Cooking appliance

Abstract

The application provides a cooking utensil, which comprises a pot body, a cover body and a steam generating device. The pot body is provided with an inner pot. The cover body is arranged on the pot body in an openable and closable manner, and a cooking space is formed between the cover body and the inner pot when the cover body covers the pot body. The steam generating device is used for generating steam for assisting cooking, and is arranged in the cover body and comprises a steam generating cavity and a steam cover plate. The steam generating cavity is used for containing water to be heated to generate steam, and is capable of communicating with the cooking space through a steam passage to guide the steam into the cooking space. The steam cover plate is detachably connected to the cover body and is capable of being opened and closed relative to the steam generating cavity. According to the cooking utensil of the application, the steam cover plate is detachably connected to the cover body, so that the user can easily detach the steam cover plate for cleaning or replacement, and the use is convenient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates generally to the technical field of cooking appliances and equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, some cooking appliances on the market (such as rice cookers) are equipped with steam generators to produce additional steam to assist in cooking. Typically, the steam generator is located inside the cooker's body. When the lid is opened, the container for holding water within the steam generator can be seen, allowing users to add water. However, the cooker body of these appliances, while ensuring space for the inner pot, also needs to accommodate the steam generator, resulting in a relatively large overall size that is difficult to place and move, causing some inconvenience for users.

[0003] In response, the applicant designed a cooking appliance with a steam generator integrated into the lid to reduce the size of the appliance. However, the steam cup lid of the steam generator has integrated steam channels, and after prolonged use, the lid easily accumulates grease, rice residue, and dust, making it difficult to clean.

[0004] Therefore, a cooking appliance is needed to at least partially solve the problems existing in the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The summary section introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. The summary section of this invention 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.

[0006] To at least partially solve the above problems, the present invention provides a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance comprising:

[0007] A pot body, wherein an inner pot is provided in the pot body;

[0008] A lid, which is closable and mounted on the pot body, wherein when the lid is closed on the pot body, a cooking space is formed between the lid and the inner pot; and

[0009] A steam generator, used to generate steam to assist cooking, is disposed in the cover and includes:

[0010] A steam generating chamber for containing water to be heated to generate steam, the steam generating chamber being connected to the cooking space via a steam channel to introduce the steam into the cooking space; and

[0011] A steam cover plate, which is detachably connected to the cover body and is openable and closable relative to the steam generating chamber to open or close the steam generating chamber.

[0012] According to the cooking appliance of the present invention, the steam cover is detachably connected to the cover body, thereby allowing the user to easily remove the steam cover for cleaning or replacement, making it convenient to use.

[0013] Optionally, the steam cover has an outwardly extending pivot shaft on its side, and the cover body has a receiving groove. The pivot shaft is removably disposed within the receiving groove, and the steam cover can pivot around the pivot shaft to open and close relative to the steam generating chamber. Therefore, the connection method of the steam cover is relatively simple and easy to implement.

[0014] Optionally, the cover is provided with a limiting part, and when the steam cover plate pivots to abut against the limiting part, the steam cover plate is in the state of maximum opening angle. Thus, the maximum opening angle of the steam cover plate can be limited.

[0015] Optionally, the receiving groove is provided with a notch through which the pivot shaft can enter or exit the receiving groove. This arrangement allows the pivot shaft to easily enter or exit the receiving groove.

[0016] Optionally, when viewed along the axial direction of the pivot shaft, the notch has a minimum width, which defines a first direction; and when the steam cover is in a detachable state where the angle between the plane containing the steam cover and the upper surface of the cover is a predetermined angle, the maximum dimension of the pivot shaft along the first direction is less than or equal to the minimum width; when the angle between the plane containing the steam cover and the upper surface of the cover is any angle other than the predetermined angle, the maximum dimension of the pivot shaft along the first direction is greater than the minimum width. Thus, the steam cover has a unique installation and removal angle, preventing the pivot shaft from undesirably detaching from the receiving groove.

[0017] Optionally, the cover is provided with a limiting part. When the steam cover plate pivots to abut against the limiting part, the angle between the plane where the steam cover plate is located and the upper surface of the cover body is the predetermined angle. This allows for easy determination of the detachable angle of the steam cover plate.

