An integrated cooking appliance

Abstract

The application discloses an integrated cooking appliance, comprising a range hood body, a cleaning device and a table top below the range hood body, the range hood body comprising a shell and an oil collecting component at the bottom of the shell, the cleaning device comprising: a water inlet and outlet device, comprising a water inlet pipe connected to a water pipe and a sewage pipe connected to a sewer, the water inlet pipe being arranged below the table top; a water supply pipe capable of being in fluid communication with the water inlet pipe; when the cleaning device is in a working state, the water supply pipe is in fluid communication with the water inlet pipe and the shell, so that the water supply pipe and the water inlet pipe provide cleaning medium for cleaning the range hood body, and the sewage pipe is in fluid communication with the shell; when the cleaning device is in a non-working state, the passage among the water inlet pipe, the water supply pipe and the shell is disconnected. Compared with the prior art, the application has the advantages that automatic water supply and drainage is realized, the water quantity for cleaning is sufficient, the cleaning effect is good, and the user is avoided from adding water and treating waste water by himself; through the lifting of the water supply pipe and the oil collecting component for cleaning, waterway communication during cleaning and hiding in a non-cleaning state are realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to kitchen equipment, and more particularly to an integrated cooking appliance. Background Technology

[0002] Range hoods have become an indispensable kitchen appliance in modern homes. They operate on the principles of fluid dynamics, using a centrifugal fan inside to draw in cooking fumes and a filter to remove some grease particles. The centrifugal fan consists of a casing, an impeller housed within the casing, and a motor that drives the impeller. As the impeller rotates, a negative pressure is generated at the center of the fan, drawing in the cooking fumes from below. After being accelerated by the fan, the fumes are collected by the casing and guided outdoors.

[0003] During the use of range hoods, a large amount of grease accumulates on the fan, which can easily cause blockages, increased load, and affect the performance of the range hood. Therefore, some range hoods now feature self-cleaning functions. With the continuous advancement of self-cleaning technology, steam cleaning or water cleaning has been widely used in the field of range hood self-cleaning. The basic principle is that a steam generator produces steam or a water pump pumps water, delivering the steam or water to the nozzles at the end of the spray pipe. The steam or water is then rapidly sprayed out from the nozzles, washing and cleaning the impeller and volute.

[0004] For example, Chinese Patent Application No. 202110691932.5 discloses a cleaning structure including a cleaning component for cleaning the interior of the main body of a range hood. The cleaning component includes a spray pipe located inside the impeller of the range hood's fan. The spray pipe is arranged circumferentially along the impeller and has multiple spray outlets spaced apart circumferentially along the impeller, with the spray outlets facing the impeller. The cleaning component also includes a water pump, a water supply pipe, and an atomizing nozzle. The water supply pipe is connected to the spray pipe through the atomizing nozzle, and the water pump is used to deliver water from the water supply pipe to the spray pipe. The cleaning component also includes a water tank, with the end of the water supply pipe away from the spray pipe connected to the water tank.

[0005] This type of self-cleaning range hood uses a water tank to store cleaning water, typically with a capacity of about 750ml; drainage is mainly done through the oil cup or a partition separated from the water tank. The main problems are as follows: ① Insufficient water volume; some users have to add and empty water multiple times to get it clean, which is time-consuming and laborious; ② Limited cleaning range; due to the small water volume, current self-cleaning technology only cleans the impeller area, failing to cover the oil filter and oil cup, which are a major concern for users.

[0006] To address this, Chinese patent application number 201621090308.0 proposed a concept of introducing tap water into a volute, but did not mention how to implement the concept. If connected by a movable pipe, there are issues of cumbersome connection and disassembly of two pipes and the possibility of pipe loss. If made into a fixed pipe, there are issues of the pipe being exposed, affecting the overall layout of the kitchen, and causing many inconveniences for users when cleaning daily. Embedding the inlet and outlet water pipes into the wall is acceptable to some new installation users, but most replacement users are unwilling to do so due to the high cost and complicated construction. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to address the shortcomings of the prior art by providing an integrated cooking appliance that can improve the ease of self-cleaning, avoid insufficient water volume for cleaning, and enhance the consistency of the overall appearance of the appliance and the kitchen.

