A meal box

Abstract

The application relates to a meal box which comprises an outer cover and an inner box, the inner box can be arranged in the outer cover, the bottom of the outer cover is provided with an opening, the bottom of the inner box is exposed from the opening of the bottom of the outer cover as a heated area, the inner box mainly comprises an inner box body for containing food in use and a sealable film which can temporarily seal the top opening of the inner box body in use and can be torn off, and the sealable film is provided with an exhaust hole; the application solves the problem of edge air leakage, meanwhile, the structure is more simple, the cost is reduced, and the cleaning trouble of the sealing ring and the sealing groove is saved; when heating or cooking, the exhaust path is controllable; meanwhile, the elastic spherical cavity contacts the sealable film in the mode of the sealable film, other positions of the upper cover can not contact the sealable film or need not contact the sealable film in a large range, so if meal arrangement is arranged in the upper cover, a heat insulation layer need not be arranged in the upper cover, the structure is simplified, and the cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a lunch box, and more particularly to a lunch box with external heating and centralized exhaust. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the various electric lunch boxes and mini cookers sold on the market are not capable of undertaking the intelligent table preparation task of pre-made food due to their product structure and function: the lunch box cookers do not have the process layout function for pre-made takeaway food processing, the heating function of the lunch box cookers is limited (or can only simply heat cooked food), and they cannot independently process steamed and boiled food in one lunch box at the same time.Patents with patent numbers 201621096400.8, 201610868616.X, 201610868768.X, and 201610871214.5 have all made some improvements to address the aforementioned issues. However, some problems still exist in these improved solutions. In these solutions, the inner liner is temporarily divided into an independent space directly by the lid and sealing ring. This leads to the following problems: 1. During heating or cooking, the lid is directly heated. If side dishes (cold dishes) need to be placed inside the lid, the side dishes will be affected. In this case, a heat insulation layer needs to be set inside the lid (as the heat insulation layer on the lid in the above solutions serves this purpose), making the structure complex. 1. Increased costs; 2. The addition of sealing rings and grooves complicates the structure, increasing costs and future cleaning expenses; 3. Higher requirements for overall materials increase the cost of repeated use. During heating or cooking, the lid directly receives high temperatures from the steam. If the lid material is poor, it is prone to deformation under heat, causing steam to leak from the contact point between the lid and the inner pot (around the edges). This makes the steam exhaust path uncontrollable, preventing steam from exiting along the planned path. This leads to the following problems: 3.1. Reduced cooking or heating efficiency; 3.2. Excessive heat affecting other parts besides the inner pot. The use of high-temperature steam requires that all materials used in the inner liner and the lid must meet food-safe and high-temperature resistance requirements. This significantly increases costs. Using substandard materials can lead to severe deformation under steam, affecting reusability and potentially causing unpleasant odors, impacting both the consumer's health and their well-being. 3.3. Overflowing steam can also cause greasy contamination on other parts of the inner liner, increasing cleaning workload. 3.4. Condensation (containing oil) from overflowing steam may accumulate in grooves around the inner liner. When the user moves the container, oil may leak from the deformed lid. 3.5. There is a risk of soiling the user's clothes; or the user's clothes may get dirty when the user opens the lid; 3.6. The condensation formed by the overflowing steam may flow to the heating area at the bottom of the food container, affecting the heating efficiency; 3.7. A deformed lid may cause the heating liquid in the inner pot to overflow, posing a risk of overflow. Once the lid and inner pot are deformed, even if an anti-overflow electrode is added, the liquid in the inner pot may overflow before or at the same time as touching the anti-overflow electrode. This not only greatly increases the cost of the anti-overflow electrode, but also greatly reduces its effectiveness. At the same time, even if the anti-overflow electrode works and disconnects the heating circuit, it will also greatly affect the heating or cooking efficiency.

[0003] To prevent or reduce the aforementioned steam overflow, it is necessary to prevent or reduce the deformation of the lid and inner liner. This would require strict material restrictions, which would undoubtedly increase manufacturing and usage costs significantly and greatly limit its application scope. In other words, the existing technical solutions described above are suitable for customized customers only and are not conducive to large-scale recycling. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Purpose of the invention: The present invention provides a lunch box, the purpose of which is to solve the following problems existing in previous solutions:

[0005] 1. The lid is directly exposed to heat. If side dishes (cold dishes) need to be placed inside the lid, the side dishes will be affected. Adding an insulation layer inside the lid complicates the structure and increases costs.

[0006] 2. The addition of sealing rings, sealing grooves, and other structures increases the complexity of the structure and the cost. In addition, the sealing rings, sealing grooves, and other structures increase the cost of cleaning in the future.

[0007] 3. Higher requirements for overall materials increase the cost of recycling. Also, if the material of the lid is not chosen well, it will easily deform when heated, which will cause steam to leak from the contact point between the lid and the inner liner (around the edges), making the steam exhaust path uncontrollable and the steam not discharged according to the set path.

[0008] Technical solution:

[0009] A lunch box includes an outer shell and an inner box. The inner box can be placed inside the outer shell. The bottom of the outer shell has an opening. The bottom of the inner box, as the heating area, is exposed from the opening at the bottom of the outer shell. The inner box mainly includes an inner box body for storing food when in use and a removable sealing film that can temporarily seal the top opening of the inner box body when in use. The sealing film has vent holes.

[0010] The outer cover mainly includes the outer box body and the top cover that is placed on the outer box body during use; the top cover is provided with a food container vent, and the inlet end of the food container vent is provided with an elastic spherical cavity that is pressed on the sealing film during use; the bottom of the elastic spherical cavity is provided with a cavity vent that corresponds to the vent hole on the sealing film during use.

[0011] The food container's venting system also includes a one-way valve to prevent gas from flowing back from the venting port of the bladder.

[0012] The one-way valve is a swing plate located at the bladder cavity exhaust port, and a portion of the swing plate is connected to the inner wall edge of the bladder cavity exhaust port.