[0018] Optionally, the steam cover rotates from the closed state (covering the steam generating chamber) to the detachable state by an angle ranging from 80° to 110°. This angle makes the steam cover easier for the hand to grip.

[0019] Optionally, the steam cover has an elastic portion on its side, and the cover body has a slot. The steam cover is connected to the cover body by inserting the elastic portion into the slot, and can be opened and closed relative to the steam generating chamber by the elastic deformation of the elastic portion. Therefore, the connection method of the steam cover is relatively simple and easy to implement.

[0020] Optionally, when the steam cover is closed over the steam generating chamber, the elastic part undergoes elastic deformation. This allows the steam cover to open automatically using elastic force.

[0021] Optionally, the steam cover and the cover body are further connected by a locking device to lock the steam cover in the closed state. This allows the steam cover to remain in the closed state.

[0022] Optionally, when the steam cover closes the steam generating chamber, the plane of the steam cover is flush with the upper surface of the cover. This gives the cover a smooth upper surface, facilitating cleaning.

[0023] Optionally, the steam cover is provided with a sealing element, which seals the steam generating chamber when the steam cover is closed. This allows the steam generating chamber to remain sealed.

[0024] Optionally, the cover is provided with a first steam channel communicating with the cooking space, and the steam cover plate is provided with a second steam channel. When the cover is closed and the steam cover plate is closed, the second steam channel communicates with both the steam generating chamber and the first steam channel. This allows the sealed steam generating chamber to communicate with the cooking space.

[0025] Optionally, the cover is further provided with a steam valve, and the steam valve has a third steam passage, through which the cooking space can communicate with the outside. Thus, the steam valve can maintain a slight pressure in the cooking space relative to the outside and prevent overflow.

[0026] Optionally, the steam cover is at least partially disposed above the steam valve, and the steam cover has a steam outlet communicating with the third steam passage. This allows the steam valve to be positioned adjacent to the steam generator, resulting in a compact cover structure, and the steam outlet being located on the steam cover facilitates manufacturing.

[0027] Optionally, the side length of the steam cover is greater than or equal to 100 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm. Thus, the size of the steam cover is sufficient to cover both the steam generating chamber and the steam valve. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The following drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present invention, are incorporated herein by reference as part of the invention and are used to understand the invention. The drawings show embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention.

[0029] In the attached diagram,

[0030] Figure 1 A perspective view of a cooking appliance according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the lid of the cooking utensil shown;

[0032] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A partial sectional view of the cover from a side angle;

[0033] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of part A in the middle;

[0034] Figure 5 for Figure 2 The exploded view of the cover shown;

[0035] Figure 6 and Figure 7 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the relative positional relationship between the steam cover plate and the cover body at different angles;

[0036] Figure 8 An exploded view of the lid of a cooking utensil according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

[0037] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Another exploded view of the cover shown. Detailed Implementation

[0038] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well-known in the art have not been described in order to avoid confusion with embodiments of the invention.

[0039] To fully understand the embodiments of the present invention, detailed structures will be presented in the following description. Obviously, the implementation of the embodiments of the present invention is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0040] This invention provides a cooking appliance. The cooking appliance according to this invention can be a rice cooker, electric pressure cooker, or other cooking appliances, and in addition to the function of cooking rice, it can also have various functions such as cooking porridge, making soup, and stir-frying. Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooking appliance 1 according to the present invention may include a pot body 40 and a lid 10. The pot body 40 may be generally constructed in the shape of a rounded cuboid, and an inner pot 41 is disposed inside it. The inner pot 41 may be constructed to be removably disposed in the pot body 40. For example, in one embodiment, a cylindrical inner pot storage part may be provided in the pot body 40, and the inner pot 41 can be freely placed into or removed from the inner pot storage part. The removable configuration allows the user to easily remove the inner pot 41 for cleaning. Of course, in other embodiments, the inner pot 41 may also be fixedly disposed in the pot body 40 in a non-removable manner. The pot body 40 is usually also provided with a heating device for heating the inner pot 41.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, the lid 10 is mounted on the pot body 40 in an openable and closable manner. Therefore, the lid 10 typically has a shape that conforms to the shape of the pot body 40, allowing for easy closing of the pot body 40. When the lid 10 is opened relative to the pot body 40, the opening of the inner pot 41 in the pot body 40 is exposed, allowing the user to add ingredients to the inner pot 41 or remove cooked food from the inner pot 41. When the lid 10 is closed on the pot body 40, it covers the inner pot 41, forming a cooking space between them. A sealing element is also provided between the lid 10 and the inner pot 41 to maintain a good seal in the cooking space.

