Cooking appliance

Abstract

This invention provides a cooking appliance, comprising: a pot body, including a base and a side portion disposed on the base; a pot body placed on the base; a hot air generating device located within the side portion, the hot air generating device having a fan and a hot air outlet; a heating device disposed on the base or the pot body; and an opening and closing device disposed at the hot air outlet, the opening and closing device having a closed position for closing the hot air outlet and an open position for opening the hot air outlet. The technical solution of this application effectively solves the problem of easy damage to the heating element in related technologies.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of small household appliance technology, and more specifically, to a cooking appliance. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, cooking appliances have both air-frying and steaming functions. The structure for air-frying includes a fan and a heating element. The fan blows air to the heating element, which then generates hot air that is blown into the cooking cavity of the appliance. The structure for steaming includes a water tank and a steam generator connected to the water tank. Steam generated by the steam generator is injected into the cooking cavity of the appliance.

[0003] However, during the steaming process, steam can easily enter the heating element, making it prone to damage. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide a cooking appliance that solves the problem of easy damage to the heating element in related technologies.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a cooking appliance, comprising: a pot body, including a base and a side portion disposed on the base; a pot body placed on the base; a hot air generating device located within the side portion, the hot air generating device having a fan and a hot air outlet; a heating device disposed on the base or the pot body; and an opening and closing device disposed at the hot air outlet, the opening and closing device having a closed position for closing the hot air outlet and an open position for opening the hot air outlet.

[0006] The cooking appliance using the technical solution of this invention has a baking mode and a steaming / cooking mode. When the user needs to use the baking mode, the opening and closing device is in the open position with the hot air outlet open. The hot air outlet is open, and the cooking appliance can then activate the baking mode. The hot air generator operates, the fan draws in air, and blows hot air out through the hot air outlet. The hot air enters the pot body and heats the food inside. When the user needs to use the steaming / cooking mode, the opening and closing device is switched from the open position to the closed position with the hot air outlet closed. Since the hot air outlet is closed, steam generated inside the pot cannot enter the hot air outlet, and consequently, steam cannot enter the hot air generator, preventing damage caused by steam entering the hot air generator. Therefore, the technical solution of this application effectively solves the problem of easy damage to the heating element in related technologies.

[0007] Furthermore, the opening and closing device includes a removable plug inserted into the hot air outlet. In the above structure, the plug can fit tightly against the side wall of the hot air outlet, providing a good sealing effect. At the same time, the plug can be tightly inserted into the hot air outlet and is not easy to fall off, further ensuring the sealing effect and preventing steam from entering the hot air generator during steaming and cooking.

[0008] Furthermore, the hot air generating device includes a heating element and an air guide shroud covering the heating element. The hot air outlet is located on the air guide shroud, and a blocking plug is removably inserted into the air guide shroud. In the above structure, the air guide shroud allows the hot air heated by the heating element to smoothly enter the pot body along the air guide shroud. At the same time, the air guide shroud is connected to the pot body through the hot air outlet. In the steaming mode, simply blocking the hot air outlet can achieve the blocking effect, which is easy to implement and simple to operate.

[0009] Furthermore, the shielding plug includes a base plate, a side plate, and an outwardly turned edge at the edge where the side plate is located. The outwardly turned edge is bent to form a groove between the outwardly turned edge and the side plate, into which the air guide shroud is inserted. In the above structure, the groove allows the steam near the side wall of the hot air outlet to be blocked by the outwardly turned edge, effectively preventing steam from entering the hot air outlet and providing a good shielding effect. At the same time, the user only needs to align the side wall of the air guide shroud with the groove during installation, making the operation simple.

[0010] Furthermore, the bottom plate is an outwardly convex arc-shaped plate. The shape of the aforementioned outwardly convex arc-shaped plate is designed to match the shape of the pot body and the hot air outlet, allowing the bottom plate to extend into the hot air outlet. At the same time, the outwardly convex arc-shaped plate applies outward tension to increase the fit between the side plate and the side wall of the hot air outlet, further enabling the shielding plug to be tightly installed at the hot air outlet, providing a good shielding effect, while also preventing the shielding plug from easily loosening from the hot air outlet.

[0011] Furthermore, the air guide shroud includes a shroud body and protruding ribs disposed on the outer side of the shroud body, the protruding ribs engaging with the outward flange for a limiting fit. In the above structure, during installation, the protruding ribs engage with the outward flange stop, facilitating proper installation. Simultaneously, the protruding ribs can cover the gap between the shroud body and the outward flange, ensuring the blocking effect of the shielding plug and further preventing steam from entering the hot air outlet.