[0008] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: an integrated cooking appliance, including a range hood body, a cleaning device, and a countertop located below the range hood body, wherein the range hood body includes a shell and an oil collecting component located at the bottom of the shell, the oil collecting component being used to collect fluid flowing down inside the shell, characterized in that: the cleaning device includes:

[0009] The water inlet and outlet device includes an inlet pipe connected to a tap water pipe and a drain pipe connected to a sewer, wherein the inlet pipe is located below the countertop;

[0010] The water inlet pipe is in fluid communication with the water supply pipe;

[0011] When the cleaning device is in operation, the water supply pipe connects the water inlet pipe and the fluid inside the housing, thereby providing a cleaning medium for cleaning the range hood body, and the drain pipe is connected to the fluid inside the housing.

[0012] When the cleaning device is not in operation, the passage between the water inlet pipe, the water supply pipe and the housing is disconnected.

[0013] According to one aspect of the invention, the water inlet pipe is concealed within the range hood body and extends upward from the oil collection component to connect with the housing; the drain pipe is fixedly disposed below the countertop.

[0014] When the cleaning device is in operation, the oil collecting component descends to make the water supply pipe and the inlet pipe fluidly connected, and also to make the oil collecting component and the drain pipe fluidly connected.

[0015] When the cleaning device is not in operation, the oil collection component rises, and the water inlet pipe also rises and disconnects from the water inlet pipe, thus disconnecting the oil collection component from the drain pipe.

[0016] To correct the deviation caused by the descent of the water inlet pipe and the oil collection component, the integrated cooking appliance also includes a lifting docking device, which is connected to the water inlet pipe and the oil collection component respectively; the water inlet pipe and the drain pipe are respectively connected to the countertop, and the docking device is aligned with the countertop after descent, so that the water inlet pipe and the oil collection component and the drain pipe are fluidly connected.

[0017] Preferably, to facilitate alignment between the docking device and the platform, a downwardly recessed docking groove is formed on the platform, and the docking device includes a housing for aligning with the docking groove.

[0018] Preferably, to facilitate automatic alignment of the outer casing, the docking device further includes a slide rail, which is a cross slide rail connected between the oil collecting component and the outer casing, so that the outer casing can move left and right and / or back and forth relative to the oil collecting component.

[0019] To facilitate the connection between the water inlet pipe, the oil collection component, and the drain pipe even when the outer casing is displaced, the bottom of the oil collection component is provided with a first water inlet connector and a first drain connector. The lower end of the water inlet pipe is connected to the first water inlet connector. The docking device also includes a second water inlet connector and a second drain connector located at the bottom of the outer casing. The first water inlet connector and the second water inlet connector, as well as the first drain connector and the second drain connector, are connected by flexible hoses. The bottom of the docking groove is provided with a third water inlet connector and a third drain connector. The second water inlet connector can be connected to the third water inlet connector, and the second drain connector can be connected to the third drain connector. The water inlet pipe is connected to the third water inlet connector, and the drain pipe is connected to the third drain connector.

[0020] To prevent water from dripping from the water inlet pipe onto the countertop due to gravity when the docking device is retracted, thus preventing odor transfer, the second water inlet connector, the second drain connector, the third water inlet connector, and the third drain connector all use quick-connect connectors. Each of the four connectors has the function of a one-way valve, ensuring that fluid can only flow from the water inlet pipe to the water inlet pipe and from the oil collection component to the drain pipe.

[0021] To prevent debris from falling into the drain pipe and to facilitate separate cleaning of the drain pipe, a drain valve for controlling the on / off state is installed on the pipeline between the first drain connector and the second drain connector.

[0022] To facilitate the diversion of oil and waste liquid from the shell into the oil collecting component, a guide pipe is provided between the shell and the oil collecting component to enable fluid communication between them. The lower end of the guide pipe is connected to the oil collecting component and is in fluid communication with it, while the upper end of the guide pipe is connected to the bottom of the shell and is in fluid communication with it.

[0023] To facilitate the collection of oil and waste liquid introduced by the guide pipe by the oil collection component, the range hood also includes a guide connector. The guide pipe corresponds to two guide connectors. The oil collection component is provided with a bracket, and one of the guide connectors is located inside the bracket, so that the bracket and the guide pipe are connected through the guide connector to support the guide pipe. There is a certain gap between the lower end of the guide pipe and the bottom of the oil collection component. The other guide connector is located at the bottom of the housing, and the guide pipe is connected between the two guide connectors.

[0024] Preferably, both the guide pipe and the water supply pipe are flexible hoses and are covered with corrugated pipes on their outer periphery. This restricts the movement space of the guide pipe and the water supply pipe, preventing the pipeline from being clamped by the oil collection component during the upward resetting process of the oil collection component.

[0025] Preferably, to simplify the structure and achieve automatic lifting, the docking device is fixed to the oil collection component and is lifted synchronously by the lifting device. The lifting device includes a linear drive module, and the output end of the linear drive module is connected to the oil collection component.