[0043] The cooking appliance 1 according to the present invention is further provided with a steam generating device. For example... Figure 2 As shown, a steam generator 20 is disposed in the cover 10, which is used to generate steam to assist in cooking. Accordingly, as Figure 4 As shown, a first steam channel 11 is provided on the lid 10. When the lid 10 is closed over the cooker body 40, the steam generator 20 can communicate with the cooking space through the first steam channel 11 to introduce steam into the cooking space to assist in cooking. Taking a rice cooker as an example, the specific operation of assisting cooking can be as follows: during the rice cooking process, the steam generated by the steam generator 20 is introduced into the cooking space to heat the rice from above, ensuring even heating and improving heating efficiency; or, after the rice is cooked, the steam generated by the steam generator 20 is introduced into the cooking space to keep the rice warm and fresh, maintaining its good texture.

[0044] Specifically, such as Figures 2 to 4As shown, in this embodiment, the steam generating device 20 includes two parts: a steam generating component 21 and a steam sealing component 22.

[0045] The steam generating assembly 21 is provided with a steam generating chamber 23 for holding water to be heated to generate steam. Preferably, the steam generating chamber 23 can be positioned to form a recessed receiving portion (not shown), and a water container is disposed within the receiving portion. The receiving space of the water container constitutes the steam generating chamber 23. This allows for convenient placement of the steam generating chamber 23. Furthermore, the water container can be configured to be manually detachable within the receiving portion. The user can easily remove the water container for cleaning or replacement. Of course, the steam generating chamber 23 can also be configured in other forms, such as a recessed portion integrally formed with the cover 10.

[0046] Furthermore, the steam generating assembly 21 also includes a heating device for heating the water within the steam generating chamber 23 to generate steam. Therefore, the heating device is preferably located below or to the side of the steam generating chamber 23. Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the heating device 24 is configured to include a heating plate 241 and an electric heating element 242. The heating plate 241 includes a bottom wall and side walls extending upward from the edge of the bottom wall. Thus, the bottom wall and side walls form a space for accommodating a water container and surround the water container from below and to the sides. The electric heating element 242 is disposed within the heating plate 241. In the illustrated embodiment, the electric heating element 242 is disposed within the side wall of the heating plate 241. However, the electric heating element 242 may also be disposed within the bottom wall of the heating plate 241, or both within the side wall and the bottom wall. Of course, the heating device may also be configured in other forms, such as an electromagnetic heating device.

[0047] The steam sealing assembly 22 is connected to the cover 10 and can be opened and closed relative to the steam generating chamber 23. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The steam sealing assembly 22 is shown in the closed state, in which the steam sealing assembly 22 covers the steam generating chamber 23. Figure 2 The diagram shows the steam sealing assembly 22 in the open state. Users can open the steam sealing assembly 22 to observe the water level and cleanliness (whether there is scale, etc.) in the steam generating chamber 23, and then decide whether to perform operations such as adding water or cleaning the steam generating chamber 23.

[0048] In one embodiment, the steam sealing assembly 22 may be configured as a steam cover 25, and the steam cover 25 has a sealing element 26 at a position corresponding to the steam generating chamber 23 on its side facing the steam generating chamber 23. When the steam sealing assembly 22 is in the closed state, the sealing element 26 is sandwiched between the edge of the steam cover 25 and the edge of the steam generating chamber 23, thereby sealing and preventing steam leakage.

[0049] To guide the steam generated in the steam generating chamber 23 into the cooking space while it is sealed by the sealant 26, a second steam channel 251 is provided on the steam cover 25. The second steam channel 251 has a second steam inlet 252 and a second steam outlet 253. It is understood that the second steam inlet 252 is located within the sealing area of ​​the sealant 26, and the second steam outlet 253 is located outside the sealing area of ​​the sealant 26. When the steam sealing assembly 22 is in the closed state, the second steam outlet 253 is connected to the first steam inlet 111 of the first steam channel 11. Figure 4 As shown, the steam generated in the steam generating chamber 23 can flow into the second steam channel 251 through the second steam inlet 252, continue to flow, and enter the first steam channel 11 through the docked second steam outlet 253 and the first steam inlet 111. Finally, it flows out of the first steam outlet 112 of the first steam channel 11 and into the cooking space below the cover 10.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, a connecting post 12 is provided on the cover 10 at a position corresponding to the second steam outlet 253. The first steam passage 11 extends through the connecting post 12 along its axial direction, and forms a first steam inlet 111 at the top of the connecting post 12. The connecting post 12 facilitates the connection between the second steam outlet 253 and the first steam inlet 111.

