustrates a block diagram for an appliance or network process.

[0077] FIG. 16 illustrates a block diagram for an appliance or network process.

[0078] FIG. 17 illustrates a block diagram for an appliance or network process.

[0079] FIG. 18 illustrates a block diagram for an appliance or network process.

[0080] FIG. 19 illustrates a block diagram for an appliance or network process.

[0081] FIG. 20 illustrates a block diagram for an appliance or network process.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0082] The invention will now be described with reference to the attached non-limiting

[0083] Figures. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, preferred embodiments include an appliance, multi-function appliance or appliance control system (“appliance”, “host appliance”, “smart control”) with an appliance comprising any combination of the following functionalities, modes, elements and controls, but not limited thereto: an appliance compartment constructed to function as or with a vacuum system, an oven, a microwave oven, an induction cooktop (“induction plate”), an electrical cooking heating element, a temperature controlled compartment or housing with a temperature means that can include conventional refrigeration cooling and heating systems, a Peltier device or solid state cooling and heating (condenser and condenser free systems)(which can be located inside or outside an appliance compartment), a vacuum bag sealer with a heat bar sealer situated inside a compartment, a UV light source system, a handheld or manual container vacuum system, a handheld or manual UV light system, a humidity and venting system, as well as, the other previously disclosed wireless capabilities, functions and modes, that can be smart/sensor reader enabled and connect and communicate with an appliance control or operating system and can be controlled wirelessly via a smartphone, voice, AI, an appliance or an external appliance. In one embodiment, an appliance can comprise any of the following such as, a housing (1) in which at least one sealable modular compartment (6) can be disposed with at least one or more containers disposed therein. A vacuum pump can connect and communicate with the interior of the housing to create vacuum, pressure, venting and other environments inside said compartment and inside one-way valve or seal containers disposed therein. As shown in FIG. 4, an appliance control system (2) can include a display panel, microprocessor (CPU), memory device, network interface and software and hardware for a network enabled appliance including a wireless device connected to a microcontroller to communicate with cloud, internet or satellite networks, a smart control, other appliances, containers and to control and operate each system. Furthermore, a smart control (as shown in one embodiment in FIG. 14), a smart power-strip and an appliance can be constructed to incorporate input/output ports (506), as shown in one embodiment in FIG. 13, an interface or a micro-controller to allow a user to connect a smart control, a smart power-strip and an appliance together to communicate to allow software, an interface and micro-controllers to connect to communicate with hardware devices and with respective control and operating systems. As used herein an input/output port (507) can include any system, including cable or wireless, to couple a host appliance, a smart control or another appliance together to allow the creation of a network of cooking appliances to communicate and share information, data, electricity, wireless connectivity via cloud, internet, satellite, Bluetooth and control by a host appliance, smart control or appliance in the network. The coupling device can include an input/output port, slidable connectors, click or snap connectors, etc. The appliance network can also operate with appliances to connect to the network to function as a host appliance or as an appliance or a recipient of network data, connectivity, and electricity, among others.

[0084] An appliance control and operating system can selectively or automatically activate and deactivate a vacuum pump and place said pump in either a vacuum, pressure or vent mode. A pump can connect to the interior of a compartment and communicate with a control system, smart/sensors and release valves connected to and in communication with said compartment. In differing embodiments, operating systems can be physically located inside or outside, or a combination, of an appliance compartment. Furthermore, said compartment cavities, spaces and apertures as disclosed herein can be constructed and designed to support a combination of microwave oven (RF), induction plate (505), a food heating element, oven, UV light source and environments such as vacuum, humidity, outgassing, venting, and temperature modes or functions and others disclosed herein (“environments”).

[0085] Another embodiment provides an apparatus housing (18) and control and operating systems to create, monitor, regulate, maintain and release compartment or container environments and can connect to and communicate with a smart control, appliance operating systems, smart/sensors and a compartment. Operating systems, as described herein, can include product inventory, ordering, purchasing and payment processing systems and an appliance, smart control or smart power-strip function and mode to create a network of communicating appliances which can include smart, dumb and cable connected appliances, an appliance cooking network using cooking synching algorithms, software and hardware interface system for local or remote data for a smart control and appliances which can include voice activation and interaction controls, an AI connected camera with facial, product and event recognition interface, hardware and software for local or remote data including AI software and connectivity via internet, cloud, satellite, etc., pump(s) (89), smart/sensors which can connect and communicate with products, containers and appliances (50) (which can include humidity, gas, temperature, tactile, time, pressure and vacuum, and as described herein), valves (90), system status indicators, controls and reporting with notifications and temperature (40) and humidity (35) control devices, (41) single or multiple cameras (still and video) positioned or situated inside a housing, on a compartment or an appliance door to monitor a compartment interior, contents and record user, product and appliance event and transaction activities (42), ultraviolet light emitting diode (UV light), (43) microwave oven, induction top, an oven electrical heating device for cooking and heating functions, smart/sensor tags and reader systems with associated software and hardware programs and functions (operating system(s), systems and components) and a scanner to read bar and QR codes on containers for food information, preparation and cooking times. Appliances and a smart control, and respective control and operating systems, can connect and communicate with each other using compatible control and operating systems, programs and software. A temperature system (40) can create a range of temperature inside a housing (18), a compartment (6) and a container (30) disposed therein and can connect to a control system (2) and to individual or selected system components. A humidity system (35) can create a range of humidity inside a compartment and a container disposed therein and can connect to a control system and to individual or selected system components. Single or multiple UV lights (42) can be positioned inside a compartment such as on a wall, top or bottom of said compartment with each configured to emit light having a peak wave length in the ultraviolet range to reduce or eliminate the growth of microbes in said compartment and on food, containers or items placed therein.