[0012] Furthermore, the shielding plug also includes an outwardly protruding edge located at the edge of the outwardly turned-out side, and the outwardly protruding edge protrudes beyond the rib. In the above structure, the outwardly protruding edge abuts against the rib, allowing the shielding plug and the air guide shroud to fit tightly together, effectively preventing steam from entering the air guide shroud. Simultaneously, during the user's installation or removal of the shielding plug, the outwardly protruding edge can serve as an operating part, facilitating user operation.

[0013] Furthermore, the heating device includes a heating element, and the cooking appliance also includes a thermostat mounted on the heating element. In the above structure, the thermostat can detect the temperature of the heating element in real time to prevent the heating element from overheating.

[0014] Furthermore, the heating device is mounted on the pot body, which also includes a first coupler mounted on a base. The heating device further includes a second coupler connected to the heating element, and the first coupler can be plugged into the second coupler. In this structure, the heating element can directly heat the pot body, facilitating cooking of food. Simultaneously, to enable power to the heating element, the first coupler can be plugged into the second coupler.

[0015] Furthermore, the pot body includes an outer shell and an inner pot disposed within the outer shell. The bottom of the outer shell and the bottom of the inner pot are connected by a fixing structure, which includes a support column and a fixing hole connected to the support column. The support column is disposed on the inner pot, and the fixing hole is disposed on the outer shell. In the above structure, the support column provides an installation space between the bottom of the outer shell and the bottom of the inner pot, facilitating the placement of the heating device and thermostat within this space, so that the heating element heats the inner pot from the bottom. Simultaneously, the support column and the fixing hole interlock, facilitating both fixation and positioning during installation.

[0016] Furthermore, the cooking appliance also includes a lid assembly mounted on the pot body. The lid assembly includes: a lid body with a vent; an adjustment element installed in or removed from the vent; and a sensor element mounted on the lid body. The adjustment element cooperates with the sensor element to switch the sensor element's state. In the above structure, the sensor element is in different states when the adjustment element is installed in the vent (corresponding to the steaming / cooking mode) and when it is not installed in the vent (corresponding to the baking mode). The sensor element can transmit these different states to other components of the cooking appliance (such as the controller), thereby reminding the user to select the appropriate cooking function. When the steaming / cooking mode is needed, ensure that the user has installed the adjustment element at the vent to block at least part of the vent to reduce the venting volume; when the baking mode is needed, ensure that the user has removed the adjustment element to avoid the vent and increase the venting volume. The sensor element effectively solves the problem in related technologies where users easily forget to install or remove the adjustment element, leading to mismatched cooking functions and affecting the cooking effect.

[0017] Furthermore, the hot air generating device includes a heating element, which comprises: a winding plate having multiple winding grooves, each winding groove including a wire-receiving section and an anti-detachment section located between the wire-receiving section and the opening of the winding groove; and a heating wire wound within the winding groove and located at the wire-receiving section. In the above structure, because the winding groove includes the anti-detachment section, when the heating wire deforms due to heat, the anti-detachment section can stop the heating wire, making it less likely for the heating wire to detach from the wire-receiving section. This reduces the probability of short circuits between adjacent heating wires, thereby improving the service life of the heating wire assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of a cooking appliance according to the present invention is shown;

[0020] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the cooking utensils;

[0021] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A magnified view of point A of the cooking utensil;

[0022] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 Enlarged view of point B of the cooking utensil;

[0023] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of a hot air generating device;

[0024] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A cross-sectional structural diagram of a hot air generating device;

[0025] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the shielding plug;

[0026] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the shielding plug;

[0027] Figure 9 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the air guide shroud;

[0028] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 A front view schematic diagram of the air guide cover;

[0029] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of the air guide shroud along the CC direction;

[0030] Figure 12 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the pot body;

[0031] Figure 13 It shows Figure 2 A bottom view of the pot body;

[0032] Figure 14 It shows Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the pot body;

[0033] Figure 15 It shows Figure 6 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the heating element;

[0034] Figure 16 It shows Figure 15 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the heating element;

[0035] Figure 17 It shows Figure 16 A magnified schematic diagram of point D of the heating element;

[0036] Figure 18 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the lid assembly without the adjusting member is shown according to another embodiment of the cooking appliance according to the invention; and

[0037] Figure 19 It shows Figure 18 A cross-sectional structural diagram of the cover assembly after the adjustment components are installed.

