Air intake device for cooking appliance and cooking appliance

Abstract

The present invention discloses an air intake device for a cooking appliance and the cooking appliance. The cooking appliance has a cooking cavity, and the air intake device includes: an air intake valve having an air intake passage, at least a portion of which extends into the cooking cavity; a protective cover disposed on the air intake valve to cooperate with the air intake valve to define a communication passage, the communication passage connecting a steam outlet of the air intake passage and the cooking cavity; and a first blocking member disposed on the air intake valve and located within the communication passage. The first blocking member normally blocks at least one of the communication passage and the steam outlet, and is adapted to open the communication passage and the steam outlet under the action of steam pressure. The air intake device according to an embodiment of the present invention allows steam to directly enter the cooking cavity and fully contact food, thereby achieving high thermal efficiency, improving cooking uniformity and efficiency, and effectively preventing food from blocking or contaminating the air intake passage. Furthermore, the protective cover can shield the first blocking member, preventing it from being damaged or squeezed and displaced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of kitchen appliances, and more particularly to an air intake device for a cooking utensil and the cooking utensil. Background Art

[0002] In the related art, the steam outlet of the steamer is separated from the food being heated. The food is placed in the inner pot of the steamer, and the steam outlet is set in the outer pot of the steamer. The steam enters the inner pot from the top opening of the inner pot, resulting in low utilization of the internal space of the steamer and low thermal efficiency. In particular, the food at the bottom of the inner pot is difficult to cook. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, one object of the present invention is to provide an air intake device for a cooking appliance, which can quickly allow steam to contact food, has high thermal efficiency, and prevents the air intake channel from being blocked and contaminated by food.

[0004] The present invention also provides a cooking utensil having the air intake device.

[0005] According to an air intake device of a cooking utensil according to an embodiment of the present invention, the cooking utensil has a cooking cavity, and the air intake device includes: an air intake valve, the air intake valve having an air intake passage, at least a portion of the air intake valve extending into the cooking cavity; a protective cover, the protective cover being provided on the air intake valve to cooperate with the air intake valve to define a connecting passage, the connecting passage connecting the steam outlet of the air intake passage and the cooking cavity; a first blocking member, the first blocking member being provided on the air intake valve and located in the connecting passage, the first blocking member usually blocking at least one of the connecting passage and the steam outlet, and being suitable for connecting the connecting passage and the steam outlet under the action of steam pressure.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the air intake device of a cooking appliance extends into the cooking cavity through at least a portion of the air intake valve, and a first blocking member constantly blocks at least one of the communication channel and the steam outlet. This allows steam to flow directly into the cooking cavity and fully contact the food, minimizing heat loss and achieving high thermal efficiency, thereby improving cooking uniformity and efficiency. The air intake channel can be switched on and off based on steam pressure, effectively preventing food from blocking or contaminating the air intake channel. Furthermore, the cooking cavity space is efficiently utilized, and the air intake device does not interfere with food, providing a better user experience. Furthermore, a protective cover protects and obscures the first blocking member, preventing it from being damaged or displaced by solid matter, potentially preventing it from properly blocking the communication channel and steam outlet. It also prevents the first blocking member from being obstructed by solid matter, potentially preventing it from properly opening the communication channel and steam outlet.

[0007] In addition, the air intake device of the cooking appliance according to the above embodiment of the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least a portion of the first blocking member is elastically deformable under the action of steam pressure to connect the communication channel and the steam outlet.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the steam outlet is formed on the side wall of the air intake valve, and the first blocking member includes: a connecting portion, which is connected to the air intake valve; a first deformation portion, the first end of the first deformation portion is connected to the connecting portion, and the first deformation portion can be elastically deformed so that the second end of the first deformation portion moves relative to the first end to open the steam outlet.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the steam outlet is a plurality of outlets spaced apart along the circumference of the intake valve, and the first deformation portion is a cylinder extending along the circumference of the intake valve, and the inner diameter of the cylinder is less than or equal to the outer diameter of the intake valve.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first sealing member includes: a connecting portion, which is connected to the intake valve; a second deformation portion, the inner periphery of the second deformation portion is connected to the connecting portion and the outer periphery is in sealing contact with the inner peripheral surface of the protective cover, and the second deformation portion can be elastically deformed to separate the outer periphery from the inner peripheral surface of the protective cover.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second deformation portion extends along the airflow direction and obliquely outward.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a connecting cavity is defined between the inner circumferential surface of the protective cover and the outer circumferential surface of the air intake valve, and the peripheral wall of the protective cover is provided with a connecting port connecting the connecting cavity and the cooking cavity; or, the peripheral wall of the protective cover cooperates with the cavity wall of the air intake valve or the cooking cavity to define the connecting port, and the connecting channel includes the connecting cavity and the connecting port.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the minimum size of the flow cross-section of the communication port is 0.3 mm-1 mm.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a connecting groove is provided at the edge of the cover opening of the protective cover, and the cavity wall of the cooking cavity or the flange of the air intake valve covers the notch of the connecting groove to define the connecting opening; or, a connecting groove is provided at the flange of the air intake valve, and the edge of the cover opening of the protective cover covers the notch of the connecting groove to define the connecting opening.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air intake valve includes: a valve seat, the valve seat having a first channel; a valve body, the valve body being connected to the valve seat and having a second channel, the first channel and the second channel constituting the air intake channel, and the cavity wall of the cooking cavity is clamped between the valve seat and the valve body.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first channel includes a variable diameter section, the radial size of the variable diameter section increases upward, and the air intake valve also includes: a second blocking member, the second blocking member is movably arranged in the variable diameter section, and the second blocking member is suitable for blocking and conducting the first channel under the action of its own gravity and steam pressure.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second channel includes a main channel and a plurality of branch channels, the main channel is in communication with the first channel, the inlets of the branch channels are in communication with the main channel, and the outlets of the branch channels are formed as the steam outlets.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the diameter of the steam outlet is 0.5 mm-3 mm.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the air intake device of a cooking utensil has a cooking cavity, and the air intake device includes: an air intake mechanism, the air intake mechanism has a steam channel, and at least a portion of the air intake mechanism extends into the cooking cavity to connect the steam channel with the cooking cavity; a first blocking member, the first blocking member is provided on the air intake mechanism and located in the steam channel, the first blocking member usually blocks at least one point of the steam channel, and is suitable for conducting the steam channel under the action of steam pressure.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first blocking member includes: a connecting portion, which is connected to the air intake mechanism; at least two deformation portions, one end of each of the deformation portions is connected to the connecting portion, and each of the deformation portions can be elastically deformed so that the other end of the deformation portion moves relative to the one end to open the steam channel.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the steam channel includes a transverse extension section and an annular longitudinal extension section that are connected to each other, the connecting portion is connected to the inner circumferential surface of the longitudinal extension section, and the multiple deformation portions include a first deformation portion and a second deformation portion, wherein the first deformation portion is used to open and close the outlet of the transverse extension section, and the inner circumference of the second deformation portion is connected to the connecting portion and the outer circumference is suitable for sealing contact with the outer circumferential surface of the longitudinal extension section.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air intake mechanism includes: an air intake valve, the air intake valve having an air intake channel, the outlet section of the air intake channel being formed as the transverse extension section; a protective cover, the protective cover being arranged on the air intake valve to cooperate with the air intake valve to define a connecting channel, the inlet section of the connecting channel being formed as the longitudinal extension section.