[0086] A microwave oven function can include microwave oven functions, well known in the art, such as power levels, defrost and cooking times (43), among others, to defrost or cook items inside said compartment and can include a camera (infrared) (41) to identify, monitor and interact with the cooking process, products, contents and activity of a compartment and to connect and communicate with a control and operating system and with smart/sensors during the refrigeration or cooking process. In one embodiment, a compartment housing can include, among other elements, a waveguide (45), cooling fan (46), magnetron (47), high voltage diode (48), high-voltage capacitor and a high-voltage transformer (49) or it can include a solid state microwave system incorporating single or multiple antennas or single or multiple RF sources connected to appliance control and operating systems, interfaces and software each with its own port into a compartment or cavity such that relative phase between the sources can be altered to shift nodes and anti-nodes and can further be connected to an appliance control and operating system incorporating cooking and preservation algorithms, software and feedback processes to control cooking and related functions including other related elements all well known in the art. Additionally, a compartment can also include a vacuum hose attachment (50) in communication with and in connection with a vacuum pump and system under separate switch or control or under control of an appliance control and operating system to create vacuum environments inside one-way valve containers and bags when the aperture of the hose is placed over a one-way valve, seal or other vacuum sealing mechanism on said container or bag and said vacuum system is activated. The vacuum hose attachment can be removably incorporated into a housing or compartment. An assembly can include and comprise one or more external vacuum hose input ports connected to and in communication with a vacuum pump in said appliance compartment or housing to apply a vacuum to containers or bags. Said vacuum hose system can be manually activated via a switch or via an appliance control and operating system.

[0087] Furthermore, a handheld UV light (51) and container vacuum system can be removably incorporated into a housing or compartment as described above and can be activated or controlled manually by a switch or controlled via an appliance control and operating system. A handheld UV light and handheld vacuum system can connect to and communicate with an appliance control and operating system or can be a wireless unit with a recharger or system incorporated into an appliance housing or compartment.

[0088] A compartment storage cavity or space can include a mechanized turntable (52) to rotate with items placed thereon when the microwave oven or UV light treatment functions are activated and can connect and communicate with an appliance control and operating system. A turntable can be made of any materials consistent with the use and need of a microwave oven or the use with a UV light treatment source.

[0089] Furthermore, if said appliance is a combination vacuum sealing and microwave oven compartment, when the vacuum sealing function is selected a user can manually seal the holes/apertures inside the compartment cavity that allow delivery of the microwave energy into the compartment cavity and venting with a cover or plate to form a hermetic or vacuum sealed compartment. The cover or plate (53) can be a friction cover such as a concave/convex type mechanism. This function can also be electronic, mechanical and controlled via a control and operating system such that when a vacuum function is selected via a control system an mechanically controlled cover or plate can automatically seal the holes/apertures in a compartment with covers. Likewise, when a microwave function is selected, the covers or plates can manually be removed, slide or move to an open position or can be automatically opened using an electronic device or mechanism via the control system connected to a mechanism to allow the holes/apertures to move to an open position to allow microwave energy to pass into the compartment cavity and to vent the compartment. Said covers or plates can be hinged, threaded, slide or push to seal or can comprise off-set holes/apertures such that when moved the holes/apertures of two overlapping plates align to form an open position and when moved to a close position one of the overlapping plates close the holes/apertures and seal said compartment. A venting or duct system can be utilized that can electrically open or close to allow air to enter or leave a chamber or compartment and be controlled as described herein. Furthermore, a compartment venting system can also be activated to function with a microwave function. The appliance system can be programmed to function with a default to the microwave or other selected mode or function. An appliance can include a control and operating system as described herein to communicate with and operate a microwave oven function and the operation of other systems disclosed herein. A compartment can comprise any combination of the aforementioned compatible control and operating systems which can function individually or in combination or sequence with other control and operating systems.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 12, an appliance can also incorporate an induction plate (505) into a compartment providing individual operating controls incorporated into the induction plate, appliance induction control and operating systems or a combination of controls. An induction plate can be incorporated into the base or bottom of an appliance to create a fixed and sealed appliance compartment component or the induction plate can be removable and can be constructed to fit into a cavity or compartment recess designed to hold the plate. The plate can electrically connect into an appliance compartment. In this manner, a user can open an appliance door placing suitable cookware into the appliance and activate the induction plate with controls on the plate or via the appliance control and operating system. In another example, a user can place suitable cookware into the appliance and close the appliance door. The user can activate the induction plate, as noted, to operate the appliance in a closed position to function as an induction oven and can also activate a heating element which can be placed inside a compartment on the top of the appliance cavity to use individually or in combination with the induction plate. The heating element can also be operated individually, via the appliance control and operating system or in combination with other operating systems and include operating functions, temperature settings and auto shut off, among others. A user can operate the induction plate mode or function and simultaneously operate a venting mode and a microwave mode.

[0091] In another embodiment, an induction plate can be incorporated into the top exterior cover of an appliance, as with the interior placement or the induction plate can be constructed to fit under an appliance housing to form and be part of the appliance housing but separate from the compartment cavity. An induction plate housing can also be a stand-alone housing and separate from the appliance housing to hold the induction plate or can be constructed as part of an appliance or attached to the appliance housing and can be affixed on top of the appliance housing. Further, an appliance can be constructed to be placed on top of an induction plate without the use of an induction plate housing so that the induction plate can be moved from under the appliance for use and then moved back underneath the housing to store. An induction plate constructed into an appliance induction housing allows a user to slide the induction plate out of the housing when needed to use the plate to cook an item and can control the plate as discussed. When a user is finished, the induction plate is simply cleaned and pushed back into the appliance housing. The induction plate can be either fixed or removably disposed in this configuration with the appliance housing. The plate can fit into a housing situated or positioned behind the appliance in a vertical type arrangement, where the plate is vertically pulled out to the side and then the plate is lowered down to sit on a countertop. This embodiment can also incorporate the other discussed embodiments herein. In another embodiment the induction plate can be constructed to fit inside an induction plate housing which is separate from an appliance housing to slide the induction plate into and out of the housing for use and storage. An appliance can be placed on top of the induction plate housing, which holds the induction plate, in order to provide more countertop space.