[0026] To facilitate the lifting and lowering of the oil collecting component and prevent it from rotating, the lifting device also includes a guide column. The lower end of the guide column is fixedly connected to the oil collecting component, and the upper end of the guide column is slidably connected to the housing.

[0027] To facilitate the concealment of the docking groove and maintain the consistency of the platform, a cover plate is provided on the docking groove.

[0028] Preferably, to further maintain the consistency of the countertop and facilitate the removal of the cover plate, the top surface of the cover plate is flat and flush with the countertop, and a magnet is embedded in the bottom of the cover plate.

[0029] According to another aspect of the invention, when the cleaning device is in a non-operating state, the water inlet pipe and the drain pipe are hidden under the countertop; when the cleaning device is in an operating state, the water inlet pipe and the drain pipe extend upwards and connect to the housing.

[0030] To facilitate the concealment of the water supply pipe and the sewage pipe, and to reduce the space occupied, the water supply pipe and at least part of the sewage pipe are flexible, so that when the cleaning device is not in operation, the water supply pipe and the sewage pipe are folded, and when the cleaning device is in operation, the water supply pipe and the sewage pipe are unfolded.

[0031] Preferably, to facilitate the repositioning of the water supply pipe, the water supply pipe includes a first water supply pipe section and a second water supply pipe section. The first water supply pipe section is a rigid pipe, and the second water supply pipe section is a flexible pipe. A first stop ring is provided at the bottom of the first water supply pipe section, and a first elastic member is provided on the outer periphery of the first water supply pipe section. The upper end of the first elastic member abuts against the bottom surface of the countertop, and the lower end of the first elastic member abuts against the first stop ring, thereby keeping the water supply pipe hidden under the countertop.

[0032] Preferably, to facilitate the repositioning of the drain pipe, the drain pipe includes a first drain pipe section and a second drain pipe section. The first drain pipe section is a rigid pipe, and the second drain pipe section is a flexible pipe. A second stop ring is provided at the bottom of the first drain pipe section, and a second elastic member is provided on the outer periphery of the first drain pipe section. The upper end of the second elastic member abuts against the bottom surface of the countertop, and the lower end of the second elastic member abuts against the second stop ring, thereby keeping the drain pipe hidden under the countertop.

[0033] To facilitate the connection and disassembly of the pipes and housing, the cleaning device also includes a base. The upper end of the water supply pipe is connected to the bottom of the base and the lower end is in fluid communication with the water inlet pipe. The upper end of the drain pipe is connected to the bottom of the base. When the cleaning device is in operation, the base is located on the platform. When the cleaning device is in operation, the base rises to connect with the housing, so that the water supply pipe and the drain pipe are respectively in fluid communication with the inside of the housing.

[0034] Preferably, to facilitate the connection and disassembly of the housing and the base, the bottom of the housing is provided with a water inlet connector and a sewage outlet connector, and the base is provided with a water inlet channel and a sewage outlet channel. The upper and lower ends of the water inlet channel and the sewage outlet channel penetrate the corresponding upper and lower surfaces of the base. The upper end of the water inlet pipe is connected to the lower end of the water inlet channel and they are in fluid communication with each other. The upper end of the sewage outlet pipe is connected to the lower end of the sewage outlet channel and they are in fluid communication with each other. When the cleaning device is in working condition, the water inlet connector on the housing is aligned with and connected to the upper end of the water inlet channel of the base, and the sewage outlet connector on the housing is aligned with and connected to the upper end of the sewage outlet channel of the base.

[0035] To facilitate concealment of the base and maintain the consistency of the work surface, a downwardly recessed docking groove is formed on the work surface. When the cleaning device is not in operation, the base is located in the docking groove and is covered by a cover plate.

[0036] To facilitate control of the water inlet and its flow rate, the water inlet pipe is equipped with an inlet valve for opening and closing the water inlet pipe and a throttle valve for controlling the flow rate of the water inlet pipe, with the throttle valve located downstream of the inlet valve.

[0037] To facilitate better cleaning of the range hood body, a heating module is also installed on the water inlet pipe. The heating module is located downstream of the throttle valve, so that hot water or steam can be provided as a cleaning medium to achieve comprehensive and efficient cleaning.

[0038] To facilitate cleaning of the drain pipe and prevent blockage, a three-way valve is installed on the water inlet pipe to allow the water inlet pipe to be opened or closed. The three-way valve is located downstream of the heating module and has an outlet that is connected to the drain pipe via a connecting pipe and is in fluid communication with the drain pipe.

