Storage appliance and cooking equipment

Abstract

The utility model discloses a storage utensil and cooking equipment. The storage utensil is used for the cooking equipment. The material storage device comprises a material storage device shell, a material storage cavity, a first feeding assembly and a shielding piece. A first opening is formed in the storage device shell; the storage cavity is arranged in the storage appliance shell and is used for storing solid food materials; the first feeding assembly is arranged in the storage tool shell and used for conveying solid food materials, the first end of the first feeding assembly communicates with the storage cavity, and the second end of the first feeding assembly is used for being connected with the first open hole; and the shielding piece can move between a shielding position for shielding the first opening and an opening position for opening the first opening relative to the storage device shell. According to the storage device, the first opening of the shell of the storage device can be opened and closed, the first feeding assembly can feed materials when the first opening is opened, and foreign matter can be prevented from entering the storage device when the first opening is closed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of cooking appliance technology, and more specifically to a storage container and a cooking device having the same. Background Technology

[0002] In existing automatic rice cookers, the rice compartment is connected to the cooking appliance via a rice feeding channel, allowing the rice cooker to automatically add rice. However, cooking water or water produced during cooking can enter the rice compartment through the feeding channel, affecting the freshness of the food. Therefore, a storage container and cooking device are needed to at least partially solve these problems. Utility Model Content

[0003] The utility model description section introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This utility model description section is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0004] To at least partially solve the above problems, a first aspect of this application provides a storage container for a cooking appliance, comprising:

[0005] A storage container housing, wherein the storage container housing is provided with a first opening;

[0006] A storage chamber, located within the outer shell of the storage container, is used to store solid food materials;

[0007] A first feeding assembly, disposed within the housing of the storage container, is used to convey the solid food material. A first end of the first feeding assembly communicates with the storage cavity, and a second end of the first feeding assembly connects to the first opening, allowing the first feeding assembly to deliver the solid food material out of the storage container through the first opening.

[0008] A shielding member is movable relative to the housing of the storage device between a shielding position that shields the first opening and an open position that opens the first opening.

[0009] According to this application, the discharge port of the outer shell of the storage device can be opened and closed, so that when no material is needed, the inside of the storage device can be isolated from the external environment, preventing foreign objects from entering the storage device, which is beneficial to food preservation and cleanliness.

[0010] Optionally, the second end of the first feeding assembly is movable relative to the housing of the storage device between a mating position connected to the first opening and a disengaged position separated from the first opening.

[0011] The shielding member is connected to the second end of the first feeding assembly. When the shielding member is in the open position, the shielding member allows the second end of the first feeding assembly to be in the docking position, so that the first feeding assembly can feed the solid food material out of the storage device through the first opening. When the shielding member is in the shielding position, the shielding member causes the second end of the first feeding assembly to be in the separated position.

[0012] According to this application, the shielding component is also used to push the feeding assembly away from the discharge port of the storage container housing at the shielding position, thereby separating the feeding assembly from the discharge port and further reducing the chance of foreign objects entering the storage cavity through the feeding assembly, which is beneficial for food preservation and maintaining cleanliness. The shielding component has multiple functions, and the storage container has a compact structure.

[0013] Optionally, the first feeding assembly includes a first pipe assembly, the internal channels of which form a feeding channel for conveying the solid food material.

[0014] The first end of the first feeding component is the first end of the first pipe component, and the second end of the first feeding component is the second end of the first pipe component.

[0015] According to this application, the feeding assembly transports food ingredients through a pipeline.

[0016] Optionally, when the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position, the second end of the first pipe assembly is away from the first opening, and the shield also blocks the opening of the second end of the first pipe assembly.

[0017] According to this application, when no material discharge is required, the shielding component simultaneously blocks the discharge port of the storage device housing and the pipe opening of the feeding pipe, thereby preventing foreign objects from entering the feeding channel and also preventing foreign objects from entering the storage device.

[0018] Optionally, when the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position, the opening of the second end of the first pipe assembly and the first opening are arranged in the axial direction, and the shield is located between the opening of the second end of the first pipe assembly and the first opening.

[0019] According to this application, the shielding element is located between the feeding pipe and the first opening of the housing, and the storage device has a compact structure.

[0020] Optionally, the storage device further includes a recovery member that, when the shield is in the open position, positions the second end of the first pipe assembly in the docking position.

[0021] According to this application, the shielding member cooperates with the recovery member to make the second end of the first pipe assembly movable.

[0022] Optionally, the recovery member is configured to act on the second end of the first pipe assembly by magnetic or elastic force.

[0023] According to this application, the component has a simple structure and stable performance.

[0024] Optionally, the axial direction of the first opening is a first direction, and the second end of the first pipe assembly is movable along the first direction between the mating position and the separating position.

[0025] The shielding member is movable along a second direction between the shielded position and the open position.

[0026] According to this application, the second end of the first pipe assembly and the moving part both move in a straight line, which is a simple design.

[0027] Optionally, at least one of the portion of the shield for contacting the second end of the first pipe assembly and the portion of the second end of the first pipe assembly for contacting the shield includes an inclined working surface, the inclined working surface being inclined relative to both the first direction and the second direction.

[0028] According to this application, the inclined action surface causes a change in the direction of motion.

[0029] Optionally, the first direction is a horizontal direction; and / or

[0030] The storage device further includes a first guide component extending along the first direction and connected to a second end of the first pipe assembly for guiding the second end of the first pipe assembly to move along the first direction.

[0031] According to this application, the second end of the first pipe assembly moves in a horizontal direction. The first guide assembly facilitates stable movement of the movable joint.

[0032] Optionally, the second direction is the up-down direction; and / or

[0033] The storage device further includes a second guide assembly extending along the second direction and connected to the shielding member for guiding the shielding member to move along the second direction.

[0034] According to this application, the blocking member moves in the vertical direction. The second guide assembly facilitates the stable movement of the blocking member.

[0035] Optionally, the storage device further includes a first drive mechanism for providing a driving force to move the shield.

[0036] According to this application, the first drive device provides a driving force to move the blocking member.

[0037] Optionally, the storage device further includes a first transmission device for connecting the first drive device and the shielding member.

[0038] According to this application, the first transmission device transmits the driving force of the first drive device to the blocking member.

[0039] Optionally, the first transmission device includes a matching lead screw and a lead screw nut, the lead screw extending along the second direction, and the lead screw nut connected to the blocking member.

[0040] The first driving device is a motor, which is used to drive the lead screw to rotate.

[0041] According to this application, the first drive device and the first transmission device are simple to control and have stable performance.

[0042] Optionally, the axis of the opening at the second end of the first pipe assembly extends along the first direction, and at least one of the two outer surfaces of the pipe wall at the second end of the first pipe assembly that are spaced apart along a third direction is provided with a contact portion, wherein the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0043] The shielding component includes:

[0044] A shielding portion, movable along the second direction between the shielded position and the open position, is used to shield the opening at the second end of the first pipe assembly.

[0045] At least one rib is provided on at least one of the two sides of the shielding portion that are spaced apart along the third direction, and protrudes toward the second end of the first pipe assembly in the first direction. The rib is provided corresponding to the contact portion and is used to contact the corresponding contact portion.

[0046] According to this application, the shielding member is designed to match the second end of the first pipe assembly, thereby realizing the dual functions of driving and shielding the shielding member.