[0092] The induction plate can be designed to electrically connect to the appliance housing, appliance control and operating systems or can connect directly to a wall socket. An appliance, induction plate and induction plate housing can incorporate appropriate electrical sockets to interconnect and can provide electrical current to operate both the appliance and induction plate. In another embodiment, an appliance can be designed with legs (602) to provide sufficient space underneath the appliance so that an induction plate can be moved and stored under the appliance. In another embodiment the induction plate can be affixed to the side of an appliance external housing wall, for example, by means of a locking, hydraulic, spring device, hinge or similar mechanisms and combinations, so that a user can unlock or move the induction plate away from the appliance external wall and place the induction plate onto a countertop so that the induction plate lies flat on a countertop for use and can then be returned to its original position to store the induction plate. The individual, appliance and combined controls for the induction plate can include power, function, memory, recipes, temperature settings, oven, plate, auto off, network interface, wireless connectivity and any others mentioned herein. The appliance and induction plate control and operating systems can connect and communicate with each other wirelessly or by a cable connection and the induction plate can function using the appliance operating system, its own operating system or the operating system of a smart control or appliance. An induction plate can be removably disposed to use for camping and other cooking locations and then returned and stored with or in appliance housing.

[0093] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 16, a smart control (508) or host appliance (500) can incorporate an interface and system to create a network of smart, dumb and cable connected appliances which can connect and communicate with multiple cooking appliances in a network to synch the appliance cooking times to prepare a meal for a set time using a smart control, host appliance or appliance. A smart control and appliance control and operating system can include a network interface, programmable cooking and timing software, hardware and algorithms to wirelessly connect and communicate with appliances via Wi-Fi, cloud, satellite or internet and to connect and communicate with appliances that are not wirelessly enabled by connecting these appliances to a smart control or smart control base or a host appliance using single or multiple electrical sockets situated on, connected to or in communication with a smart control or host appliance which can each control, activate and deactivate an appliance via electrical socket. Each socket can be controlled and operated by an interface, a control and operating system of a smart control with a base, host or appliance. In this manner, a smart control, host or appliance can simultaneously sequence multiple network cooking appliances with food items to complete a cooking process at a predetermined time and to control all the wireless, socket and cable connected appliances via one smart control, host or appliance. The appliance electrical sockets can directly connect to a smart control or a smart control base under control of the smart control, host or external appliance (501). Further, an appliance electrical socket can connect to an electrical smart power-strip type device which can connect to the smart control or base, host or external appliance. In another embodiment an external appliance can connect and communicate with control and operating systems via a single or multiple input/output cable that can connect to and communicate with a smart control or base, host, smart power-strip or appliance input/output port cable connection and interface and each respective control and operating system and vice versa. In another embodiment, a smart power-strip, host or appliance can connect and communicate to a smart control and control and operating system via an input/output cable connecting the respective control and operating systems or via electrical sockets which can be controlled by the smart control and operating system and software. A smart control operating system can function like a host appliance operating system; however, a smart control is a stand-alone control device or appliance similar to a smartphone that can monitor, control and regulate the operating systems of a network comprising a host, smart or dumb appliance. Dumb appliances can be appliances that do not have wireless connection capabilities or enablement and can connect to an appliance network via a host, smart control or smart power-strip cable input/output port, interface or microcontroller or multiple port system or one or more controlled electrical socket connections.

[0094] A smart control (508) can function as a countertop, refrigerator or handheld or appliance device to provide cooking instructions; monitor and control an appliance cooking network; function as a household or room security platform or device by connecting to a camera doorbell system or other home security camera systems and monitor with its security camera system; a camera with a motion detector, GPS, to detect and report levels of gas or ambient contaminants; check product inventory and place product orders, purchases and home delivery, using a smart speaker (509) and can include the control and operating systems of a smartphone or host appliance such as wireless enablement and communication, CPU, memory, control, smart/sensors and smart/sensor reader, camera or video, display panel (600), input/output and programmable capabilities (601), AI, augmented and virtual reality food, preparation, recipe or cooking capabilities with software and hardware to connect and communicate wirelessly, via electrical socket or input/output ports, interface or microcontroller with cable (503) to each host, appliance or smart power-strip control and operating system connected to the smart control. A smart control can be placed into a base which can support and recharge the smart control. The smart control can also create a connection with the base via connectors situated at the bottom or base of the smart control to recharge and to connect the smart control operating system with the base and any appliances connected to the base to control them. Furthermore, a smart control can be placed into a refrigerator. A smart control base can also be placed into a refrigerator and can be connected by a flat, electrical cable that can connect to an electrical source outside of the refrigerator, for example into a wall unit. In this manner, a smart control can be placed inside a refrigerator to track and monitor products, order products, etc., as previously discussed herein. A smart control can also operate with batteries. A smart control can be placed inside an appliance, pantry or house area to monitor products and activity and to order items or can be removed from an appliance such as a refrigerator to read and order products from areas such as the pantry or other house areas. The smart control can also be placed onto a kitchen counter in a base to control the cooking process of a network of appliances as disclosed herein. The smart control can also connect and communicate with online cooking sites or recipes to provide step by step cooking preparation and instructions to prepare a meal and to order products to make specific recipes or suggest recipes based upon existing product inventory and smart/sensor freshness information.