[0038] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0039] 10. Pot body; 11. Base; 12. Side stand; 13. First coupler; 20. Pot body; 21. Outer shell; 22. Inner pot; 23. Support column; 24. Fixing hole; 30. Lid; 31. Handle; 32. Transparent plate; 41. Fan; 42. Volute; 421. Front volute; 422. Rear volute; 50. Hot air generator; 51. Hot air outlet; 52. Heating element; 53. Air guide hood; 531. Cover; 532. Rib; 533. Connecting part; 54. Housing; 56. Winding plate; 57. Winding groove; 571. Wire section; 5 72. Opening; 573. Anti-detachment section; 574. Guide section; 58. Heating wire; 60. Heating device; 61. Heating element; 62. Second coupler; 70. Shielding plug; 71. Base plate; 72. Outward flange; 721. Groove; 73. Side plate; 74. Outward protrusion; 81. Heat insulation element; 82. Air guide shell; 83. Electrical control assembly; 84. Thermostat; 85. Temperature fuse; 91. Cover body; 911. Exhaust port; 92. Adjustment element; 921. Flow hole; 93. Sensing element; 931. Switch contact; 94. Handle; 95. Viewing window. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0041] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0042] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the cooking appliance of this embodiment includes: a pot body 10, a pan body 20, a hot air generator 50, and an opening and closing device. The pot body 10 includes a base 11 and a side part 12 disposed on the base 11. The pan body 20 is placed on the base 11. The hot air generator 50 is located inside the side part 12. The hot air generator 50 has a fan 41 and a hot air outlet 51. A heating device 60 is disposed on the pan body 20. The opening and closing device is disposed at the hot air outlet 51, and the opening and closing device has a closed position for closing the hot air outlet 51 and an open position for opening the hot air outlet 51.

[0044] Using the technical solution of this embodiment, the cooking appliance has a baking mode and a steaming / cooking mode. When the user needs to use the baking mode, the opening and closing device is set to the open position with the hot air outlet 51 open. With the hot air outlet 51 open, the cooking appliance can start the baking mode. The hot air generator 50 operates, the fan 43 draws in air, and blows hot air out through the hot air outlet 51. The hot air enters the pot body 20 to heat the food inside. When the user needs to use the steaming / cooking mode, the opening and closing device is switched from the open position to the closed position with the hot air outlet 51 closed. Since the hot air outlet is closed, steam generated inside the pot cannot enter the hot air outlet, and consequently, steam cannot enter the hot air generator 50, preventing damage caused by steam entering the hot air generator 50. Therefore, the technical solution of this embodiment effectively solves the problem of easy damage to heating elements in related technologies.

[0045] Of course, in other embodiments not shown in the figures, the heating device may be mounted on the base.

[0046] In this embodiment, the hot air generator and the heating device achieve different cooking modes. Specifically, the heating device heats the bottom of the pot, thereby generating steam to achieve a steaming mode, while the hot air generator is located on the side of the pot to heat the air and generate hot air to achieve a baking mode.

[0047] In this embodiment, the base 11 and the side stand 12 allow the pot body 11 to form an L-shaped structure. Thus, compared to the outer shell structure in related technologies, there is no connecting structure between the upper part of the base 11 and the side stand 12, significantly saving materials and reducing costs, while also making the cooking appliance simple in overall design. The cooking appliance also includes a lid 30 that covers the pot body 20. When the lid 30 is opened and the pot body 20 is removed from the base 11, there is ample clearance on the outer side of the pot body 20. The pot body 20 can be operated from horizontal, vertical, and tilted directions, greatly shortening the time required to remove or place the pot body 20, improving convenience, and providing a better user experience.

[0048] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the opening and closing device includes a removable plug 70 inserted into the hot air outlet 51. The plug 70 can fit tightly against the side wall of the hot air outlet 51, providing a good sealing effect. At the same time, the plug 70 can be tightly inserted into the hot air outlet 51 and is not easy to fall off, further ensuring the sealing effect and preventing steam from entering the hot air generator during steaming and cooking.

[0049] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the cooking appliance also includes a lid 30. When the user selects the baking mode, the user can flip and open the lid 30 and remove the shielding plug 70 so that hot air can be smoothly blown into the pot body 20 to heat the food. When the user selects the steaming mode, the user can rotate and open the lid 30 and install the shielding plug 70 at the hot air outlet 51 to prevent steam from entering the hot air outlet 51.