[0047] Optionally, the distance between the separation position and the docking position along the first direction is 1 mm to 20 mm.

[0048] According to this application, the movement distance of the second end of the first pipe assembly can be flexibly set.

[0049] Optionally, when the shielding member is in the shielding position, a seal is provided between the shielding member and the second end of the first pipe assembly. According to this application, the seal can achieve a sealing shield, more effectively preventing foreign objects from entering the feeding pipe. Optionally, when the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the mating position, the second end of the first pipe assembly is in communication with the first end of the first pipe assembly.

[0050] When the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position, the second end of the first pipe assembly is either connected to or not connected to the first end of the first pipe assembly.

[0051] According to this application, the feeding channel remains unobstructed when material needs to be discharged.

[0052] Optionally, when the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the mating position, the second end of the first pipe assembly extends into the first opening; and / or

[0053] The cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the first pipe assembly is 40 mm². 2 Up to 800mm 2 .

[0054] According to this application, when material needs to be discharged, the feeding pipe can extend out of the outer shell of the storage container for easy access to the food ingredients. The diameter of the feeding channel can be flexibly set.

[0055] Optionally, the second end of the first feeding assembly may be translational and / or rotatable relative to the housing of the storage device between the docking position and the separating position.

[0056] According to this application, the second end of the first feeding assembly can exit the opening of the storage container housing in a variety of motion modes.

[0057] Optionally, the shielding member conforms to the inner surface of the housing of the storage container; or

[0058] When the shielding member is in the shielding position, there is a seal between the shielding member and the housing of the storage device.

[0059] According to this application, the shielding member conforms to the inner surface of the storage container's outer shell, effectively blocking the first opening and preventing foreign objects from entering the storage container through the first opening. Simultaneously, the shielding member's location inside the storage container helps protect it. The sealing member provides a tight seal, further preventing foreign objects from entering the storage container.

[0060] A second aspect of this application provides a cooking apparatus comprising:

[0061] Storage apparatus according to any one of the first aspects;

[0062] A container, the interior of which has a accommodating cavity for at least accommodating the solid food material;

[0063] The second feeding assembly has a first end that is configured to communicate with the second end of the first feeding assembly when the shield is in the open position, and the second end of the second feeding assembly is configured to communicate with the receiving cavity.

[0064] According to this application, the feeding pipe of the cooking equipment is used to transport food ingredients from the storage chamber to the receiving compartment. The discharge port on the outer shell of the storage container can be opened and closed, so that when discharging is not required, the inside of the storage container can be isolated from the external environment, preventing foreign objects from entering the storage container, which is beneficial to the preservation and cleanliness of the food ingredients.

[0065] Optionally, the cooking device further includes a cover, and the containing chamber and the second feeding component are both disposed on the cover. The containing chamber is a washing chamber for washing the solid food materials.

[0066] According to this application, the cooking equipment can automatically clean food. Closing the discharge port on the outer shell of the storage container can prevent moisture from entering the storage container.

[0067] Optionally, the cooking device further includes an airflow generating device, and the cooking device is configured to use airflow to force the solid food material into the receiving cavity.

[0068] According to this application, the cooking equipment uses wind power to transport ingredients. Attached Figure Description

[0069] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this application, are provided for understanding the application. The drawings illustrate representative embodiments of the application and are used to explain the principles of the application, not to limit it.

[0070] In the attached image:

[0071] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to a specific embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional exploded view of the cooking equipment.

[0073] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A side sectional view of the cooking equipment shown.

[0074] Figure 4 for Figure 3 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A in the diagram;

[0075] Figure 5 for Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of some components of the cooking equipment shown, illustrating a first pipe assembly and a second pipe assembly;

[0076] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the second end of the second pipe assembly shown;

[0077] Figure 7 for Figure 5 A partial side cross-sectional view of a first example of a first pipe assembly and a second pipe assembly is shown, wherein the first pipe assembly and the second pipe assembly are in a docking state.

[0078] Figure 8 for Figure 5 A partial side cross-sectional view of a first example of a first pipe assembly and a second pipe assembly is shown, wherein the first pipe assembly and the second pipe assembly are in a separated state.

[0079] Figure 9 for Figure 5 A partial side sectional view of a second example of a first pipe assembly and a second pipe assembly is shown, wherein the first pipe assembly and the second pipe assembly are in a docking state.

[0080] Figure 10 for Figure 5 A partial side cross-sectional view of a second example of a first pipe assembly and a second pipe assembly is shown, wherein the first pipe assembly and the second pipe assembly are in a separated state.

[0081] Figure 11 for Figure 5 A partial side sectional view of a third example of the first and second pipe assemblies shown, wherein the first and second pipe assemblies are in a separated state;

[0082] Figure 12 for Figure 5 A partial side sectional view of a fourth example of the first and second pipe assemblies shown, wherein the first and second pipe assemblies are in a separated state;

[0083] Figure 13 This is a side sectional view of a cooking device according to a specific embodiment of the present application, wherein part of the cover is omitted and the second end of the first pipe assembly is located at the docking position;

[0084] Figure 14 This is a side cross-sectional view of a cooking device according to a specific embodiment of the present application, wherein part of the cover is omitted and the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position;

[0085] Figure 15 for Figure 13 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the shielding component that plays a role in the process;

[0086] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of some components of a cooking device according to a specific embodiment of the present application, showing the connection relationship between the actuating component and the second end of the first pipe assembly, with the shielding member in the open position;

[0087] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of some components of a cooking device according to a specific embodiment of the present application, showing the connection relationship between the action component and the second end of the first pipe assembly, with the shielding member located in the shielding position.

[0088] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0089] 10: Cooking utensils

[0090] 11: Storage equipment

[0091] 12: Storage bin cover

[0092] 13: First opening

[0093] 14: Storage silo

[0094] 15: Storage chamber

[0095] 16: First Cavity

[0096] 16A: Bottom wall

[0097] 17: Guiding the warehouse wall

[0098] 18: Housing of storage equipment

[0099] 19: Air intake

[0100] 21: Cover

[0101] 22: Claypot

[0102] 23: Washing device

[0103] 24: Washing bin

[0104] 25: Washing chamber

[0105] 26: Pot Inner Wall

[0106] 27: Cooking Cavity

[0107] 29: Locking hole

[0108] 30: First Pipeline Assembly

[0109] 31: First end of first pipe assembly / first pipe

[0110] 32: Second end of first pipe assembly / moving joint

[0111] 33: First Opening

[0112] 34: First guide surface

[0113] 35: Contact Department

[0114] 35A: Inclined working surface

[0115] 36: Annular contact plane

[0116] 37: First end of the movable joint

[0117] 37A: Baffle

[0118] 38: Second end of the movable connector

[0119] 39: Guide hole

[0120] 40: Second Pipe Assembly

[0121] 41: First end of the second pipe assembly

[0122] 42: Second end of the second pipe assembly

[0123] 43: Second opening

[0124] 44: Second guide surface

[0125] 50: Functional Components

[0126] 51: Covering component

[0127] 52: First driving device

[0128] 53: First transmission device

[0129] 54: Lead screw

[0130] 55: Convex ribs

[0131] 56: Covering part

[0132] 57: Lead screw nut

[0133] 58: Connecting part

[0134] 59: Guide rail

[0135] 71: Flexible components

[0136] 73: Clean water tank

[0137] 74: Sewage tank

[0138] 79: Drainage pipes

[0139] 80: Air outlet duct

[0140] 100: Cooking equipment

[0141] D1: First Direction

[0142] D2: Second Direction

[0143] D3: Third direction Detailed Implementation

[0144] The following description provides numerous specific details to offer a more thorough understanding of this application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this application can be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well-known in the art have not been described to avoid confusion with this application.