[0095] A smart control, host and appliance can use compatible software, hardware and communication systems to connect and operate. A smart control or appliance can control and operate another appliance via cable to activate or deactivate an appliance control and operating system as with the electrical sockets. For example, a rice cooker and a vegetable steamer can be connected to a host or appliance via electrical socket and an input/output port with cables connecting the respective control and operating systems to connect and communicate with or between a host, appliance or smart power-strip to connect and to communicate between the host appliance control and operating system, an appliance or smart power-strip control and operating system. The cooking times, recipe, serving portions, weights, product type and other relevant cooking information for each item and appliance can be network accessed, programmed, read or scanned from smart/sensors or bar/QR codes or data via the internet, cloud, satellite or other, into a smart control or appliance control and operating system or entered into the appliance control and operating system for each connected appliance input/output port with cable or electrical socket for each appliance and host appliance. The host appliance control and operating system and software can determine, control and regulate the network of appliances and calculate and provide the required refrigeration, defrost, cooking and warming times and sequences for each appliance in the network to complete the appliance network cooking cycle at a determined time. (See FIGS. 7-8 and 16) For example, a user can prepare a meal by placing a chicken or fish item into an appliance compartment. The food item can be frozen or sealed in one-way valve or seal enclosed cooking container. The appliance can be programmed to automatically or selectively calculate the required cooking time and sequence for the food item with each network appliance to complete the cooking process for a meal at a determined time period. The system also allows for appliance ambient and function feedback to optimize the cooking and sequencing for the appliance network. The appliance can select to defrost the food item using an RF microwave function or can select to preserve and cool the item until it is ready to cook the item using a solid state cooling function or compartment venting function. The appliance can then cook the food item using the RF microwave function while also calculating or using the provided cooking times to sequence, synch and activate the other network cooking appliances so that the rice and steamed vegetables are cooked and ready to eat at the same time the chicken is finished. After the food items are cooked the smart control or host appliance can control and regulated each appliance to warm the food items until a user is ready to eat and deactivates the system. The food cooking calculation, sequencing and timing can be based on the smart control, host or appliance control and operating systems. This allows a user to effortlessly plan and prepare a meal and have it prepared at the same time. Furthermore, an appliance network program can be activated, controlled, delayed or interrupted using a smartphone or remote application which can automatically make the necessary cooking adjustments to the smart control, host or appliance by connecting and communicating with each appliance control and operating system. In this way, a user only has to communicate with a smart control or host appliance to control and communicate with the network of connected appliances to plan and prepare a meal. Furthermore, all the appliances in the network do not need to be Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or internet enabled. CPG-food containers can incorporate smart/sensors and bar/QR codes to provide recipe, cooking and sequence times which can be read or scanned into a smart control or appliance via a reader or scanner for a smart control or appliance for the network appliances that are connected to and in communication with a smart control or host appliance. CPG-food containers with smart/sensors and bar/QR codes can provide information and data to control a smart control or appliance control and operating system, functions and modes as noted.

[0096] Further, a smart control, host appliance or an appliance can have a unique telephone number to allow a user to remotely access to provide voice commands and to view and monitor a location the smart control is placed such as inside an appliance, in the kitchen or other. Voice commands can also be used via internet protocol or other cable, cloud, Skype or wireless protocols as described herein. Furthermore appliance control orders or commands can be provided using smartphone applications such as text, WhatsApp, email, scanning bar/QR codes or other product identifiers described herein. As noted, a smart control can have a rechargeable base so that the smart control can be docked into a charger and used on a kitchen countertop or inside a refrigerator which can then be removed to use in other locations similar to a smartphone. The smart control can also be used to control a refrigerator either with wireless connection and communication or via connectors at the base of the smart control which when placed inside an smart control base inside and connected to an appliance operating system connects the smart control to the appliance operating system. In this manner a smart control can operate and control the functions of a refrigerator and can be removed for other uses as described herein.

[0097] An appliance, in a host appliance or smart control mode, can connect and communicate with a host or appliance control, software and operating systems wirelessly, via input/output ports and interface with a connecting cable or via electrical sockets. A host appliance or smart control can create a unidirectional, bidirectional or multidirectional relationship between and among a smart control, smart power-strip, host and an appliance. Further, a host appliance, smart power-strip or smart control can communicate with smart appliances, dumb appliances that incorporate input/output port interfaces and cable enabled connections between and among appliance control and operating systems and with appliances that can connect and communicate via an electrical socket. As noted, these relationships can be created using a wireless communication or system where each appliance can be a smart appliance. In another embodiment, a smart control or host appliance can be the only smart appliance that connects and communicates with external appliances. The external appliances can connect and communicate via dedicated electrical sockets on or in communication with the smart control or host appliance or can connect directly to an electrical outlet source. Further, the external appliance control or operating system can connect via an input/output cable to the smart control and host appliance control or operating system to communicate and vice versa. Each smart control, host or external appliance can have a unique input/output cable connection for a programmed appliance, type of appliance or product or a general input/output cable connection can be read and identified by the smart control or host appliance to connect and communicate with each respective external appliance that is connected to the smart control or host appliance.

[0098] In another embodiment, an electrical smart power-strip type device can connect to a wall or power source. The smart power-strip can be wirelessly enabled to communicate with a smart control or host appliance. An external appliance can electrically connect via socket or via an input/output cable to connect the external appliance control and operating system to connect and communicate wirelessly with a smart control or host appliance, as disclosed herein. The smart power-strip can also be used to connect and communicate directly with a smart control or host appliance. Additionally, external appliances can also connect to other external appliances and to a smart control or host appliance via an input/output cable. A smart control or host appliance can be configured or include a function or mode to only operate an external appliance. For example, a user plans a meal with rice and vegetables. The user retrieves a rice cooker from a cabinet and connects the electrical cord into a wall socket or into a general or defined electrical socket on or in communication with the smart control or host appliance. This electrical cord can also include an input/output cable connecting the external appliance control and operating systems to a smart control or host appliance. The user then connects the input/output cable connecting an external appliance control and operating system to the smart control or host appliance control and operating systems via a dedicated or general input/output connection. The user then connects a vegetable steamer in the same manner. The user scans, reads or inputs the necessary product, container, time, serving portion, weight, etc. and sequence information for each connected external appliance into the smart control or host appliance control and operating system via the input, scanner or reader connected and in communication with the smart control or host appliance or via another appliance and sends it to an appliance. Or if the appliance is a reader enabled microwave or oven, a cooking container with a smart/sensor can be placed directly into the appliance with the cooling and cooking data automatically entered. A camera can also determine the product type and above information to set the temperatures for each cooking step. Additionally, a food scale can be connected to a smart control or host appliance via an input/output connection or wirelessly connected to input said data into an appliance operating system and software to determine cooking and sequence times. The smart control or host appliance software and control and operating systems complete the sequenced cooking process for each connected appliance. A user can then add a piece of fish into the microwave or add a pot of water onto an appliance induction plate and place a sous vide cooker into the pot and connect it as noted, to cook a steak, input said information into the smart control or host appliance and the smart control or host appliance can make the necessary cooking, timing and sequence adjustments for the host and external appliances. Furthermore, a user can use voice, AI or a smartphone or smartphone application to change the meal time, cancel or add one or more food items via the control and operating systems of a smart control or host appliance which in turn can make all the necessary cooking, timing and sequence adjustments and send cooking status messages and provide camera images and monitoring of the products in and of said appliance.

