Time estimation for energy application in an RF energy transfer device

An apparatus, for supplying RF energy to an object in an energy application zone via a source, the apparatus comprising:

• at least one processor configured to:
• receive from a user input relating to a desired cooking time;
• cause the source to supply RF energy to the energy application zone;
• determine a value indicative of a rate of energy absorption by a load, including at least a portion of the object, during a first period of time;
• determine, based on the value indicative of the rate of energy absorption by the load, an estimated amount of time to obtain a desired characteristic in at least a portion of the object;
• carry out a comparison between the desired cooking time and the estimated amount of time;
• and
• operate the apparatus in accordance with the results of the comparison.

A method comprising:

• receiving an input of a desired cooking time;
• supplying electromagnetic energy to an object in an energy application zone;
• determining a value indicative of a rate of energy absorption by a load during a first period of time that the electromagnetic energy is supplied to the object;
• determining, based on the value indicative of the rate of energy absorption by the load, an estimated amount of time to obtain a desired characteristic in the object;
• comparing the desired cooking time with the estimated amount of time;
• and
• operating the device in accordance with the results of the comparing.