[0039] To facilitate the concealment of the water inlet and outlet devices, the integrated cooking appliance also includes a cabinet located under the countertop, with the water inlet and outlet devices located inside or behind the cabinet.

[0040] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this invention are as follows: By connecting the inlet pipe to the tap water pipe and the drain pipe to the sewer, users are spared the need to add water and treat wastewater themselves, achieving automatic water supply and drainage, which is convenient and quick. It eliminates the need for water boxes, cups, and other devices, avoiding the problem of loss and saving storage space. It provides ample water for cleaning, resulting in good cleaning effect and fewer limitations. The cleaning range can be expanded without worrying about insufficient water or frequent wastewater treatment. It can achieve three cleaning modes: steam cleaning, hot water cleaning, and high-flow impact stripping, improving the cleaning effect. The lifting and lowering of the water inlet pipe and oil collection component allows for water flow during cleaning and concealment when not cleaning, without affecting the appearance or overall kitchen aesthetics, and without occupying storage space. The docking device ensures automatic alignment, avoiding misalignment caused by installation errors. The drain pipe has a cleaning mode to remove grease, preventing blockages, microbial growth, and odors. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated cooking appliance in use according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the concealed cover plate of the stove body;

[0043] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning state of the integrated cooking appliance according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A sectional view;

[0045] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of part I;

[0046] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of part II;

[0047] Figure 7 for Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of part III;

[0048] Figure 8 This is a partial schematic diagram of the docking device of the integrated cooking appliance according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 9 This is an exploded structural diagram of the lid and magnet of the integrated cooking appliance according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the usage state of the integrated cooking appliance according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of an integrated cooking appliance;

[0052] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A magnified schematic diagram of part IV;

[0053] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the water inlet pipe, part of the drain pipe, and the elastic element of the integrated cooking appliance according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning state of the integrated cooking appliance according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of an integrated cooking appliance;

[0056] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A magnified schematic diagram of part V. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions.

[0058] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Since the embodiments disclosed in this invention can be arranged in different directions, these terms indicating direction are only for illustration and should not be regarded as limitations. For example, "upper" and "lower" are not necessarily limited to directions opposite to or consistent with the direction of gravity. In addition, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. Example 1

[0059] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 An integrated cooking appliance includes a range hood and a cooktop 200. The range hood includes a range hood body 1 and a cleaning device for cleaning the range hood body 1. In this embodiment, "water" is a general term referring to a fluid cleaning medium, and may also include cleaning agents, etc. The cooktop 200 is located below the range hood body 1.

[0060] The range hood body 1 includes a housing 11 and an oil collection component 12 disposed at the bottom of the housing 11. The housing 11 serves as the main body for absorbing fumes and may contain a fan system (not shown). The oil collection component 12 is preferably an oil cup with an open top, used to collect oil flowing down from the housing 11, waste liquid after cleaning, and other fluids. The cleaning device includes a docking device, a water inlet / outlet device, and a lifting device. The lifting device is used to drive the docking device (along with the oil collection component 12) to descend and connect with the water inlet / outlet device for fluid communication when cleaning is required, and to rise when cleaning is not required so that the oil collection component 12 can return to the working position for collecting oil.

[0061] The cooktop 200 includes a countertop 201, a cabinet 202 located below the countertop 201, and a cooktop 203 mounted on the countertop 201. The cabinet 202 may also include a steaming and baking system, or it may not. A docking groove 204 is provided on the countertop 201 at a position corresponding to the docking device. When the range hood body 1 is in operation, the docking groove 204 is closed and hidden by a cover plate 205, which is flush with the countertop 201. The aforementioned water inlet and outlet devices are located below the countertop 201, achieving a concealed design; the specific structure is detailed below.

[0062] The lifting device and docking device can be designed in different positions depending on the model of the range hood body 1. They can be designed at the rear, hidden behind the range hood body 1, so that the devices are not visible from the front. Similarly, the docking device can also be designed on the left and right sides, with a separate lifting space designed inside the range hood body 1. In addition, the lifting device can be attached to the oil collection component 12 as in this embodiment. For range hood bodies 1 with a high smoke inlet, the docking device can also be driven by the panel. The main requirement is that the height of the panel below the smoke inlet must be greater than or equal to the distance from the countertop 201 to the bottom of the range hood body 1. In addition, the panel is placed on the countertop 201 to ensure that the internal pipes can be concealed when it moves into position. If the exposure of the pipes during cleaning is not considered, a lower panel below the smoke inlet is sufficient to design the docking device in the form of a panel driving the docking device.