[0145] To fully understand this application, a detailed description will be provided in the following description. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application is thorough and complete, and that the concept of these exemplary embodiments is fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Obviously, the implementation of the embodiments of this application is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art. Preferred embodiments of this application are described in detail below; however, in addition to these detailed descriptions, this application may have other embodiments.

[0146] The ordinal numbers such as “first” and “second” used in this application are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as a specific order. Furthermore, for example, the term “first component” does not imply the existence of a “second component,” and the term “second component” does not imply the existence of a “first component.” The use of words such as “first,” “second,” and “third” does not indicate any order and can be interpreted as names.

[0147] It should be noted that the terms “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0148] In this document, terms such as “equal” and “same” are not strict mathematical and / or geometric limitations, but also include errors that are understandable to those skilled in the art and permissible in manufacturing or use.

[0149] Unless otherwise stated, the numerical ranges in this document include not only the entire range within its two endpoints, but also the subranges contained therein.

[0150] This application provides a storage container and a cooking device having the storage container. Specifically, the cooking device of this application is an automated cooking device capable of automatically adding rice and water and completing the cooking process, and the storage container of this application is a storage container suitable for automated cooking devices.

[0151] Exemplary embodiments according to this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0152] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the cooking equipment 100 according to this application includes a cooking appliance 10, a storage container 11, a clean water tank 73, and a wastewater tank 74. The cooking appliance 10 is used to perform cooking functions, such as cooking rice or porridge. The storage container 11 is used to store solid food materials, such as rice, beans, and other grains. The storage container 11 can employ temperature and humidity control measures to preserve the food. The clean water tank 73 stores clean water for cooking and washing. The wastewater tank 74 stores wastewater after washing.

[0153] Specifically, the cooking appliance 10 includes, for example, a pot body 22 and a lid 21. The pot body 22 is used to heat solid food ingredients, and the lid 21 is used to close the pot body 22. A removable inner pot 26 is disposed within the pot body 22, and the internal space of the inner pot 26 forms a cooking cavity 27 for holding food ingredients. A heating device 28 is also provided in the pot body 22, for example, located below the inner pot 26, to heat the inner pot 26 and cook the food. The lid 21 is pivotally connected to the pot body 22 at the rear, for example, allowing the front of the lid 21 to rotate upwards to open the pot body 22, which is convenient for user operation.

[0154] It should be noted that the directions "up," "down," "front," "back," "left," and "right" in this application refer to the directions defined by the cooking device 100 in its normal placement state with the lid 21 covering the pot body 22. The terms "front" and "back" as used herein are based on the user's position when using the cooking device 100. Specifically, the direction in which the cooking device 100 faces the user is defined as "front," and the opposite direction is defined as "back."

[0155] To facilitate the placement and removal of the inner pot 26, a washing chamber 24 is located within the lid 21. The internal space of the washing chamber 24 forms a washing cavity 25 for cleaning solid materials. A washing device 23 is typically installed in the washing chamber 24. When the lid 21 closes the pot body 22, the cooking device 100 can control the connection between the washing cavity 25 and the cooking cavity 27.

[0156] The washing chamber 25 is connected to the clean water tank 73 via a clean water pipe (not shown). Clean water from the clean water tank 73 is supplied to the washing chamber 25 via the clean water pipe using a water supply device (e.g., a water pump). The washing chamber 25 is connected to the wastewater tank 74 via a drain pipe 79, thereby draining the water from the washing chamber 25, for example, discharging the wastewater after washing into the wastewater tank 74.

[0157] The storage container 11 includes a storage bin 14 for storing solid food materials, and the internal space of the storage bin 14 is a storage cavity 15. The cooking appliance 100 uses a feeding assembly to transport the solid food materials from the storage bin 14 to the washing bin 24. The feeding assembly includes, for example, a first feeding assembly disposed on one side of the storage container 11 and a second feeding assembly disposed on one side of the cooking appliance 20. A first end of the first feeding assembly communicates with the storage cavity 15, a second end of the first feeding assembly is used to connect with the first end of the second feeding assembly, and a second end of the second feeding assembly communicates with the washing cavity 25.

[0158] The feeding assembly includes, for example, a feeding pipe. The storage chamber 15 is connected to the washing chamber 25 via the feeding pipe. The feeding assembly of the cooking apparatus 100 also includes, for example, a feeding device (not shown) for conveying solid food materials in the storage chamber 15 to the washing chamber 25 via the feeding pipe. The feeding device may be configured as an airflow generator (e.g., a fan) to transfer materials using air pressure.

[0159] The cooking appliance 100 may also include a human-machine interface device (not shown) for implementing human-machine interaction functions. The human-machine interface device may output information (such as the working status of the cooking appliance 100, prompts, messages, etc.) through components such as indicator lights, displays, and speakers, and acquire user commands and allow the user to set cooking parameters through components such as buttons, keypads, touch screens, and microphones.

[0160] Understandably, the cooking equipment 100 includes a control device, and the electrical control components of the cooking equipment 100 (such as the heating device 28, water pump, fan, etc.) all operate under the control of the control device.

[0161] The workflow of cooking equipment 100 typically includes the following steps:

[0162] Step 1: Adding ingredients. The cooking equipment 100 uses the adding device and feeding pipe to transport a certain amount of ingredients from the storage chamber 15 to the washing chamber 25, and then stops the adding device.

[0163] The second step is washing the ingredients. The water pump is controlled to add a certain amount of clean water to the washing chamber 25, and then the washing device 23 in the washing chamber 25 is driven to work (e.g., rotate) to wash the ingredients.

[0164] Step 3: Drainage. After the washing process is completed, the washing device 23 is stopped, and the wastewater is discharged into the sewage tank 74 through the drainage pipe.

[0165] Step 4: Discharge. After washing and draining, connect the washing chamber 25 to the cooking chamber 27, allowing the ingredients in the washing chamber 25 to fall into the cooking chamber 27 by their own weight.

[0166] Because the washing chamber 25 has a limited volume, the control device calculates the number of feeding cycles based on the amount of food set by the user, and repeats steps one to four above until the amount of food in the cooking chamber 27 reaches the user's required amount. When using an exhaust device for feeding, under stable airflow conditions, the amount of food fed is basically proportional to the exhaust time.

[0167] Step 5: Add water. Based on the cooking function set by the user, calculate the amount of water needed for cooking and control the water adding device to add water to the cooking chamber 27 through the washing chamber 25.

[0168] Step 6: Cooking. Control the heating device 28 according to the cooking program to complete the cooking process.

[0169] Understandably, all of the above steps are performed when the lid 21 closes the pot body 22. Before adding ingredients in the first step, the user first sets the cooking function (e.g., cooking rice, cooking porridge) and cooking parameters (e.g., amount of rice, texture) through the human-computer interaction device. Then, the control device controls each component to work according to the user's settings.