[0050] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 11 As shown, the hot air generating device 50 includes a heating element 52 and an air guide shroud 53 covering the heating element 52. A hot air outlet 51 is located on the air guide shroud 53, and a blocking plug 70 is removably inserted into the air guide shroud 53. The opening length L1 of the air guide shroud 53 and the width L2 of the blocking plug 70 satisfy the condition: L1 ≥ L2. The air guide shroud 53 allows the hot air heated by the heating element 52 to smoothly enter the pot body 20 along the air guide shroud 53. Simultaneously, the air guide shroud 53 is connected to the pot body 20 through the hot air outlet 51. In steaming mode, simply sealing the hot air outlet 51 achieves the blocking effect, which is easy to implement and simple to operate.

[0051] It should be noted that the hot air generating device being located inside the side section is not limited to the hot air generating device being entirely located inside the side section. It also includes the case where the main structure of the hot air generating device is located inside the side section, and a portion of the structure extends outside the side section. In this embodiment, the main structure of the hot air generating device is located inside the side section, and a portion of the air guide hood 53 extends outside the side section.

[0052] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the shielding plug 70 includes a base plate 71, a side plate 73, and an outwardly turned edge 72 at the edge of the side plate 73. The outwardly turned edge 72 is bent to form a groove 721 between the outwardly turned edge 72 and the side plate 73, and the air guide shroud 53 is inserted into the groove 721. The depth H3 of the groove 721 satisfies: 1mm ≤ H3 ≤ 5mm. Preferably, H3 can be 3mm. The groove 721 allows the steam near the side wall of the hot air outlet 51 to be blocked by the outwardly turned edge 72, effectively preventing steam from entering the hot air outlet 51, and has a good shielding effect. At the same time, the user only needs to align the side wall of the air guide shroud 53 with the groove 721 during installation, making the operation simple. Furthermore, the above-mentioned bent structure is simple and easy to manufacture.

[0053] like Figures 7 to 9As shown, the shielding plug 70 includes a base plate 71, a side plate 73, and an outwardly turned edge 72 at the edge of the side plate 73. The base plate 71 and side plate 73 are inserted into the hot air outlet 51, while the outwardly turned edge 72 is located outside the hot air outlet 51. The insertion of the base plate 71 and side plate 73 into the hot air outlet 51 prevents the shielding plug 70 from easily falling off. The outwardly turned edge 72 effectively blocks the gap between the side wall of the hot air outlet 51 and the side plate 73, preventing steam from entering the hot air outlet 51. Furthermore, the user can easily install or remove the shielding plug by grasping the outwardly turned edge 72.

[0054] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the base plate 71 is a convex arc-shaped plate. The thickness H1 of the arc-shaped plate satisfies: 2mm ≤ H1 ≤ 10mm. Preferably, H1 can be 4mm, 6mm, or 8mm. Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, the thickness H1 of the arc-shaped plate and the distance H2 between the outer side of the bottom plate 71 and the hot air outlet 51 satisfy the condition: H1 ≥ H2. The shape of the aforementioned convex arc-shaped plate matches the shape of the pot body 20 and the hot air outlet 51, allowing the bottom plate 71 to extend into the hot air outlet 51. At the same time, the convex arc-shaped plate applies outward tension to increase the fit between the side plate 73 and the side wall of the hot air outlet 51, further enabling the shielding plug 70 to be tightly installed at the hot air outlet 51, providing a good shielding effect, while also preventing the shielding plug 70 from easily loosening from the hot air outlet 51.

[0055] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the air guide shroud 53 includes a shroud body 531 and a raised rib 532 disposed on the outer side of the shroud body 531. The raised rib 532 engages with the outer flange 72 for limiting. The height H4 of the raised rib 532 satisfies: 4mm ≤ H4 ≤ 5mm. Preferably, H4 = 4.5mm. During installation, the raised rib 532 engages with the outer flange 72 for stopping, facilitating proper installation. Simultaneously, the raised rib 532 can cover the gap between the shroud body 531 and the outer flange 72, ensuring the blocking effect of the shielding plug 70 and further preventing steam from entering the hot air outlet 51.

