Abstract: A cooktop includes an at least partially transparent surface formed of glass or glass ceramic and having burner regions with peripheral and inner portions. Heating elements are disposed beneath the surface in the vicinity of the burner regions. A lighting apparatus visually indicates a temperature of the surface which exceeds a predetermined temperature at which the surface is permitted to be touched. The lighting apparatus has a temperature-dependent switch thermally coupled to the surface. The light devices controlled by the switch. Each of the light devices is disposed in one of the portions of a respective one of the burner regions.

Abstract: A cooktop includes an at least partially transparent surface being formed of glass or glass ceramic and having burner regions with peripheral and inner portions. Heating elements are disposed beneath the surface in the vicinity of the burner regions. A lighting apparatus visually indicates heating of the surface exceeding a predetermined temperature at which the surface is permitted to be touched. The lighting apparatus has a temperature-dependent switch thermally coupled to the surface and light devices controlled by the switch. Each of the light devices is disposed in one of the portions of a respective one of the burner regions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for baking food in a closed cooking space in which heated air is circulated. The temperature of this heated air is varied about a predetermined mean temperature value by generating a plurality of sequential heat radiation pulses, by means of electric air heaters or the like, of a predetermined amplitude, frequency, and duration for baking the food with a minimum of soiling of the cooking space.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for baking food in a closed cooking space in which heated air is circulated. The temperature of this heated air is varied in a sawtooth fashion about a predetermined mean temperature value by generating a plurality of sequential heat radiation pulses, by means of electric air heaters or the like, of a predetermined amplitude, frequency, and duration for baking the food with a minimum of soiling of the cooking space.

Abstract: A cooking tray is disclosed in which a carrier of tempered glass is mounted on a support surface between the support surface and the heating element. The carrier is insulated to protect it from the heat of the heating element by thermal sealing means comprising in one embodiment an intermediate ring surrounding the heating element having a layer of insulation attached to the intermediate ring. Moisture seals are also provided between the carrier and the heating element to prevent moisture from entering between the carrier and the heating element.Various alternative embodiments illustrating the concept of utilizing the carrier of tempered glass with an intermediate ring, heat insulation and moisture sealing means to permit the combination of various heating elements with a carrier of tempered glass are disclosed.