초록 ▼

A range which includes a mounting system for securing the heating element to the range so that the heating element is maintained against an underside surface of the glass plate with a substantially constant force over a broad temperature range is described. In one embodiment, the mounting system inc

A range which includes a mounting system for securing the heating element to the range so that the heating element is maintained against an underside surface of the glass plate with a substantially constant force over a broad temperature range is described. In one embodiment, the mounting system includes a first swing leaf spring and a second swing leaf spring for engaging to the cooktop and to the radiant heating element for positioning the radiant heating element within the radiant heating element opening. More particularly, the cooktop includes at least one radiant heating element opening and a rim extending from an underside surface of the cooktop surrounding the radiant heating element opening. The rim includes a first slot and a second slot, and the first and second slots are located approximately about one hundred and eighty degrees apart in the rim. The first swing leaf spring has a spring hook portion at least partially inserted into the first rim slot, and the second swing leaf spring includes a spring hook portion at least partially inserted into the second rim slot. Each swing leaf spring also includes a lead-in portion for engaging to the heating element. Specifically the lead-in portion includes a spring barb for inserting into a slot in the heating element and an angular offset section for facilitating engagement between the spring and the heating element. Each swing leaf spring also includes an extension portion which, in one embodiment, is u-shaped.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A range comprising:a cooktop comprising at least one radiant heating element opening and a rim extending from an underside surface of said cooktop surrounding said radiant heating element opening, said cooktop rim comprising at least one slot;a radiant heating element; an

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A range comprising:a cooktop comprising at least one radiant heating element opening and a rim extending from an underside surface of said cooktop surrounding said radiant heating element opening, said cooktop rim comprising at least one slot;a radiant heating element; anda mounting system comprising a swing leaf spring for engaging to said cooktop and to said radiant heating element for positioning said radiant heating element within said radiant heating element opening, said swing leaf spring comprising a spring hook portion at least partially inserted into said rim slot and a lead-in portion for engaging to said heating element.