[0013] The bottom of the top cover has a pressure ring that can be pressed against the edge of the sealing film during use.

[0014] One or more breathing holes are provided around the vent hole. The breathing holes are designed to be pressed down by the portion around the vent of the elastic spherical bladder when in use and to be separated from the elastic spherical bladder when breathing is required.

[0015] The inner box is equipped with a perforated partition, which divides the inner box into an upper cavity and a lower cavity.

[0016] The inner box is either a one-piece aluminum foil box or a modular box.

[0017] The modular box includes an inner box wall and an inner box heating bottom. An opening is formed at the bottom of the inner box wall, and the inner box heating bottom is installed at the opening.

[0018] The inner box wall is made of non-metallic material, and the inner box heating bottom is made of aluminum foil or aluminum composite.

[0019] When the heating bottom of the inner box is made of aluminum foil, its connection to the inner box wall can be one of the following two methods:

[0020] The first type: The bottom opening of the inner box wall is provided with an opening edge extending downward to the bottom. Multiple elastic clips are provided around the outer side of the opening edge. A gap is formed between the opening edge and the elastic clips to accommodate the outer edge of the inner box heating bottom. The pressure ring presses the outer edge of the inner box heating bottom into the gap and the elastic clips clamp the pressure ring.

[0021] The second type: The bottom opening of the inner box wall is provided with an opening edge extending downwards. Multiple hot melt adhesive nails are provided around the outer side of the opening edge. After the inner box heating bottom covers the opening edge, the outer edge of the inner box heating bottom is pressed tightly to the bottom of the inner box wall by the hot melt adhesive nails.

[0022] When the heating bottom of the inner box is made of aluminum composite, its connection with the inner box wall is as follows: the aluminum composite is divided into three layers, the first layer is an aluminum foil layer, the second layer is an intermediate layer of the same material as the inner box wall, and the third layer is an aluminum foil layer of the same material as the first layer, with the intermediate layer sandwiched between the first layer and the third layer.

[0023] The first layer is recessed around the second layer to form a connecting groove that exposes the second layer. The connecting groove is connected to the bottom opening of the inner box wall, at which point the first layer completely covers the bottom opening of the inner box wall.

[0024] The top of the elastic card has a protrusion extending towards the opening, creating a structure with a small opening and a large interior. The protrusion can be arc-shaped or sloping. A food receiving slot is provided above the top cover for holding food. A steamer is also included, which works in conjunction with the inner container.

[0025] Advantages and effects:

[0026] This invention is an improvement upon the aforementioned patents with patent numbers 201621096400.8, 201610868616.X, 201610868768.X, and 201610871214.5. It utilizes an external heating device (such as an induction cooker, ceramic cooker, or resistance wire heating source) through the exposed heating area at the bottom, or it can be used in conjunction with the delivery cabinets or collection cabinets in the prior art with patent numbers 201610868612.1 and 201610868768.X) for on-site cooking, heating, or heat preservation.

[0027] This application uses a tearable sealing film (usually made of aluminum foil) to temporarily seal the inner box (simply pressed on with a sealing machine). The film is removed before consumption. The film is pressed against the top edge of the inner box by the sealing machine, solving the problem of edge leakage. It also eliminates the need for sealing rings and grooves found in previous solutions, resulting in a simpler structure, reduced costs, and easier cleaning. During heating or cooking, the elastic spherical cavity presses against the sealing film, and the vent holes on the film correspond to the vents in the cavity. This ensures that steam is only released along a predetermined path through the vent holes, the elastic spherical cavity, and the food container's venting channel, making the venting path controllable. Furthermore, with the sealing film, the elastic spherical cavity is in contact with the film, while other parts of the lid do not need to contact the film extensively. Therefore, if the food is placed inside the lid, there is no need for an insulation layer, simplifying the structure and reducing costs.

[0028] In addition, the exhaust duct of the food container in this application may also include a one-way valve to prevent gas from flowing back from the exhaust port of the bladder cavity; if there are multiple inner pots, in the previous solution, if the lid and inner pot are deformed by heat, steam will leak out from the contact point between the lid and the inner pot, which will cause gas and flavor to mix between the inner pots, thus affecting the user's eating experience. The one-way valve of this application can avoid the problem of gas and flavor mixing. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a breakdown diagram of the lunchbox structure;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the inner lunchbox;

[0031] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the inner lunchbox Figure 2 ;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the inner lunchbox structure. Figure 3 ;

[0033] Figure 5This is a diagram showing the placement (usage status) of the meal boxes in the delivery and checkout area.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a top view of the support frame;

[0035] Figure 7 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of one form of the bottom of the inner box;

[0036] Figure 8 for Figure 11 An enlarged schematic diagram of the heating base of the inner box used in the process;

[0037] Figure 9 This is an enlarged view of the bottom of the inner box in another form;

[0038] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the decomposition process;

[0039] Figure 11 for Figure 9 A partial external 3D view;

[0040] Figure 12 for Figure 9 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0041] Figure 13 This is another enlarged view of the bottom of the inner box;

[0042] Figure 14 This is a sectional perspective view of the lunchbox.

[0043] Figure 15 Diagram showing the steam release state of the spherical capsule in conjunction with the sealing membrane;

[0044] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A three-dimensional sectional view;

[0045] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the spherical capsule in conjunction with the sealing membrane in a non-vacuum (or backflow closed) state.

[0046] Figure 18 for Figure 17 A three-dimensional sectional view;

[0047] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of a sealing membrane with breathing holes (initial state or backflow state);

[0048] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of a sealing membrane with vent holes (in the steam exhaust state).

[0049] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing the breathing opening when the spherical sac is in the breathing state (a gap separates the breathing opening from the spherical cavity).

[0050] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom of the spherical cystic cavity;

[0051] Figure 23 A three-dimensional disassembled diagram of the lunchbox structure;

[0052] Figure 24 A three-dimensional disassembled diagram of the lunchbox structure;

[0053] Figure 25 A schematic diagram illustrating the installation of one type of steamer.