[0170] In some embodiments not shown in this application, the cooking device 100 uses pre-washed ingredients, such as pre-rinsed rice, thus eliminating the need for a washing tank 24 in the cooking appliance 10. The clean water in the clean water tank 73 is used only for cooking and is directly fed into the cooking chamber 27. The aforementioned working steps also eliminate the processes of washing, draining, and unloading. The cooking device 100 may also omit the wastewater tank 74.

[0171] In this application, the washing chamber 25 and the cooking chamber 27 are both places used for processing solid food materials, and are also referred to as processing chambers. The washing bin 24 and the inner pot 26 are corresponding processing chambers. The washing device 23 can be understood as the processing device in the washing bin 24. The processing chamber may also include, for example, a grinding bin for grinding and crushing food materials, and the processing device in the grinding bin is, for example, a crushing device. The feeding pipe is used to connect the storage chamber 15 and the processing chamber.

[0172] More broadly, the processing chamber is also a type of container used for at least temporary storage of food materials. Correspondingly, the washing chamber 24 and the inner pot 26 are containers used for at least temporary storage of food materials. The containers can be used for processing food materials, i.e., as processing chambers; or they can be used only for temporary storage of food materials, i.e., as transfer chambers. In the illustrated embodiment, the cooking equipment 100 is described using the washing chamber for washing food materials as an example. However, the containers can also be used for other functions.

[0173] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the feeding conduit includes a first conduit assembly 30 located in the storage container 11 and a second conduit assembly 40 located in the cooking appliance 10. The second conduit assembly 40 is disposed in the cover 21 to facilitate connection with the washing chamber 25 in the cover 21. Each of the conduit assemblies 30 and 40 provides at least one conduit segment, each segment having openings at both ends connected by internal channels (cavities), all of which form the feeding conduit.

[0174] The first pipe assembly 30 includes a first end 31 and a second end 32 disposed opposite to each other. The first end 31 of the first pipe assembly is used to communicate with the storage chamber 15 (e.g., to communicate with the outlet 15A of the storage chamber 15), and the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly is used to connect with the second pipe assembly 40. The second pipe assembly 40 includes a first end 41 and a second end 42 disposed opposite to each other. The first end 41 of the second pipe assembly is used to connect with the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly, and the second end 42 of the second pipe assembly is used to communicate with a receiving cavity (e.g., a washing cavity 25) (e.g., an opening in the receiving cavity).

[0175] In other words, the first feeding assembly includes or is configured as a first conduit assembly 30, and the second feeding assembly includes or is configured as a second conduit assembly 40. The first end of the first feeding assembly is the first end 31 of the first conduit assembly 30, and the second end of the first feeding assembly is the second end 32 of the first conduit assembly 30. The first end of the second feeding assembly is the first end 41 of the second conduit assembly 40, and the second end of the second feeding assembly is the second end 42 of the second conduit assembly 40.

[0176] The pipe assemblies 30 and 40 together form a feeding pipe, the internal channels of which allow solid food materials to pass through. Preferably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the feeding channel is 40 mm². 2 Up to 800mm 2 In other words, the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel through which the solid material passes in the first conduit assembly 30 is 40 mm. 2 Up to 800mm 2 The cross-sectional area of ​​the channel for passing solid material in the second pipe assembly 40 is 40 mm.2 Up to 800mm 2 The inner diameter of the feeding channel can be consistent or inconsistent (e.g., depending on space constraints). The cross-sectional shape of the feeding channel can be circular, square, elliptical, polygonal, etc.

[0177] When the feeding device is configured as an air extraction device, it is used to extract air from the opening at the second end 42 of the second pipe assembly, for example, from the washing chamber 25, or from the air outlet pipe 80 connected to the washing chamber 25. The feeding device can also be configured as an air blowing device, which blows the food into the receiving chamber from the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly when the first feeding assembly delivers the food to a position accessible to the second feeding assembly. For example, the cooking device 100 may include an auxiliary chamber, with a first opening connected to the first end 31 of the first pipe assembly, a second opening connected to the storage chamber 15, and a fan blowing air into the auxiliary chamber from a third opening. The cooking equipment 100 is configured such that solid food ingredients are first transported from the storage bin 14 through the second opening of the auxiliary bin to the auxiliary bin (for example, the auxiliary bin can be located below the storage bin 14, allowing the food ingredients to fall into the auxiliary bin automatically by gravity). Then, the second opening is closed, and a fan blows the solid food ingredients from the auxiliary bin into the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40. Of course, the cooking equipment 100 can also use other methods for feeding.

[0178] To save on piping, the cooking appliance 10 and the storage container 11 are arranged adjacent to each other, for example, they are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction D1. The first direction D1 is a horizontal direction, such as a left-right direction. Furthermore, to facilitate pipe connection, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly opens into the side of the storage container 11 facing the cooking appliance 10. Figure 2 As shown, a first opening 13 is provided on the side of the storage container housing 18 facing the cooking appliance 10, and the axial direction of the first opening 13 is a first direction D1. The opening of the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly communicates with the outside through the first opening 13. For example, the opening of the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first opening 13 can be axially opposite each other, so that they can be connected to the second pipe assembly 40. Furthermore, the storage bin 14 is located inside the storage container 11 on the side away from the cooking appliance 10, and the first pipe assembly 30 is located inside the storage container 11 on the side closer to the cooking appliance 10, so that the length of the first pipe assembly 30 is as short as possible. Similarly, the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly opens on the side of the cooking appliance 10 facing the storage container 11.

[0179] Typically, the storage container housing 18 provides at least a portion of the silo wall of the storage bin 14.

[0180] like Figure 4As shown, the cooking device 100 is provided with an air inlet 19. Specifically, a first cavity 16 is formed at the bottom of the storage cavity 15, allowing food to enter the first cavity 16 by gravity. The opening of the first end 31 of the first pipe assembly is located in the first cavity 16. The cavity wall of the first cavity 16 is provided with the air inlet 19 to allow the first cavity 16 to communicate with the environment. Thus, the air inlet 19 and the suction device are located at opposite ends of the feeding channel. When the suction device is working, the airflow in the feeding channel flows in one direction, ensuring unidirectional flow of food and improving feeding efficiency.

[0181] The air inlet 19 is sized to prevent solid food materials from passing through. The air inlet 19 can be square, round, elliptical, polygonal, etc. Typically, the size of the air inlet 19 is no greater than 3mm, thus preventing most common solid food materials from leaking out. The total area of ​​all air inlets 19 is 30% to 300% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the feeding channel through which solid food materials pass. In other words, the total area of ​​all air inlets 19 is 30% to 300% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the feeding channel at any point in the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40.

[0182] To maximize the volume of the storage chamber 15, it occupies almost the entire height of the storage device 11. Therefore, the first cavity 16 is located at the bottom of the storage device 11. For connection to the higher-positioned cover 21, the first pipe assembly 40 extends generally vertically. The first end 31 of the first pipe assembly extends vertically, and the first cavity 16 is located below the first end 31, which opens above the bottom wall 16A of the first cavity 16. Preferably, an air inlet 19 is located on the bottom wall 16A of the first cavity 16. Preferably, the hopper wall 17 of the storage bin 14, connected to the bottom wall 16A of the first cavity 16, faces the first end 31 of the first pipe assembly to guide solid material to the bottom wall 16A of the first cavity 16, or rather, to below the first end 31 of the first pipe assembly. The hopper wall 17 is also called a guide hopper wall. The angle α between the guide hopper wall 17 and the horizontal plane is, for example, 10 degrees to 80 degrees.