[0024] The cooking appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention includes the air intake device of the cooking appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air intake device is provided at a lower portion of the cooking cavity.

[0026] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description which follows, or may be learned by practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2 is a partial structural exploded view of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 3 is an exploded view of an air intake device of a cooking appliance according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a local enlarged structure;

[0032] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Cross-sectional view along line AA;

[0033] Figure 6 is a top view of a cooking appliance according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view along line BB;

[0035] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The middle circle shows the enlarged structural diagram of C;

[0036] Figure 9 is a partial structural diagram of a cooking utensil according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 10 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a valve body of an air intake device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Reference numerals:

[0039] Air intake device 100; cooking utensil 200; cooking cavity 201; inner pot 202; outer pot 203; first support base 204; second support base 205; connecting base 206; mounting hole 207; base 210; first cooking container 220; second cooking container 230; steam generator 240;

[0040] Intake mechanism 1; intake valve 10; intake channel 11; steam outlet 111; first channel 112; second channel 113; reducing section 114; valve seat 12; mounting groove 121; valve body 13; groove 131; cover cavity 132; outlet channel 135; protrusion 136; flange 137; connecting column 14; threaded column 15;

[0041] First blocking member 20; connecting portion 21; first deforming portion 22; second deforming portion 23; second blocking member 25;

[0042] Protective cover 30; communicating cavity 31; communicating port 32; communicating channel 33; threaded hole 34; operating portion 35;

[0043] First sealing member 41 ; second sealing member 42 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended only to explain the present invention and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0045] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like to indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0046] In the description of the present invention, "first feature" and "second feature" may include one or more such features, "plurality" means two or more, the first feature being "above" or "below" the second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or the first and second features not being in direct contact but being in contact through another feature between them, the first feature being "above", "above" and "above" the second feature includes the first feature being directly above and diagonally above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is horizontally higher than the second feature.

[0047] Hereinafter, an air intake device 100 of a cooking appliance 200 and the cooking appliance 200 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Reference Figure 1-Figure 2 and Figure 6-Figure 7 As shown, the cooking appliance 200 according to the embodiment of the present invention may include the air intake device 100 of the cooking appliance 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2-Figure 5 and Figures 8-10 As shown, the air intake device 100 of the cooking appliance 200 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include an air intake valve 10 , a protective cover 30 and a first blocking member 20 .

[0049] Specifically, if Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, cooking device 200 may include a cooking cavity 201 for holding ingredients for cooking. For example, rice grains and water may be placed in cooking cavity 201 to steam rice. Of course, cooking device 200 can be used not only for steaming rice but also for making porridge, soup, and stewing pork ribs. An air intake device 100 is used to introduce steam into cooking cavity 201 to steam-cook the ingredients within. This allows the hot steam to more fully contact the ingredients, thereby improving the uniformity of heating.

[0050] like Figure 2-Figure 5 and Figure 7-Figure 8 As shown, the air intake valve 10 has an air intake passage 11, and at least a portion of the air intake valve 10 extends into the cooking cavity 201. A protective cover 30 is disposed over the air intake valve 10, and the protective cover 30 and the air intake valve 10 cooperate to define a communication passage 33. The communication passage 33 connects the steam outlet 111 of the air intake passage 11 with the cooking cavity 201, thereby enabling communication between the air intake passage 11 and the cooking cavity 201. Steam can enter the cooking cavity 201 directly through the air intake passage 11 and the communication passage 33. Compared to the related art solution in which steam enters the cooking cavity through a top opening, the air intake valve 10 of the present invention allows steam to more fully contact the food in the cooking cavity 201, resulting in more uniform heating of the food in various areas, which helps improve the uniformity and taste of the food.

[0051] In some embodiments, the air intake device 100 can be disposed at the lower portion of the cooking cavity 201, for example, at the lower portion of the bottom wall or side wall of the cooking cavity 201. Thus, the steam outlet 111 can communicate with the lower portion of the cooking cavity 201, allowing the output steam to immediately contact the food, particularly the food in the lower portion of the cooking cavity 201. This improves heat transfer efficiency, accelerates cooking speed, and further improves the uniformity of cooking. This can effectively address the poor taste of food in the lower portion of the cooking cavity in the related art.

[0052] Since the air intake valve 10 is relatively small in size, at least a portion of the air intake valve 10 occupies very little space when extended into the cooking cavity 201, and has no impact on the space of the cooking cavity 201. The interference with the food is very small and can be ignored, and does not affect the placement and cooking of any food. The cooking utensil 200 can be used for cooking small-volume food such as porridge and steamed rice, and can also be used for cooking large-sized food such as ribs and meat chunks, ensuring the normal use of the cooking utensil 200.

[0053] In addition, if Figure 3-Figure 4 and Figure 7-Figure 8 As shown, the air intake device 100 may further include a first blocking member 20, which is disposed on the air intake valve 10 and is located within the communication channel 33. The first blocking member 20 normally blocks at least one of the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111, thereby preventing the air intake channel 11 from communicating with the cooking chamber 201. Furthermore, the first blocking member 20 can, under the action of steam pressure, connect the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111, thereby allowing the air intake channel 11 to communicate with the cooking chamber 201.

[0054] Thus, when steam needs to be introduced into the cooking cavity 201, the steam pressure drives the first blocking member 20 to move, thereby connecting the connecting passage 33 and the steam outlet 111. Steam then smoothly enters the cooking cavity 201 through the air inlet passage 11, the steam outlet 111, and the connecting passage 33, where it comes into contact with the food. No additional components are required to drive the movement of the first blocking member 20, making the air inlet device 100 simpler, less prone to jamming, and enabling more responsive state switching. Furthermore, because steam flows through the connecting passage 33 and the air inlet passage 11, even if the protective cover 30 comes into contact with food, the steam pressure prevents the food from entering the connecting passage 33 and the air inlet passage 11, potentially blocking or contaminating them. This makes the cooking device 200 easier to clean, eliminating any unsafe areas. When there is no need to supply steam to the cooking cavity 201, the first blocking member 20 often blocks at least one of the communicating channel 33 and the steam outlet 111, that is, the first blocking member 20 is often in a position or state of blocking at least one of the communicating channel 33 and the steam outlet 111 to prevent food from entering the air inlet channel 11.

[0055] In some related technologies, the steam outlet lacks a sealing member, requiring the air inlet valve to be spaced from the food when it extends into the cooking chamber to prevent it from being blocked. For example, the steam outlet is located in the lower portion of the cooking chamber, with food placed on a steam rack in the upper portion; or the steam outlet is located in the upper portion of the cooking chamber, with food placed in the lower portion; or a steam duct extends downward into the cooking chamber, with the steam outlet located at the lower portion of the duct. These solutions suffer from issues such as low cooking chamber space utilization, low thermal efficiency, and interference between the steam duct and food, making closing the lid inconvenient or even impossible.