[0054] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the installation of another type of steamer.

[0055] Figure 27 for Figure 26 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0056] Figure 28 In response to Figure 26 Another installation method diagram;

[0057] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the installation of another form of steamer.

[0058] Figure 30 for Figure 29 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0059] Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the installation of another form of steamer.

[0060] Figure 32 for Figure 31 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0061] Figure 33 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the installation of another form of steamer.

[0062] Figure 34 for Figure 33 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0063] Figure 35 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the installation of another form of steamer.

[0064] Figure 36 for Figure 35 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0065] Figure 37 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the installation of another form of steamer.

[0066] Figure 38 for Figure 37 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0067] Figure 39 for Figure 13 A partial 3D schematic diagram of the exterior;

[0068] Figure 40 for Figure 13 A partially enlarged sectional view of the installation configuration;

[0069] Figure 41 This is a schematic diagram of one type of snap-on flap;

[0070] Figure 42 This is a schematic diagram of another form of snap-on flip panel;

[0071] Figure 43 This is a side view of the latched flap in the engaged position.

[0072] Figure 44 A cross-sectional view of the snap-on flap in the engaged state;

[0073] Figure 45 This is a schematic diagram of another form of the snap-on flap;

[0074] Figure 46 for Figure 45 A cross-sectional view of the snap-on flap in its engaged state;

[0075] Figure 47 This is an example of a method for heating the bottom of the inner box in this application;

[0076] Figure 48 for Figure 47 A three-dimensional view of the main components;

[0077] Figure 49 for Figure 48 Cross-sectional view of the main components;

[0078] Figure 50 This is a schematic diagram of one form of the back of a heating panel;

[0079] Figure 51 This is a schematic diagram of another form of the back of the heating panel;

[0080] Figure 52 This diagram illustrates different installation methods for the heating panel. Detailed Implementation

[0081] A type of lunchbox, such as Figure 1 As shown, the food container includes an outer casing 15 and an inner casing 16. The inner casing 16 can be disposed inside the outer casing 15. The bottom of the outer casing 15 is provided with an opening, and the bottom of the inner casing 16, as the heated area D, is exposed from the opening at the bottom of the outer casing 15.

[0082] The inner box 16 mainly includes an inner box body 16-1 for storing food during use and a removable sealing film 16-3 (usually made of aluminum foil) that can temporarily seal the top opening of the inner box body 16-1 during use. The sealing film 16-3 is provided with vent holes.

[0083] The outer casing 15 mainly includes an outer casing body 15-1 and an upper cover 15-2 that covers the outer casing body 15-1 during use; the upper cover 15-2 is provided with a food container vent 17, the inlet end of the food container vent 17 is provided with a spherical cavity 17-1, and the bottom of the elastic spherical cavity 17-1 is provided with a cavity vent 17-2 that corresponds to the vent hole 16-3-1 on the sealing film 16-3 during use (at this time, if...). Figure 1 , Figure 5 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 — Figure 21 As shown, at this point, only the elastic spherical cavity 17-1 needs to contact the sealing membrane 16-3. The other parts of the food container's exhaust duct 17 and most of the upper cover 15-2 generally do not need to contact the sealing membrane. The reason for saying "most of" is because... Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, in this method, a pressure ring 15-2-5 is set, which is used to press against the edge of the upper edge of the inner box. If the sealing film extends to the edge of the upper edge of the inner box, then the pressure ring 15-2-5 presses against the edge of the sealing film, mainly serving a positioning function. However, even so, the edge of the sealing film is generally not directly heated. Additionally, a cavity can be set inside the upper cover 15-2. Figure 23 In the diagram, 15-2-2 refers to the shell of the cavity, and 17-10 refers to the steam outlet of the lunchbox exhaust duct 17. The lunchbox exhaust duct 17 can be set inside the cavity, and then the elastic spherical bladder 17-1 extends downward out of the cavity.

[0084] Furthermore, the food container exhaust duct 17 also includes a one-way valve to prevent gas from flowing back from the vent of the bladder cavity. This one-way valve can be an existing one-way valve or a one-way valve method described later.

[0085] When using this elastic spherical cavity 17-1, it presses down on the sealing film 16-3 so that the vent of the cavity aligns with the vent hole on the sealing film 16-3. At the same time, the other parts of the spherical cavity 17-1 press against the area around the vent hole, thus ensuring that the air is only released through the vent hole, the elastic spherical cavity 17-1, and into the food container vent 17, preventing air leakage. To reiterate, during use, only the elastic spherical cavity 17-1 needs to contact the sealing film 16-3; the other parts of the top cover 15-2 do not need to contact the sealing film 16-3.

[0086] One type of check valve:

[0087] A one-way valve is provided at the vent of the bladder cavity to prevent gas from flowing back from the vent. The one-way valve is a swing plate 17-3 located at the vent of the bladder cavity, and a part of the swing plate 17-3 is connected to the edge of the vent of the bladder cavity. Figure 22 DB in the text refers to the connecting part; when using this oscillating piece 17-3, it covers the vent hole 16-3-1 of the sealing film 16-3. Its diameter is larger than the vent hole. When venting, it is pushed open by the gas discharged from the inner box below, such as... Figure 15 The arrow indicates the exhaust direction; however, when external gas flows in the opposite direction, the oscillating plate 17-3 is pushed up from above by the reverse gas and covers the exhaust port 16-3-1, as shown. Figure 17 As indicated by the arrow, this one-way valve prevents backflow. When there are multiple inner boxes, this valve can prevent gas and odor mixing.

