cooking utensils

Abstract

The present invention discloses a cooking utensil, which includes a pot body, a lid body, a lid opening and closing mechanism, a steam generating device, and a linkage mechanism. When the lid body covers the pot body, a cooking space is formed therebetween. The lid opening and closing mechanism is used to lock the lid body in a closed position or release it to an open position. The steam generating device is arranged on the lid body and includes a steam generating chamber, a steam channel, and a steam cover plate. The steam generating chamber is used to accommodate water to be heated to generate steam, and the steam channel connects the steam generating chamber with the cooking space to introduce steam into the cooking space. The steam cover plate is connected to the lid body and can be opened and closed relative to the steam generating chamber to open or close the steam generating chamber. The linkage mechanism is arranged in the lid body and is configured to act on the lid opening and closing mechanism in response to the opening of the steam cover plate to lock the lid body in a closed position. The cooking utensil according to the present invention can lock the lid body in a closed position when the steam cover plate is opened, thereby preventing liquid in the steam generating chamber 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 for containing water to be heated to generate steam;

[0011] a steam channel communicating the steam generating chamber with the cooking space to guide the steam into the cooking space; and

[0012] 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

[0013] A linkage mechanism is provided in the cover body, and the linkage mechanism is configured to act on the cover body opening and closing mechanism in response to the opening of the steam cover plate, so as to lock the cover body in the closed position.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] Optionally, the linkage mechanism is disposed between the steam cover and the cover opening and closing mechanism, and the linkage mechanism includes a locking device that is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Thus, the cover can be locked and unlocked by moving the locking device, resulting in a simple structure and convenient operation.

[0017] Optionally, the cooking appliance further includes a lid opening button disposed on the pot body. When operated, the lid opening button activates the lid opening and closing mechanism to open the lid relative to the pot body. Thus, the provision of a lid opening button facilitates user operation, allowing for convenient lid opening. Furthermore, the placement of the lid opening button on the pot body effectively reduces the risk of burns from escaping high-temperature steam when the user opens the lid.

[0018] Optionally, the steam cover is configured to apply a force to the locking device when closed, causing the locking device to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. Thus, the locking device can be moved by the force of the steam cover, thereby avoiding the need for additional power devices and making the cooking appliance simple in structure and easy to operate.

[0019] Optionally, the linkage mechanism further includes a biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the locking device when the steam cover is opened, causing the locking device to move from the unlocked position to the locked position. Thus, when the steam cover is open, the locking device can be biased to the locked position at all times, thereby locking the cover body in the closed position, thereby preventing risks associated with misoperation.

[0020] Optionally, the linkage mechanism further includes a transmission device disposed between the steam generator and the locking device. A first end of the transmission device is contactable with the steam cover, and a second end of the transmission device is capable of acting on the locking device. Thus, the transmission device can transmit the force exerted by the steam cover to the locking device, and the interaction between the transmission device and the locking device enables the linkage mechanism to function. This solution can amplify the travel of the locking device through the transmission device.

[0021] Optionally, the transmission device is movable between a first position and a second position. Thus, the movement of the locking device can be achieved by the movement of the transmission device.

[0022] Optionally, the steam cover is configured to act on the first end when closed to move the transmission device from the first position to the second position, and the second end is configured to act on the locking device when moving from the first position to the second position to move the locking device from the locked position to the unlocked position. Thus, the transmission device can be used to drive the movement of the locking device by the movement of the steam cover, so that the first position of the transmission device corresponds to the locked position of the locking device, and the second position of the transmission device corresponds to the unlocked position of the locking device.

[0023] Optionally, the lid opening and closing mechanism includes a first fastener provided on the lid and a second fastener provided on the pot body, wherein the first fastener can cooperate with the second fastener to place the lid in the closed position, and wherein the lid opening button, when operated, can act on the second fastener to move the second fastener and disengage from the first 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 cooperation between the first fastener and the second fastener can be easily achieved, resulting in a compact cooking device.

[0024] Optionally, the locking device is configured to restrict movement of the second fastening member when in the locked position, so that the second fastening member cannot disengage from the first fastening member. Thus, the lid can be prevented from opening relative to the pot body by restricting movement of the second fastening member.