[0056] like Figure 3 and Figure 7 As shown, the shielding plug 70 also includes an outwardly projecting edge 74 located at the edge of the outwardly turned edge 72, and the outwardly projecting edge 74 protrudes beyond the rib 532. The outwardly projecting edge 74 abuts against the rib 532, allowing the shielding plug 70 and the air guide shroud 53 to fit tightly together, effectively preventing steam from entering the air guide shroud 53. Simultaneously, the outwardly projecting edge 74 can serve as an operating part during the user's installation or removal of the shielding plug 70, facilitating user operation.

[0057] like Figure 4 , Figures 12 to 14As shown, the heating device 60 includes a heating element 61, and the cooking appliance also includes a thermostat 84 disposed on the heating element 61. Thus, the thermostat 84 can detect the temperature of the heating element 61 in real time, preventing the heating element 61 from overheating. In this embodiment, the thermostat 84 can be a snap-action thermostat, a thermistor NTC, a thermocouple, a bimetallic strip temperature controller, or an infrared temperature measuring element.

[0058] like Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the hot air generating device includes: a volute 42, a fan 41, a housing 54, a heating element 52, and an air guide 53. The volute 42 is disposed inside the pot body 10. The fan 41 includes a fan blade, which is rotatably disposed inside the volute 42. The housing 54 is disposed on top of the volute 42. The heating element 52 is disposed inside the housing 54. The air guide 53 is fitted onto the housing 54, and the hot air outlet 51 is disposed on the air guide 53. The heating element 52 includes a winding plate and a heating wire wound on the winding plate. The pot body 10 also includes a base 11. The volute 42 includes a front volute 421 and a rear volute 422. When the cooking appliance is in baking mode, air flows through the volute 42, the housing 54, and the air guide 53 under the action of the fan 41. When the air flows through the housing 54, it is heated by the heating element 52, forming hot air, which is finally blown into the pot body 20 through the hot air outlet 51 to heat the food and realize the baking function.

[0059] like Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the cooking appliance also includes a heat insulation component 81, which is inserted into the top of the volute 42 and located between the volute 42 and the outer shell 54. The heat insulation component 81 can block the heat generated by the heating element 52, prevent heat conduction to the volute 42, and protect the volute 42. The air guide shroud 53 includes a shroud body 531 and a connecting part 533 disposed on the outside of the shroud body 531. The connecting part 533 is connected to the volute 42 by a connecting structure. The connecting part 533 has a simple structure and a reliable connection. The cooking appliance also includes a lid 30 and an air guide shell 82 disposed below the lid 30. The lid 30 covers the pot body 20. When the shielding component is removed from the hot air outlet 51, the air guide shell 82 communicates with the hot air outlet 51. The connecting part 533 is a connecting piece. The heat insulation component 81 is preferably a heat insulation frame.

[0060] like Figure 2 As shown, the lid 30 includes a handle 31 and a transparent panel 32, with an electronic control component 83 housed within the handle 31. During cooking, the user can observe the cooking process of the food inside the pot through the transparent panel 32. When the cooking appliance is in baking mode, the generated hot air can be blown along the air guide shell 82 towards the center of the pot body 20, reducing heat loss and improving cooking results.

[0061] like Figure 4, Figures 12 to 14 As shown, the heating device 60 is mounted on the pot body 20. The pot body 10 also includes a first coupler 13 mounted on the base 11. The heating device 60 further includes a second coupler 62 connected to the heating element 61. The first coupler 13 can be plugged into the second coupler 62. The heating element 61 can directly heat the pot body 20, facilitating cooking of food in the pot body 20. Simultaneously, to enable power to the heating element 61, the first coupler 13 can be plugged into the second coupler 62. In this embodiment, the heating element 61 can be a heating tube or a heating plate. The cooking appliance also includes a temperature fuse 85 connected to the second coupler 62, providing overload protection. The temperature fuse 85 is a fuse.

[0062] like Figure 4 , Figures 12 to 14 As shown, the pot body 20 includes an outer shell 21 and an inner pot 22 disposed within the outer shell 21. To secure the outer shell 21 and the inner pot 22 together, a fixing structure connects the bottom of the outer shell 21 and the bottom of the inner pot 22. The fixing structure includes a support column 23 and a fixing hole 24 connected to the support column 23. The support column 23 is disposed on the inner pot 22, and the fixing hole 24 is disposed on the outer shell 21. The support column 23 provides an installation space between the bottom of the outer shell 21 and the bottom of the inner pot 22, facilitating the placement of the heating device 60 and the thermostat 84 within this space, allowing the heating element 61 to heat the inner pot 22 from the bottom. Simultaneously, the support column 23 and the fixing hole 24 are interlocked, facilitating both fixation and positioning. In this embodiment, the bottom of the outer shell 21 includes a fixing seat, and the fixing hole 24 is disposed on the fixing seat. A stop ring is provided on the wall of the fixing hole 24. The stop ring supports the support column 23, ensuring that the support column 23 is stably positioned within the fixing hole 24. The fixing structure also includes fasteners. The support column 23 is provided with screw holes corresponding to the stop ring. The fasteners are threaded parts that pass through the fixing hole 24, the stop ring and the screw holes to fix the inner pot 22 inside the outer shell 21.