[0088] Furthermore, the bottom of the upper cover 15-2 may be provided with a pressure ring 15-2-5 that can be pressed against the edge of the sealing film 16-3 during use (the upper cover 15-2 and the outer box body 15-1 are temporarily connected by a temporary buckle during use; this temporary buckle is similar to the buckles in existing lunch boxes and belongs to prior art, for example, such as...). Figures 41 to 44 As shown, the buckle includes a buckle flap 15-2-6 and a slot 15-1-6 (slot opening downwards). The inner side of the buckle flap 15-2-6 is provided with a hook 15-2-6-1 that can engage the slot during use. The upper end of the buckle flap 15-2-6 is connected to the upper cover 15-2, and the slot 15-1-6 is connected to the side wall of the outer casing 15-1. The buckle flap 15-2-6 can be flipped up and down. Figure 43 As shown in the diagram, there are two curved arrows. The left arrow indicates the direction in which the latch flap 15-2-6 flips upward, and the right arrow indicates the direction in which it flips downward. Flipping the latch flap 15-2-6 upward separates the hook 15-2-6-1 from the slot 15-1-6, thus temporarily opening the latch. Flipping the latch flap 15-2-6 downward locks the hook 15-2-6-1 into the slot 15-1-6. This is existing technology and can be used directly. Of course, any other existing form of lunchbox latch can also be used, such as... Figure 45 and Figure 46 The buckle is in the form of a buckle flap 15-2-6 and a latch 15-1-7. The buckle flap 15-2-6 has a latching hole 15-2-6-2 that can be engaged with the latching tongue during use. The upper end of the buckle flap 15-2-6 is connected to the upper cover 15-2, and the latching tongue is connected to the side wall of the outer casing 15-1. The buckle flap 15-2-6 can be flipped up and down. Figure 46As shown in the figure, there are two curved arrows. The left arrow indicates the direction in which the buckle flap 15-2-6 flips upward, and the right arrow indicates the direction in which the buckle flap 15-2-6 flips downward. Flipping the buckle flap 15-2-6 upward separates it from the latch 15-1-7, thus opening the temporary buckle. Flipping the buckle flap 15-2-6 downward causes the latch hole 15-2-6-2 to engage with the latch 15-1-7, thus securing the buckle flap 15-2-6.

[0089] The above Figure 41 The card slot 15-1-6 is designed to surround the side wall of the outer casing 15-1, meaning the card slot 15-1-6 is arranged around the side wall of the outer casing 15-1. Figure 42 In this case, the card slot 15-1-6 is not set around the side wall of the outer box 15-1. The card slot 15-1-6 is only set at the position corresponding to the buckle flip plate 15-2-6. This is also existing technology and will not be elaborated here.

[0090] Additionally, as a further option, one or more breathing holes 16-3-2 can be provided around the vent 16-3-1 (e.g., Figures 19 to 21 As shown), the breathing hole 16-3-2 is a structure that can be pressed against the part around the spherical vent 17-2 of the elastic spherical sac 17-1 during use, and can separate from the elastic spherical sac 17-1 when breathing is required (breathing means when the inner box tends to collapse). (This means that during normal ventilation, such as...) Figure 20 As shown, because the sealing membrane 16-3 is pushed upwards, the portion around the vent 17-2 of the spherical cavity 17-1 presses against the breathing hole 16-3-2. When the inner box 16-1 tends to collapse, the sealing membrane 16-3 is drawn downwards, causing the elastic spherical cavity 17-1 to separate from the breathing hole 16-3-2, thus balancing the air pressure and preventing the inner box from collapsing. Figure 21 ).

[0091] In addition, a perforated partition 16-1-1 can be provided inside the inner box 16-1, which divides the inner box 16-1 into an upper cavity AA and a lower cavity BB.

[0092] The inner box 16-1 is either a one-piece aluminum foil box or a spliced ​​box;

[0093] The modular box includes an inner box wall 16-1-2 and an inner box heating bottom 16-1-3. An opening 16-1-2-5 is formed at the bottom of the inner box wall 16-1-2, and the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3 is installed at the opening.

[0094] One of the options is that the inner box wall 16-1-2 can be made of non-metallic material, and the inner box heating base 16-1-3 can be aluminum foil or aluminum composite.

[0095] When the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3 is made of aluminum foil, its connection with the inner box wall 16-1-2 can be one of the following two methods:

[0096] The first form: (e.g.) Figure 9 —As shown in Figure 12) The bottom opening of the inner box wall 16-1-2 is provided with an opening edge 16-1-2-1 extending downwards around the bottom. Multiple elastic clips 21 are provided around the outer periphery of the opening edge 16-1-2-1. A gap DD is formed between the opening edge 16-1-2-1 and the elastic clips 21 to accommodate the outer edge of the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3. A pressure ring 22 presses the outer edge of the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3 into this gap, and the elastic clips 21 secure the pressure ring 22. (In use, the outer edge of the box heating bottom 16-1-3 is inserted into the gap DD. The outer edge of the box heating bottom 16-1-3 can be like...) Figure 10 With that outward-folding structure, the pressure ring is placed into the gap DD to press against the outer edge of the heating bottom 16-1-3 of the box. When it is pressed in, because the elastic clip 21 is an elastic element, it will be pushed open when the pressure ring is initially pressed in. After the pressure ring is pressed into the gap DD, the elastic clip 21 resets and locks the pressure ring in place.

[0097] Additionally, the top of the elastic card 21 can be provided with a protrusion EE that extends towards the opening in the direction of 16-1-2-1, so that the gap DD forms a structure with a small opening and a large interior. Furthermore, the protrusion EE can be arc-shaped or sloping (the so-called sloping shape is like...). Figure 12 As shown, a ramp FF is formed at the bottom of the protrusion EE to facilitate the pressing of the pressure ring.