[0056] The present invention provides a first blocking member 20, so that the air intake device 100 is formed into a one-way conduction structure, which effectively prevents the steam outlet 111 and the air intake channel 11 from being blocked by food during the cooking or storage process, and prevents the inside of the air intake channel 11 from being contaminated, resulting in the problem of sanitary dead corners. At the same time, the food in the cooking cavity 201 can directly contact the air intake device 100, and the amount of food added is not limited by the installation position of the air intake device 100. The space in the cooking cavity 201 can be fully utilized to improve cooking efficiency, and there is no need to provide a large air intake structure such as a steam duct to avoid interference with food, thereby ensuring that the cooking utensil 200 can be closed smoothly, and can cook large pieces of food, making it more convenient to use.

[0057] The protective cover 30 shields the first blocking member 20, providing protection and safeguarding. It prevents food from damaging the first blocking member 20 and directly contacting it, potentially affecting the connection between the first blocking member 20 and the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111. This improves the service life and operational reliability of the first blocking member 20. Furthermore, the protective cover 30 provides a uniform and aesthetically pleasing appearance to the air intake device 100.

[0058] Furthermore, the communication channel 33 formed by the protective cover 30 and the air intake valve 10 can shield the air intake channel 11, initially filtering larger food materials, providing a preliminary protective effect against blockage of the air intake device 100, and improving the anti-slag effect of the air intake device 100. For example, in some embodiments, the minimum flow cross-section of the communication channel 33 on the protective cover 30 is less than or equal to 2 mm, allowing steam to escape quickly to cook food and effectively preventing solid matter such as food residue and rice grains from coming into contact with the first blocking member 20, thereby reducing the risk of the first blocking member 20 being scratched and the air intake channel 11 being opened by solid matter.

[0059] In the embodiment where the first blocking member 20 can constantly block the connecting passage 33 and the steam outlet 111, when there is no need to introduce steam into the cooking chamber 201, the first blocking member 20 can form a double protection. Even if one of the blocking of the connecting passage 33 and the blocking of the steam outlet 111 fails, the other can still have a blocking and sealing effect, thereby improving the effect of preventing the air inlet passage 11 from being blocked.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present invention, the protective cover 30 can be removably mounted on the air inlet valve 10 to facilitate cleaning of the communication passage 33 and the cleaning and replacement of the first blocking member 20. The protective cover 30 can be connected to the wall of the cooking cavity 201 or to the air inlet valve 10.

[0061] For example Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the outer circumference of the intake valve 10 is provided with an outer convex portion 136, and the inner circumference of the protective cover 30 is provided with an inner convex portion. The outer convex portion 136 can be moved into the communication cavity 31 and is located on the side of the inner convex portion close to the bottom wall of the communication cavity 31 to achieve the clamping connection between the outer convex portion 136 and the inner convex portion. The protective cover 30 is easy to disassemble and assemble, and is convenient for manual disassembly and cleaning of condensed soup, and has high cleanability. For another example Figures 8-10 As shown, the end of the intake valve 10 is provided with a threaded post 15, and the bottom wall of the protective cover 30 is provided with a threaded hole 34. The threaded post 15 is threadedly connected to the threaded hole 34, which provides a more secure connection. In addition, the outer peripheral surface of the protective cover 30 can be provided with anti-slip grooves to form an uneven operating portion 35. The user rotates the protective cover 30 through the operating portion 35 to achieve installation and removal of the protective cover 30, which is more labor-saving and anti-slip.

[0062] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the operating portion 35 is any value within the range of 10 mm to 40 mm. Within the above size range, there is enough space to set the threaded hole 34, and the user can more easily disassemble and assemble the protective cover 30 through the operating portion 35.

[0063] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the air intake device 100 of the cooking appliance 200 extends into the cooking cavity 201 through at least a portion of the air intake valve 10, and the first blocking member 20 constantly blocks at least one of the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111. This allows steam to directly enter the cooking cavity 201 and fully contact the food, minimizing heat loss and increasing thermal efficiency, thereby improving cooking uniformity and efficiency. The air intake channel 11 can be switched on and off based on steam pressure, effectively preventing food from blocking or contaminating the air intake channel 11. Furthermore, the cooking cavity 201 space is efficiently utilized, and the air intake device 100 does not interfere with the food, providing a better user experience for the cooking appliance 200. Furthermore, the protective cover 30 protects and shields the first blocking member 20, preventing it from being damaged or displaced by solid matter, thereby preventing it from properly blocking the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111. It also prevents the first blocking member 20 from being obstructed by solid matter, thereby preventing it from properly connecting the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111.

[0064] Because the air intake device 100 of the cooking appliance 200 according to the embodiment of the present invention has the aforementioned beneficial technical effects, the cooking appliance 200 according to the embodiment of the present invention, with at least a portion of the air intake valve 10 extending into the cooking cavity 201 and the first blocking member 20 constantly blocking at least one of the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111, allows steam to directly enter the cooking cavity 201 and fully contact the food, minimizing heat loss and increasing thermal efficiency, thereby improving cooking uniformity and efficiency. The air intake channel 11 can be switched on and off based on steam pressure, effectively preventing food from blocking or contaminating the air intake channel 11. Furthermore, the cooking cavity 201 space is efficiently utilized, and the air intake device 100 does not interfere with the food, providing a better user experience for the cooking appliance 200. Furthermore, the protective cover 30 protects and shields the first blocking member 20, preventing it from being damaged or displaced by solid matter, thereby preventing it from properly blocking the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111. It also prevents the first blocking member 20 from being obstructed by solid matter, thereby preventing it from properly connecting the communication channel 33 and the steam outlet 111.

[0065] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 3-Figure 5 As shown, at least a portion of the first blocking member 20 can elastically deform under the action of steam pressure to connect the connecting passage 33 and the steam outlet 111. For example, at least a portion of the first blocking member 20 can be a flexible member that is easily elastically deformed, such as a rubber member or a silicone member. Leveraging the flexible member's deformability, the first blocking member 20 can elastically deform under steam pressure to connect the connecting passage 33 and the steam outlet 111. When the steam pressure is removed or the steam pressure is too low to cause elastic deformation, the first blocking member 20 can recover its deformation, returning to a state that blocks the connecting passage 33 and the steam outlet 111. The state of the air intake device 100 switches sensitively with the on / off switching of steam, effectively preventing blockage or contamination of the air intake passage 11.

[0066] In a specific embodiment, the first blocking member 20 is entirely made of silicone, which not only helps to improve the fixing reliability of the first blocking member 20 , but also helps to improve the sealing effect and service life of the first blocking member 20 .

[0067] The structure and installation structure of the first blocking member 20 according to some embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the steam outlet 111 can be formed on the side wall of the intake valve 10. At least a portion of the first sealing member 20 is sleeved and mounted on the intake valve 10, and the first sealing member 20 is used to open and close the steam outlet 111 of the intake passage 11. The size of the first silicone member is only affected by the intake valve 10, and the fit is high in precision. Disassembly and cleaning are not affected by the connection state of the different components of the intake valve 10. For example, in an embodiment where the intake valve 10 includes a valve body 13 and a valve seat 12, the sealing effect of the first silicone member is not affected by the difference in the screwing height of the valve body 13 and the valve seat 12. The intake device 100 is resistant to slag and highly cleanable.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the first blocking member 20 may include a connecting portion 21 and a first deforming portion 22. The connecting portion 21 is connected to the intake valve 10 to achieve connection between the first blocking member 20 and the intake valve 10. The specific connection structure between the connecting portion 21 and the intake valve 10 can be flexibly configured according to actual conditions.