[0063] Through long-term research, the inventors discovered that the hot air generators used in cooking appliances with baking functions are generally centrifugal or axial fans. Because the airflow from centrifugal and axial fans is uneven, it can easily cause localized overheating in the heating element assembly. This high temperature can lead to deformation of the heating wires in the heating wire winding, making them prone to slipping from the winding slots and causing short circuits between adjacent heating wires, ultimately damaging the heating element assembly.

[0064] like Figures 15 to 17As shown, the hot air generating device 50 includes a heating element 52, which includes a winding plate 56 and a heating wire 58. The winding plate 56 is provided with multiple winding grooves 57. Each winding groove 57 includes a wire-receiving section 571 and an anti-detachment section 573 located between the wire-receiving section 571 and the opening 572 of the winding groove 57. The heating wire 58 is wound in the winding groove 57 and located at the wire-receiving section 571. Because the winding groove 57 includes the anti-detachment section 573, when the heating wire 58 deforms due to heat, the anti-detachment section 573 can stop the heating wire 58, making it less likely for the heating wire 58 to come off from the wire-receiving section 571. This reduces the probability of short circuits between adjacent heating wires 58, thereby improving the service life of the heating wire assembly.

[0065] like Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the groove wall of the anti-detachment section 573 includes opposing straight walls. Specifically, when the heating wire 58 deforms due to heat, the straight walls can abut against the heating wire 58, making it difficult for the heating wire 58 to detach from the winding section 571. The above structure is simple and easy to manufacture. The above structure makes the stopping effect on the heating wire 58 better after deformation, thereby further reducing the probability of the heating wire detaching from the winding groove 57.

[0066] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the distance L3 between two adjacent winding slots 57 is between 0.8 mm and 6 mm. If the distance L3 between two adjacent winding slots 57 is too small, it will make it easier for two adjacent heating wires 58 to come into contact and short-circuit, thereby reducing the service life of the heating wire assembly.

[0067] like Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the winding groove 57 also includes a guide section 574 located between the anti-detachment section 573 and the opening of the winding groove 57. The groove wall of the guide section 574 is an inclined wall arranged opposite to each other, and the inclined wall gradually expands in the direction from the bottom of the winding groove 57 to the opening 572. Specifically, the heating wire 58 enters the guide section 574 through the opening 572, and under the guidance of the guide section 574, the heating wire 58 enters the anti-detachment section 573 and finally enters the wire receiving section 571. The above structure makes it easier for the heating wire 58 to be inserted into the preset position of the winding groove 57 when winding, thereby improving assembly efficiency. Specifically, the larger opening 572 makes it easier for the heating wire 58 to be inserted into the winding groove 57, and the smaller width of the guide section 574 away from the opening 572 makes the distance between the oppositely arranged straight walls approximately the same as the diameter of the heating wire 58, thereby increasing the stopping effect of the straight walls on the heating wire 58 and further reducing the probability of the heating wire slipping out of the winding groove on the heating wire winding.

[0068] The cooking appliance also includes a humidity sensor (not shown) and a controller. The humidity sensor is located on the side stand 12, below the hot air outlet 51. The controller is located inside the pot body 10 and is connected to the humidity sensor. When the user uses the cooking appliance in steaming mode, because the humidity sensor is located on the side stand 12, below the hot air outlet 51, it can detect the humidity at the hot air outlet 51 in real time and transmit the real-time humidity value to the controller. The controller can then determine the humidity value inside the hot air generating device 50.

[0069] The humidity sensor is located below the air guide shroud 53. The air guide shroud 53 is designed to guide the hot air generated by the heating element 52 heating the air. The end of the air guide shroud 53 near the pot body 20 forms a hot air outlet 51. In this way, when the air guide shroud 53 conducts hot air, it can effectively prevent the hot air from blowing directly onto the humidity sensor, thus protecting the humidity sensor.