[0098] The second form: The bottom opening of the inner box wall 16-1-2 has an opening edge 16-1-2-1 extending downwards around its perimeter. Multiple hot melt adhesive studs 23 are arranged around the outer perimeter of the opening edge 16-1-2-1. After the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3 covers the opening edge 6-1-2-1, the outer edge HH of the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3 is pressed tightly against the bottom of the inner box wall 16-1-2 by the hot melt adhesive studs 23. Furthermore, multiple hot melt adhesive studs 23 are arranged along the outer edge HH of the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3, with each subsequent hot melt adhesive stud 23 pressing against the previous one (e.g., ...). Figure 39 , 40 As shown, the specific operation method is to flatten the glue nails using a hot melt method, and then stack them one on top of the other along the outer edge (HH).

[0099] (like Figure 7 , 8(As shown) When the inner box heating bottom 16-1-3 is an aluminum composite, its connection with the inner box wall 16-1-2 is as follows: The aluminum composite is divided into three layers. The first layer is an aluminum foil layer 16-1-3-1, the second layer is an intermediate layer 16-1-3-2 of the same material as the inner box wall 16-1-2, and the third layer is an aluminum foil layer 16-1-3-3 of the same material as the first layer. The intermediate layer 16-1-3-2 is sandwiched between the first layer and the third layer.

[0100] The first layer 16-1-3-1 is recessed around the second layer to form a connecting groove CC that exposes the second layer. The connecting groove CC is connected to the bottom opening 16-1-2-2 of the inner box wall 16-1-2 around the perimeter (it can be glued or heat-fused, since they are made of the same material, the connection method is easy to handle, and the existing connection method can be used). At this time, the first layer 16-1-3-1 completely covers the bottom opening 16-1-2-2 of the inner box wall 16-1-2.

[0101] Additionally, the upper cover 15-2 may have a food container 15-2-1 for accommodating food. The food container 15-2-1 can be configured in one of the following ways: First, the food container 15-2-1 is directly positioned above the upper cover 15-2 and integrated with it. The upper end of the food container 15-2-1 is open. During packaging, the opening can be sealed with film; when consuming, the film can be removed. Alternatively, an openable upper cover can be provided at the opening; when consuming, the upper cover can be opened. Second, the food container 15-2-1 is positioned above the upper cover 15-2 during use. That is, the food container 15-2-1 and the upper cover 15-2 are separate and detachable. In other words, the food container 15-2-1 is placed above the upper cover 15-2 during use and temporarily connected to the upper cover 15-2 using any known snap-fit ​​method. The food container 15-2-1 and the top cover 15-2 can be removed together. In this case, the upper part of the food container 15-2-1 is open. During packaging, the opening can be sealed with film; when eating, the film can be torn off. Alternatively, an openable top cover can be installed at the opening; simply open the top cover to eat. Alternatively, in this method, the clips between the food container 15-2-1 and the top cover 15-2 can be opened to separate the food container 15-2-1. In this case, during packaging, the opening of the food container 15-2-1 can face upwards. During packaging, the opening can be sealed with film; when eating, the film can be torn off. Alternatively, an openable top cover can be installed at the opening; simply open the top cover to eat. Of course, the opening of the food container 15-2-1 can also be facing downwards during packaging, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 14As shown, during packaging, the opening of the food container 15-2-1 can be sealed with film, and then the lid can be placed upside down. When consuming, simply remove the food container 15-2-1, flip it over, and then tear off the film. Alternatively, during packaging, the opening of the food container 15-2-1 can be left unsealed. The lid 15-2 can be placed directly over the opening of the food container 15-2-1, where the lid 15-2 acts as a cover or seal for the opening of the food container 15-2-1. The food container 15-2-1 and the lid 15-2 can then be connected with a temporary snap fastener. After that, they can be inverted together and placed over the outer box 15-1 to complete the packaging. When consuming, remove the food container 15-2-1 and the lid 15-2 together, flip it over so that the opening of the food container 15-2-1 is facing upwards, then open the snap fastener and remove the lid 15-2.

[0102] In addition, for further processing of the lunch box, a steamer can also be included, which is used in conjunction with the inner box 16.

[0103] The steamer (usually a plate-shaped or bowl-shaped structure formed by the side walls and bottom) is used in conjunction with the inner box 16 as follows:

[0104] The first form of the steamer and inner box 16 are as follows: Figure 23 As shown, steamers 16-21 and 16-23 (16-21 and 16-23 are two different types of steamers) have outward-curving opening edges 16-21-A at the top. The opening edge (upper surface) of the steamer does not exceed the upper surface of the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. Figure 25 As shown, a stepped edge 16-A can be provided inside the inner box 16-1 (possibly at the top). The opening edge 16-21-A of the steamer rests on the stepped edge 16-A. Then, the sealing film 16-3 covers the opening of the inner box 16-1, with the four sides of the sealing film 16-3 pressed against the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. This seals the opening of the inner box 16-1 (the sealing film has vent holes) and also seals the steamer inside the inner box 16-1. In this configuration, the steamer has ventilation holes, which can take one or more of the following forms:

[0105] The first type of ventilation hole: one or more holes can be directly set at the bottom of the steamer to facilitate ventilation; the second type of ventilation hole: such as Figure 23 and Figure 25 As shown, a notch 001 is formed on the end side wall of steamers 16-21 and 16-23. The notch 001 facilitates ventilation and makes it easy to remove the steamer. At this time, there is a gap between the upper surface of the steamer and the sealing film 16-3. The third type of ventilation hole: the side wall of the steamer is provided with through holes to facilitate ventilation.

[0106] The above-mentioned steamer can be as follows: Figure 23 The diagram shows small steamers 16-23 placed inside the inner box. One or multiple steamers can be placed inside. The large steamer 16-21, located outside the inner box, is typically only needed once. Figure 25 This is based on a large steamer.

[0107] A second form of cooperation between the steamer and the inner box 16: An outwardly flared opening edge 16-21-A is provided at the top of the steamer, which rests on the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1, as shown below. Figure 26 , 27 As shown, a sealing ring 00B can be installed between the opening edge 16-21-A of the steamer and the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. A sealing film 16-3 is made at the opening of the steamer. When in use, the pressure ring 15-2-5 of the box lid presses against the position corresponding to the opening edge 16-21-A of the steamer. In this form, the steamer is provided with ventilation holes, which can be one or more of the following types:

[0108] The first type of ventilation hole: one or more through holes can be set directly at the bottom of the steamer to facilitate ventilation; the second type of ventilation hole: through holes are set on the side wall of the steamer to facilitate ventilation.