[0070] For example, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the intake valve 10 can be provided with a groove 131, and the connecting portion 21 can have a protrusion that can be inserted into the groove 131 to achieve plug-in connection between the intake valve 10 and the connecting portion 21. In an embodiment where the connecting portion 21 is made of a flexible rubber material, the size of the protrusion can be slightly larger than the inner size of the groove 131, so that the protrusion can have an interference fit with the groove 131, preventing the protrusion from falling out of the groove 131 during the deformation of the first deformation portion 22, thereby making the connection more reliable. Of course, the groove 131 can also be provided on the connecting portion 21, and the protrusion can also be provided on the intake valve 10, which is also within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0071] In addition, continue to refer to Figure 3-Figure 4 As shown, the first end of the first deformation portion 22 can be connected to the connecting portion 21. Under the action of steam pressure, the first deformation portion 22 can be elastically deformed so that the second end of the first deformation portion 22 moves relative to the first end of the first deformation portion 22, thereby opening the steam outlet 111; and when the steam pressure is removed or the steam pressure is too small to deform the first sealing member 20, the first deformation portion 22 can restore the deformation so that the second end of the first deformation portion 22 can be in sealing contact with the intake valve 10 to close the steam outlet 111.

[0072] For example, Figure 3-Figure 4 As shown, the first end of the first deformation portion 22 (eg Figure 4) is connected to the connecting portion 21, and the thickness of the connecting portion 21 is greater than the thickness of the first deformation portion 22, so that the cross-sectional shape of the first blocking member 20 is roughly "7"-shaped. The connecting portion 21 is used to support and fix the first blocking member 20. The first deformation portion 22 is an elastic sealing portion. Compared with the connecting portion 21, the first deformation portion 22 is thinner in size and can block the steam outlet 111, and can also be deformed to open the steam outlet 111. The first deformation portion 22 is a cylinder, and the first deformation portion 22 extends along the circumference of the intake valve 10. In a state where there is no steam pressure or the steam pressure is relatively low, the first deformation portion 22 is sleeved on the intake valve 10 and is in sealing contact with the outer peripheral surface of the intake valve 10 to close the steam outlet 111. Under the action of steam pressure, the first end of the first deformation portion 22 is fixed by the connecting portion 21 and remains basically unchanged, while the second end of the first deformation portion 22 (for example Figure 4 The inner diameter of the first deformable portion 22 (shown as the lower end) can be expanded to create a gap between the second end of the first deformable portion 22 and the outer circumference of the air inlet valve 10. Steam discharged from the steam outlet 111 can enter the cooking cavity 201 through this gap. When the steam pressure is removed or the steam pressure is too low to deform the first blocking member 20, the second end of the first deformable portion 22 can be contracted to close the steam outlet 111 again. The cylindrical structure of the first deformable portion 22 has greater elasticity and resilience, providing a better sealing effect for closing the steam outlet 111, and is less prone to fatigue, resulting in a longer service life.

[0073] In some embodiments, there can be multiple steam outlets 111, and the multiple steam outlets 111 are distributed at intervals along the circumference of the intake valve 10. The first deformation portion 22 of the cylindrical structure can be used to open and close the multiple steam outlets 111. The structure of the first sealing member 20 is simpler and easier to assemble.

[0074] In some embodiments of the present invention, the inner diameter of the cylinder is less than or equal to the outer diameter of the steam outlet 111 of the intake valve 10, so that the first deformation portion 22 can fit tightly with the outer peripheral surface of the intake valve 10 when it is sleeved on the intake valve 10, thereby achieving a good sealing effect.

[0075] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 As shown, the thickness of the second end of the first deformation portion 22 decreases in the direction away from the first end, so that the second end of the first deformation portion 22 is more easily deformed under the action of steam pressure to open the steam outlet 111. For example, in some embodiments, as Figure 4As shown, the second end of the first deformation portion 22 can be formed with a sealing surface, and the edge of the steam outlet 111 is formed with a sealing mating surface. The sealing surface extends as a slope along the first end of the first deformation portion 22 toward the second end and away from the steam outlet 111. The slope design makes it easier for the steam to push open the second end of the first deformation portion 22 when steam enters the air intake channel 11, making it easier for the first deformation portion 22 to deform and the air intake more sensitive.

[0076] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first blocking member 20 may include a connecting portion 21 and a second deformable portion 23. The connecting portion 21 may be connected to the connecting valve. The second deformable portion 23 may be annular, with its inner periphery connected to the connecting portion 21. The outer periphery of the second deformable portion 23 may be in sealing contact with the inner circumferential surface of the protective cover 30, thereby sealing the gap between the intake valve 10 and the protective cover 30 and blocking the communication passage 33. Under the action of steam pressure, the second deformable portion 23 may elastically deform, causing the outer periphery of the second deformable portion 23 to move relative to the inner periphery, separating from the inner circumferential surface of the protective cover 30, thereby opening the communication passage 33.

[0077] In some embodiments of the present invention, the outer diameter of the second deformation portion 23 is larger than the inner diameter of the protective cover 30, so that the outer periphery of the second deformation portion 23 can fit tightly with the inner periphery of the protective cover 30 to achieve a good sealing effect.

[0078] In some embodiments, as Figure 8 As shown, the second deformable portion 23 extends outward along the airflow direction, forming a tapered shape. This inclined structure increases the force between the second deformable portion 23 and the inner circumference of the protective cover 30, thereby improving the sealing effect. Furthermore, the distance between the inclined structure and the inner circumference of the protective cover 30 decreases along the airflow direction, guiding and focusing the steam flowing there. This makes it easier for the steam pressure to drive the elastic deformation of the second deformable portion 23, and the opening of the connecting channel 33 is more sensitive.

[0079] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, a communication cavity 31 is defined between the inner circumference of the protective cover 30 and the outer circumference of the intake valve 10, and the peripheral wall of the protective cover 30 is as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, there is a communication port 32, or, as Figure 8The peripheral wall of the protective cover 30 cooperates with the wall of the air intake valve 10 or the cooking cavity 201 to define a communication opening 32. Communication opening 32 connects the connecting cavity 31 with the cooking cavity 201. Compared to the connecting cavity 31, the flow area of ​​communication opening 32 is relatively smaller, effectively preventing solid matter such as food residue and rice grains from entering the connecting cavity 31 and coming into contact with the first blocking member 20. This reduces the risk of the first blocking member 20 being scratched and the air intake passage 11 being opened by solid matter.

