Cooking appliance

Abstract

The application discloses a cooking utensil, which comprises a pot body, a cover body, a cover body opening and closing mechanism, a steam generating device and a linkage mechanism. When the cover body covers the pot body, a cooking space is formed therebetween. The cover body opening and closing mechanism is used for locking the cover body in a closed position or releasing the cover body to an open position. The steam generating device is arranged on 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 a steam channel is arranged between the steam generating cavity and the cooking space to guide the steam into the cooking space through the steam channel. The steam cover plate is connected to the cover body and can be opened and closed relative to the steam generating cavity to open or cover the steam generating cavity. The linkage mechanism is configured to act on the cover body opening and closing mechanism to lock the cover body in the closed position in response to the opening of the steam cover plate. The cooking utensil according to the application can lock the cover body in the closed position when the steam cover plate is opened, so that the liquid in the steam generating cavity can be prevented from flowing out.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of cooking appliances. Background Art

[0002] Cooking utensils typically incorporate a steam cup within the pot body to generate steam for steam recovery or moisture retention. To effectively reduce the size of the cooking appliance, the applicant has designed a novel cooking appliance in which the steam cup is incorporated into the lid. Furthermore, the steam cup is provided with a separate steam cover for easy water addition and cleaning. However, because the lid needs to be frequently opened and closed, if the lid is opened while the steam cover is open, or if the lid is opened by mistake, causing the steam cover to open simultaneously, the water in the steam cup may spill out, posing a risk.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a cooking appliance to at least partially solve the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The Summary of the Invention introduces a series of simplified concepts that will be further described in the Detailed Description of the Invention. The Summary of the Invention is not intended to limit the key features and essential features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0005] To at least partially solve the above problems, a first aspect of the present invention discloses a cooking appliance comprising:

[0006] pot body;

[0007] a cover body, the cover body being openably and closably arranged relative to the pot body, and when the cover body covers the pot body, a cooking space is formed between the cover body and the pot body;

[0008] a cover opening and closing mechanism, the cover opening and closing mechanism being used to lock the cover in a closed position or release it to an open position;

[0009] A steam generating device, the steam generating device being arranged on the cover body, the steam generating device comprising:

[0010] a steam generating chamber, the steam generating chamber being used to contain water to be heated to generate steam, a steam passage being provided between the steam generating chamber and the cooking space so as to guide the steam into the cooking space through the steam passage; and

[0011] a steam cover plate connected to the cover body and capable of opening and closing relative to the steam generating chamber to open or close the steam generating chamber; and

[0012] A linkage mechanism is configured to act on the cover opening and closing mechanism in response to the opening of the steam cover to lock the cover in the closed position.

[0013] The cooking appliance according to the present invention utilizes a linkage mechanism to link the lid and steam cover according to their open / closed states, preventing the lid from opening while the steam cover is open. The linkage mechanism acts on the lid opening / closing mechanism to restrict changes in the lid's open / closed state. Therefore, the technical solution of the present invention features a simple structure, easy installation, and ease of operation. It also reduces the risk of misoperation that could cause water in the steam generating chamber to leak out, thereby improving safety.

[0014] Optionally, the linkage mechanism is configured to act on the cover opening and closing mechanism in response to the closing of the steam cover to release the lock on the cover, thereby further enabling the cover to be opened while the steam cover is closed, thereby improving safety.

[0015] Optionally, the lid opening and closing mechanism includes a lid opening button, which is used to open the lid relative to the pot body when operated, and the linkage mechanism is configured to act on the lid opening button. Thus, the provision of the lid opening button facilitates user operation, thereby conveniently completing the lid opening action.

[0016] Optionally, the lid opening and closing mechanism further includes a first fastener provided on the lid and a second fastener provided on the pot body, wherein the first fastener is capable of engaging with the second fastener to position the lid in the closed position, and the lid opening button is configured to act on the first fastener when operated, thereby disengaging the first fastener from the second fastener. Thus, the lid can be separated from the pot body by operating the lid opening button, i.e., the lid is opened relative to the pot body. Furthermore, the engagement of the first fastener and the second fastener can be easily achieved, resulting in a compact cooking device.

[0017] Optionally, the lid body includes a face cover, and the lid opening button is disposed on the face cover. Thus, by disposing the lid opening button on the face cover, the position where high-temperature steam gushes out when the lid is opened is avoided, thereby effectively reducing the risk of the user being scalded by high-temperature steam when opening the lid.