[0099] As previously described herein, an oven or a microwave can include a refrigeration system to work in combination with the heating elements to prepare and cook a food item which can include a condenser or a solid state cooling system.

[0100] For example, the above disclosed microwave cooking process can be used with a microwave oven, oven or combination appliance with a cooling and cooking element or function. An appliance can include operating systems as described herein for an oven with controls for temperature and heat and fans and to control respective air ducts (open/close) including a frame comprising a refrigeration-cooking compartment with a door. Single or multiple heating elements can be disposed inside the refrigeration-cooking compartment to provide heat to the refrigeration-cooking compartment to defrost, cook or warm food items. A temperature cooling system can be disposed inside the housing or compartment to cool and preserve a food item until it is ready to defrost or cook. Further, an inlet duct can extend between the refrigeration-cooking compartment and a cooling element or module situated inside the compartment or housing. An outlet duct in communication with the refrigeration-cooking compartment can open and close to allow the compartment to be refrigerated or to vent the compartment. A refrigeration system can comprise a compressor, condenser or evaporator or a solid state cooling system which can include a fan or venting system such that when the refrigeration system is connected and in communication with the refrigeration-cooking compartment a refrigerated air path can be created between the cooling system or module and the refrigeration-cooking compartment. The refrigerated-cooking oven and microwave can each be smart appliances with camera, voice and wireless interface controls such as a smart watch, phone or other and with wireless connectivity and cable network capability as described herein.

[0101] Furthermore, an oven and warming drawer combination can include a warming drawer which can be a multi-function drawer to warm products or create vacuum environments with other functions as described herein. The vacuum-warming drawer can be constructed into the frame of a kitchen cabinet or frame or housing of an oven appliance or can be a separate appliance. Further, the warming drawer can incorporate the heating coils or solid state heating system of an oven which can work in combination with the solid state cooling system of a refrigerated-cooking oven. All combination appliances disclosed herein can incorporate independent, combined or remote operating systems and further the power control circuitry can also be independent or combined. A vacuum-warming drawer can be located below an oven and supported therewith, can be placed above an oven and be supported therewith and can further be a smart appliance or connected with the oven for smart connectivity. Operating controls for the drawer can be combined with an oven or be separate for the drawer.

[0102] An oven can include connected or wireless refrigerated-cooking feedback tools located inside the refrigerated-cooking compartment, attached to a product or container to be refrigerated or cooked inside a compartment or attached to an open or closed product container which holds the product placed inside the refrigerated-cooking compartment.

[0103] Furthermore, a refrigerated oven or microwave can each incorporate numerous operating modes as discussed herein. Each can function to refrigerate and preserve a food item. Each can function to defrost, cook or warm a food item. Each can use UV light treatment to disinfect a food item and incorporate cameras, smart/sensors and readers to track, monitor, view (504) and control the cooking process. Each function can operate individually or together in sequence and additionally each function or mode can be network, locally or remotely controlled and operated by an appliance. Furthermore, product refrigeration, warming, defrost and UV information can be entered into an oven or microwave, as previously noted, via the internet, reading or scanning bar/QR codes or smart/sensors, using voice to activate voice controls to enter said information or using smartphone apps such as reading or scanning smart/sensors or bar/QR codes. A user can individually select each of the following modes, combinations or sequential combinations or said product information can be automatically entered and the user can then edit said information. Any of the technologies disclosed herein can function, operate or be combined in any complementary order or combination.

[0104] A smart control or appliance can include voice recognition, interaction and speech using appliance or internet or cloud connected software as discussed herein to allow a user to provide commands or trigger words to control, regulate and activate an appliance or an external appliance for each appliance function such as vacuum, refrigeration, preserve, cook, warm, vent, add or remove products, change meal or predetermined cook times or any of the other appliance modes, functions or processes noted herein including each cooking and preservation function and mode.

[0105] A smart control or appliance can also incorporate single or multiple cameras that can be AI connected in a compartment connected and in communication with an appliance control and operating system to identify users, individuals, containers, products, transactions and events using appliance, internet and satellite or cloud software, interfaces and processes as noted herein. For example, a camera can be used to identify a container or a product placed inside a compartment to adjust the required compartment temperature for an individual product or set a specific or mean temperature for more than one product. If the camera does not view a product in a compartment the temperature can be lowered to a predetermined temperature level until a product or container is identified. A camera can identify containers placed into an appliance to activate functions to create a predetermined vacuum level or to vent containers for one or more products with an individual, mean or optimized setting for all items, as with the temperature setting, accessing said data from a an local, remote or networked food data base. A camera can identify food items inside an appliance compartment and set the most effective temperature, humidity, venting and pressure settings for one or more food items that can include the same or different items such as fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy, bakery, fish or a range of respiring or non-respiring food items. A camera can capture images of food during the refrigeration and cooking process to control or regulate the temperature or turn on and off appliance functions if splattering, burning, fire or other identified events occur. A camera can capture a container or food item being placed inside a refrigerated appliance and recommend to a user the most effective storage placement inside the refrigerator by suggesting via voice, light or location the most effective food drawer, shelf, appliance function or location to place said product. A camera can identify a user and recommend food items inside an appliance that fit a described fitness or lifestyle based on health, weight or medical or health needs and requirements. A camera as noted herein can connect to and communicate with a smart/sensor.