[0025] Optionally, the locking device includes a top post that can abut against the back of the second fastening member to restrict movement of the second fastening member. Thus, the movement of the second fastening member can be restricted simply by pressing, making the locking device simple in structure and easy to produce and install.

[0026] Optionally, the transmission device includes a sliding member configured to be movable along a first direction from the first position to the second position, thereby enabling the locking device to be movable along a second direction from the locked position to the unlocked position, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction. Thus, the force applied by the steam cover plate can be used to cause the transmission device to generate linear motion.

[0027] Optionally, the transmission device further includes an additional biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the slider when the steam cover is opened, causing the slider to move from the second position to the first position in a direction opposite to the first direction. Thus, when the steam cover is open, the transmission device can be constantly biased in the first position, thereby locking the cover in the closed position and preventing risks associated with misoperation.

[0028] Optionally, the first end includes a first inclined surface, and the steam cover is configured to push the first inclined surface downward when the cover is closed, so as to move the sliding member from the first position to the second position. In this way, the generally downward force of the steam cover can be used to drive the transmission device to generate movement in a direction that is angled with respect to the force.

[0029] Optionally, the second end includes a second inclined surface, the locking device includes a third inclined surface, and the second inclined surface and the third inclined surface can cooperate to convert the movement of the sliding member in the first direction into the movement of the locking device in the second direction. In this way, the linear motion of the transmission device can be used to drive the locking device to generate movement in a direction that is angled with respect to the linear motion.

[0030] Optionally, the angle between the first 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 movement of the sliding member along the first direction.

[0031] Optionally, the angles between the second and third inclined surfaces and the first direction are in the range of 30° to 60°. By setting the angles within the above ranges, the movement of the sliding member in the first direction can be more conveniently converted into movement of the locking device in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0032] Optionally, the transmission device includes a lever member and a support shaft supporting the lever member, wherein the lever member is configured to rotate from the first position to the second position about the support shaft, thereby enabling the locking device to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. Thus, the force of the steam cover can be used to cause the transmission device to generate rotational movement.

[0033] Optionally, the second end includes a first coupling portion, and the locking device includes a second coupling portion, wherein the first coupling portion is connected to the second coupling portion. Thus, the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion can move together, so that the locking device follows the movement of the transmission device through the second coupling portion.

[0034] Optionally, one of the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion is configured as a protrusion, and the other is configured as a recess, wherein the protrusion can be at least partially received in the recess. Thus, the connection between the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion can be conveniently achieved and the connection strength can be improved.

[0035] Optionally, the support shaft is integrally formed with the lever member, or the support shaft is separable from the lever member. Thus, different mounting modes of the transmission device relative to the cover body can be realized, thereby facilitating assembly.

[0036] A second aspect of the present invention further discloses a cooking appliance, comprising:

[0037] pot body;

[0038] 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;

[0039] 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;

[0040] A steam generating device, the steam generating device being arranged on the cover body, the steam generating device comprising:

[0041] a steam generating chamber for containing water to be heated to generate steam;

[0042] a steam channel, the steam channel communicating with the steam generating chamber and the cooking space to guide the steam into the cooking space;

[0043] 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

[0044] 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;

[0045] A linkage mechanism is provided in the cover body and is linked with 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] Optionally, 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. Thus, the first latch can be easily engaged with the second latch, making the cooking appliance compact. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] 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.

[0049] In the accompanying drawings,

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the cooking appliance according to the present invention, wherein the steam cover is in a closed state;

[0051] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to the present invention, wherein the steam cover is in an open state;

[0052] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein the lid is in an open state;

[0053] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A perspective view and a partial cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance in FIG, wherein the steam cover is in an open state;

[0054] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Another perspective view and a partial cross-sectional view of the cooking utensil in FIG.

[0055] Figure 6 for Figure 3 a side cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance in; and

[0056] Figure 7 1 is a perspective view and a partial cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the steam cover is in an open state.