[0018] Optionally, the linkage mechanism is arranged between the steam cover and the cover opening and closing mechanism and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Thus, the cover can be locked and unlocked by moving the linkage mechanism, making the cooking utensil simple in structure and easy to operate.

[0019] Optionally, the steam cover is configured to apply a force to the linkage mechanism when closed, causing the linkage mechanism to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. Thus, the linkage mechanism can be moved by the force of the steam cover, thereby avoiding the need for a separate power device and making the cooking appliance simple in structure and easy to operate.

[0020] Optionally, the linkage mechanism further includes a biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the linkage mechanism when the steam cover is opened, causing the linkage mechanism to move from the unlocked position to the locked position. Thus, when the steam cover is open, the linkage mechanism is always biased in the locked position, thereby locking the cover body in the closed position, thereby preventing risks caused by misoperation.

[0021] Optionally, the linkage mechanism includes a transmission portion and a locking portion opposite the transmission portion, wherein the transmission portion is contactable with the steam cover, and the locking portion is located between the cover opening button and the first fastening member and is capable of limiting the movement of the cover opening button. Thus, the transmission portion can transmit the force applied by the steam cover to the locking portion, and the locking portion can limit the movement of the cover opening button, thereby preventing the cover from opening relative to the pot body.

[0022] Optionally, the transmission portion includes an inclined surface, and the steam cover is configured to push the inclined surface downward when the cover is closed, so as to move the linkage mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position in a first direction. In this way, the linkage mechanism can be driven by the generally downward force of the steam cover to generate movement in a direction that is angled with respect to the force.

[0023] Optionally, the angle between the inclined surface and the first direction is in the range of 30° to 90°. Thus, by setting the angle in the above range, the downward push of the steam cover can be more conveniently converted into the linear motion of the linkage mechanism.

[0024] Optionally, the locking portion includes a through hole, and the cover opening button includes a push post, wherein the diameter of the through hole is larger than the outer diameter of the push post, and the depth of the through hole is smaller than the length of the push post. Thus, the push post of the cover opening button can be easily inserted into the through hole of the locking portion and, in this case, extend through the through hole.

[0025] Optionally, the through hole is positioned in the locking portion such that:

[0026] When the linkage mechanism is located at the locking position, the through hole and the top column are staggered to prevent the cover opening button from moving; and

[0027] When the linkage mechanism is located at the unlocking position, the through hole is aligned with the top column to allow the cover opening button to move.

[0028] Thus, by cooperating with the through-hole and the top post, the linkage mechanism can simply restrict the movement of the cover-opening button. When the through-hole and the top post are misaligned, the cover-opening button cannot engage the first fastening member to complete the cover-opening action. When the through-hole and the top post are aligned, the cover-opening button can engage the first fastening member to complete the cover-opening action. This results in a simple structure for the locking portion of the linkage mechanism, making it easy to manufacture and install.

[0029] Optionally, the linkage mechanism is configured such that when in the unlocked position, the push post can pass through the through hole and act on the first fastening member, causing the first fastening member to disengage from the second fastening member. Thus, when the linkage mechanism is in the unlocked position, the cover opening button can be pressed to act on the first fastening member to complete the cover opening action.

[0030] A second aspect of the present invention further discloses a cooking appliance, comprising:

[0031] pot body;

[0032] The cover is openable and closable relative to the pot body. When the cover covers the pot body, a cooking space is formed between the cover and the pot body.

[0033] a cover opening and closing mechanism, the cover opening and closing mechanism being used to lock the cover in a closed position or release it to an open position;

[0034] A steam generating device, the steam generating device being arranged on the cover body, the steam generating device comprising:

[0035] a steam generating chamber, the steam generating chamber being used to contain water to be heated to generate steam, a steam passage being provided between the steam generating chamber and the cooking space so as to guide the steam into the cooking space through the steam passage;

[0036] a steam cover plate connected to the cover body and capable of opening and closing relative to the steam generating chamber to open or close the steam generating chamber; and

[0037] A steam cover opening and closing mechanism, the steam cover opening and closing mechanism is used to lock the steam cover in a closed position or release it to an open position;

[0038] A linkage mechanism is provided between the cover body opening and closing mechanism and the steam cover plate opening and closing mechanism, and the linkage mechanism is configured to act on the steam cover plate opening and closing mechanism in response to the movement of the cover body opening and closing mechanism, so that the steam cover plate is locked in the closed position when the cover body is opened.