[0109] A third form of cooperation between the steamer and the inner box 16: An outwardly flared opening edge 16-21-A is provided at the top of the steamer, which rests on the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1, as shown below. Figure 28 As shown, the opening edge of the steamer 16-21-A is narrower than the opening edge of the inner box 16-1 16-1-5 (the so-called narrower is as follows). Figure 28 The steamer opening shown is short along the left-right direction of 16-21-A, so that from... Figure 28 As can be seen, the opening edge of the steamer 16-21-A is recessed by one ring compared to the opening edge 16-1-5. Therefore, when the steamer opening edge 16-21-A rests on the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1, a ring of the inner box 16-1-5 will still be exposed. Then, the edge of the sealing film 16-3 is sealed to the exposed part of the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1 (this is a closed connection). Finally, the pressure ring 15-2-5 of the lid presses down on the position corresponding to the steamer opening edge 16-21-A, or the pressure ring 15-2-5 presses down on the position corresponding to the exposed part of the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. Figure 28 It is pressed against the exposed part of the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1); in this form, the steamer is provided with ventilation holes, which can be one or more of the following forms:

[0110] The first type of ventilation hole: one or more through holes can be directly set at the bottom of the steamer to facilitate ventilation; the second type of ventilation hole: a notch 001 is formed on the end side wall of the steamer 16-21 and 16-23. The notch 001 can facilitate ventilation and also make it easy to remove the steamer. At this time, a gap is left between the upper surface of the steamer and the sealing film 16-3; the third type of ventilation hole: through holes are set on the side wall of the steamer to facilitate ventilation.

[0111] The above-mentioned steamer can be as follows: Figure 23 The diagram shows small steamers 16-23 placed inside the inner box. One or multiple steamers can be placed inside. The large steamer 16-21, located outside the inner box, is typically only needed once. Figure 25 This is based on a large steamer.

[0112] The fourth form of the steamer and inner box 16 are as follows: Figures 29 to 38 As shown, the top of the steamer 16-21 (taking a large steamer 16-21 as an example, as this design is more suitable for large steamers 16-21) has an outward or inward folding opening edge 16-21-A. In use, the sealing film 16-3 connects to the opening edge 16-21-A, and the pressure ring 15-2-5 of the lid presses down on the corresponding position of the steamer opening edge 16-21-A. Then, the bottom or side wall of the steamer 16-21 is secured to the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. Figures 29 to 32 As shown, this is one form where the side wall of the steamer is fitted into the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. In this form, a stepped platform 16-21-B is provided on the side wall of the steamer, and this stepped platform 16-21-B is fitted into the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. At this time, a sealing ring 00B can be provided between the stepped platform 16-21-B and the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. In this form, a portion of the bottom of the steamer 16-21 extends into the inner box 16-1. At this time, a vent is provided on the steamer, and the vent can take one or more of the following forms:

[0113] The first type of ventilation hole: one or more through holes can be directly set at the bottom of the steamer to facilitate ventilation; the second type of ventilation hole: through holes are set on the side wall of the steamer to facilitate ventilation (in this type of ventilation hole, the side wall of the steamer below the stepped platform 16-21-B should not be in close contact with the inner wall of the inner box 16-1, such as...). Figure 31 and Figure 32 wait).

[0114] like Figures 33 to 36As shown, another form is where the side wall of the steamer is secured at the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. In this form, a retaining ring 16-21-C is provided on the side wall of the steamer, which is secured at the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. A sealing ring 00B can be provided between the retaining ring 16-21-C and the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. In this form, a portion of the bottom of the steamer 16-21 extends into the inner box 16-1. Ventilation holes are provided on the steamer, and these ventilation holes can take one or more of the following forms:

[0115] The first type of ventilation hole: one or more through holes can be directly set at the bottom of the steamer to facilitate ventilation; the second type of ventilation hole: through holes are set on the side wall of the steamer to facilitate ventilation (in this type of ventilation hole, the side wall of the steamer below the stepped platform 16-21-B should not be in close contact with the inner wall of the inner box 16-1, such as...). Figure 33 and Figure 34 wait).

[0116] like Figures 37 to 38 As shown, the bottom of the steamer is fitted into the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. In this form, the bottom of the steamer is pressed against the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. A sealing ring 00B can be set between the bottom of the steamer and the opening edge 16-1-5 of the inner box 16-1. At this time, a vent hole is set at the bottom of the steamer.

[0117] Furthermore, for the lunchbox, the outer casing 15 is provided with a support frame 15-5 to support the inner box 16 (the support frame 15-5 can be directly fixed to the outer casing 15, or it can be separate; in use, it is fastened to the upper end of the outer casing 15 or clipped inside the outer casing 15. In the form of clipping inside the outer casing 15, the position of the support frame 15-5 can generally be lower than the upper edge of the inner box 16), and the support frame 15-5 has a support opening 15-5-1 for the inner box 16 to pass through; Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 6, in use, the inner box 16 is placed into the supporting opening 15-5-1, and the outward-folding opening at the top of the inner box 16 overlaps around the opening of the supporting opening 15-5-1 along 16-1-5 to support the inner box 16; or the inner box 16 is made into a structure that gradually shrinks from top to bottom, and then the side wall of the inner box 16 directly jams the supporting opening 15-5-1, that is, in the process of gradually putting the inner box 16 in, the inner box 16 will gradually be jammed by the supporting opening.