[0057] Description of reference numerals:

[0058] 100: Cooking Utensils 110: Pot

[0059] 111: Inner pot 120: Lid

[0060] 121: Cover 122: Removable cover

[0061] 130: Steam generating device 131: Steam generating chamber

[0062] 132: Steam cover 133: First fastener

[0063] 140: Cover opening and closing mechanism 141: First fastening member

[0064] 142: Second fastening component 150 / 250: Linkage mechanism

[0065] 151 / 251: Transmission 152 / 252: Locking device

[0066] 153: Biasing member 154 / 254: First end

[0067] 155 / 255: Second end 156: Sliding member

[0068] 157: Additional biasing member 158: Top column

[0069] 160: Opening button 256: Lever

[0070] 257: Support shaft 258: First connecting portion

[0071] 259: Second connecting portion A: First inclined surface

[0072] B: Second slope C: Third slope

[0073] D1: first direction D2: second direction DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] Below, refer to Figures 1 to 7 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, and that the cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention may have various functions, such as cooking porridge, in addition to cooking rice.

[0077] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the cooking utensil 100 includes a pot body 110 and a cover body 120. The pot body 110 is substantially in the shape of a rounded rectangular parallelepiped and has a cylindrical inner pot cooking cavity. Figure 3 ) can be freely placed in and removed from the inner pot cooking cavity, making it easy to clean the inner pot 111. The 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. The pot body 110 may include a heating device for heating the inner pot 111.

[0078] The cover 120 is substantially in the shape of a rounded rectangular parallelepiped and substantially corresponds to the shape of the pot body 110. The cover 120 can be disposed on the upper side of the pot body 110 and used to cover the pot body 110 in the closed state. The cover 120 can be in a closed position and an open position relative to the pot body 110. For example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cover 120 is shown in a closed position relative to the pot body 110. Figure 3 The lid 120 is shown in an open position relative to the pot body 110. Preferably, the lid 120 can be switched between the open position and the closed position in a pivoting manner. In one embodiment, the lid 120 can be connected to the pot body 110 by a pivot device.

[0079] 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.

[0080] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the cover 120 is also provided with a steam generating device 130 and a steam channel (not shown). 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] The steam generating device 130 communicates with the cooking space via a steam channel. The steam channel 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 channel through the steam inlet and is then transported to the inner pot 111 via the steam channel and steam outlet to prevent the rice in the inner pot 111 from drying out and affecting its texture.

[0085] First embodiment

[0086] 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 4 to 6 The linkage mechanism 150 of the cooking appliance 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0087] 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.

[0088] First reference Figure 4 The linkage mechanism 150 is disposed in the lid 120. Specifically, the linkage mechanism 150 is disposed between the steam cover 132 and the lid opening and closing mechanism 140, and includes a transmission device 151 and a locking device 152. The transmission device 151 is contactable with the steam cover 132 and is used to transmit the force applied when the steam cover 132 is closed to the locking device 152. The locking device 152 is capable of acting on the lid opening and closing mechanism 140 and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0089] The transmission device 151 is generally elongated and extends between the steam generating device 130 and the locking device 152. The transmission device 151 has a first end 154 and a second end 155 opposite the first end 154. The first end 154 can contact the steam cover 132 to receive force from the steam cover 132, while the second end 155 can act on the locking device 152 to transmit force from the steam cover 132. In a preferred embodiment, the first end 154 of the transmission device 151 extends into the steam generating device 130, so that the steam cover 132 can easily contact and push the first end 154 downward when the steam cover 132 is closed.

[0090] In this embodiment, the transmission device 151 includes a sliding member 156. The sliding member 156 is configured to be movable from a first position to a second position along a first direction D1, so that the locking device 152 can be moved from a locked position to an unlocked position along a second direction D2. The first direction D1 is perpendicular to the second direction D2.

[0091] Optionally, the first end 154 of the sliding member 156 includes a first inclined surface A. First, it should be noted that the directional terms "up", "down", "left", "right", etc. used herein are interpreted based on the cooking appliance 100 being on a horizontal plane. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the closed position and open position of the steam cover 132, it is easy to understand that the steam cover 132 moves downward when closed. Therefore, the steam cover 132 can push the first inclined surface A downward when closed, applying a downward force to the sliding member 156. Specifically, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, when the steam cover 132 applies a force to the first inclined surface A, a downward force perpendicular to the first inclined surface A is generated at the contact point. This force is obviously angled relative to the horizontal. Therefore, the horizontal component of this force drives the slider 156 to move from the first position to the second position along the first direction D1, where the first direction D1 is parallel to the horizontal.