[0051] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, a steam valve 30 is also provided on the lid 10. A through-type third steam channel 31 is provided within the steam valve 30. When the lid 10 closes the pot body 40, the cooking space can be connected to the outside world, such as to the outside atmosphere, through the third steam channel 31 of the steam valve 30. The third steam channel 31 can be constructed in a labyrinthine shape. The steam valve 30 maintains a slight pressure in the cooking space relative to the outside environment and also serves to prevent overflow.

[0052] Preferably, the steam valve 30 can be located close to the steam generator 20. For example, in Figure 2As shown, the steam valve 30 is positioned adjacent to the steam generating chamber 23. When the steam sealing assembly 22 is in the closed state, it at least partially covers the steam valve 30. Thus, the steam sealing assembly 22 covers not only the steam generating chamber 23 but also at least partially the cavity of the cover 10 for housing the steam valve 30. This allows the cover 10 to have a smooth upper surface, making it easy to clean. More preferably, a steam outlet 254 is provided on the steam cover plate 25. The third steam passage 31 of the steam valve 30 communicates with the outside through the steam outlet 254. By positioning the steam valve 30 close to the steam generating device 20, the cover 10 can be structurally compact. Furthermore, by placing the steam outlet 254 on the steam cover plate 25, the smaller size of the steam cover plate 25 allows for easier manufacturing, eliminating the hassle of placing the steam outlet 254 on the larger cover 10.

[0053] Since the second steam channel 251 and steam outlet 254 are integrated on the steam cover 25, to ensure that it has sufficient size, the side length of the steam cover 25 can be set to be greater than or equal to 100 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm. In different embodiments, the side length of the steam cover 25 can be set to 150 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm, 300 mm or 350 mm, etc.

[0054] Typically, the lid 10 is connected to the pot body 40 via a pivot and pivots about the pivot to open and close relative to the pot body 40. Figure 2 As shown, a pivot axis (not shown) defines the pivot axis AX1 of the cover 10. Generally, the cooking appliance 1 is placed and used with the side where the pivot axis is located facing away from the user. Therefore, the side of the cooking appliance 1 with the pivot axis (that is, the side facing away from the user when in use) is defined as the rear side, and the opposite side (that is, the side facing the user when in use) is defined as the front side.

[0055] After the steam generator 20 and steam valve 30 are installed on the cover 10, it becomes quite heavy. This places an additional burden on opening and closing the cover 10. Therefore, it is preferable to place the steam generator 20 and steam valve 30 and other components in the rear half of the cover 10, as close as possible to the pivot axis AX1 of the cover 10. This allows the center of gravity of the cover 10 to be close to the pivot axis AX1, thereby facilitating its pivotal opening and closing.

[0056] Preferably, on the cover 10, along the front-rear direction D1 perpendicular to the pivot axis AX1, the position of the steam generator 20 on the cover 10 can be set such that the maximum distance from the pivot axis AX1 is less than or equal to 2 / 3 of the maximum dimension of the cover 10 itself along the front-rear direction D1, so as to make it as close as possible to the pivot axis AX1.

[0057] Placing the steam generator 20 on the cover 10 will inevitably increase the size of the cover 10. To avoid excessively increasing the size of the cover 10 and failing to achieve the effect of reducing volume, preferably, the cover 10 is sized along the thickness direction D2 ( Figure 3 The dimensions of the cover 10 can be set to 40-100mm. For example, in different embodiments, the thickness of the cover 10 can be set to 45mm, 55mm, 60mm, 65mm, 75mm, 80mm or 90mm, etc. More preferably, the dimensions can be set to 50-70mm.