[0063] The cover plate 205 is designed to prevent debris from falling into the mating groove 204. For aesthetic purposes, its top surface is flat and flush with the countertop 201, maintaining the consistency of the countertop 201. (See also...) Figure 9 To facilitate the removal of the cover plate 205, a magnet 206 can be embedded in the bottom of the cover plate 205. When it is necessary to open the cover plate 205 for cleaning, the cover plate 205 can be lifted by the attraction of the magnet.

[0064] See Figures 3-8 The lifting device includes a linear drive module and a guide column 33. In this embodiment, the linear drive module includes a motor 311, a bevel gear set, and a lead screw 313. The output shaft (extending laterally) of the motor 311 is connected to one of the bevel gears (driving gear 3121) in the bevel gear set. After reversing through another meshing bevel gear (driven gear 3122) in the bevel gear set, the motor 311 engages with the lead screw 313 via the thread in the bevel gear set, thereby driving the lead screw 313 to rise and fall. The lead screw 313 is connected to the oil collecting component 12, thereby driving the oil collecting component 12 and the docking device to rise and fall. As mentioned above, the linear drive module can also drive the docking device to rise and fall; therefore, the lead screw 313 can be connected to the docking device.

[0065] Specifically, the driven gear 3122 is fixed inside the housing 11 by the support 3123, which supports the driven gear 3122 and provides a rotation center. The driven gear 3122 is installed in the inner hole of the thrust bearing 3124, with a clearance fit to the inner hole of the support 3123. The driving gear 3121 is connected to the output shaft of the motor 311 by a set screw, etc., and can be driven by the motor 311 to rotate around the laterally extending axis. The motor 311 drives the driven gear 3122 to rotate around the longitudinally extending axis by driving the driving gear 3121 to rotate. The thrust bearing 3124 ensures that the driven gear 3122 rotates flexibly and reduces its rotational resistance. The inner hole of the driven gear 3122 has a threaded structure, forming a screw-nut pair with the lead screw 313 for linear drive. Thus, the lead screw 313 acts as the output end of the linear drive module to drive the oil collection component 12 to rise and fall.

[0066] The lower end of the guide column 33 is fixedly connected to the oil collection component 12, while the upper end is slidably connected to the housing 11 of the range hood body 1. A guide sleeve 331 is provided at the connection point, and the guide column 33 can pass through the guide sleeve 331 to form a sliding connection. The guide column 33 can guide the lifting and lowering of the oil collection component 12, preventing rotation and shaking while ensuring that the oil collection component 12 can be lifted and lowered vertically.

[0067] A guide pipe 13 is provided between the housing 11 and the oil collecting component 12. The lower end of the guide pipe 13 is connected to the oil collecting component 12 and is in fluid communication with it, while the upper end of the guide pipe 13 is connected to the bottom of the housing 11 and is in fluid communication with it. Thus, the oil or waste liquid after cleaning in the housing 11 can be collected into the oil collecting component 12 even during cleaning. The lifting device also includes a guide connector 132. A bracket 131 can be provided on the oil collecting component 12, and one guide connector 132 is located in the bracket 131. This allows the bracket 131 to be connected to the guide pipe 13 through the guide connector 132, thereby supporting the guide pipe 13 and ensuring that there is a certain gap between its lower end and the bottom of the oil collecting component 12, so that the waste liquid can flow smoothly without splashing. Another flow guide 132 is located at the bottom of the housing 11. The flow guide 13 is connected between the two flow guides 132. The flow guide 13 is a flexible tube, which can be made of silicone to prevent waste liquid from falling directly and splashing outside. At the same time, the flexible tube ensures that the pipeline can deform when the lifting device is in the docking state and the reset state.

[0068] The cleaning device also includes a water inlet pipe 34, which is disposed between the oil collection component 12 and the housing 11. The aforementioned guide pipe 13 and water inlet pipe 34 are covered by a corrugated pipe 32 to restrict their movement and prevent the pipe from being caught outside the oil collection component 12 during its upward repositioning process. The range hood body also includes a first water inlet connector 121 and a first drain connector 122. There are two first water inlet connectors 121; one first water inlet connector 121 and the first drain connector 122 are located at the bottom of the oil collection component 12, and the other first water inlet connector 121 is located at the bottom of the housing 11. The two ends of the aforementioned water inlet pipe 34 are respectively connected to one of the first water inlet connectors 121. The water inlet pipe 34 is a flexible hose that can deform when the oil collection component 12 is raised or lowered, or the water inlet pipe 34 can have a certain lifting distance relative to the housing 11. The portion of the water inlet pipe 34 extending into the housing 11 is not shown; this portion can be equipped with commonly used nozzles for cleaning. Alternatively, if the water inlet pipe 34 and the nozzle installed inside the housing 11 are separate components, then the water inlet pipe 34 can be connected to the housing 11.