[0092] The first inclined surface A is configured to face generally upward. Optionally, the angle between the first 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 the first inclined surface A ranges from 30° to 90°. As an example, the angle between the first inclined surface A and the first direction D1 can be 30°, 60°, or 90°. It is easy to understand that the steam cover 132 is always in contact with the first inclined surface A during the closing process, initially contacting the uppermost end of the first inclined surface A and ultimately contacting the lowermost end of the first inclined surface A. Therefore, the smaller the angle between the first inclined surface A and the first direction D1, the greater the distance between the first position and the second position of the slider 156. By providing the first inclined surface A, the downward movement of the steam cover 132 can drive the horizontal movement of the slider 156, and the movement range of the slider 156 can also be changed.

[0093] Optionally, the second end 155 of the sliding member 156 includes a second inclined surface B, and the locking device 152 includes a third inclined surface C. And the second inclined surface B and the third inclined surface C can cooperate to be able to convert the movement of the sliding member 156 along the first direction D1 into the movement of the locking device 152 along the second direction D2, wherein the first direction D1 is perpendicular to the second direction D2. Specifically, the sliding member 156 transmits the force from the steam cover 132 to the locking device 152, and generates a force perpendicular to the third inclined surface C and pointing upward at the contact point between the second inclined surface B and the third inclined surface C. Obviously, this force is angled relative to the horizontal direction. Therefore, the vertical component of the force drives the locking device 152 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position along the second direction D2, where the second direction D2 is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0094] If the third inclined surface C is configured to face generally downward, then correspondingly, the second inclined surface B is configured to face generally upward. Optionally, the angles between the second inclined surface B and the third inclined surface C and the first direction D1 are respectively in the range of 30° to 60°. In other words, the angle between the first direction D1 and its projection on the second inclined surface B or the third inclined surface C is in the range of 30° to 60°. As an example, the angles between the second inclined surface B or the third inclined surface C and the first direction D1 can be 30°, 45°, or 60°. Preferably, the respective angles between the second inclined surface B and the third inclined surface C and the first direction D1 can be equal. In this case, surface contact is formed between the second inclined surface B and the third inclined surface C, and the friction between them facilitates movement of the locking device 152 in the second direction D2. In this case, the smaller the angle between the second inclined surface B or the third inclined surface C and the first direction D1, the greater the distance between the locked position and the unlocked position of the locking device 152. By providing the second inclined surface B and the third inclined surface C, the vertical movement of the locking device 152 can be driven by the horizontal movement of the sliding member 156 , and the movement stroke of the locking device 152 can also be changed.

[0095] The inclined surface configuration can amplify the travel distance between the slider 156 and the locking device 152. For example, the travel distance of the slider 156 in the first direction D1 ranges from 5 to 6 mm, and the travel distance of the locking device 152 in the second direction D2 ranges from 7 to 8 mm. Therefore, the linkage mechanism 150 can also amplify the travel distance, thereby reducing the volume of the lid 120 of the cooking appliance 100 and making it compact.

[0096] The third inclined surface C of the locking device 152 may be an inner surface. As an example, Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the locking device 152 is provided with a housing having a cavity and an opening. The second end 155 of the slider 156 can enter the cavity, with the opening facing the second inclined surface B. The housing is inclined relative to the horizontal, and the third inclined surface C is the inner surface of the housing. In this way, the locking device 152 can abut against the second end 155 of the transmission device 151 through the housing, thereby improving the stability of the engagement between the second inclined surface B and the third inclined surface C. However, the specific structure of the locking device 152 is not limited to this example.

[0097] With the above configuration, when the steam cover 132 is closed, the steam cover 132 can act on the first end 154 to move the actuator 151 from the first position to the second position, and the second end 155 can act on the locking device 152 to move the locking device 152 from the locked position to the unlocked position. In other words, the first position of the actuator 151 corresponds to the locked position of the locking device 152, and the second position of the actuator 151 corresponds to the unlocked position of the locking device 152.

[0098] At this point, the linkage mechanism 150 can realize the closing of the steam cover 132 and drive the locking device 152 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0099] On the contrary, in order to enable the locking device 152 to move from the unlocked position to the locked 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 .