[0039] Preferably, the steam cover opening and closing mechanism includes a first latch provided on the steam cover and a second latch provided on the cover body, wherein the first latch can cooperate with the second latch to place the steam cover in the closed position, wherein the linkage mechanism can act on the first latch and / or the second latch to lock the steam cover in the closed position.

[0040] The cooking appliance according to the present invention utilizes a linkage mechanism to achieve interlocking operation between the lid and steam cover depending on the open / closed state of the lid, preventing the steam cover from opening while the lid is open. The linkage mechanism acts on the steam cover opening / closing mechanism to restrict changes in the steam cover's opening / closing state. Therefore, the technical solution of the present invention features a simple structure, easy installation, and ease of operation. It also reduces the risk of misoperation that could cause water in the steam generating chamber to leak out, thereby improving safety. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The following drawings of the embodiments of the present invention are incorporated herein as a part of the present invention for understanding the present invention. The drawings show the embodiments of the present invention and the description thereof is used to explain the principle of the present invention.

[0042] In the accompanying drawings,

[0043] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the steam cover is in a closed state;

[0044] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the steam cover is in an open state;

[0045] Figure 3 for Figure 2 a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in;

[0046] Figure 4 for Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance in; and

[0047] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A partial enlarged view of part K in FIG.

[0048] Description of reference numerals:

[0049] 100: Cooking Utensils 110: Pot

[0050] 111: Inner pot 120: Lid

[0051] 121: Cover 122: Removable cover

[0052] 130: Steam generating device 131: Steam generating chamber

[0053] 132: Steam cover 133: First fastener

[0054] 134: Steam channel 140: Cover opening and closing mechanism

[0055] 141: First fastening member 142: Second fastening member

[0056] 143: Open cover button 144: Top column

[0057] 150: Linkage mechanism 151: Transmission part

[0058] 152: Locking portion 153: Biasing member

[0059] 154: Through hole A: Bevel

[0060] D1: First direction DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to provide a more thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well known in the art are not described to avoid confusion with embodiments of the present invention.

[0062] In order to fully understand the embodiments of the present invention, a detailed structure 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.

[0063] Below, refer to Figures 1 to 5 A cooking appliance 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. It is understood that the cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention may be an electric rice cooker, an electric pressure cooker, or other cooking appliance 100, and that the cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention may have various functions, such as cooking porridge, in addition to cooking rice.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, cooking appliance 100 includes a pot body 110 and a lid 120. Pot body 110 is generally rectangular in shape with rounded corners and has a cylindrical inner cooking cavity. Inner pot 111 can be freely inserted into and removed from the inner cooking cavity, making it easy to clean. Inner pot 111 is typically made of metal and has a circular opening on its upper surface for holding ingredients to be heated, such as rice or soup. Pot body 110 may include a heating device for heating inner pot 111.

[0065] The lid 120 is generally rectangular in shape with rounded corners and substantially corresponds to the shape of the pot body 110. The lid 120 can be positioned above the pot body 110 and used to cover the pot body 110 when closed. The lid 120 can be positioned in a closed position relative to the pot body 110. For example, the lid 120 is shown in the closed position relative to the pot body 110. Preferably, the lid 120 can be pivotally switched between the open and closed positions. In one embodiment, the lid 120 can be connected to the pot body 110 via a pivot mechanism.

[0066] Furthermore, the cover 120 may include a top cover 121 and a removable cover 122, wherein the removable cover 122 is generally located below the top cover 121 and is detachably connected to the top cover 121. The removable cover 122 is generally circular and is used to cover the upper surface opening of the inner pot 111 when the cover 120 is closed onto the pot body 110 to form a cooking space.