[0106] Each appliance operating system such as vacuum, temperature, UV, outgassing, venting and humidity can communicate or connect to smart/sensors and said smart/sensors can communicate or connect to operating systems such as vacuum, temperature, UV and humidity systems to activate, deactivate, interrupt, create, regulate and maintain individual or selected operating systems, processes and environments as described herein. For example, smart/sensors such as temperature, vacuum, gas and humidity, can communicate with a control and operating system to individually or in combination activate or deactivate a pump or valve(s) to an open or close position when a predetermined level, range or value of temperature, vacuum, gas, time or humidity is created, maintained or exceeded inside a compartment or inside a container disposed therein or after a preset period of time. A compartment can include a seal (91) on the open and close mechanism or device for the compartment aperture as disclosed herein. All appliance functions and processes can be controlled and monitored via an appliance, smartphone or program or app.

[0107] Status indicators can include a sound, noise, light or series of lights located on the front of an appliance which can illuminate in colors to inform of each system's status for any appliance function or mode, such as, red when a vacuum is being created and green when a vacuum is being released from a compartment or when a UV light source treatment is in process or has terminated. Furthermore, a compartment can include an external or internal multi-colored light source that is activated when one of the functions are initiated and additionally can remain activated as long as a product is left or remains inside a compartment or if an appliance aperture has not been opened and closed since the last appliance operation. This light source can have designated light colors for each or unique appliance events; for example, a microwave function can include a red light; a vacuum function a green light; and a UV light treatment a blue light to status the appliance function. Additionally, a combined appliance system can incorporate a default setting, such that an appliance is always in a microwave setting or function, an oven in a refrigeration or cooking mode and other functions such as vacuum sealing or UV light treatment can be selected but then default to the microwave oven function.

[0108] As shown herein, an appliance housing (1) can include a compartment (6) disposed therein comprising exterior walls with a slidable drawer (4) that can serve as an internal holding area or retaining compartment (9) for goods with a front wall (10) that can serve as a means to open, close or seal said compartment. Housings can include, but are not limited to, a microwave oven, refrigerator, freezer, cabinet, shell, breadbox, drawer or hinged or unhinged doored or covered compartments. A compartment can include an aperture comprising a drawer (6), door (93), bin, pivot bin, lid or cover, any of which can be hingedly attached to a housing or compartment or surrounding area.

[0109] An appliance compartment (6) can be constructed and arranged so that when a retaining compartment, such as a drawer (10), is in a closed position inside a compartment said drawer can create a seal between the engaging surfaces of a compartment and the interior of a drawer. The created seal can also be airtight or can create a vacuum or microwave seal. An induction plate can also be incorporated into a drawer with other appliance functions such as vacuum, etc. Further, in other embodiments, when an appliance vacuum is created inside a compartment a seal can be formed between a front wall of a drawer unit (7) and the walls of a compartment (8). A sealing device (91) can also be provided positioned between or around the engaging surfaces of a compartment and the interior (9) of a drawer or a door (93). Additionally, a sensor (12) can be positioned on a drawer or door of a refrigerator or compartment and connect to operating systems and to a control system to indicate the open, close and seal status to activate and deactivate individual or selected operating systems. Furthermore, a mechanical or electrical latch mechanism can be provided to secure a drawer or aperture and a compartment together when the interior portion of a drawer is substantially contained inside a compartment to engage a drawer and a compartment together to seal said compartment interior. A latch mechanism can connect to a control system and to individual or selected operating systems to activate or deactivate individual or selected operating systems. A drawer can also include a handle (5).

[0110] Other aspects of the invention provide an appliance programmable control system, which can comprise a display panel (41), operating system controls (42) and a microprocessor and memory device (92), for a housing or a compartment to connect and communicate with operating system components to activate, deactivate, control, monitor, release and regulate any of the operating and elements and systems disclosed herein such as a pump(s) (43), latch mechanism, sensors (50), valves (48), system status indicators connected to sensors, and controls, and microwave oven, oven, induction plate, external appliances, UV light source, vacuum, temperature, outgassing and humidity systems. Accordingly, each operating system and compartment can interconnect and inter-communicate with each other, or via a control system, to function together or individually to carry out the processes described herein. Accordingly, as an example, a control system can activate or deactivate a pump to vent, cool or create vacuum and pressure environments inside a compartment, as well as, activate or deactivate a gas or release valve to open or close positions to seal or unseal a compartment. Additionally, a control system can connect to and communicate with smart/sensors (50) described herein and said smart/sensors can connect to and communicate with a control system (20) and each operating system such as a pump(s), valves, latch mechanism, smart/sensors, system status indicators, system controls and vacuum, temperature and humidity systems to activate, deactivate, create, monitor, regulate, maintain and release operating systems, environments, such as, vacuum, pressure, temperature, humidity, gas, air, components and processes for and in a housing, compartment and containers disposed therein and combinations thereof. A user interface with an led display and apparatus power source (46, 47) with touch, keyed or digital display panel functionality can operatively connect to and communicate with a control system to allow the input of instructions, formulas, time sequences, algorithms and values to operate external appliances and each or selected appliance system components, systems and processes described herein. A user interface, situated on a compartment or a housing exterior or interior front panel, access or surrounding areas can also comprise touch panel controls, switches, buttons and knobs to connect to and communicate with operating systems and housing components. The operating systems can be programmed to be activated and deactivated automatically via a control system or manually via a control panel or via each operating system.