[0069] The aforementioned linear drive module can also be replaced by other solutions in the existing technology, such as gear racks and pinions, electric push rods, direct-drive screw and nut pairs, linear motors, etc., all of which can be applied here. Alternatively, the lifting and lowering of the oil collection component 12 and the docking device can also be achieved manually.

[0070] Because the connection position of the oil collecting component 12 and the water supply pipe 34 may deviate in all directions after descent, this invention includes a docking device to correct these deviations. The docking device includes a housing 41 and a slide rail 42. The housing 41 is a box-shaped structure with an open top, adapted to the docking groove 204. Both the peripheral walls of the housing 41 and the docking groove 204 are sloped from top to bottom, gradually sloping towards the center. The peripheral walls of the housing 41 form a rounded corner at the junction, facilitating the insertion of the housing 41 into the docking groove 204. When a deviation occurs, the housing 41 contacts the slope of the docking groove 204 to align itself, and then continues to descend, docking the interface. It is crucial to ensure the depth of the docking groove 204; docking should only occur after alignment to avoid jamming.

[0071] Alternatively, the outer casing 41 can also be hemispherical and have an automatic alignment function.

[0072] The slide rail 42 is a cross slide rail, which can drive the outer casing 41 to move back and forth and left and right for fine-tuning and centering. The range of movement is smaller than the range of the inclined surface of the docking groove, but it can completely compensate for the error of misalignment during installation. The installation error is generally no more than 10mm even when observed with the naked eye. The slide rail 42 includes a fixed rail 421, a first sliding rail 422 and a second sliding rail 423. The fixed rail 421 is installed on the outer side of the bottom of the oil collecting component 12. The first sliding rail 422 is located below the fixed rail 421 and is slidably connected, so that the first sliding rail 422 can move left and right. The second sliding rail 423 is fixedly installed at the bottom of the first sliding rail 422. A connecting frame 43 is fixedly installed inside the outer casing 41. The second sliding rail 423 is slidably installed on the connecting frame 43, so that the connecting frame 43 can move back and forth, thereby allowing the outer casing 41 to move back and forth and left and right.

[0073] The bottom of the outer casing 41 is provided with a second water inlet connector 44 and a second sewage outlet connector 45, and the bottom of the docking groove 204 is provided with a third water inlet connector 2041 and a third sewage outlet connector 2042. The second water inlet connector 44 and the first water inlet connector 121 are connected by a flexible hose (not shown), which is about 20mm longer to ensure that the slide rail 42 can move freely. The second sewage outlet connector 45 and the first sewage outlet connector 122 are also connected by a flexible hose (not shown), but the difference is that a sewage outlet valve 46 is provided in the middle of the connecting pipe to cut off the sewage outlet and prevent sewage from leaking down. Preferably, it can be a solenoid valve. The oil and waste liquid collected on the oil collection component 12 can be discharged downward through the docking device. Thus, the water inlet pipe 34 and the second water inlet connector 44 are in fluid communication, and the inside of the oil collection component 12 is in fluid communication with the second sewage outlet connector 45.

[0074] The aforementioned second water inlet connector 44, second drain connector 45, third water inlet connector 2041, and third drain connector 2042 all use common quick-connect fittings. The second water inlet connector 44 and the third water inlet connector 2041 form a female-female connector, as do the second drain connector 45 and the third drain connector 2042. Each of these four connectors functions as a check valve. Hot water and other cleaning media can enter the second water inlet connector 44 through the third water inlet connector 2041, while oil and waste liquids can enter the third drain connector 2042 through the second drain connector 45. That is, the check valves for water inlet and drain outlet have opposite directions, used for reverse sealing to facilitate subsequent pipeline cleaning. The check valve in the second water inlet connector 44 prevents water in the water inlet pipe 34 from dripping onto the countertop 201 due to gravity when the connection device is retracted, thus avoiding inconvenience to the user. The check valve in the third water inlet connector 2041 also prevents debris from falling in and causing blockage. The drain valve 46 is open when cleaning and closed when not cleaning.