[0183] Solid food may remain in the feeding channel. For the first pipe assembly 30, both it and the storage chamber 15 are located within the outer shell 18 of the storage container, sharing a largely similar environment. Therefore, food residue in the first pipe assembly 30 can enjoy essentially the same preservation measures as food in the storage chamber 15, requiring no special treatment. Furthermore, the first pipe assembly 30 extends vertically, which also facilitates food falling under gravity and preventing it from remaining in this feeding channel. For the second pipe assembly 40, since it is located within the cooking appliance 10, its environment has higher temperature and humidity, making food residue within it prone to spoilage and bacterial growth; therefore, it should be cleaned promptly. Additionally, if... Figure 5As shown, in order to reduce the volume of the cover 21, the second pipe assembly 40 extends as horizontally as possible, which makes it relatively easier for food to remain in this feeding channel.

[0184] Therefore, the cooking device 100 is configured such that the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly are movable relative to each other, thereby allowing the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly to have a mating state and a separated state. In the mating state, solid material in the storage chamber 15 can enter the processing chamber through the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 under the action of the suction device. In the separated state, the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly is in communication with the environment.

[0185] In other words, in the docked state, the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 form a complete feeding channel through which food can pass. In the separated state, the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 are separated, causing the feeding channel to be interrupted in the middle, thus making it unusable for feeding. In the separated state, the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly is in communication with the environment. If the suction device is working, airflow enters from the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly and flows out from the second end 42 of the second pipe assembly, which can suck away any remaining food in the second pipe assembly 40, for example, by drawing it into the processing chamber. In the separated state, because the first end 41 and the second end 32 of the second pipe assembly are separated, the air in the first pipe assembly 30 is difficult to be affected by the suction device, and therefore airflow is difficult to form in the first pipe assembly 30. The food in the storage chamber 15 will not enter the second pipe assembly 40 under the action of airflow.

[0186] For example, after the aforementioned feeding step and before the washing step, the cooking equipment 100 separates the first pipe assembly 30 from the second pipe assembly 40, and then briefly operates the feeding device (vacuum device) to remove any remaining food from the second pipe assembly 40. Before the next feeding step, the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 are reconnected to ensure the feeding channel remains open.

[0187] Understandably, the docking and separation of the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 mentioned above also applies to the case where the cover 21 covers the pot body 22.

[0188] like Figure 5 As shown, at least one of the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly is provided with a flexible element 71 at the opening for mating, so that the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly are in sealed contact when mated. The flexible element 71 is, for example, a sealing ring.

[0189] like Figure 6As shown, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly has an annular contact plane 36 around the opening 33 for docking. The annular contact plane 36 contacts the circumference of the opening for docking of the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly. The difference between the inner and outer diameters of the annular contact plane 36 is not less than 1 mm. Therefore, even if there is a positional error between the second end 32 and the first end 41 of the first pipe assembly during docking, the annular contact plane 36 can ensure a seamless docking. In other words, the annular contact plane 36 allows for a radial positional error of no more than 1 mm between the second end 32 and the first end 41 of the first pipe assembly during docking. The annular shape can be circular, square, elliptical, etc. Of course, the annular contact plane 36 can also be provided around the opening 43 of the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly for docking, or both ends of the docking can be provided with annular contact planes 36.

[0190] In this application, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly are movable relative to each other. This relative movement can be achieved by one of them moving while the other remains stationary, or by both of them being movable. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the relative movement between the two can be relative movement along the radial direction of the pipes at the docking point (the two are offset from each other or aligned); or as... Figures 9 to 12 As shown, it can also be relative movement along the axial direction of the pipes at the docking point (the two move away from or towards each other); or it can be other forms of relative movement, such as relative rotation, such as relative translation and rotation.

[0191] Since the cooking appliance 10 and the storage appliance 11 are arranged along the first direction D1, preferably, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly can move relative to each other along the first direction D1, that is, the two can move relative to each other along the axial direction of the pipe at the docking point.

[0192] Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly is movable, while the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly is stationary. That is, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly is movable relative to the storage chamber 15 (i.e., the storage container housing 18). The stationary first end 41 of the second pipe assembly simplifies the structure of the cover 21, reduces the volume and weight of the cover 21, and facilitates opening the cover.

[0193] Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly is movable relative to the storage chamber 15 along the first direction D1, while the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly remains stationary. The axis of the first opening 33 for docking of the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the axis of the second opening 43 for docking of the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly both extend along the first direction D1, and the two axes are designed, for example, to be collinear.

[0194] Specifically, such as Figure 5 and Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the first pipe assembly 40 consists of a first end 31 and a second end 32. The first end 31 is configured as a first pipe (also called the first pipe 31), and the second end 32 is configured as a movable joint (also called the movable joint 32). Both the first pipe 31 and the movable joint 32 are pipe segments with oppositely arranged ends. Each pipe segment has openings at both ends, and the openings at both ends are connected by an internal channel, which is part of a feeding channel.

[0195] The first end 37 of the movable joint 32 is used to connect to the first pipe 31, and the second end 38 of the movable joint 32 is used to mate with the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly. The movable joint 32 is positioned relative to the storage chamber 15 (i.e., the storage container housing 18) at the mating position (e.g.,...). Figure 9 (as shown) and separation location (e.g.) Figures 10 to 12 The movable joint 32 is movable relative to the storage chamber 15 along the first direction D1 between a mating position and a separating position. When the movable joint 32 is in the mating position, the first end 37 of the movable joint is connected to the first pipe 31, and the second end 38 of the movable joint is aligned with the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly. When the movable joint 32 is in the separating position, the second end 38 of the movable joint is separated from the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly.

[0196] When the movable connector 32 is in the mating position, it extends into the first opening 13, for example, it can extend out of the storage container housing 18 from the first opening 13, thereby connecting with the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly. When the movable connector 32 is in the disengaged position, it moves away from the first opening 13 in the axial direction, for example, it retracts into the internal space of the storage container 11, away from the cooking appliance 10.

[0197] In the illustrated embodiment, the movable joint 32 is a bent pipe section that turns from a vertical pipe to a horizontal pipe. The vertical first end 37 is movable relative to the first pipe 31 in the radial direction of the pipe. The horizontal second end 38 is movable relative to the second pipe assembly 40 in the axial direction of the pipe.

[0198] The moving joint 32 moves a distance of, for example, 1 mm to 20 mm along the first direction D1, that is, the distance between the docking position and the separation position along the first direction D1 is 1 mm to 20 mm. This also ensures that, in the separated state, the distance between the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly along the axial direction of the pipe at the docking point is 1 mm to 20 mm. This moving distance ensures that the two pipe sections are fully separated without taking up too much space. Since the second opening 43 of the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly is located on the outer shell of the cooking appliance 10, and the outer shell of the cooking appliance 10 is exposed to the environment, it can be considered that the second opening 43 is directly exposed to the environment in the separated state. More precisely, in the separated state, the second opening 43 is exposed through the gap between the outer shell of the cooking appliance 10 and the outer shell 18 of the storage container 11, and communicates with the environment through this gap. When the minimum moving distance of the moving joint 32 is 1 mm, the size of this gap is not less than 1 mm.