[0058] Accordingly, considering the size limitations of the cover 10, the volume of the steam generating device 20 itself should not be too large. The steam generating chamber 23 occupies the largest volume within the steam generating device 20. Preferably, the volume of the steam generating chamber 23 can be set to 50-300 mL. For example, in different embodiments, the volume of the steam generating chamber 23 can be set to 60 mL, 80 mL, 100 mL, 150 mL, 200 mL, or 250 mL, etc. More preferably, the volume of the steam generating chamber 23 can be set to 70-120 mL. Thus, the volume of the steam generating chamber 23 can adapt to the size limitations of the cover 10, avoiding an excessively large cover 10.

[0059] The cooking appliance according to the present invention has been described above. According to the present invention, the steam generating device can generate steam to assist cooking. By placing the steam generating device on the lid, the volume of the pot body can be reduced, thereby reducing the overall size of the cooking appliance, making it compact and easy to transport and place.

[0060] As described above, the steam cover 25 integrates a second steam channel 251 and a steam outlet 254 that communicates with the third steam channel 31 of the steam valve 30. Therefore, during daily use, these locations on the steam cover 25 are prone to accumulating oil, rice residue, and dust. Because these locations are relatively hidden and small, the accumulated dirt is difficult to clean, easily leading to bacterial growth and posing a hygiene hazard.

[0061] like Figure 5As shown, according to the present invention, the steam cover 25 is configured to be detachably connected to the cover body 10. Therefore, when cleaning the steam cover 25 is required, the user can remove it for easy cleaning. Specifically, the side of the steam cover 25 is provided with a pivot shaft 255 extending outward in a generally horizontal direction, and correspondingly, the cover body 10 is provided with a receiving groove 13 at a position corresponding to the pivot shaft 255. The pivot shaft 255 is removably disposed within the receiving groove 13. For example, a notch 131 can be provided in the receiving groove 13, through which the pivot shaft 255 can enter or exit the receiving groove 13. Thus, when the pivot shaft 255 is located within the receiving groove 13, the steam cover 25 can pivot about the pivot shaft 255 to open and close relative to the steam generating chamber 23. When the pivot shaft 255 is removed from the receiving groove 13, the steam cover 25 is removed relative to the cover body 10, facilitating cleaning or replacement by the user. Of course, in other embodiments, the pivot 255 may also be configured to be removable from the receiving groove 13 in other ways, for example, the pivot 255 may be configured to be retractable along its own axis.

[0062] Preferably, the steam cover 25 can be configured to have a unique installation and removal angle relative to the receiving groove 13. For example, the steam cover 25 can be configured such that the pivot 255 can pass through the notch 131 of the receiving groove 13 only when the angle between the plane of the steam cover 25 and the upper surface of the cover 10 is a predetermined angle α, and the pivot 255 cannot pass through the notch 131 when the angle between the plane of the steam cover and the upper surface of the cover 10 is any other than the predetermined angle α. This arrangement can prevent the pivot 255 from unintentionally dislodging from the receiving groove 13, thereby preventing the steam cover 25 from being unintentionally removed.

[0063] Specifically, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, viewed along the axial direction of the pivot axis 255, the notch 131 of the receiving groove 13 has a minimum dimension d. This dimension d defines a first direction D3. In other words, the notch 131 has a minimum dimension d along the first direction D3. Accordingly, the pivot axis 255 is constructed as an irregular shaft, with non-uniform radial dimensions at various points along its axial section. For example, the axial section of the pivot axis 255 may be constructed as an ellipse, or as a near-circular structure with only partially arcuate circumferential edges of the axial section.

[0064] Among them, such as Figure 6 As shown, the steam cover 25 is constructed such that, only when the angle between the plane containing the steam cover 25 and the upper surface of the cover 10 is a predetermined angle α, the maximum dimension d1 of the pivot shaft 255 along the first direction D3 is less than or equal to the minimum dimension d of the notch 131. Therefore, the pivot shaft 255 can smoothly pass through the notch 131. At this time, the steam cover 25 can be considered to be in a detachable state.

[0065] And such Figure 7 As shown, when the angle between the plane containing the steam cover 25 and the upper surface of the cover 10 is not a predetermined angle α, the maximum dimension d2 of the pivot shaft 255 along the first direction D3 is greater than the minimum dimension d of the notch 131. Therefore, the pivot shaft 255 cannot pass through the notch 131, thereby preventing the pivot shaft 255 from falling out of the receiving groove 13.