[0070] In another embodiment of the cooking appliance, the difference from the embodiments described above is that the structure of the lid assembly in this other embodiment differs from the structure of the lid in the embodiments described above. For example... Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, in another embodiment of the cooking appliance, the appliance further includes a lid assembly covering the pot body 20. The lid assembly includes a lid body 91, an adjusting member 92, and a sensor 93. The lid body 91 has a vent 911. The adjusting member 92 is installed in or removed from the vent 911. The sensor 93 is disposed on the lid body 91, and the adjusting member 92 cooperates with the sensor 93 to switch the state of the sensor 93. Thus, the sensor 93 is in different states when the adjusting member 92 is in the vent 911 (corresponding to the steaming / cooking mode) and when the adjusting member 92 is not in the vent 911 (corresponding to the baking mode). The sensor 93 can transmit these different states to other components of the cooking appliance (such as the controller), thereby reminding the user to select the appropriate cooking function. When using the steaming / cooking mode of the cooking appliance, ensure that the user has installed the adjustment piece 92 to block at least part of the vent 911 to reduce the amount of exhaust gas. When using the baking mode of the cooking appliance, ensure that the user has removed the adjustment piece 92 to avoid the vent 911 and increase the amount of exhaust gas. The sensor 93 effectively solves the problem in related technologies where users easily forget to install or remove the adjustment piece 92, leading to mismatch in cooking functions and affecting the cooking effect.

[0071] like Figure 18As shown, the regulating component 92 is provided with an overflow hole 921. In the steaming mode, steam inside the pot can be discharged through the overflow hole 921. The aforementioned overflow hole 921 meets the venting requirements in the steaming mode, while reducing the venting volume compared to the baking mode, thus improving the cooking effect. Moreover, the overflow hole 921 is easy to manufacture and has a low cost.

[0072] like Figure 18 As shown, the aforementioned sensor 93 can switch states when engaged with the adjusting member 92 (either through contact or magnetic attraction). For example, when the adjusting member 92 is not installed, the sensor 93 can be in an off state; after the adjusting member 92 is installed, the sensor 93 can switch from an off state to a conductive state. This allows the sensor 93 to emit a first sensing signal (or not emit a signal) when the adjusting member 92 is not installed, and to emit a second sensing signal after the adjusting member 92 is installed. Components connected to the sensor 93 (such as a controller) can issue prompts to the user based on the signals, providing reminders. Of course, the sensor can also be in a conductive state when the adjusting member 92 is not installed and in an off state when the adjusting member 92 is installed.

[0073] like Figure 19 As shown, the adjusting component 92 is a flexible component, and a slot is provided on its side wall, which mates with the wall of the vent hole 911. The adjusting component 92 is a flexible component, specifically a one-piece molded silicone part, which facilitates processing. The adjusting component 92 is deformable, allowing the user to easily install or remove it from the vent hole 911, thus simplifying its use. Furthermore, the slot on the side wall of the adjusting component 92 mates with the vent hole 911. During use, the user simply needs to position the wall of the vent hole 911 into the slot to install the adjusting component 92; the operation is simple and the connection is reliable.

[0074] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the sensing element 93 includes a switch contact 931. When the adjusting element 92 is installed in the exhaust port 911, it drives the switch contact 931 to move from the off position to the on position.

[0075] like Figure 18 As shown, when the adjusting element 92 is not installed, the switch contact 931 is in the open position; as Figure 19 As shown, the adjusting component 92 is installed after the vent 911. The upper surface of the adjusting component 92 abuts against the switch contact 931, causing the switch contact to switch to the on position. The state of the switch contact 931 indicates whether the adjusting component 92 is installed, and a corresponding prompt can be given to the user, improving the user experience.

[0076] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the sensor 93 is disposed above the cover body 91. The sensor 93 is a micro switch, and the switch contact 931 is located at the vent 911. In this embodiment, the sensor 93 is a micro switch and is disposed above the cover body 91.

[0077] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the cover body 91 also includes a handle 94, and the sensor 93 is disposed inside the handle 94. The handle 94 facilitates user use, and a mounting part is provided on the handle 94 to provide installation space for the sensor 93. The sensor 93 is partially exposed on the handle 94, eliminating the need for an additional mounting structure for the sensor 93 and simplifying the structure of the cover assembly.

[0078] In other feasible embodiments of this application, the sensor can also be located below the lid body 91, i.e., inside the pot. Correspondingly, a heat insulation structure is required to ensure that the sensor can function properly. The lid body 91 also includes a viewing window 95 located on the handle 94, and an exhaust vent 911 located on the viewing window 95. The viewing window 95 is a glass window.