[0100] The biasing member 153 is configured to apply a biasing force to the locking device 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, the steam cover 132 does not apply a force, so under the action of the biasing force of the biasing member 153, the locking device 152 is biased to the locked position. When the steam cover 132 is closed, the steam cover 132 can apply a force, so the biasing force of the biasing member 153 is offset by a portion of the force of the steam cover 132. At the same time, the biasing member 153 can also produce elastic deformation and give way, so that the locking device 152 can move from the locked position to the unlocked position. As a result, the linkage mechanism 150 has a simple structure and can avoid component wear by buffering, thereby extending the service life.

[0101] 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 against the locking device 152 and the other end abuts against the cover 120. However, the specific structure of the biasing member 153 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0102] Optionally, the transmission device 151 of the linkage mechanism 150 further includes an additional biasing member 157 . Figures 4 to 6 The additional biasing member 157 shown in the figure can have the same structural form as that of the biasing member 153. The additional biasing member 157 is arranged between the slider 156 and the cover body 120. Similarly, the additional biasing member 157 is configured to apply a biasing force to the slider 156. Specifically, when the steam cover 132 is open, the steam cover 132 does not apply an action force, so under the action of the biasing force of the additional biasing member 157, the slider 156 is biased to the first position in the direction opposite to the first direction D1. When the steam cover 132 is closed, the steam cover 132 can apply an action force, so the biasing force of the additional biasing member 157 is offset by a portion of the action force of the steam cover 132. At the same time, the additional biasing member 157 can also produce elastic deformation and give way, so that the slider 156 can move from the first position to the second position.

[0103] The cooking appliance 100 according to the present invention also includes a lid-opening button 160, which is used to unlock the lid 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid-opening button 160 is located on the pot body 110. This effectively reduces the risk of burns from escaping high-temperature steam when the user opens the lid. However, in unillustrated embodiments, the lid-opening button 160 may also be located on the lid 120. When operated, the lid-opening button 160 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 160 may be configured as a switch-type key or button, etc., which is easily pressed.

[0104] Now go to Figure 6 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 closed. Of course, the configuration of the first fastening member 141 and the second fastening member 142 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0105] Furthermore, when the lid-opening button 160 is operated, it can act on the second fastening member 142, causing the second fastening member 142 to move and disengage from the first fastening member 141. For example, the second fastening member 142 can pivot relative to the pot body 110 about a pivot axis (not shown), and when pivoted a certain angle, disengage from the first fastening member 141. Accordingly, the lid-opening button 160 can be provided with a portion capable of pressing against the second fastening member 142. When operated, this portion presses against the second fastening member 142, causing the second fastening member 142 to pivot and disengage from the first fastening member 141.

[0106] As described above, the locking device 152 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, the locking device 152 is configured to restrict movement of the second fastening member 142, preventing the second fastening member 142 from disengaging from the first fastening member 141. This prevents the lid 120 from opening even if the lid opening button 160 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.

[0107] Optionally, the locking device 152 is configured to include a top post 158. Figure 6 , the top post 158 can abut against the back of the second fastening member 142 to limit the movement of the second fastening member 142. Of course, the specific structure of the locking device 152 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. In other words, in the locked position, the locking device 152 is constructed to be on the movement path of the second fastening member 142 from the position where it forms a match with the first fastening member 141 to the position where it is disengaged from the first fastening member 141, thereby limiting the movement of the second fastening member 142. Conversely, in the unlocked position, the locking device 152 is constructed to be outside the movement path of the second fastening member 142 from the position where it forms a match with the first fastening member 141 to the position where it is disengaged from the first fastening member 141, thereby releasing the restriction on the movement of the second fastening member 142.

[0108] Second embodiment

[0109] The following will refer to Figure 7 The second embodiment of the present invention is described. With the exception of the transmission device 251 and the locking device 252 of the linkage mechanism 250, the components of the second embodiment have the same structure as those of the first embodiment. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described here in detail.