[0066] Figure 7 The illustration shows the plane of the steam cover 25 flush with the upper surface of the cover 10. However, it is understood that this arrangement is also possible when the plane of the steam cover 25 is at other angles to the upper surface of the cover 10, as long as it is an angle other than the predetermined angle α. For example, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, Figure 7 The state shown can also be referred to as the closed state of the steam cover 25. When the steam cover 25 is in the closed state, its plane is flush with the upper surface of the cover 10, which makes the upper surface of the cover 10 smooth, easy to clean, and has a good appearance.

[0067] Figure 6 A schematic illustration is provided with the plane containing the steam cover 25 forming a 90° angle with the upper surface of the cover 10. However, preferably, this predetermined angle α is not necessarily 90°. Preferably, α can be set to 80°-110°. For example, α can be set to 85°, 95°, 100°, or 105°, etc. It is understood that during use, the steam cover 25 does not pivot within a 360° circle around the pivot axis 255, but rather within the range formed by the closed position and the maximum open position. Therefore, the predetermined angle α can be relative to the steam cover 25 when its plane is flush with the upper surface of the cover 10 in the closed state, that is, it can be regarded as the angle through which the steam cover 25 pivots from the closed state to the detachable state.

[0068] Preferably, provided there is sufficient operating space, the steam cover 25 can have its maximum open position relative to the cover 10, to prevent the steam cover 25 from moving excessively when open and interfering with the operation of other components, and also to prevent it from being damaged by impacts. Figure 2 As shown, a limiting part 14 is provided on the cover 10, which can be specifically constructed in the form of a limiting rib. During the process of the steam cover 25 pivoting around the pivot axis 255 to open, when the steam cover 25 abuts against the limiting part 14, it cannot continue to pivot in the opening direction. At this time, the steam cover 25 is in the maximum open position. The angle between the plane on which the steam cover 25 is located and the upper surface of the cover 10 can be called the maximum opening angle.

[0069] More preferably, the maximum opening angle can be equal to a predetermined angle α at which the steam cover 25 can be removed. In this way, the limiting part 14 can simultaneously achieve both limiting and indicating that it is removable. When the steam cover 25 is in the maximum open position, it is also in a removable state. This allows for precise positioning of the removable angle, facilitating user operation.

[0070] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A lid for a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the steam cover 322 and the lid 310 are detachably connected by another method. Figure 8 As shown, the rear end of the steam cover 322 is provided with an elastic portion 323, which extends rearward relative to the steam cover 322 and is capable of elastic deformation. Correspondingly, the cover body 310 is provided with a slot 311. The steam cover 322 can be detachably connected to the cover body 310 by inserting the elastic portion 323 into the slot 311.

[0071] Although Figure 9 Shown as an exploded view, it can be understood that when the steam cover 322 is in the closed state, the elastic part 323 undergoes elastic deformation and tends to open the steam cover 322. Specifically, the elastic part 323 can be a plastic part with good elasticity or a spring, etc. Preferably, a locking device can also be provided, connecting the steam cover 322 and the cover body 310 through the locking device to overcome the elastic deformation of the elastic part 323 and lock the steam cover 322 in the closed state. For example, a snap-fit ​​324 can be provided on the steam cover 322, and a latch (not shown) can be provided on the cover body 310. Locking is achieved through the engaging connection of the snap-fit ​​324 and the latch. Of course, the snap-fit ​​324 can also be provided on the cover body 310 and the latch on the steam cover, or the locking device can be constructed in other forms besides the snap-fit ​​and latch.

[0072] When it is necessary to open the steam cover 322, the locking device can be released, and the steam cover 322 will automatically open under the elastic force of the elastic part 323. Figure 8 The state shown is as follows. When it is necessary to remove the steam cover 322, the elastic part 323 can be directly pulled out from the slot 311. It can be understood that the elastic part 323 is not necessarily provided on the rear side of the steam cover 322, and the steam cover 322 does not necessarily open and close in the front-to-back direction. The elastic part 323 can also be provided on other sides of the steam cover 322 so that the steam cover 322 can open and close in other directions.

[0073] The cooking appliance according to the present invention has been described above. According to the present invention, the steam generator can produce steam to assist cooking. By mounting the steam generator on the lid, the volume of the pot body can be reduced, thereby reducing the overall size of the cooking appliance, making it compact and easy to transport and place. Furthermore, the steam cover is detachably connected to the lid, allowing the user to easily remove it for cleaning or replacement.