[0199] To ensure stable movement of the movable joint 32, a first guide assembly may be provided in the storage device 11. The first guide assembly extends along a first direction D1 and is connected to the movable joint 32 to guide its movement along the first direction D1. The first guide assembly may be, for example, a guide rod extending along the first direction D1. Figure 6 As shown, the movable joint 32 is provided with a guide hole 39, and the guide rod of the first guide assembly extends through the guide hole 39, so that the movable joint 32 can move along the guide rod.

[0200] Understandably, when the movable joint 32 is in the mating position, the movable joint 32 is connected to the first pipe 31. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the pipe opening at the junction of the first pipe 31 and the movable joint 32 is relatively large, so that the movable joint 32 can still be connected to the first pipe 31 when it is in the separated position, which is beneficial for the residual food in the movable joint 32 to fall back.

[0201] Or, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, when the movable connector 32 is in the separated position, the first end 37 of the movable connector blocks the opening of the first pipe 31, which can more thoroughly isolate the first pipe 31 from the second pipe assembly 40, that is, isolate the storage chamber 15 from the processing chamber of the cooking appliance 10. For example, in the washing and cooking stages, keeping the movable connector 32 in the separated position can prevent moisture in the processing chamber from entering the storage chamber 15, which is beneficial for food preservation.

[0202] Specifically, the first end 37 of the movable joint is provided with a baffle 37A. When the movable joint 32 is in the separated position, the baffle 37A completely covers the end opening of the first pipe 31 facing the movable joint 32, so that the movable joint 32 and the first pipe 31 cannot communicate. When the movable joint 32 is in the docking position, the baffle 37A opens at least a portion of the end opening of the first pipe 31 facing the movable joint 32.

[0203] like Figure 11 As shown, the outer surface of the pipe wall at the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly, at the second opening 43 for docking, is provided with a second guide surface 44 inclined relative to the first direction D1, so that the outer diameter of the pipe is smaller closer to the end face, to facilitate insertion into the first opening 33 for docking at the second end 38 of the movable joint. Of course, the second guide surface 44 can also be provided at the second end 38 of the movable joint to facilitate insertion of the second end 38 of the movable joint into the second opening 43.

[0204] like Figure 12 As shown, the second end 38 of the movable joint has a first guide surface 34 inclined relative to the first direction D1 on the inner surface of the pipe wall at the first opening 33 for docking, so that the inner diameter of the pipe is larger closer to the end face, to facilitate the reception of the second opening 43 for docking of the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly. Of course, the first guide surface 34 can also be provided at the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly, facilitating the insertion of the second end 38 of the movable joint into the second opening 43. Figure 12 As shown, one of the second end 38 of the movable joint and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly is provided with a first guide surface 34, and the other is provided with a second guide surface 44, making docking easier.

[0205] To save costs, pipe assemblies 30 and 40 are typically made of plastic, which has a certain degree of deformability. In the event of positional errors, the guide surface helps to create a good, seamless connection.

[0206] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the storage container 11 is provided with an actuating component 50 for driving the movable joint 32 to move along the first direction D1. The actuating component 50 is used to drive the movable joint 32 to move from the docking position to the separating position along the first direction D1. The storage container 11 is also provided with a return component (not shown), which is used to drive the movable joint 32 to move from the separating position to the docking position along the first direction D1.

[0207] Specifically, the functional component 50 includes a blocking element 51 (such as...). Figure 15 As shown), the blocking member 51 is used to contact the movable connector 32, that is, to directly interact with the movable connector 32. The blocking member 51 is in a blocking position relative to the storage cavity 15 (i.e., the storage container housing 18) (e.g., ...). Figure 14 (as shown) and open positions (such as) Figure 13 The movable joint 32 is movable between (as shown). When the blocking member 51 is in the open position, the return member brings the movable joint 32 into the mating position, and the blocking member 51 in the open position at least partially opens the first opening 33 of the second end 38 of the movable joint (as shown). Figure 16 (As shown). When the blocking member 51 is in the blocking position, the blocking member 51 causes the movable joint 32 to be in the disengaged position, and the blocking member 51 blocks the first opening 33 of the second end 38 of the movable joint (as shown). Figure 17 (As shown). When the shielding member 51 blocks the first opening 33, the first pipe assembly 30 is isolated from the second pipe assembly 40. Therefore, the shielding member 51 has both a driving function and an isolation function, thus fulfilling a dual function.

[0208] For example, the blocking member 51 is movable relative to the storage cavity 15 along a second direction D2 between a blocked position and an open position. The second direction D2 is, for example, a vertical direction. To better achieve the driving of the movable joint 32 by the blocking member 51, at least one of the portion of the blocking member 51 for contacting the movable joint 32 and the portion of the movable joint 32 for contacting the blocking member 51 includes an inclined action surface, which is inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. When the blocking member 51 moves along the second direction D2, the inclined action surface causes the movable joint 32 to move along the first direction D1 because the two interact through the inclined action surface that is inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0209] Specifically, such as Figure 6 As shown, at least one of the two outer sides of the pipe wall of the movable joint 32, spaced apart along the third direction D3, is provided with a contact portion 35; that is, at least one of the two sides of the first opening 33, spaced apart along the third direction D3, is provided with a contact portion 35. The first direction D1, the second direction D2, and the third direction D3 are three different directions. Preferably, the first direction D1, the second direction D2, and the third direction D3 are perpendicular to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, both outer sides of the pipe wall of the movable joint 32, spaced apart along the third direction D3, are provided with contact portions 35. Figure 15As shown, the shielding member 51 includes a shielding portion 56 and at least one protruding rib 55. The shielding portion 56 is, for example, plate-shaped and movable along a second direction D2 between a shielded position and an open position, for shielding the first opening 33 of the second end 38 of the movable joint. The protruding rib 55 is provided on at least one of two spaced-apart sides of the shielding portion 56 along a third direction D3. The protruding rib 55 protrudes toward the movable joint 32 along a first direction D1. The protruding rib 55 is correspondingly provided with a contact portion 35 and is used to contact the corresponding contact portion 35. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the protruding rib 55 and the contact portion 35 includes an inclined working surface that is inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact portion 35 includes an inclined working surface 35A that is inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0210] When the shielding member 51 is in the shielding position, the side of the shielding part 56 with the protruding rib 55 can be close to or fit against the end face of the second end 38 of the movable connector.

[0211] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the actuating component 50 further includes a first driving device 52 for providing a driving force to move the blocking member 51. The actuating component 50 may also include a first transmission device 53 for connecting the first driving device 52 and the blocking member 51. The first transmission device 53 includes, for example, a matching lead screw (or threaded rod) 54 and a lead screw nut 57. The lead screw 54 extends along a second direction D2, and its outer peripheral surface is threaded. The lead screw nut 57 is screwed onto the lead screw 54 and connected to the blocking member 51, for example, to a rib 55. The first driving device 52 is configured as a motor for driving the lead screw 54 to rotate. When the motor drives the lead screw 54 to rotate, the lead screw nut 57, under the action of the limiting structure, cannot rotate with the lead screw 54, but can only move along the lead screw 54, thereby causing the blocking member 51 to move along the second direction D2. The motor can drive the lead screw 54 to rotate in either the forward or reverse direction, thereby allowing the blocking member 51 to move upward or downward.