[0110] In this embodiment, the transmission device 251 includes a lever member 256 and a support shaft 257 supporting the lever member 256. Here, the first end 254 and the second end 255 of the transmission device 251 refer to the first end and the second end of the lever member 256. The lever member 256 is configured to be able to rotate from a first position to a second position about the support shaft 257, so that the locking device 252 can move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0111] Optionally, the second end 255 of the lever member 256 includes a first coupling portion 258, and correspondingly, the locking device 252 includes a second coupling portion 259. The first coupling portion 258 is connected to the second coupling portion 259. In other words, the first coupling portion 258 and the second coupling portion 259 are capable of moving together. In a preferred embodiment, the first coupling portion 258 is configured as a protrusion, and the second coupling portion 259 is configured as a recessed portion, wherein the protrusion can be at least partially received in the recessed portion. Figure 7 The first coupling portion 258 and the second coupling portion 259 are shown in cross-section, wherein the first coupling portion 258 has a columnar projection, and the second coupling portion 259 has a through-hole-shaped recess, through which the columnar projection can extend. Therefore, the through-hole-shaped recess of the locking device 252 can follow the movement of the columnar projection of the lever member 256.

[0112] When the steam cover 132 is closed, it pushes the first end 254 downward, exerting a generally downward force on the first end 254. This causes the first end 254 of the lever member 256 to move generally downward relative to the support shaft 257. Since the lever member 256 is rigid, its second end 255 moves in the opposite direction relative to the support shaft 257, i.e., generally upward. At this point, the locking device 252, via the second coupling portion 259, follows the first coupling portion 258 of the second end 255, also moving generally upward, thereby moving the locking device 252 from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0113] The support shaft 257 can be integrally formed with the lever member 256. In this case, the lever member 256 can rotate about the support shaft 257. Preferably, the distance between the support shaft 257 and the first end 254 is less than or equal to the distance between the support shaft 257 and the second end 255, so that a smaller displacement of the first end 254 can drive a larger displacement of the second end 255. This reduces the volume of the cover 120 of the cooking appliance 100, making it more compact.

[0114] Alternatively, the support shaft 257 may be separated from the lever member 256. In this case, the lever member 256 may rotate about the support shaft 257 or pivot with the support shaft 257 as a fulcrum. In other words, the support shaft 257 may be disposed within the lever member 256 or outside the lever member 256. This facilitates assembly of the transmission device 251 with the cover 120.

[0115] Through the above-described embodiments of the present invention, the force applied when the steam cover 132 is closed can be used to cause the transmission device in the linkage mechanism to generate various motions, which in turn act on the locking device to move it between a locked position and an unlocked position, thereby locking or unlocking the cover 120 relative to its closed position. In the locked position, the locking device can act on the cover opening and closing mechanism 140 to lock the cover 120; in the unlocked position, the cover opening button 160 can act on the cover opening and closing mechanism 140 to unlock the cover 120.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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 opposite direction relative to the linkage mechanism 150 described above. Specifically, when the cover 120 is closed, the cover 120 can act on the linkage mechanism, and the linkage mechanism can move, thereby moving away from the first latch 133 or the second latch (not shown), so that the steam cover 132 can be opened normally. When the cover 120 is opened, the linkage mechanism can move in the opposite direction under the action of the spring, thereby moving to the back of the first latch 133 or the second latch, abutting against the first latch 133 or the second latch, and limiting the movement of the first latch 133 or the second latch, so that the first latch 133 cannot be disengaged from the second latch, thereby preventing the steam cover 132 from opening.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 channel, the steam channel communicating the steam generating chamber (131) with the cooking space to guide the steam into the cooking space; 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 / 250) is provided in the cover body (120), and the linkage mechanism (150 / 250) is configured to act on the cover body opening and closing mechanism (140) in response to the opening of the steam cover plate (132) to lock the cover body (120) in the closed position.

2. The cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein The linkage mechanism (150 / 250) 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, wherein The linkage mechanism (150 / 250) is arranged between the steam cover (132) and the cover opening and closing mechanism (140), and the linkage mechanism (150 / 250) includes a locking device (152 / 252), and the locking device (152 / 252) is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

4. The cooking appliance according to claim 3, wherein: The cooking appliance further comprises a lid opening button (160), which is arranged on the pot body (110). When the lid opening button (160) is operated, it acts on the lid opening and closing mechanism (140) so that the lid (120) can be opened relative to the pot body (110).

5. The cooking appliance according to claim 3, wherein: The steam cover (132) is configured to apply a force to the locking device (152 / 252) when the cover is closed, so that the locking device (152 / 252) moves from the locking position to the unlocking position.