[0074] 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 invention. Terms such as “set” appearing herein can refer to either a component being directly attached to another component or a component being attached to another component via an intermediary. A feature described in one embodiment herein 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.

[0075] The present invention 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 the present invention to the described embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of the present invention, and all such variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A cooking utensil (1), characterized in that, The cooking appliance (1) includes: A pot body (40) is provided with an inner pot (41) inside the pot body (40); A lid (10) is closable on the pot body (40). When the lid (10) covers the pot body (40), a cooking space is formed between the lid (10) and the inner pot (41). A steam generator (20) for generating steam to assist cooking, the steam generator (20) being disposed in the cover (10), comprising: A steam generating chamber (23) for containing water to be heated to generate steam, the steam generating chamber (23) being connected to the cooking space via a steam channel to introduce the steam into the cooking space; and A steam cover (25) is detachably connected to the cover (10) and is pivotally openable relative to the steam generating chamber (23) to open or close the steam generating chamber (23).

2. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side of the steam cover (25) is provided with an outwardly extending pivot shaft (255), and the cover (10) is provided with a receiving groove (13). The pivot shaft (255) is detachably disposed in the receiving groove (13), and the steam cover (25) can pivot about the pivot shaft (255) to open and close relative to the steam generating chamber (23).

3. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cover (10) is provided with a limiting part (14). When the steam cover (25) pivots to abut against the limiting part (14), the steam cover (25) is in the state of maximum opening angle.

4. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The receiving groove (13) is provided with a notch (131) through which the pivot shaft (255) can enter or exit the receiving groove (13).

5. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, Viewed along the axial direction of the pivot axis (255), the notch (131) has a minimum width (d), which defines a first direction (D3); Furthermore, when the steam cover (25) is in a detachable state where the angle between the plane of the steam cover (25) and the upper surface of the cover (10) is a predetermined angle (α), the maximum dimension of the pivot shaft (255) along the first direction (D3) is less than or equal to the minimum width (d). When the angle between the plane of the steam cover (25) and the upper surface of the cover (10) is an angle other than the predetermined angle (α), the maximum dimension of the pivot shaft (255) along the first direction (D3) is greater than the minimum width (d).

6. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cover (10) is provided with a limiting part (14). When the steam cover (25) pivots to abut against the limiting part (14), the angle between the plane where the steam cover (25) is located and the upper surface of the cover (10) is the predetermined angle (α).

7. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The steam cover (25) pivots from the closed state of the steam generating chamber (23) to the detachable state, and the angle it travels is between 80° and 110°.

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam cover (322) has an elastic part (323) on its side, and the cover body (310) has a slot (311). The steam cover (322) is connected to the cover body (310) by inserting the elastic part (323) into the slot (311), and can be opened and closed relative to the steam generating chamber by the elastic deformation of the elastic part (323).

9. The cooking utensil according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the steam cover (322) covers the steam generating chamber, the elastic part (323) undergoes elastic deformation.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 9, characterized in that, The steam cover (322) and the cover (310) are also connected by a locking device to lock the steam cover (322) in the closed state.

11. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, When the steam cover (25 / 322) covers the steam generating chamber (23), the plane of the steam cover (25 / 322) is flush with the upper surface of the cover (10 / 310).

12. The cooking utensil (1) according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, A sealing element (26) is provided on the steam cover plate (25). When the steam cover plate (25) is closed, the sealing element (26) seals the steam generating chamber (23).

13. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The cover (10) is provided with a first steam channel (11) communicating with the cooking space, and the steam cover (25) is provided with a second steam channel (251). When the cover (10) is closed and the steam cover (25) is closed, the second steam channel (251) is connected to the steam generating chamber (23) and the first steam channel (11) respectively.

14. The cooking utensil (1) according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The cover (10) is also provided with a steam valve (30), and the steam valve (30) is provided with a third steam channel (31), through which the cooking space can be connected to the outside world.

15. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The steam cover (25) is at least partially disposed above the steam valve (30), and the steam cover (25) is provided with a steam outlet (254) communicating with the third steam passage (31).

16. The cooking utensil (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The side length of the steam cover (25) is greater than or equal to 100 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

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