[0067] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the cover 120 is also provided with a steam generating device 130 and a steam channel 134. The steam generating device 130 includes a steam generating chamber 131 and a steam cover plate 132. The steam generating chamber 131 can store water for generating steam. The steam cover plate 132 can be in a closed position and an open position relative to the steam generating chamber 131. For example, Figure 1 The steam cover 132 is shown in a closed position relative to the steam generating chamber 131. Figure 2 The steam cover 132 is shown in an open position relative to the steam generating chamber 131. Preferably, the steam cover 132 can be switched between the closed position and the open position in a pivoting manner. Preferably, the steam cover 132 is connected to the cover body 120, and the upper surface of the steam cover 132 forms a part of the upper surface of the face cover 121. This preferred solution can make the structure of the cover body 120 more compact, and at the same time can facilitate the user to open the steam cover 132 for operations such as adding water or cleaning. Preferably, a sealing member (not shown) is also provided on the steam cover 132 to seal the steam generating chamber 131 when the steam cover 132 is in the closed position.

[0068] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, preferably, the steam generating device 130 further includes a steam cover opening and closing mechanism, which is used to lock the steam cover 132 in the closed position or release it to the open position. Exemplarily, the steam cover opening and closing mechanism may include a first latch 133 and a second latch (not shown) respectively provided on the steam cover 132 and the cover body 120, and the first latch 133 and the second latch may cooperate with each other to enable the steam cover 132 to be in the closed position.

[0069] Preferably, the steam generating device 130 further includes a steam cover button (not shown), which is configured to act on the first latch 133 when operated to move the first latch 133 to disengage from the second latch, thereby allowing the steam cover 132 to open normally.

[0070] The steam generating device 130 also includes a heating device (not shown) disposed around the steam generating chamber 131 for heating the water contained in the steam generating chamber 131 to generate steam when necessary (e.g., during cooking or keeping warm). In one embodiment, the heating device includes a bottom heating plate and side heating plates extending upward from the bottom heating plate, each of which is provided with electric heating pipes. In other embodiments, the heating device may also be an electromagnetic heating device.

[0071] The steam generating device 130 communicates with the cooking space via a steam passage 134. The steam passage 134 includes a steam inlet and a steam outlet. The steam inlet can be located on the steam cover 132, while the steam outlet is typically located on the removable lid 122. Steam generated in the steam generating chamber 131 enters the steam passage 134 through the steam inlet and is then transported to the inner pot 111 via the steam passage 134 and the steam outlet, preventing the rice in the inner pot 111 from drying out and affecting its texture.

[0072] The lid 120 is used to cover the pot body 110, while the steam cover 132 is used to cover the steam generating chamber 131, and the two are independent of each other. Therefore, in order to prevent the water in the steam generating chamber 131 from being poured out when one of them is opened, it is necessary to realize the linkage between the lid 120 and the steam cover 132 according to the open and closed state. To this end, the cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention also includes a linkage mechanism 150. Figures 3 to 5 The linkage mechanism 150 of the cooking appliance 100 according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0073] The cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention further includes a lid opening and closing mechanism 140. The lid opening and closing mechanism 140 is used to lock the lid 120 in a closed position or release it to an open position, and the linkage mechanism 150 can act on the lid opening and closing mechanism 140 according to the open and closed state of the lid 120 and the steam cover 132. In an embodiment of the present invention, the linkage mechanism 150 can be configured to act on the lid opening and closing mechanism 140 in response to the opening of the steam cover 132 to lock the lid 120 in the closed position. Alternatively, the linkage mechanism 150 can be further configured to act on the lid opening and closing mechanism 140 in response to the closing of the steam cover 132 to release the lock on the lid 120.

[0074] Now go to Figure 5 The lid opening and closing mechanism 140 includes a first fastening member 141 and a second fastening member 142. The first fastening member 141 is provided on the lid 120, and the second fastening member 142 is provided on the pot body 110. The first fastening member 141 can cooperate with the second fastening member 142 to close the lid 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the first fastening member 141 has a hook-shaped mating portion, and the second fastening member 142 has a hook-shaped mating portion. Therefore, when the hook-shaped portion of the first fastening member 141 is hooked with the hook-shaped portion of the second fastening member 142, the first fastening member 141 and the second fastening member 142 are mated, thereby mating the pot body 110 and the lid 120, and the lid 120 is in the closed position. Of course, the configuration of the first fastening member 141 and the second fastening member 142 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0075] In addition, the lid opening and closing mechanism 140 may further include a lid opening button 143, which is used to unlock the lid 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid opening button 143 is located on the lid 120. Preferably, the lid opening button 143 is located on the front cover 121. This avoids the location where high-temperature steam surges when the lid is opened, thereby effectively reducing the risk of burns from high-temperature steam when the user opens the lid. However, in unillustrated embodiments, the lid opening button 143 may also be located on the pot body 110 or elsewhere on the lid 120. When operated, the lid opening button 143 is configured to act on the lid opening and closing mechanism 140 to open the lid 120 relative to the pot body 110. To facilitate user operation, the lid opening button 143 may be configured as a switch-type key or button that is easily pressed.