6. The cooking appliance according to claim 3, wherein: The linkage mechanism (150 / 250) further includes a biasing member (153) configured to apply a biasing force to the locking device (152 / 252) when the steam cover (132) is opened, so that the locking device (152 / 252) moves from the unlocked position to the locked position.

7. The cooking appliance according to claim 6, characterized in that The linkage mechanism (150 / 250) further includes a transmission device (151 / 251), which is arranged between the steam generating device (130) and the locking device (152 / 252); a first end (154 / 254) of the transmission device (151 / 251) is contactable with the steam cover plate (132), and a second end (155 / 255) of the transmission device (151 / 251) is capable of acting on the locking device (152 / 252).

8. The cooking appliance according to claim 7, wherein: The transmission (151 / 251) is movable between a first position and a second position.

9. The cooking appliance according to claim 8, characterized in that The steam cover (132) is configured to act on the first end (154 / 254) when the cover is closed, so as to move the transmission device (151 / 251) from the first position to the second position; and the second end (155 / 255) is configured to act on the locking device (152 / 252) when the cover is moved from the first position to the second position, so as to move the locking device (152 / 252) from the locked position to the unlocked position.

10. The cooking appliance according to claim 4, wherein The lid opening and closing mechanism (140) 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, wherein the lid opening button (160) can act on the second fastening member (142) when operated, so that the second fastening member (142) moves to disengage from the first fastening member (141).

11. The cooking appliance according to claim 10, wherein The locking device (152 / 252) is configured to restrict movement of the second fastening member (142) when located at the locking position, so that the second fastening member (142) cannot be disengaged from the first fastening member (141).

12. The cooking appliance according to claim 11, wherein The locking device (152 / 252) includes a top post (158), and the top post (158) can be pressed against the back surface of the second fastening component (142) to limit the movement of the second fastening component (142).

13. The cooking appliance according to claim 9, wherein The transmission device (151) includes a sliding member (156), which is configured to be movable from the first position to the second position along a first direction, so that the locking device (152) can be movable from the locking position to the unlocking position along a second direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

14. The cooking appliance according to claim 13, wherein The transmission device (151) further includes an additional biasing member (157) configured to apply a biasing force to the slide (156) when the steam cover (132) is opened, so that the slide (156) moves from the second position to the first position in a direction opposite to the first direction.

15. The cooking appliance according to claim 13, wherein The first end (154) includes a first inclined surface (A), and the steam cover (132) is configured to push the first inclined surface (A) downward when closed, so as to move the sliding member (156) from the first position to the second position.

16. The cooking appliance according to claim 13, wherein The second end (155) includes a second inclined surface (B), the locking device (152) includes a third inclined surface (C), and the second inclined surface (B) and the third inclined surface (C) can cooperate to convert the movement of the sliding member (156) along the first direction into the movement of the locking device (152) along the second direction.

17. The cooking appliance according to claim 15, wherein An included angle between the first inclined surface (A) and the first direction ranges from 30° to 90°.

18. The cooking appliance according to claim 16, wherein The included angles between the second inclined surface (B) and the third inclined surface (C) and the first direction are in a range of 30° to 60°.

19. The cooking appliance according to claim 9, wherein The transmission device (251) includes a lever member (256) and a support shaft (257) supporting the lever member (256), and the lever member (256) is constructed to be able to rotate from the first position to the second position about the support shaft (257), so that the locking device (252) can move from the locking position to the unlocking position.

20. The cooking appliance according to claim 19, wherein The second end (255) includes a first coupling portion (258) and the locking device (252) includes a second coupling portion (259), wherein the first coupling portion (258) is connected to the second coupling portion (259).

21. The cooking appliance according to claim 20, wherein One of the first coupling portion (258) and the second coupling portion (259) is configured as a protruding portion, and the other is configured as a recessed portion, wherein the protruding portion can be at least partially received in the recessed portion.

22. The cooking appliance according to claim 19, wherein The support shaft (257) and the lever member (256) are formed integrally, or the support shaft (257) and the lever member (256) are separable.

23. 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 channel, the steam channel communicating with the steam generating chamber (131) and the cooking space to guide the steam into the cooking space; 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 in the cover body (120) and is linked with the cover body opening and closing mechanism (140) 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 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.

24. The cooking appliance according to claim 23, 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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