[0118] When using this application, the heated area D at the bottom of the inner box 16 can be directly brought into contact with the heating area, for example... Figure 5The number 3 in the diagram refers to the heating module heat source. Module heat source 3 can employ existing heating technologies, such as electric heating, and its principle is similar to that of induction cookers, ceramic cookers, and heating wire heating. The number of module heat sources 3 can be adapted to the number of inner boxes 16-1. For example, if there are two inner boxes 16-1, then... Figure 5 and 47 As shown, there are two module heat sources 3, and the two module heat sources 3 are independent of each other. Of course, the number of module heat sources 3 does not have to be adapted to the number of inner boxes 16-1. For example, when there is only one inner box 16-1, two module heat sources 3 can be used to cook and heat at the same time. Alternatively, there can be only one module heat source 3. In this case, if there are two inner boxes 16-1 (and if the food to be cooked in the two inner boxes 16-1 is the same), they can also be cooked and heated at the same time on one module heat source 3.

[0119] In addition, such as Figures 48 to 52 The illustration shows one form of the heating module (this is merely an example; any other feasible form can be used). In this form, the heating module includes a heating panel 37 and a heating assembly. The heating panel 37 can be made of cast aluminum, i.e., prepared using a die-casting aluminum process. The heating assembly is located on the back side 37B of the heating panel 37. The heating assembly is constructed by covering a heating resistance wire 38A with ceramic 38B, and then placing them together inside the heating assembly housing 38. That is, from the inside out, the heating assembly consists of the heating resistance wire, the ceramic, and the heating assembly housing 38. The heating assembly housing 38 is preferably a cast aluminum shell, prepared using a die-casting aluminum process. The heating assembly can be arranged in an "S" shape (e.g., ...). Figure 51 It can also be C-shaped (such as...) Figure 52 (As shown) or a ring-shaped arrangement, or any other equivalent arrangement that serves the heating purpose. The heating element housing 38 has a mounting base 38-1 for connecting the external circuit to the resistance wire. The front side 37A of the heating panel 37 is coated with ceramic or Teflon; the heating element housing 38 and the heating panel 37 can be integrally die-cast, or the heating element can be mounted on the back side 37B of the heating panel 37 using mounting bolts 38-2 and pressure plates 38-3, etc. Specific installation methods are as follows: Figure 52 As shown, the pressure plate 38-3 is pressed onto the heating assembly housing 38, and then the two ends of the pressure plate 38-3 are fixed to the heating panel 37 with the mounting bolts 38-2;

[0120] A temperature measuring device (temperature sensor, etc., directly using existing standard components) 38-4 (used to monitor the temperature of the heating panel 37) can also be installed on the back 37B of the heating panel 37. In use, the two mounting and positioning seats 38-1 are connected to the external circuit. At the same time, an over-temperature protection device (directly using existing standard components) can be connected to the external circuit connected to the resistance wire.

[0121] Additionally, the heating module 3 may also include a heat-insulating mounting plate 39, with the heating panel 37 mounted together with the heat-insulating mounting plate 39. Heat-insulating silicone 40 may be provided between the heating panel 37 and the heat-insulating mounting plate 39. The mounting method here can be as follows: Figure 49 and 50 As shown, the heat insulation mounting plate 39 has a mounting groove 39-1, and the heat insulation silicone 40 is a heat insulation silicone ring. The inner wall of the heat insulation silicone ring is provided with a stepped platform 40-1 (e.g., Figure 49 and Figure 50 As shown), the heating panel 37 is positioned at step 40-1 (as shown). Figure 50 As shown), the bottom of the heat-insulating silicone ring is provided with a bottom stepped platform 40-2 (as shown). Figure 50 As shown), the heat-insulating silicone ring is secured to the upper edge of the mounting groove 39-1 of the heat-insulating mounting plate 39 via the bottom stepped platform 40-2. The bottom plate of the mounting groove 39-1 has a wiring opening 39-2. In this case, for secure installation, a bolt mounting hole 38-5 with internal threads (not a through hole, but a groove) can be provided on the back 37B of the heating panel 37. This bolt mounting groove can be a cylindrical internal thread groove directly opened on the inner wall of the back 37B of the heating panel 37, or it can be a cylindrical internal thread mounting tube installed on the inner wall of the back 37B of the heating panel 37. When fixing, the fastening bolt 39-3 passes through the bottom plate of the mounting groove 39-1 and extends into the bolt mounting hole 38-5, and engages with the bolt mounting hole 38-5 to complete the relative fixation between the heating panel 37, the heat-insulating mounting plate 39, and the heat-insulating silicone 40. In use, the front 37A of the heating panel 37 contacts the heated area D at the bottom of the inner box 16, and then the heating panel 37 is controlled to start heating.

[0122] Of course, this application can also be used in conjunction with the device with patent number 201610868768.X, etc. When in use, the heated area D at the bottom of the inner box 16 is brought into contact with the metal heat transfer panel, so that the lunch box exhaust channel 17 is connected to the exhaust port, and then it can be used.

[0123] When using the lunchbox of this application, before heating, if... Figures 17-19 As shown, at this time, the vent 16-3-1 on the sealing membrane 16-3 is covered by the oscillating plate 17-3. If it is in the form of a breathing hole, the breathing hole is also blocked by the part around the vent 17-2 of the elastic spherical cavity 17-1; when heating begins, for example as Figure 5As shown, the heated area at the bottom of the inner box 16 is heated. The steam generated during heating passes through the vent 16-3-1 on the sealing film 16-3 and pushes open the swing plate 17-3, then exits through the food container vent 17. At this time, the sealing film 16-3 is pushed upwards. If it has a vent, the vent 16-3-2 is also blocked. If the inner box tends to collapse, the sealing film sinks, causing the vent to separate from the elastic spherical cavity 17-1. Figure 21 As shown, the air pressure is balanced to prevent the inner box from being sucked down; during this process, the part around the vent 17-2 of the elastic spherical bladder 17-1 always presses against the vent 16-3-1. If it is in the form of a swing plate 17-3, the swing plate 17-3 also always covers the vent 16-3-1. That is to say, the elastic spherical bladder 17-1 has an adaptive sealing effect.