[0075] The water inlet and outlet device includes an inlet pipe 51 and a drain pipe 52. One end of the inlet pipe 51 is connected to an external tap water pipe via an inlet connector 511, and the other end is connected to a third water inlet connector 2041. One end of the drain pipe 52 is connected to an external sewer via a drain connector 521 (used to discharge oil, waste liquid, etc.), and the other end is connected to a third drain connector 2042. An inlet valve 512 is installed on the inlet pipe 51 to control the flow of tap water and prevent tap water from impacting the water circuit when the cleaning function is not in use. A throttling valve 513 is installed on the inlet pipe 51 downstream of the inlet valve 512. This valve is mainly used to control the water volume to prevent the water volume from being too large and the pipeline from being unable to handle it. In addition, by automatically adjusting the throttling valve 513, the flow rate can be controlled, further controlling the generation of steam and hot water.

[0076] The water inlet and outlet device also includes a heating module 53, which is installed on the inlet pipe 51, downstream of the throttle valve 513, and can heat the tap water in the inlet pipe 51 to generate steam or hot water. A three-way valve 54 is also installed on the inlet pipe 51, located downstream of the heating module 53. The three-way valve 54 has a one-inlet, two-outlet structure; the inlet and one of the outlets are connected to the inlet pipe 51, with the inlet located upstream of the outlet. Thus, the three-way valve 54 can either cut off the inlet pipe 51 or allow it to flow. One outlet of the three-way valve 54 is connected to the drain pipe 52 via a connecting pipe 55 and is in fluid communication with the drain pipe 52.

[0077] The aforementioned inlet valve 512 and three-way valve 54 can both be solenoid valves.

[0078] When the three-way valve 54 is de-energized, water enters the range hood body 1 through the third water inlet connector 2041 and the water inlet pipe 34 to clean the range hood body 1. When the three-way valve 54 is energized, water flows through the three-way valve 54 and the connecting pipe 55 to the drain pipe 52 to clean the drain pipe 52. Because the drain pipe 52 discharges a mixture of oil and water, and there is no liquid in the drain pipe 52 when it is not being cleaned, it is prone to oil accumulation, pipe blockage, and microbial growth. Therefore, a circuit is designed through the three-way valve 54 to clean the drain pipe 52 using steam and hot water. The one-way valve at the drain connector connection prevents backflow of odors.

[0079] The aforementioned water inlet and outlet devices are installed behind or inside the cabinet 202 below the countertop 201, and are therefore hidden and not exposed. The positions of the water inlet connector 511 and the drain connector 521 are only for illustration purposes. In reality, their positions are flexible and movable. They can be connected by connectors according to the user's reserved water inlet and outlet pipe positions.

[0080] The integrated cooking appliance of the present invention includes the following steps in its operation mode:

[0081] 1) Tap water is connected through the water inlet connector 511. When in cleaning mode, the motor 311 starts, driving the lead screw 313 to rotate. The lifting device moves down. During the movement, the guide column 33 and guide sleeve 331 are oriented, the corrugated pipe 32 unfolds, and the water supply pipe 34 and the guide pipe 13 extend. When aligning the platform 201, due to certain installation errors, the connecting pipes are not completely aligned. The outer shell 41 of the connecting device contacts the inclined surface of the connecting groove 204. Under the action of downward pushing force, the inclined surface causes the outer shell 41 of the connecting device to automatically center. After fine adjustment by the slide rail 42, it continues to move down after alignment. The quick-connect fittings of the outer shell 41 and the connecting groove 204 automatically connect to form a loop.

[0082] 2) When the water inlet valve 512 and the drain valve 46 are opened, tap water enters. At the same time, the flow control valve 513 controls the flow rate to a small flow rate through the preset flow control. At this time, the heating module 53 quickly heats and generates water vapor. The steam enters the range hood body 1 through each water inlet connector and water inlet pipe 34. It reaches the nozzle along the corresponding cleaning pipe to perform steam cleaning on the corresponding parts. After steam cleaning for a certain period of time, such as 3 minutes, the water inlet valve 512 and the heating module 53 are closed. Wait for a certain period of time, such as 2 minutes, to allow the steam to fully wet the range hood.

[0083] 3) After soaking, open the heating module 53 and the water inlet valve 512, and adjust the flow rate to medium flow rate with the throttle valve 513. At this time, the heating module 53 outputs hot water. The hot water enters the range hood body 1 through each water inlet connector and water inlet pipe 34 to clean the corresponding parts. The hot water temperature should be 70-80℃. The waste liquid after cleaning flows into the oil collection component 12 through the guide pipe 13, and then from the oil collection component 12 through each drain connector into the drain pipe 52 and is discharged into the sewer. The hot water cleaning takes a certain amount of time, such as 3 minutes. After completion, wait for a certain amount of time, such as 2 minutes, so that the oil stains washed by the hot water can be drained and the hot water can be drained clean.