[0080] It should be noted that, in the embodiment of the present invention, the first blocking member 20 may include only one of the first deformation portion 22 and the second deformation portion 23, or may include both the first deformation portion 22 and the second deformation portion 23. In the embodiment in which the first blocking member 20 includes the second deformation portion 23, the outer periphery of the second deformation portion 23 is located on the upstream side of the communication port 32, for example, Figure 8 As shown, along the airflow direction, steam first flows through the gap between the outer periphery of the second deformed portion 23 and the inner periphery of the protective cover 30, and then flows into the cooking cavity 201 through the communication opening 32. Therefore, when the outer periphery of the second deformed portion 23 is in sealing contact with the inner periphery of the protective cover 30, the connection between the air inlet passage 11 and the communication opening 32 is blocked.

[0081] In some embodiments, the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the communication opening 32 is between 0.3 mm and 1 mm. Within this range, the efficient introduction of steam into the cooking cavity 201 is ensured when the communication passage 33 and the steam outlet 111 are connected, while also preventing food in the cooking cavity 201 from entering the communication cavity 31 through the communication opening 32 when the communication passage 33 and the steam outlet 111 are blocked. This effectively prevents blockage of the communication opening 32, the communication cavity 31, and the air inlet passage 11. In some specific embodiments, the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the communication opening 32 can be 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm, 1 mm, or the like.

[0082] There may be one or more communication openings 32. In the embodiment where there are multiple communication openings 32, the multiple communication openings 32 may be distributed along the circumference of the protective cover 30. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the communication opening 32 can be a through hole provided on the peripheral wall of the protective cover 30. The aperture of the through hole is the minimum size of the flow cross section of the communication opening 32. The plurality of through holes are distributed in multiple layers along the axial direction of the protective cover 30, and each layer includes a plurality of through holes distributed in a circumferential direction of the protective cover 30.

[0083] For example Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the edge of the cover opening of the protective cover 30 (eg Figure 8In some embodiments, the wall of the cooking cavity 201 covers the notch of the communicating groove to define the communicating opening 32. The wall of the cooking cavity 201 can cover the notch of the communicating groove. In other words, the notch edge of the communicating groove can contact and cooperate with the wall of the cooking cavity 201 to prevent the food in the cooking cavity 201 from entering the communicating cavity 31 between the wall of the cooking cavity 201 and the edge of the cover of the protective cover 30. In other embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the outer peripheral surface of the air intake valve 10 can be provided with a flange 137, which can cover the notch of the communicating groove to define the communicating opening 32. In other words, the notch edge of the communicating groove can contact and cooperate with the flange 137 to prevent the food in the cooking cavity 201 from entering the communicating cavity 31 between the flange 137 and the edge of the cover opening of the protective cover 30.

[0084] In an embodiment in which the air intake valve 10 is provided with a flange 137, a communicating groove may also be provided on the flange 137, and the cover edge of the protective cover 30 covers the notch of the communicating groove on the flange 137 to define a communicating opening 32, thereby preventing food in the cooking cavity 201 from entering the communicating cavity 31 between the flange 137 and the cover edge of the protective cover 30.

[0085] The minimum dimension of the cross section of the connecting groove perpendicular to the airflow direction is the minimum dimension of the flow cross section of the connecting opening 32. Figure 10 The cross section of the connecting groove perpendicular to the airflow direction is a rectangle, and the length of the short side of the rectangle is the minimum dimension of the flow cross section of the connecting opening 32. When the protective cover 30 is removed, the notch of the connecting groove is opened, and the air intake device 100 can be cleaned by simple flushing.

[0086] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 8 As shown, the thickness of at least a portion of the peripheral wall of the protective cover 30 increases in a direction away from the bottom wall, so that the thickness of the peripheral wall of the protective cover 30 close to one end of the connecting groove is greater than the thickness at the other end. The extension length of the connecting groove can be longer to improve the effect of preventing food from passing through the connecting groove, and the volume and weight of the protective cover 30 can be reduced.

[0087] The structure and installation structure of the intake valve 10 according to some embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0088] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 3-Figure 4 and Figure 8As shown, the air intake valve 10 may include a valve seat 12 and a valve body 13. The valve seat 12 defines a first channel 112, and the valve body 13 defines a second channel 113. The first channel 112 and the second channel 113 together constitute the air intake channel 11. In other words, the outlet of the first channel 112 communicates with the inlet of the second channel 113, and the outlet of the second channel 113 forms a steam outlet 111. Furthermore, the valve seat 12 and the valve body 13 are connected, and the wall of the cooking cavity 201 is sandwiched between the valve seat 12 and the valve body 13. This secures the air intake valve 10 to the wall of the cooking cavity 201, preventing the air intake valve 10 from falling off or shifting during assembly or disassembly of the protective cover 30, which could cause leakage or damage.

[0089] In some embodiments, as Figure 4 As shown, the first blocking member 20 can be installed outside the valve body 13 to facilitate cleaning and replacement of the first blocking member 20. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the valve body 13 is as shown in FIG. Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, a groove 131 for connecting with the connecting portion 21 is provided.

[0090] In addition, the valve body 13 and the valve seat 12 are detachably connected to facilitate comprehensive cleaning of the interior of the intake valve 10 to ensure service life. Figure 4 As shown, a mounting hole 207 is provided in the cavity wall of the cooking cavity 201, the valve body 13 is located in the cooking cavity 201, and the valve seat 12 is located outside the cooking cavity 201, and the valve seat 12 is provided with a connecting column 14 that passes through the mounting hole 207. The connecting column 14 extends into the cooking cavity 201 and is detachably connected to the valve body 13, for example, by a threaded connection, so that the edge of the mounting hole 207 is clamped between the valve body 13 and the valve seat 12, thereby realizing the installation of the air intake valve 10.

[0091] Of course, the connecting column 14 can also be provided on the valve body 13 and passed through the mounting hole 207, which can also realize the detachable connection between the valve body 13 and the valve seat 12. Figure 8 As shown, one of the valve seat 12 and the valve body 13 is provided with a connecting column 14 , and the other is provided with a connecting sleeve, which is sleeved on the connecting column 14 , and both the connecting column 14 and the connecting sleeve are inserted into the mounting hole 207 .

[0092] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, cooking appliance 200 includes a first cooking container 220, which includes an outer pot 203 and an inner pot 202. Inner pot 202 is disposed within the pot cavity of outer pot 203 and defines a cooking cavity 201. Valve seat 12 is located between inner pot 202 and outer pot 203. Valve seat 12 can be snap-fitted to outer pot 203 or connected by fasteners, or can be pressed and fixed by inner pot 202 and outer pot 203. This prevents connection post 14 of valve seat 12 from dislodging from mounting hole 207 or displacement of valve seat 12 from mounting hole 207 when valve body 13 is separated from valve seat 12, thereby preventing the valve body 13 from being installed.

[0093] In some embodiments, as Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the air intake device 100 may further include at least one of a first sealing member 41 and a second sealing member 42. The first sealing member 41 is provided between the valve seat 12 and the cavity wall of the cooking cavity 201, and the second sealing member 42 is provided between the valve body 13 and the cavity wall of the cooking cavity 201 to seal the mounting hole 207 and prevent food or steam from leaking through the mounting hole 207. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the example shown, the surface of the valve seat 12 facing the cooking cavity 201 is provided with a mounting groove 121 for mounting the first sealing member 41, and the surface of the valve body 13 facing the valve seat 12 is provided with a mounting groove 121 for mounting the second sealing member 42. The first sealing member 41 and the second sealing member 42 are provided at the same time, which has a better sealing effect and can also achieve sealing when the valve body 13 and the valve seat 12 are separated.