[0076] Furthermore, the cover opening button 143 is configured to act on the first fastening member 141 when operated, causing the first fastening member 141 to move and disengage from the second fastening member 142. As an example, the first fastening member 141 can pivot relative to the cover 120 about a pivot axis and disengage from the second fastening member 142 when pivoted to a certain angle. Accordingly, the cover opening button 143 can be provided with a portion (e.g., a top post 144, which will be described in detail below) that can press against the first fastening member 141. When operated, this portion presses against the first fastening member 141, causing the first fastening member 141 to pivot and disengage from the second fastening member 142.

[0077] Figure 5 The first fastening member 141 shown in the figure is configured to have a generally L-shaped cross-section, so that when one end is pressed generally downward by the lid opening button 143, the other end pivots generally to the right. However, depending on its actual location, the first fastening member 141 may also be configured to have a U-shaped, V-shaped, or other cross-sectional shape. It should be noted that the directional terms "up," "down," "left," "right," etc., used herein are to be interpreted with reference to the cooking appliance 100 being positioned on a horizontal surface.

[0078] Continue to refer Figures 3 to 5 , the linkage mechanism 150 is arranged between the steam cover 132 and the cover opening and closing mechanism 140, and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In this embodiment, the cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention uses the force when the steam cover 132 is closed to drive the movement of the linkage mechanism 150. Optionally, the linkage mechanism 150 includes a transmission part 151 and a locking part 152 opposite to the transmission part 151. The transmission part 151 is close to the steam cover 132 and is contactable with the steam cover 132, and is used to receive and transmit the force applied when the steam cover 132 is closed. The locking part 152 is located between the cover opening button 143 and the first buckle 141, and is farther away from the steam cover 132 than the transmission part 151. The locking part 152 can act on the cover opening and closing mechanism 140 to limit the movement of the cover opening button 143.

[0079] The linkage mechanism 150 is generally configured in an elongated shape and extends between the steam cover 132 and the cover opening and closing mechanism 140. In a preferred embodiment, the end of the linkage mechanism 150 adjacent to the steam cover 132 extends into the steam generating device 130, so that the steam cover 132 can easily contact and push the linkage mechanism 150 downward when the steam cover 132 is closed.

[0080] Optionally, the transmission part 151 includes an inclined surface A, and the steam cover 132 is configured to push the inclined surface A of the transmission part 151 downward when the steam cover 132 is closed. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown in the closed position and open position of the steam cover 132, it is easy to understand that the steam cover 132 moves generally downward when closed. Therefore, the steam cover 132 can apply a generally downward force to the transmission part 151 when closed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. Figures 3 to 5 As shown, when the steam cover 132 applies force to the inclined surface A, a downward force perpendicular to the inclined surface A is generated at the contact point. Clearly, this force is angled relative to the horizontal. Therefore, the horizontal component of this force drives the linkage mechanism 150 along the first direction D1 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0081] Inclined surface A is configured to face generally upward. Optionally, the angle between inclined surface A and the first direction D1 ranges from 30° to 90°. That is, the angle between the first direction D1 and its projection on inclined surface A ranges from 30° to 90°. By way of example, the angle between inclined surface A and the first direction D1 can be 30°, 60°, or 90°. It will be readily understood that the steam cover 132 is in constant contact with inclined surface A during the closing process, initially contacting the uppermost point of inclined surface A and ultimately contacting the lowermost point. Therefore, the smaller the angle between inclined surface A and the first direction D1, the greater the distance between the locked and unlocked positions of the linkage mechanism 150. By providing inclined surface A, the downward movement of the steam cover 132 can drive the horizontal movement of the linkage mechanism 150 and also vary the range of motion of the linkage mechanism 150. This increases the range of motion of the linkage mechanism 150, thereby reducing the volume of the lid 120 of the cooking appliance 100 and making it more compact.