[0111] In another embodiment a vacuum sensor can communicate with a compartment interior and operatively connect to a housing, compartment or control system to open and close a gas or release valve and to activate and deactivate a pump(s). Alternately, a vacuum sensor can connect directly to a pump(s), a housing, compartment or valve. Furthermore, a housing or compartment sensor, as described herein, such as vacuum, temperature, pressure, tactile, drawer and refrigerator door open, close and seal status sensors can operatively connect in combination to a pump, valve(s), sensors and housing or compartment operating systems to open and close a valve(s) or to activate or deactivate a pump(s).

[0112] A control system or pump and valve can also be activated to vent or cool a compartment interior by activating a pump to draw or pump air through a compartment interior and contemporaneously activate a valve or a release valve to open positions. These functions can be activated simultaneously with other appliance modes such as microwave, induction plate and compartment heat element functions. A compartment or housing control system or a vacuum sensor can activate a pump and a valve to create a predetermined vacuum level in a compartment or container disposed therein. A pressure release or valve can release a predetermined amount of vacuum from inside a compartment at a predetermined time period, pressure level or when a level is reached or exceeded and a vacuum can also be released via the aperture of a compartment.

[0113] A compartment can comprise multiple storage functions or modes (45) such as, but not limited to, a conventional compartment with operating systems placed in either off or idle positions, a vacuum compartment, a pressurized compartment, a venting compartment, a cooling compartment, a humidity compartment, an outgassing compartment, a processing compartment to create environments inside containers disposed therein, such as temperature, humidity, vacuum, pressure, venting, cooling and outgassing, a processing compartment to emit UV light to treat items placed inside said compartment, a monitoring compartment to view, monitor and interact with items inside said compartment via a camera located inside said compartment, a microwave oven, induction plate, electrical heating element and an oven function to defrost or cook items placed inside said compartment, among others.

[0114] Some of the appliance, operating and control system functionalities and modes can include, but are not limited to:

[0115] 1.) A function to create a range of temperature inside a housing to cool or warm a compartment or container disposed therein.

[0116] 2.) A function to activate a pump and close a valve or to close a valve and activate a pump or to contemporaneously activate a pump and close a valve to create a vacuum environment inside a compartment when said compartment aperture is closed and sealed.

[0117] 3.) A function to activate a pump and close a valve or to close a valve and activate a pump or to contemporaneously activate a pump and close a valve to create a pressurized environment inside a compartment when said compartment aperture is closed and sealed.

[0118] 4.) A function to activate a pump (in vacuum or pressure mode) while a compartment valve is contemporaneously actuated to an open position to vent, cool or degas said compartment and contents therein. Furthermore, a temperature smart/sensor or control system can activate a valve to a close position after a predetermined value, time period or level of vacuum, temperature or humidity has been established, reached or exceeded inside a compartment. This setting is applicable to any mode or function described herein.

[0119] 5.) A function to activate a pump (vacuum or pressure mode) and to simultaneously close a valve to create a pressure or vacuum environment inside a compartment and to maintain said pressure or vacuum level inside said compartment until it is deactivated manually or automatically via a control system.

[0120] 6.) A function to activate a pump and to close a valve to create a pre-determined vacuum in a compartment and when said maximum pressure level reaches or exceeds a pre-determined level, time period or value to then deactivate said pump and open a valve to release said vacuum and open said compartment by admitting air into said compartment.

[0121] 7.) A function to activate a pump and to close a valve to create a preset vacuum level inside a compartment and when said maximum vacuum level reaches or exceeds a pre-determined time period, level or value to open a valve to release said vacuum by admitting air into a compartment and to deactivate said pump.

[0122] 8.) A function to activate a pump and to close a valve to create a vacuum inside a compartment and when said maximum vacuum level reaches or exceeds a pre-determined level, time period or value to concurrently open a valve and deactivate a pump to admit air into said compartment to release said vacuum.

[0123] 9.) A function to activate a pump and to close valves to create a preset vacuum in a compartment and thereafter for a pump to intermittently remove air or gas from the interior of said compartment or a container disposed therein. Further, said pump can intermittently remove air and gas following the reduction of the pressure in a compartment to a selected pressure. As previously noted, a smart/sensor as described herein, can communicate or connect to an appliance, a compartment interior, a container, a product, a control system or operating system such that when a predetermined gas level fails, reaches or exceeds a pre-determined level or value smart/sensor can communicate with an appliance control system, activate a pump to remove additional air or gas from a compartment or send a notice to a client device, user, network, local or remote computing device or third party service/product provider. Further, a smart/sensor can communicate with a control system, activate a pump or activate a valve to an open position to remove additional air or gas from a compartment. A smart/sensor can also activate a pump and activate a valve to an open position to vent a compartment and remove air or gas, including a container disposed therein. As disclosed herein, smart/sensors can be located in product storage areas, appliances, containers or attached or affixed to appliances and function as previously noted.

[0124] 10.) A function to activate a pump and to close a valve to create a vacuum in a compartment, maintain said vacuum level for a pre-determined period of time and, thereafter, open a valve to admit air into said compartment to release a vacuum.

[0125] 11.) A function to activate and place a valve in a closed or open position to seal or unseal a compartment to create, regulate and release environments from inside a compartment.

[0126] 12.) A function to concurrently open a valve and to activate a pump (vacuum or pressure mode) to draw or push air into or out of a compartment to release or create environments therein.

[0127] 13.) A function to deactivate a pump when a valve is in a close position to admit air into a compartment through an open and close aperture mechanism, such as a drawer or door opening, of a compartment to release a vacuum.

[0128] 14.) A function to deactivate a pump and admit air into a compartment through an open and close aperture mechanism, such as a drawer or door opening, of a compartment to release a vacuum.

[0129] 15.) A function to deactivate all or selected operating systems or place all or selected operating systems in an idle state.

[0130] 16.) A function to close or open a valve when a compartment aperture mechanism, such as a drawer or door opening, is in a close or open position via an aperture sensor placed on a compartment or refrigerator aperture and in communication with a control system.