[0094] In some specific embodiments, Figure 4 As shown, the valve body 13 defines a cover cavity 132. The cavity wall of the cover cavity 132 may be provided with a plurality of air outlet channels 135. The inlets of the air outlet channels 135 are in communication with the cover cavity 132. The second channel 113 includes the cover cavity 132 and the air outlet channels 135. The cover cavity 132 may be in communication with the first channel 112. The outlets of the air outlet channels 135 form the steam outlet 111. The flow area of ​​the air outlet channels 135 may be smaller than that of the cover cavity 132, so that the opening size of the steam outlet 111 is smaller, forming a preliminary protection, preventing food from entering the interior of the air inlet channel 11, making the air inlet device 100 easier to clean, and preventing food from contacting the first blocking member 20, thereby reducing damage and contamination to the first blocking member 20.

[0095] In some embodiments, the diameter of the steam outlet 111 is any value within the range of 0.5 mm to 3 mm. Within this size range, the amount of steam entering the communication channel 33 from the air inlet channel 11 when steam is needed is guaranteed, ensuring cooking efficiency. At the same time, when steam flows from the cover cavity 132 to the steam outlet 111, it can gather energy and increase pressure, driving the first blocking member 20 to deform and open the steam outlet 111 more sensitively.

[0096] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the air intake device 100 may further include a second blocking member 25 , which is movably disposed in the air intake passage 11 and can enable the air intake passage 11 to be unidirectionally conductive along the airflow direction.

[0097] Specifically, if Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the air inlet passage 11 may include a reducing section 114 extending longitudinally, with its radial dimension increasing upward. A second blocking member 25 is movably disposed within the reducing section 114. Under its own weight, the second blocking member 25 can seal against the inner circumference of the reducing section 114 to block the air inlet passage 11. When steam is introduced, the steam pressure overcomes the weight of the second blocking member 25, driving it upward to open the air inlet passage 11.

[0098] The second sealing member 25 cooperates with the first sealing member 20 to achieve a double or triple seal. If one of the sealing members fails, the other can open and close the air intake device 100. For example, if the flexible first sealing member 20 is fatigued and fails to seal, the second sealing member 25 can block the air intake passage 11, preventing liquid in the cooking cavity 201 from entering the air intake passage 11 or entering the steam generator 240 through the air intake passage 11, making the cooking appliance 200 safer and more reliable to use. For example, in an embodiment where the valve seat 12 includes the first passage 112, the first passage 112 can include a reducing section 114.

[0099] In some specific implementations, the second sealing member 25 can be a sphere, and the cross-section of the reducing section 114 can be circular, so that the reducing section 114 has a tapered inner wall. When the second sealing member 25 moves multiple times and produces wear, the spherical surface and the conical surface can ensure line sealing, and the sealing is not easy to fail. The air intake device 100 has extremely strong anti-slag performance, ensuring the cleanliness of the air intake channel 11, and improving the service life of components such as the pipeline connected to the air intake device 100 and the steam generator 240.

[0100] In some specific embodiments, the second sealing member 25 is an elastic sealing ball, for example, a metal ball wrapped with a silicone layer to form an elastic sealing ball. When the elastic sealing ball cooperates with the conical surface of the variable diameter section 114, the sealing effect is better under the action of elastic force.

[0101] In some embodiments comprising a first deformable portion 22, a second deformable portion 23, and a second sealing member 25, during cooking, steam enters the air inlet passage 11, pushes the second sealing member 25 aside at the reducing section 114, and then exits through the steam outlet 111 of the second passage 113, lifting the first deformable portion 22 of the first sealing member 20 and entering the connecting cavity 31 of the connecting passage 33. The steam then pushes the second deformable portion 23 aside and enters the cooking cavity 201 through the connecting opening 32 of the connecting passage 33, continuing the cooking process. When cooking stops, the second sealing member 25 seals the reducing section 114, preventing negative pressure from forming inside the cavity. The first deformable portion 22 closes the steam outlet 111, and the second deformable portion 23 blocks the connecting cavity 31. Only the connecting opening 32 allows for partial liquid entry, preventing food or liquid from flowing back into the connecting cavity 31 and the air inlet passage 11, making it difficult to clean.

[0102] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1 As shown, the cooking appliance 200 may include a base 210 and a first cooking container 220 . The first cooking container 220 defines a cooking cavity 201 . The air intake device 100 may be installed in the first cooking container 220 .

[0103] Specifically, the base 210 defines an installation cavity having a side opening, and the first cooking container 220 can be installed into the installation cavity from the side opening to achieve detachable cooperation between the first cooking container 220 and the base 210, which is convenient for taking and placing food in the first cooking container 220 and cleaning the cooking cavity 201. It is also beneficial to reduce the number of electronic components on the first cooking container 220, or there is no need to set electronic components on the first cooking container 220, to achieve dry and wet separation, and prevent electronic components from being damaged by water during the cleaning of the cooking cavity 201.

[0104] In some embodiments, the first cooking container 220 has a steam inlet, and the air intake device 100 is connected to the steam inlet. A steam outlet is provided on the wall of the mounting cavity, and the steam generator 240 is mounted on the base 210 and connected to the steam outlet. When the first cooking container 220 is properly installed on the base 210, the steam inlet and steam outlet are connected, allowing steam generated by the steam generator 240 to enter the cooking cavity 201 through the steam outlet, steam inlet, and air intake device 100, achieving steam cooking with high cooking efficiency. The air intake device 100 is provided with a first blocking member 20 to prevent food or liquid in the cooking cavity 201 from flowing back into the steam generator 240, causing damage or contamination.

[0105] The steam inlet can be provided on the side wall or bottom wall of the first cooking container 220, and the corresponding steam outlet can be provided on the side wall or bottom wall of the mounting cavity, thereby reducing the distance between the steam inlet and the air intake device 100 and reducing heat loss from the steam in the air intake duct. In the embodiment where the steam inlet is provided on the side wall of the first cooking container 220, during installation in the mounting cavity, the first cooking container 220 can be supported by the bottom wall of the mounting cavity or directly supported by a placement surface (in the embodiment where the mounting cavity has no bottom wall, the placement surface can be a tabletop or other surface used to place the cooking appliance 200) for movement. The movement process is substantially unaffected by the weight of the first cooking container 220, allowing for smooth alignment of the steam inlet and outlet, resulting in a more labor-saving and convenient operation for the user, and a better user experience.

[0106] In the embodiment where the first cooking container 220 includes an outer pot 203 and an inner pot 202, Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, a steam inlet is provided on the sidewall of the outer pot 203, and a valve seat 12 is provided between the inner pot 202 and the outer pot 203, also serving as an air inlet. The first channel 112 of the valve seat 12 comprises a first section and a second section, wherein the first section extends transversely and the second section extends longitudinally. The inlet of the second section communicates with the outlet of the first section, forming a generally L-shaped first channel 112. The first section can communicate with the steam inlet, allowing steam to be introduced between the inner pot 202 and the outer pot 203, thus avoiding the need for a hole in the bottom of the outer pot 203 and improving the overall integrity.