[0082] With the above configuration, the steam cover 132 can act on the transmission portion 151 of the linkage mechanism 150 when the cover is closed, so that the linkage mechanism 150 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0083] On the contrary, in order to enable the linkage mechanism 150 to move from the unlocking position to the locking position when the steam cover 132 is in the open state, the linkage mechanism 150 of the cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention further includes a biasing member 153 .

[0084] The biasing member 153 is configured to apply a biasing force to the linkage mechanism 150. The biasing member 153 is positioned on the opposite side of the linkage mechanism 150 from the steam cover 132, i.e., between the cover body 120 and the linkage mechanism 150 on the side of the locking portion 152. In a preferred embodiment, the biasing member 153 is an elastic member, and the biasing force is an elastic force. Specifically, when the steam cover 132 is open, it does not exert any force. Therefore, the biasing force of the biasing member 153 biases the linkage mechanism 150 to the locked position. When the steam cover 132 is closed, it does exert a force, and the biasing force of the biasing member 153 is partially offset by the force exerted by the steam cover 132. Simultaneously, the biasing member 153 can also elastically deform and yield, allowing the linkage mechanism 150 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. As a result, the linkage mechanism 150 has a simple structure and can prevent component wear through buffering, thereby extending its service life.

[0085] The biasing member 153 may be configured as a spring. For example, Figure 5 The biasing member 153 shown most clearly in FIG is configured as a compression coil spring, one end of which abuts on the locking portion 152 and the other end abuts on the cover 120. However, the specific structure of the biasing member 153 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0086] As described above, the linkage mechanism 150 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, the linkage mechanism 150 is configured to restrict the movement of the lid opening button 143, preventing the first fastening member 141 from disengaging from the second fastening member 142. This prevents the lid 120 from opening even when the lid opening button 143 is operated while the steam cover 132 is open. This prevents the risk of water leaking from the steam generating chamber 131 due to misoperation.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the locking portion 152 of the linkage mechanism 150 includes a through hole 154. The through hole 154 is Figures 3 to 5 , which is shown in cross-section, extends roughly in the vertical direction and is allowed to have a slight angle with the vertical direction. Accordingly, the cover opening button 143 includes a top post 144, which can cooperate with the through hole 154. Preferably, the aperture of the through hole 154 is larger than the outer diameter of the top post 144, and the depth of the through hole 154 is smaller than the length of the top post 144. In this way, the top post 144 can completely pass through the through hole 154, thereby facilitating the cover opening button 143 to act on the first buckle 141. Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the through hole 154 is configured as a circle. However, the cross-sectional shape of the through hole 154 can also be configured as other shapes such as an ellipse, a diamond, etc. Moreover, there may be a difference in the cross-sectional shape of the top post 144 and the through hole 154, as long as the top post 144 can smoothly pass through the through hole 154.

[0088] To enable the linkage mechanism 150 to lock the lid 120, the through hole 154 of the locking portion 152 is positioned as follows: when the linkage mechanism 150 is in the locked position, the through hole 154 is offset from the push post 144, preventing the lid opening button 143 from moving. At this point, the body of the locking portion 152 is located in the movement path of the lid opening button 143, preventing the lid opening button 143 from engaging the first latching member 141 to complete the lid opening action. When the linkage mechanism 150 is in the unlocked position, the through hole 154 is aligned with the push post 144, allowing the lid opening button 143 to move. At this point, the through hole 154 of the locking portion 152 makes way for the push post 144 of the lid opening button 143, allowing the lid opening button 143 to engage the first latching member 141 to complete the lid opening action.

[0089] Preferably, the "alignment" mentioned above refers to the situation where the centerline of the through hole 154 is collinear with the centerline of the top post 144. However, even if the centerline of the through hole 154 and the centerline of the top post 144 are not collinear, the movement of the cover opening button 143 can still be allowed. This is because when the aperture of the through hole 154 and the outer diameter of the top post 144 satisfy a certain relationship, even if the centerline of the through hole 154 and the centerline of the top post 144 are slightly offset, the top post 144 of the cover opening button 143 can smoothly and completely pass through the through hole 154. This further acts on the first fastening member 141, causing the first fastening member 141 to disengage from the second fastening member 142, thereby completing the cover opening action.