[0124] In summary, this application uses a sealing film (edge ​​pressing) method to seal the opening of the inner box, effectively preventing steam from overflowing from the connecting edges due to deformation. A vent hole 16-3-1 is left on the sealing film, which mates with the elastic spherical cavity 17-1, allowing steam to escape along a specific path. This prevents the entire lid from being heated and does not affect the arrangement of ingredients on the lid 15-2. Furthermore, the elimination of sealing rings and sealing grooves simplifies the structure and reduces costs. Compared to sealing rings and sealing grooves, this application also reduces future cleaning costs. Moreover, there is no need to worry excessively about deformation of parts in contact with steam. Therefore, it offers greater flexibility in implementation and wider applicability. For example, the inner box can be made of aluminum foil, eliminating concerns about deformation and allowing for a less thicker design. This provides significant advantages in cost and circulation, facilitating reuse. Therefore, this application effectively solves previous problems and is conducive to widespread application.

Claims

1. A lunch box, the lunch box comprising an outer shell (15) and an inner box (16), the inner box (16) being disposed inside the outer shell (15), the bottom of the outer shell (15) having an opening, the bottom of the inner box (16) being exposed from the opening at the bottom of the outer shell (15) as a heated area (D), characterized in that: The inner box (16) mainly includes an inner box body (16-1) for storing food when in use and a tearable sealing film (16-3) that can temporarily seal the top opening of the inner box body (16-1) when in use. The sealing film (16-3) is provided with vent holes. The outer cover (15) mainly includes the outer cover box body (15-1) and the upper cover (15-2) that is covered on the outer cover box body (15-1) when in use; the upper cover (15-2) is provided with a lunch box exhaust channel (17), and the inlet end of the lunch box exhaust channel (17) is provided with an elastic spherical cavity (17-1) that is pressed on the sealing film when in use; the bottom of the elastic spherical cavity (17-1) is provided with a cavity exhaust port (17-2) that corresponds to the exhaust hole (16-3-1) on the sealing film (16-3) when in use; The food container exhaust duct (17) also includes a one-way valve to prevent gas from flowing back from the vent of the bladder cavity.

2. A lunch box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one-way valve is a swing plate (17-3) located at the bladder cavity exhaust port, and a part of the swing plate (17-3) is connected to the inner wall edge of the bladder cavity exhaust port.

3. A lunch box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bottom of the top cover (15-2) is provided with a pressure ring (15-2-5) that can be pressed against the edge of the sealing film (16-3) during use.

4. A lunch box according to claim 1, characterized in that: One or more breathing holes (16-3-2) are provided around the vent hole (16-3-1). The breathing holes (16-3-2) are designed to be pressed by the portion around the vent of the elastic spherical bladder (17-1) when in use and to be separated from the elastic spherical bladder (17-1) when breathing is required.

5. A lunch box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner box (16-1) is provided with a perforated partition (16-1-1), which divides the inner box (16-1) into an upper cavity (AA) and a lower cavity (BB).

6. A lunch box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner box (16-1) is either a one-piece aluminum foil box or a spliced ​​box; The modular box includes an inner box wall (16-1-2) and an inner box heating bottom (16-1-3). An opening (16-1-2-5) is formed at the bottom of the inner box wall (16-1-2), and the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3) is installed at the opening.

7. A lunch box according to claim 6, characterized in that: The inner box wall (16-1-2) is made of non-metallic material, and the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3) is made of aluminum foil or aluminum composite. When the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3) is made of aluminum foil, its connection to the inner box wall (16-1-2) can be one of the following two methods: The first form: The bottom opening of the inner box wall (16-1-2) is provided with an opening edge (16-1-2-1) extending downward to the bottom. Multiple elastic clips (21) are provided around the outside of the opening edge (16-1-2-1). A gap (DD) is formed between the opening edge (16-1-2-1) and the elastic clips (21) to accommodate the outer edge of the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3). The pressure ring (22) presses the outer edge of the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3) into the gap, and the elastic clips (21) clamp the pressure ring (22). The second form: The bottom opening of the inner box wall (16-1-2) is provided with an opening edge (16-1-2-1) extending downwards to the bottom. Multiple hot melt adhesive nails (23) are provided around the outer perimeter of the opening edge (16-1-2-1). After the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3) covers the opening edge (16-1-2-1), the outer edge (HH) of the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3) is pressed tightly against the bottom of the inner box wall (16-1-2) by the hot melt adhesive nails (23). When the inner box heating bottom (16-1-3) is an aluminum composite, its connection with the inner box wall (16-1-2) is as follows: The aluminum composite is divided into three layers, the first layer being an aluminum foil layer (16-1-2 ... 3-1) The second layer is an intermediate layer (16-1-3-2) of the same material as the inner box wall (16-1-2), and the third layer is an aluminum foil layer (16-1-3-3) of the same material as the first layer. The intermediate layer (16-1-3-2) is sandwiched between the first layer and the third layer. The first layer (16-1-3-1) is recessed into the second layer to form a connecting groove (CC) that exposes the second layer. The connecting groove (CC) is connected to the bottom opening (16-1-2-2) of the inner box wall (16-1-2) around the perimeter. At this time, the first layer (16-1-3-1) completely covers the bottom opening (16-1-2-2) of the inner box wall (16-1-2).

8. A lunch box according to claim 7, characterized in that: The top of the elastic card (21) is provided with a protrusion (EE) that protrudes toward the opening in the direction of (16-1-2-1), so that the gap (DD) forms a structure with a small opening and a large interior.

9. A lunch box according to claim 8, characterized in that: The protrusion (EE) is either arc-shaped or sloping.

10. A lunch box according to claim 1, characterized in that: A food container (15-2-1) for holding food is provided above the top cover (15-2).

11. A lunch box according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a steamer, which is used in conjunction with the inner box (16).

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