[0107] According to some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1 As shown, the base 210 may include a first support base 204, a second support base 205, and a connecting base 206. The first support base 204 and the second support base 205 are spaced apart in a vertical direction, with the second support base 205 positioned above the first support base 204. The connecting base 206 connects between the first and second support bases 204, 205 to define a mounting cavity. The base 210 generally forms a C-shaped structure. A first cooking container 220 may be supported on the first support base 204, and a steam generator 240 may be mounted on the connecting base 206 or the first support base 204. A steam outlet may be provided on the inner side of the connecting base 206. The first cooking container 220 may be mounted from a side of the base 210 between the first and second support bases 204, 205. The first cooking container 220 can be supported and moved on the first support base 204, making movement smoother and more labor-saving. This facilitates the removal of ingredients from the first cooking container 220, improving the aesthetics and compactness of the structure. The cooking appliance 200 can be placed in a space with a smaller height to meet the placement requirements of a smaller kitchen space.

[0108] In addition, other structural members may be placed on top of the base 210, for example, in some embodiments, Figure 1As shown, the cooking device 200 may also include a second cooking container 230, which can be supported on the second support base 205, allowing cooking to be performed within at least one of the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230. In some specific embodiments, the outlet of the steam generator 240 is connected to the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230 to achieve dual steaming. For example, the first cooking container 220 can be used to steam rice, while the second cooking container 230 can be used to steam dumplings, buns, corn, etc. The first cooking container 220 can be removed from the side without interfering with the second cooking container 230, allowing them to be removed and used separately, and the cooking device 200 is more compact.

[0109] It should be noted that the steam generator 240 can have two outlets for discharging steam, and the two outlets are respectively connected to the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230 to supply steam to the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230 at the same time; or, the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230 can be connected in series, and the outlet of the steam generator 240 is connected to one of the cooking containers to supply steam to the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230 at the same time; or, there are two steam generators 240, and the two steam generators 240 are respectively connected to the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230 to supply steam to the first cooking container 220 and the second cooking container 230 at the same time.

[0110] The air intake device 100 of the cooking appliance 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0111] Reference Figure 1-Figure 2 and Figure 6-Figure 7 As shown, the cooking appliance 200 according to the embodiment of the present invention may include the air intake device 100 of the cooking appliance 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2-Figure 5 and Figures 8-10 As shown, the air intake device 100 of the cooking appliance 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention may include an air intake mechanism 1 and a first blocking member 20 .

[0112] Specifically, if Figure 2-Figure 5 and Figure 7-Figure 8 As shown, the cooking appliance 200 may include a cooking cavity 201, and an air intake mechanism 1 may include a steam passage. At least a portion of the air intake mechanism 1 extends into the cooking cavity 201, thereby connecting the steam passage and the cooking cavity 201. Steam can enter the cooking cavity 201 directly through the steam passage. Compared with the related art solution in which steam enters the cooking cavity through a top opening, the air intake mechanism 1 of the present invention allows steam to more fully contact the food in the cooking cavity 201, resulting in more uniform heating of the food in various areas, which helps improve the uniformity and taste of the food.

[0113] In some embodiments, the air intake mechanism 1 may include an air intake valve 10 and a protective cover 30. The air intake valve 10 has an air intake passage 11, and at least a portion of the air intake valve 10 extends into the cooking cavity 201. The protective cover 30 covers the air intake valve 10, and the protective cover 30 and the air intake valve 10 cooperate to define a communication passage 33. The communication passage 33 can connect the steam outlet 111 of the air intake passage 11 and the cooking cavity 201, thereby enabling the air intake passage 11 to communicate with the cooking cavity 201. The air intake passage 11 and the communication passage 33 constitute a steam passage.

[0114] Of course, the specific structure of the air intake mechanism 1 includes but is not limited to the air intake valve 10 and the protective cover 30. In other embodiments, the air intake mechanism 1 can be an integrated valve body structure, etc., and it only needs to meet the requirement of being able to define a steam channel directly connected to the cooking cavity 201.

[0115] In addition, if Figure 3-Figure 4 and Figure 7-Figure 8 As shown, the air intake mechanism 1 may further include a first blocking member 20, which is disposed on the air intake mechanism 1 and located within the steam passage. The first blocking member 20 normally blocks at least one portion of the steam passage, thereby preventing the steam passage from communicating with the cooking chamber 201. Furthermore, the first blocking member 20 can open the steam passage under the action of steam pressure, thereby allowing the steam passage to communicate with the cooking chamber 201.

[0116] Thus, when steam needs to be introduced into the cooking cavity 201, the steam pressure drives the first blocking member 20 to move, opening the steam passage. Steam then smoothly enters the cooking cavity 201 through the steam passage and comes into contact with the food. No additional components are required to drive the movement of the first blocking member 20, making the air intake device 100 simpler, less prone to jamming, and enabling more responsive state switching. Furthermore, because steam is flowing in the steam passage, even if the air intake mechanism 1 comes into contact with food, the steam pressure prevents the food from entering the steam passage, potentially blocking or contaminating it. This makes cleaning the cooking appliance 200 easier, eliminating any unsafe areas. When steam is not needed in the cooking cavity 201, the first blocking member 20 constantly blocks at least one portion of the steam passage. Specifically, the first blocking member 20 is constantly in a position or state that blocks at least one portion of the steam passage, preventing food from entering the steam passage.

[0117] By providing the first blocking member 20, the air intake mechanism 1 is formed into a one-way conduction structure, which effectively prevents the steam passage from being blocked by food during cooking or storage, and prevents the interior of the steam passage from being contaminated, resulting in sanitary dead corners. At the same time, the food in the cooking cavity 201 can directly contact the air intake mechanism 1, and the amount of food added is not limited by the installation position of the air intake mechanism 1. The space in the cooking cavity 201 can be fully utilized to improve cooking efficiency, and there is no need to provide a large air intake structure such as a steam duct, thereby avoiding interference with food, ensuring that the cooking utensil 200 can be closed smoothly, and can cook large pieces of food, making it more convenient to use.

[0118] In addition, in an embodiment where the first blocking member 20 is capable of notifying multiple locations (at least two locations) that normally block the steam passage, when there is no need to introduce steam into the cooking cavity 201, the first blocking member 20 can form multiple protections. Even if one of the blocking locations fails, the other location can still have a blocking and sealing effect, thereby improving the effect of preventing the steam passage from being blocked.

[0119] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first blocking member 20 may include a connecting portion 21 and at least two deformable portions. The connecting portion 21 is connected to the air intake mechanism 1, and one end of each deformable portion is connected to the connecting portion 21. Each deformable portion can elastically deform, allowing the other end of the deformable portion to move relative to one end to open the steam passage. Thus, the multiple deformable portions can independently deform and open and close the steam passage, avoiding interference.