[0090] Through the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the force applied to the transmission portion 151 when the steam cover 132 is closed can be used to cause the linkage mechanism 150 to move, so that the linkage mechanism 150 can move between a locked position and an unlocked position, thereby achieving locking or unlocking of the cover 120 relative to its closed position. In the locked position of the linkage mechanism 150, the locking portion 152 can lock the lid opening button 143 of the lid opening and closing mechanism 140, thereby locking the cover 120; in the unlocked position of the linkage mechanism 150, the locking portion 152 can unlock the lid opening button 143 of the lid opening and closing mechanism 140, thereby unlocking the cover 120.

[0091] The above embodiment makes full use of the structural form of the linkage mechanism 150 to realize the conversion of motion and the amplification of stroke. Therefore, the cooking utensil 100 according to the present invention has the characteristics of simple structure, easy installation, and easy operation. It also reduces the risk of misoperation that may cause water in the steam generating chamber 131 to flow out, improves safety, and prolongs service life.

[0092] The present invention also provides a cooking appliance comprising a pot body 110, a lid 120, a lid opening and closing mechanism 140, a steam generating device 130, and a linkage mechanism. In this embodiment, the linkage mechanism can be configured to act on the steam cover opening and closing mechanism in response to the movement of the lid opening and closing mechanism 140, thereby locking the steam cover 132 in the closed position when the lid 120 is opened. This solution ensures that the steam cover 132 is in the closed position when the lid 120 is opened, thereby preventing liquid from flowing out of the steam generating chamber 131.

[0093] The linkage mechanism is substantially the same as the linkage mechanism 150 described above, except that the linkage mechanism in this embodiment is arranged in the reverse direction relative to the linkage mechanism described above. Specifically, when the lid 120 is closed, the lid can act on the linkage mechanism, causing the linkage mechanism to move away from the steam cover button (not shown), allowing the steam cover 132 to open normally. When the lid 120 is opened, the linkage mechanism can generate reverse movement under the action of the spring, moving to the steam cover button, blocking the steam cover button, restricting its movement, making the steam cover button inoperable, and thus preventing the steam cover 132 from opening.

[0094] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art in the art of the present invention. The terms used herein are only for describing specific implementation purposes and are not intended to limit the present invention. Terms such as "setting" appearing in this article can mean that one component is directly attached to another component, or that one component is attached to another component through an intermediate component. Features described in this article in one embodiment can be applied to another embodiment alone or in combination with other features, unless the feature is not applicable in the other embodiment or otherwise specified.

[0095] The present invention has been described through the above embodiments, but it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative and illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present invention to the described embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various variations and modifications may be made based on the teachings of the present invention, and such variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed in the present invention.

Claims

1. A cooking utensil, characterized in that: include: Claypot(110); a cover (120), the cover (120) being arranged to be openable and closable relative to the pot body (110); when the cover (120) covers the pot body (110), a cooking space is formed between the cover (120) and the pot body (110); a cover opening and closing mechanism (140), the cover opening and closing mechanism (140) being used to lock the cover (120) in a closed position or release it to an open position; A steam generating device (130), the steam generating device (130) being arranged on the cover (120), the steam generating device (130) comprising: a steam generating chamber (131), the steam generating chamber (131) being used to contain water to be heated to generate steam, a steam passage (134) being provided between the steam generating chamber (131) and the cooking space so as to connect the two and guide the steam into the cooking space through the steam passage (134); and a steam cover plate (132), the steam cover plate (132) being connected to the cover body (120) and being capable of opening and closing relative to the steam generating chamber (131) to open or close the steam generating chamber (131); and A linkage mechanism (150) is configured to act on the cover opening and closing mechanism (140) in response to the opening of the steam cover (132) to lock the cover (120) in the closed position. The linkage mechanism (150) is arranged between the steam cover (132) and the cover opening and closing mechanism (140) and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

2. The cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein The linkage mechanism (150) is configured to act on the cover opening and closing mechanism (140) in response to the closing of the steam cover (132) to release the lock on the cover (120).

3. The cooking appliance according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The cover opening and closing mechanism (140) comprises a cover opening button (143) for enabling the cover (120) to be opened relative to the pot body (110) when operated, and the linkage mechanism (150) is configured to act on the cover opening button (143).