[0212] Similar to the first guide assembly, the storage device 11 may also include a second guide assembly extending along the second direction D2. The second guide assembly is connected to the blocking member 51 and guides the blocking member 51 to move along the second direction. For example, the second guide assembly may be a guide groove extending along the second direction D2 in the storage device 11. The blocking member 51 has guide rails 59 extending along the second direction D2 on both sides opposite to the third direction D3. The guide rails 59 are accommodated in the guide groove and can move along the guide groove, thus allowing stable movement along the second direction D2. The second guide assembly ensures that the blocking member 51 can only move along the second direction D2. Simultaneously, the blocking member 51 is connected to the lead screw nut 57, thus becoming a limiting structure that restricts the rotation of the lead screw nut 57. The blocking member 51 can be integrally formed with the lead screw nut 57, for example, by injection molding into a single part.

[0213] In some embodiments not shown in this application, the second direction D2 is the vertical direction, the blocking member 51 is made of ferromagnetic material, and the first driving device 52 is an electromagnet located above the blocking member 51. When the electromagnet is energized, it attracts the blocking member 51 to move upward. When the electromagnet is de-energized, the blocking member 51 falls under its own weight. This design can omit the transmission device. In such a design, preferably, the open position is located at the top, and the blocking position is located at the bottom. That is, when feeding is required, the electromagnet is energized, opening the port of the first pipe assembly 30, and the pipe assemblies 30 and 40 are connected. After feeding is completed, and when the cooking appliance 10 is not in use, the electromagnet can be de-energized, and the blocking member 51 is in the blocking position under its own weight, protecting the food in the storage container 11.

[0214] The return member for returning the movable joint 32 to the docking position can be an elastic element, such as a spring, disposed in the storage container 11 and connected to the movable joint 32. For example, the return member can be configured as a compression spring located on the side of the movable joint 32 facing away from the second pipe assembly 40, or as a tension spring located on the side of the movable joint 32 facing the second pipe assembly 40. Alternatively, the return member can include a first magnet and a second magnet that attract each other, with the first magnet disposed in the movable joint 32 and the second magnet disposed in the second pipe assembly 40 (e.g., the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly), or the cooking appliance 10 (e.g., the lid 21), or around the opening of the first opening 13. Alternatively, the return member can include a first magnet and a second magnet that repel each other, with the first magnet disposed in the movable joint 32 and the second magnet disposed in the storage container 11 further inward in a first direction than the movable joint 32.

[0215] exist Figure 13 and Figure 14In the illustrated embodiment, when the movable joint 32 is in the disengaged position, the first opening 13 and the first opening 33 are axially opposite each other along the first direction D1, and the blocking member 51 is located between the movable joint 32 and the first opening 13. When the blocking member 51 is in the open position, the blocking member 51 completely opens the first opening 33, allowing it to completely move out of the moving path of the movable joint 32, thus not affecting the docking of the movable joint 32 with the second pipe assembly 40. When the blocking member 51 is in the blocked position, the movable joint 32 is completely retracted into the storage container 11, and the first opening 33 is completely blocked by the blocking member 51, effectively preventing foreign objects from entering the first pipe assembly 30 from the first opening 33.

[0216] In the illustrated embodiment, to facilitate the connection between the shielding member 51 and the driving component, the shielding member 51 is located inside the housing 18 of the storage container. (Comparison) Figure 2 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 When the blocking member 51 is in the blocking position, the blocking part 56 also blocks the first opening 13 inside the first opening 13; when the blocking member 51 is in the open position, the blocking part 56 also opens the first opening 13. Preferably, the side of the blocking part 56 opposite to the rib 55 is always in contact with the inner surface of the storage container housing 18, so that the blocking part 56 can tightly block the first opening 13 and prevent foreign objects from entering the storage container 11 from the first opening 13.

[0217] Of course, the blocking member 51 can also be disposed on the outside of the storage container housing 18, for example, attached to the outer surface of the storage container housing 18, for opening and closing the first opening 13. When the blocking member 51 is in the blocked position, the blocking member 51 blocks the first opening 33 of the second end 32 of the first pipe by blocking the first opening 13; when the blocking member 51 is in the open position, the blocking member 51 at least partially opens the first opening 13 so that the first opening 33 is exposed to the environment through the first opening 13, and can further extend out of the first opening 13 to dock with the second pipe assembly 40.

[0218] In an embodiment not shown in this application, when the shielding member 51 is in the shielding position, a seal is provided between the shielding member 51 and the housing 18 of the storage container, thereby sealing the first opening 13. When the shielding member 51 is in the shielding position, a seal is provided between the shielding member 51 and the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly, thereby sealing the first opening 33.

[0219] As mentioned above, under the action of the blocking member 51, preferably, the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 can be separated as long as feeding is not required, while simultaneously covering the first opening 33 and the first aperture 13 of the first pipe assembly 30. When the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly is completely separated from the first aperture 13. Of course, the blocking member 51 can also achieve at least one of covering the first aperture 13, covering the first opening 33 of the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly, and allowing the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly to leave the first aperture 13 in the blocking position. When the blocking member 51 is in the open position, the blocking member 51 opens the first aperture 13, opens the first opening 33 of the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly, and allows the second end of the first feeding assembly to be in the docking position to connect with the first aperture 13, so that the first feeding assembly can feed solid food materials out of the storage container 11 through the first aperture 13. The second end of the first feeding assembly is translatable and / or rotatable relative to the housing 18 of the storage container between a docking position and a disengaged position.

[0220] The second end of the first feeding component is connected to the first opening 13. This can be either that the first opening 33 and the first opening 13 are fitted together at the end face, or that the second end of the first feeding component extends into the first opening 13.

[0221] Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that, after the feeding step is completed, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly are separated, and then water is added to the processing chamber (washing chamber 25 or cooking chamber 27). Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that, during at least one of the water inlet period, washing period, and drainage (sewage discharge) period of the washing chamber 25, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly are separated. Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that, during the entire water inlet, washing, and drainage periods of the washing chamber 25, the second end 32 of the first pipe assembly and the first end 41 of the second pipe assembly are separated. Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that, after the feeding step is completed, the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 are in a separated state, and then the steps of adding water to the washing chamber 25, washing, and discharging sewage from the washing chamber 25 are performed. Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that, while the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 are in a separated state, the cooking function is performed. Preferably, the cooking device 100 is configured such that after the last feeding step is completed, even if the first pipe assembly 30 and the second pipe assembly 40 are in a separated state, they will be connected again when the next cooking requires feeding. Thus, during the processes of adding water to the washing chamber 25, washing materials, discharging wastewater from the washing chamber 25, adding water to the cooking chamber 27, and cooking, the feeding pipe is in a disconnected state, and the opening 33 of the first pipe assembly 30 is closed.

[0222] The cooking device 100 can also be configured to allow the first pipe assembly 30 to move as a whole during docking and disengagement. This can make the first pipe assembly 30 have integrity, but compared with the embodiment shown in the figure, the volume and weight of the entire pipe assembly are increased, which increases the difficulty of movement.