[0079] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, after the adjusting component 92 is installed, the switch contact 931 moves to the ON position, causing the internal circuit of the sensing element (i.e., the microswitch) to conduct, thus identifying that the adjusting component 92 has been installed in place. Microswitches are common electronic components with various models available. Considering the high temperature of the discharged steam, a high-temperature resistant microswitch can be selected. Meanwhile, the sensing element 93 is positioned above the cover body 91, away from the steam, allowing it to operate in a normal temperature environment, with only a small portion potentially coming into contact with the high-temperature discharged steam. The switch contact 931 is located at the vent 911, allowing the adjusting component 92 to directly drive the switch contact 931 to switch between the ON and OFF positions during installation into the vent 911, simplifying the structure.

[0080] Of course, in the embodiment not shown in the figure, the sensing element can also be a reed switch, and a magnet can be provided in the adjusting element accordingly.

[0081] In this embodiment, the cooking appliance is a multi-functional pot. Of course, in embodiments not shown in the figures, the cooking appliance can also be an electric pressure cooker, rice cooker, low-pressure rice cooker, soy milk maker, food processor, stir-fry machine, slow cooker, baking pan, etc.

[0082] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0083] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0084] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0085] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, include: The pot body (10) includes a base (11) and a side stand (12) disposed on the base (11). The pot body (20) is placed on the base (11); A hot air generating device (50) is located inside the side stand (12), and the hot air generating device (50) has a fan (41) and a hot air outlet (51). A heating device (60) is disposed on the base (11) or the pot body (20); An opening and closing device is provided at the hot air outlet (51), the opening and closing device having a closed position for closing the hot air outlet (51) and an open position for opening the hot air outlet (51); The cooking appliance has a baking mode and a steaming mode. When the baking mode is needed, the opening and closing device is in the open position with the hot air outlet open. When the steaming mode is needed, the opening and closing device is switched from the open position to the closed position with the hot air outlet closed. The opening and closing device includes a shielding plug (70), the hot air generating device (50) includes a heating element (52) and a wind guide shroud (53) covering the heating element (52), the hot air outlet (51) is disposed on the wind guide shroud (53), and the shielding plug (70) is removably inserted into the wind guide shroud (53).

2. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shielding plug (70) includes a base plate (71), a side plate (73), and an outward flange (72) at the edge of the side plate (73). The outward flange (72) is bent so that a groove (721) is formed between the outward flange (72) and the side plate (73). The air guide hood (53) is inserted into the groove (721).

3. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The base plate (71) is an outwardly convex arc-shaped plate.

4. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The air guide cover (53) includes a cover body (531) and a rib (532) disposed on the outside of the cover body (531), the rib (532) being matched with the outer flange (72).

5. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The blocking plug (70) also includes an outer protruding edge (74) disposed at the edge of the outer flange (72), and the outer protruding edge (74) protrudes from the rib (532).

6. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating device (60) includes a heating element (61), and the cooking appliance also includes a thermostat (84) disposed on the heating element (61).

7. The cooking utensil according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heating device (60) is disposed on the pot body (20), and the pot body (10) further includes a first coupler (13) disposed on the base (11). The heating device (60) further includes a second coupler (62) connected to the heating element (61). The first coupler (13) can be plugged into the second coupler (62).

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pot body (20) includes an outer shell (21) and an inner pot (22) disposed inside the outer shell (21). The bottom of the outer shell (21) and the bottom of the inner pot (22) are connected by a fixing structure. The fixing structure includes a support column (23) and a fixing hole (24) connected to the support column (23). The support column (23) is disposed on the inner pot (22), and the fixing hole (24) is disposed on the outer shell (21).

9. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes a lid assembly covering the pot body (20), the lid assembly comprising: The cover body (91) is provided with an exhaust hole (911). Adjustment element (92) is installed in or removed from the vent hole (911); A sensor (93) is disposed on the cover body (91), and the adjusting member (92) cooperates with the sensor (93) to switch the state of the sensor (93).

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The hot air generating device (50) includes a heating element (52), which includes: The winding plate (56) is provided with a plurality of winding grooves (57), the winding grooves (57) including a wire receiving section (571) and an anti-detachment section (573) located between the wire receiving section (571) and the opening (572) of the winding groove (57). Heating wire (58) is wound in the winding groove (57) and located at the wire segment (571).

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