[0120] In some embodiments, as Figure 8 As shown, the steam passage comprises a interconnected transverse extension section and an annular longitudinal extension section. A connecting portion 21 is connected to the inner circumference of the longitudinal extension section. The multiple deformable portions may include a first deformable portion 22 and a second deformable portion 23. The first deformable portion 22 is used to open and close the outlet of the transverse extension section. The inner circumference of the second deformable portion 23 is connected to the connecting portion 21, and the outer circumference of the second deformable portion 23 can be in sealing contact with the outer circumference of the longitudinal extension section. The first deformable portion 22 and the second deformable portion 23 cooperate with the transverse extension section and the longitudinal extension section, respectively, to respectively open and block the steam passage.

[0121] In some embodiments of the air intake mechanism 1 including the air intake valve 10 and the protective cover 30, continue to refer to Figure 8As shown, the intake valve 10 has an intake passage 11, the outlet section of which can be formed as a transversely extending section. The protective cover 30 is disposed over the intake valve 10 to cooperate with the intake valve 10 to define a communication passage 33. The inlet section of the communication passage 33 is formed as a longitudinally extending section, i.e., a longitudinally extending section is defined between the inner circumferential surface of the protective cover 30 and the outer circumferential surface of the intake valve 10. The connecting portion 21 is mounted on the outer circumferential surface of the intake valve 10. The first deformable portion 22 is generally cylindrical. The first end (i.e., the lower end) of the first deformable portion 21 is connected to the connecting portion 21, and the first deformable portion 22 is used to open and close the outlet (i.e., the steam outlet 111) of the intake passage 11. The inner circumference of the second deformable portion 23 is connected to the connecting portion 21, and the outer circumference of the second deformable portion 23 is in sealing contact with the inner circumferential surface of the protective cover 30 to block the communication passage 33.

[0122] In addition, all the features and beneficial effects of the air intake device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention are introduced into the air intake device 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and are not repeated here.

[0123] Other structures and operations of the cooking appliance 200 according to the embodiment of the present invention are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0124] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed, detachable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0125] Throughout this specification, reference to terms such as "embodiment," "specific embodiment," and "example" indicates that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in conjunction with that embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, schematic representations of these terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0126] While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, and that the scope of the invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An air intake device for a cooking appliance, characterized in that: The cooking appliance has a cooking cavity, and the air intake device comprises: an air intake valve having an air intake passage, at least a portion of which extends into the cooking cavity; a protective cover, the protective cover being arranged on the air inlet valve to cooperate with the air inlet valve to define a communication channel, the communication channel being connected between the steam outlet of the air inlet channel and the cooking cavity; a first blocking member, which is provided on the intake valve and located in the communication channel; The first blocking member normally blocks at least one of the communication channel and the steam outlet, and is adapted to connect the communication channel and the steam outlet under the action of steam pressure; At least a portion of the first blocking member is elastically deformable under the action of steam pressure to connect the communication channel and the steam outlet; The steam outlet is formed on the side wall of the air inlet valve, and the first blocking member includes: a connecting portion connected to the intake valve; a first deformation portion, wherein a first end of the first deformation portion is connected to the connecting portion, and the first deformation portion is elastically deformable so that a second end of the first deformation portion moves relative to the first end to open the steam outlet; The first blocking member includes: a connecting portion connected to the intake valve; The second deformation portion has an inner periphery connected to the connecting portion and an outer periphery in sealing contact with the inner periphery of the protective cover, and the second deformation portion can be elastically deformed to separate the outer periphery from the inner periphery of the protective cover.

2. The air intake device for a cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The steam outlets are multiple and spaced apart along the circumference of the intake valve. The first deformation portion is a cylinder extending along the circumference of the intake valve. The inner diameter of the cylinder is smaller than or equal to the outer diameter of the intake valve.

3. The air intake device for a cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second deformation portion extends along the airflow direction and tilts outward.

4. The air intake device for a cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: A communication cavity is defined between the inner circumferential surface of the protective cover and the outer circumferential surface of the intake valve. The peripheral wall of the protective cover is provided with a communication port connecting the communication cavity and the cooking cavity; or the peripheral wall of the protective cover cooperates with the air inlet valve or the cavity wall of the cooking cavity to define the communication port, The communication passage includes the communication cavity and the communication port.

5. The air intake device for a cooking appliance according to claim 4, characterized in that: The minimum size of the flow cross section of the communication port is 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

6. The air intake device for a cooking appliance according to claim 4, characterized in that: A communication groove is provided at the edge of the cover opening of the protective cover, and the cavity wall of the cooking cavity or the flange cover of the air inlet valve seals the notch of the communication groove to define the communication opening; or The flange of the air intake valve is provided with a communication groove, and the cover edge of the protective cover covers the notch of the communication groove to define the communication port.

7. The air intake device of a cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The intake valve comprises: a valve seat having a first passage; A valve body is connected to the valve seat and has a second channel, the first channel and the second channel constitute the air intake channel, and the cavity wall of the cooking cavity is sandwiched between the valve seat and the valve body.

8. The air intake device for a cooking appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first channel includes a diameter-reducing section, the radial size of which increases upwards, and the intake valve further includes: A second blocking member is movably disposed in the diameter-changing section, and the second blocking member is adapted to block and open the first channel under the action of its own gravity and steam pressure.

9. The air intake device for a cooking appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second channel includes a cover cavity and a plurality of gas outlet channels. The cover cavity is communicated with the first channel. The inlets of the gas outlet channels are communicated with the cover cavity and the outlets are formed as the steam outlets.

10. The air intake device of a cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The diameter of the steam outlet is 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

11. An air intake device for a cooking appliance, characterized in that: The cooking appliance has a cooking cavity, and the air intake device comprises: an air intake mechanism, the air intake mechanism having a steam passage, and at least a portion of the air intake mechanism extends into the cooking cavity so that the steam passage communicates with the cooking cavity; a first blocking member, the first blocking member being provided at the air inlet mechanism and located in the steam passage, the first blocking member normally blocking at least one location of the steam passage and being adapted to open the steam passage under the action of steam pressure; The first blocking member includes: a connecting portion connected to the air intake mechanism; at least two deformation parts, one end of each deformation part is connected to the connecting part, and each deformation part can be elastically deformed so that the other end of the deformation part moves relative to the one end to open the steam channel; The steam channel includes a transverse extension section and an annular longitudinal extension section that are connected to each other, the connecting portion is connected to the inner circumference of the longitudinal extension section, and the plurality of deformation portions include a first deformation portion and a second deformation portion, wherein, The first deformation portion is used to open and close the outlet of the transverse extension section. The inner periphery of the second deformation portion is connected to the connecting portion, and the outer periphery is suitable for sealing contact with the outer peripheral surface of the longitudinal extension section.

12. The air intake device of a cooking appliance according to claim 11, characterized in that: The air intake mechanism comprises: an air intake valve, the air intake valve having an air intake passage, the outlet section of the air intake passage being formed as the transversely extending section; A protective cover is provided on the air intake valve to cooperate with the air intake valve to define a communication channel, and an inlet section of the communication channel is formed as the longitudinal extension section.

13. A cooking utensil, characterized in that: An air intake device comprising the cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1-12.

14. The cooking appliance according to claim 13, wherein The air intake device is arranged at the lower part of the cooking cavity.

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