[0131] 17.) A function to allow a valve to have an independent pressure setting or to be connected to a control system in a compartment to automatically open to release a vacuum created therein when a vacuum level is reached or exceeded inside said compartment and to automatically deactivate a vacuum pump creating said vacuum. As used herein, when a vacuum is released from a compartment said compartment is returned to atmospheric pressure.

[0132] 18.) A function to operate, control and regulate a single or multiple UV lights positioned inside a compartment to treat the environment, containers or food items placed therein. The UV light can function in an appliance storage function or container processing mode and can further be sequenced to function for a period of time, a value or time interval prior to, in one instance, creating and maintaining a vacuum environment. Furthermore, the UV lighting treatment can function intermittently for programmed or sequenced time intervals or periods or upon the certain environmental parameters being reached and between and in sequence with other appliance functions.

[0133] 19.) A function or mode to operate and control a microwave oven or oven to defrost, prepare and cook items placed inside a compartment.

[0134] 20.) A function or mode to operate and control a camera for facial recognition, product recognition and event recognition using still photos and video and connected and in communication with voice recognition and interaction systems as well as AI, event, product and facial recognition software and internet and cloud connectivity to monitor and interact with users, events and products.

[0135] 21.) A function for all modes to allow a control system or a container with a wireless communication device to automatically activate a mode, series or sequence of modes or functions for determined or sensor prompted actions as described herein.

[0136] 22.) A function that automatically turns off the temperature or reduces said temperature to a predetermined level when no container or food item is detected inside an appliance or compartment when the temperature function is activated and then return the temperature level to the previous setting when a food item or container is placed, identified or sensed inside said compartment. This function can be selectively activated or automatically via a sensor in a compartment or a sensor and wireless device attached to or inside a container in communication with a control system or via a camera system described herein connected to AI, internet and cloud services.

[0137] 23.) A function or mode to activate, deactivate, regulate and operate a vacuum hose attachment to create vacuum environments inside one-way valve containers and bags. Said function can be selectively activated via a switch connected and in communication to the vacuum hose pump or via an appliance control system connected and in communication with the vacuum pump.

[0138] 24.) A function or mode to activate, deactivate, regulate and operate a handheld

[0139] UV light to disinfect and treat an appliance compartment or food and items placed inside the appliance compartment. The UV light can connect and communicate with an appliance control system or can connect, communicate and be actuated via a switch. Furthermore, a UV light can be wireless, rechargeable and be attached to, located or situated inside an appliance, appliance housing or compartment such as a recess or other constructed area to hold said device.

[0140] 25.) An appliance function or mode to control, regulate and operate a humidity system to humidify the interior of an appliance compartment and containers placed therein.

[0141] 26.) An appliance function or mode to control, regulate and operate an induction plate connected to or in communication with an appliance.

[0142] 27.) An appliance function or mode to control, regulate and operate the temperature of an electrical heating element inside an appliance or compartment to function individually or in combination for example with an induction plate.

[0143] 28.) An appliance function or mode to calculate, control, regulate and operate an appliance software and hardware program to control the simultaneous cooking sequence and timing of single or multiple external appliances connected to and in communication with an appliance as well as the host appliance with wireless connectivity to internet and cloud functions to program, time and sequence multiple appliance cooking times and functions.

[0144] 29.) An appliance function or mode to electrically (mechanically) open and close an appliance compartment venting system to open to allow compartment venting and cooling and to close to create a sealed or vacuum sealed environment.

[0145] 30.) An appliance or smart control function or mode incorporating an AI connected camera with product, image, facial, transactional, event and activity recognition software to monitor an appliance housing, compartment and areas in the vicinity of an appliance, compartment or smart control.

[0146] Further, methods are provided for the use and interaction of a smart control, appliance and smart power-strip network and individually, as well as, for the use of containers, described herein, for use with the network and individually for a smart control and appliance and for the operation and function of each container.

[0147] Control and operating systems, elements, functions or modes disclosed herein can be connected to or in communication with said appliance control and operating system which in turn can be connected to internet and cloud services. The appliance control system can be pre-programmed or programmable for each individual mode or operating function or combinations thereof. For example, each mode can be manually, automatically or in combination, selected via an appliance control system or each operating system selectively or individually, in combination or sequence. Single or multiple appliance modes or functions can sequence together, simultaneously, in series, selectively or automatically, and upon predetermined, programmable, sensed, timed, heard, voice, triggered, camera viewed, AI motivated or acted upon or environmental parameters not achieved, achieved or exceeded. For example, a venting mode can be selected to vent a compartment at specified time or gas intervals and during said operation a user can place a one-way valve container into said compartment and select a vacuum sealing mode or the container can wirelessly communicate this mode to the control system to activate. The vacuum sealing mode can be activated and once a predetermined vacuum level is created and released this mode terminates and the venting mode automatically resumes. Further, each of the appliance modes can operate and function via a predetermined level, range or value of temperature, vacuum, gas, time, interval, occurrence or humidity level is created, maintained or exceeded inside a compartment or inside a container disposed therein or after a preset period of time. A compartment can also include sensors, such as weight, laser, proximity or other, connected to and in communication with said containers or control system to sense or identify if a food item or container is present inside a compartment when said temperature function has been activated and requires the temperature function. If a food item or container is sensed then the temperature function can be activated and maintained. If a food item or container is not sensed or identified then the temperature setting can be turned off or lowered to a preset temperature setting to save on the appliance operating costs. Each of the appliance functions and modes described herein include methods for operations and functions described herein such as selecting an appliance function or mode, combining appliance functions and modes, using a container with appliance functions and modes, combining said functions and modes and sequencing appliance functions or modes with other functions and modes and with functions and modes of a smart control, smart power-strip or appliance which can be further defined by appliance environmental, operational and control systems and internet, cloud, AI, product, event and facial recognition software and voice command and recognition connected parameters.

[0148] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.