4. The cooking appliance according to claim 3, wherein: The lid opening and closing mechanism (140) further comprises a first fastening member (141) provided on the lid (120) and a second fastening member (142) provided on the pot body (110), wherein the first fastening member (141) can cooperate with the second fastening member (142) to place the lid (120) in the closed position, and the lid opening button (143) is configured to act on the first fastening member (141) when operated, so as to disengage the first fastening member (141) from the second fastening member (142).

5. The cooking appliance according to claim 3, wherein: The cover body (120) comprises a surface cover (121), and the cover opening button (143) is arranged on the surface cover (121). The cooking appliance according to claim 1 , wherein: The steam cover (132) is configured to apply a force to the linkage mechanism (150) when the cover is closed, so that the linkage mechanism (150) moves from the locking position to the unlocking position.

7. The cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein The linkage mechanism (150) further includes a biasing member (153) configured to apply a biasing force to the linkage mechanism (150) when the steam cover (132) is opened, so that the linkage mechanism (150) moves from the unlocked position to the locked position.

8. The cooking appliance according to claim 4, wherein: The linkage mechanism (150) includes a transmission part (151) and a locking part (152) opposite to the transmission part (151), wherein the transmission part (151) is contactable with the steam cover (132), and the locking part (152) is located between the cover opening button (143) and the first fastening member (141), and is capable of limiting the movement of the cover opening button (143).

9. The cooking appliance according to claim 8, characterized in that The transmission part (151) includes an inclined surface (A), and the steam cover (132) is configured to push the inclined surface (A) downward when the cover is closed, so that the linkage mechanism (150) moves from the locking position to the unlocking position along a first direction.

10. The cooking appliance according to claim 9, characterized in that The angle between the inclined surface (A) and the first direction ranges from 30° to 90°.

11. The cooking appliance according to claim 8, wherein The locking portion (152) includes a through hole (154), and the cover opening button (143) includes a top column (144), wherein the aperture of the through hole (154) is larger than the outer diameter of the top column (144), and the depth of the through hole (154) is smaller than the length of the top column (144).

12. The cooking appliance according to claim 11, wherein The through hole (154) is positioned in the locking portion (152) such that: When the linkage mechanism (150) is located at the locking position, the through hole (154) and the top column (144) are staggered to prevent the cover opening button (143) from moving; and When the linkage mechanism (150) is located at the unlocking position, the through hole (154) is aligned with the top column (144) to allow the cover opening button (143) to move.

13. The cooking appliance according to claim 12, wherein: The linkage mechanism (150) is constructed so that when located at the unlocked position, the top column (144) can pass through the through hole (154) and act on the first fastening member (141), so that the first fastening member (141) is disengaged from the second fastening member (142).

14. A cooking utensil, characterized in that: include: Claypot(110); a cover (120), the cover (120) being arranged to be openable and closable relative to the pot body (110); when the cover (120) covers the pot body (110), a cooking space is formed between the cover (120) and the pot body (110); a cover opening and closing mechanism (140), the cover opening and closing mechanism (140) being used to lock the cover (120) in a closed position or release it to an open position; A steam generating device (130), the steam generating device (130) being arranged on the cover (120), the steam generating device (130) comprising: a steam generating chamber (131), the steam generating chamber (131) being used to contain water to be heated to generate steam, a steam passage (134) being provided between the steam generating chamber (131) and the cooking space so as to connect the two and guide the steam into the cooking space through the steam passage (134); a steam cover plate (132), the steam cover plate (132) being connected to the cover body (120) and being capable of opening and closing relative to the steam generating chamber (131) to open or close the steam generating chamber (131); and A steam cover opening and closing mechanism, the steam cover opening and closing mechanism is used to lock the steam cover (132) in a closed position or release it to an open position; A linkage mechanism is provided between the cover body opening and closing mechanism (140) and the steam cover plate opening and closing mechanism and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the linkage mechanism is configured to act on the steam cover plate opening and closing mechanism in response to the action of the cover body opening and closing mechanism (140), so that the steam cover plate (132) is locked in the closed position when the cover body (120) is opened.

15. The cooking appliance according to claim 14, wherein The steam cover opening and closing mechanism comprises a first latch (133) arranged on the steam cover (132) and a second latch arranged on the cover body (120), wherein the first latch (133) can cooperate with the second latch to place the steam cover (132) in the closed position, wherein the linkage mechanism can act on the first latch (133) and / or the second latch to lock the steam cover (132) in the closed position.

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