[0223] In other embodiments, the movable joint 32 is connected to the first pipe 31 via a flexible hose, so that the movable joint 32 is always integrated with the first pipe 31 and the first pipe assembly 30 is always conductive.

[0224] The storage container 11 according to this application can be used in automated cooking equipment or as a stand-alone storage container. The storage container 11 can control its internal environment, extending the shelf life of food. In such an embodiment, the first opening 13 can be used as a discharge port. The storage container 11 can also be equipped with its own feeding drive device, control buttons, human-machine interface device, etc. When discharging is required, the blocking member 51 is in the open position, the movable connector 32 extends from the first opening 13, and the food moves from the first pipe 31 to the movable connector 32 under the action of the feeding drive device, and flows out from the first opening 33 of the movable connector 32. The storage container 11 can discharge according to the amount of food set by the user. After discharging, the blocking member 51 automatically moves to the blocking position, closing the discharge port of the storage container 11.

[0225] The processes and steps described in all the preferred embodiments above are merely examples. Unless adverse effects occur, various processing operations can be performed in a different order than those described above. The order of steps in the above process can also be added, combined, or deleted according to actual needs.

[0226] In understanding the scope of this application, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of a described feature, element, component, group, whole, and / or step, but do not exclude the presence of other undescribed features, elements, components, groups, wholes, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising," "having," and their derivatives.

[0227] The term "attached" or "joined" as used herein includes: a construction in which one element is directly fixed to another element by fixing it directly to another element; a construction in which one element is indirectly fixed to another element by fixing it to an intermediate member, which in turn is fixed to another element; and a construction in which one element is integral with another element, that is, one element is substantially part of another element. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "connect," "joint," "couple," "install," "adhere," "fix," and their derivatives. Finally, degree terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately" as used herein indicate the amount of deviation from which modifications to the terminology do not significantly alter the final result.

[0228] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Features described in one embodiment may be applied, alone or in combination with other features, to another embodiment, unless that feature is not applicable in that other embodiment or is otherwise stated.

[0229] This application has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit this application to the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that this application is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this application, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

Claims

1. A storage container for use in cooking equipment, characterized in that, include: A storage container housing, wherein the storage container housing is provided with a first opening; A storage chamber, located within the outer shell of the storage container, is used to store solid food materials; A first feeding component is disposed in the housing of the storage device for conveying the solid food material. The first end of the first feeding component is connected to the storage cavity, and the second end of the first feeding component is connected to the first opening so that the first feeding component can deliver the solid food material out of the storage device through the first opening. and A shielding member is movable relative to the housing of the storage device between a shielding position that shields the first opening and an open position that opens the first opening.

2. The storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second end of the first feeding assembly is movable relative to the housing of the storage device between a mating position connected to the first opening and a separating position separated from the first opening. The shielding member is connected to the second end of the first feeding assembly. When the shielding member is in the open position, the shielding member allows the second end of the first feeding assembly to be in the docking position, so that the first feeding assembly can feed the solid food material out of the storage device through the first opening. When the shielding member is in the shielding position, the shielding member causes the second end of the first feeding assembly to be in the separated position.

3. The storage device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first feeding assembly includes a first pipe assembly, the internal channel of which forms a feeding channel for conveying the solid food material. The first end of the first feeding component is the first end of the first pipe component, and the second end of the first feeding component is the second end of the first pipe component.

4. The storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position, the second end of the first pipe assembly is away from the first opening, and the shield also blocks the opening of the second end of the first pipe assembly.

5. The storage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position, the opening of the second end of the first pipe assembly and the first opening are arranged in the axial direction, and the shield is located between the opening of the second end of the first pipe assembly and the first opening.

6. The storage device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The storage device further includes a recovery member that, when the shield is in the open position, positions the second end of the first pipe assembly in the docking position.

7. The storage device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The recovery component is configured to act on the second end of the first pipe assembly by magnetic or elastic force.

8. The storage device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The axial direction of the first opening is a first direction, and the second end of the first pipe assembly is movable along the first direction between the mating position and the separating position. The shielding member is movable along a second direction between the shielded position and the open position.

9. The storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least one of the portion of the shielding member that contacts the second end of the first pipe assembly and the portion of the second end of the first pipe assembly that contacts the shielding member includes an inclined working surface, the inclined working surface being inclined relative to both the first direction and the second direction.

10. The storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first direction is a horizontal direction; and / or The storage device further includes a first guide component extending along the first direction and connected to a second end of the first pipe assembly for guiding the second end of the first pipe assembly to move along the first direction.

11. The storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second direction is the up-down direction; and / or The storage device further includes a second guide assembly extending along the second direction and connected to the shielding member for guiding the shielding member to move along the second direction.

12. The storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The storage device also includes a first driving device for providing a driving force to move the shield.

13. The storage device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The storage device also includes a first transmission device for connecting the first drive device and the shielding member.

14. The storage device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first transmission device includes a matching lead screw and a lead screw nut, the lead screw extending along the second direction, and the lead screw nut connected to the blocking member. The first driving device is a motor, which is used to drive the lead screw to rotate.

15. The storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The axis of the opening at the second end of the first pipe assembly extends along the first direction, and at least one of the two outer surfaces of the pipe wall at the second end of the first pipe assembly that are spaced apart along a third direction is provided with a contact portion, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other; The shielding component includes: A shielding portion, movable along the second direction between the shielded position and the open position, is used to shield the opening at the second end of the first pipe assembly. At least one rib is provided on at least one of the two sides of the shielding portion that are spaced apart along the third direction, and protrudes toward the second end of the first pipe assembly in the first direction. The rib is provided corresponding to the contact portion and is used to contact the corresponding contact portion.

16. The storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The distance between the separation position and the docking position along the first direction is 1 mm to 20 mm.

17. The storage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the shielding member is in the shielding position, there is a seal between the shielding member and the second end of the first pipe assembly.

18. The storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the mating position, the second end of the first pipe assembly is in communication with the first end of the first pipe assembly. When the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the separated position, the second end of the first pipe assembly is either connected to or not connected to the first end of the first pipe assembly.

19. The storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the second end of the first pipe assembly is in the mating position, the second end of the first pipe assembly extends into the first opening; and / or The cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the first pipe assembly is 40 mm². 2 Up to 800mm 2 .

20. The storage device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second end of the first feeding assembly is translatable and / or rotatable relative to the housing of the storage device between the docking position and the separating position.

21. The storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, The shielding element is fitted to the inner surface of the housing of the storage container; or When the shielding member is in the shielding position, there is a seal between the shielding member and the housing of the storage device.

22. A cooking appliance, characterized in that, include: Storage apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 21; A container, the interior of which has a accommodating cavity for at least accommodating the solid food material; The second feeding assembly has a first end for connecting with the second end of the first feeding assembly when the shield is in the open position, and the second end of the second feeding assembly is for communicating with the receiving cavity.

23. The cooking apparatus according to claim 22, characterized in that, It also includes a cover, and the containing chamber and the second feeding component are both located on the cover. The containing chamber is a washing chamber for washing the solid food material.

24. The cooking apparatus according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The cooking device also includes an airflow generating device, and the cooking device is configured to use airflow to force the solid food material into the accommodating cavity.

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