[0084] 4) After closing the heating module 53 and the water inlet valve 512, wait for a certain period of time, such as 2 minutes, then start the water inlet valve 512 and the heating module 53. Adjust the flow rate of the throttle valve 513 to a large flow rate. At this time, the temperature of the heated hot water will drop significantly to room temperature or warm water. Clean all parts again. On the one hand, use the impact force of the high-flow nozzles to clean again, melting the easily peelable oil stains with hot water steam. On the other hand, cool down the range hood body 1, causing the internal water vapor to condense, preventing damage to the range hood body 1 and preventing the user from being burned by the excessive temperature of the range hood body 1. Clean for a certain period of time, such as 3 minutes.

[0085] 5) The heating module 53 and the water inlet valve 512 are de-energized. After cleaning, wait for a certain period of time, such as 3 minutes, until the water is drained. The lifting device is reset, the drain valve 46 is closed, the cover plate 204 on the table 201 is returned to its original position, the three-way valve 54 is energized, the water inlet pipe 51 and the drain pipe 52 are connected, the water inlet valve 512 and the heating module 53 are opened, and at the same time the throttle valve 513 is switched to a small flow rate. The heating module 53 generates steam to clean the oil stains in the drain pipe 52 and uses the airflow to carry away the oil stains. Clean for a certain period of time, such as 2 minutes. After the time is up, switch to a medium flow rate of hot water to clean for a certain period of time, such as 2 minutes, to remove residual oil. After the time is up, cool the pipeline with a large flow rate and clean for a certain period of time, such as 1 minute. After the time is up, cut off all power, reset the status, and shut off the water inlet. Example 2

[0086] See Figures 10-12 In this embodiment, the difference from Embodiment 1 is that the cleaning device includes a water inlet pipe 34 and a drain pipe 52. When the cleaning device is not in operation, the water inlet pipe 34 and the drain pipe 52 are hidden under the countertop 201; see also Figure 15 and Figure 16 When the cleaning device is in operation, the water inlet pipe 34 and the drain pipe 52 extend upwards and connect to the housing 11.

[0087] To facilitate the connection and disassembly of the operating pipes and housing 11, the cleaning device also includes a base 36. The upper end of the water inlet pipe 34 is connected to the bottom of the base 36 and the lower end is in fluid communication with the water inlet pipe 51. The upper end of the drain pipe 52 is connected to the bottom of the base 36. When the cleaning device is in operation, the base 36 is located on the table 201. When the cleaning device is in operation, the base 36 rises to connect with the housing 11, so that the water inlet pipe 34 and the drain pipe 52 are in fluid communication with the inside of the housing 11.

[0088] The water supply pipe 34 includes a first water supply pipe section 341' and a second water supply pipe section 342'. The first water supply pipe section 341' is a rigid pipe, and the second water supply pipe section 342' is a flexible pipe. A first stop ring 343' is provided at the bottom of the first water supply pipe section 341', and a first elastic member 351 is provided on the outer periphery of the first water supply pipe section 341'. The upper end of the first elastic member 351 abuts against the bottom surface of the countertop 201, and the lower end of the first elastic member 351 abuts against the first stop ring 343', thereby keeping the water supply pipe 34 hidden under the countertop 201.

[0089] The drain pipe 52 includes a first drain pipe section 521' and a second drain pipe section 522'. The first drain pipe section 521' is a rigid pipe, and the second drain pipe section 522' is a flexible pipe. A second stop ring 523' is provided at the bottom of the first drain pipe section 521', and a second elastic member 352 is provided on the outer periphery of the first drain pipe section 521'. The upper end of the second elastic member 352 abuts against the bottom surface of the countertop 201, and the lower end of the second elastic member 352 abuts against the second stop ring 523', thereby keeping the drain pipe 52 hidden under the countertop 201.

[0090] The base 36 has a water inlet channel 361 and a sewage outlet channel 362, both of which penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the base 36. The upper end of the first water inlet pipe 341' is connected to the lower end of the water inlet channel 361 and they are in fluid communication with each other. The upper end of the first sewage outlet pipe 521' is connected to the lower end of the sewage outlet channel 362 and they are in fluid communication with each other.

[0091] The rest of the water inlet and outlet devices are the same as those in Example 1.

[0092] See Figures 10-12 When the range hood body 1 is in use, the base 36 is located in the docking groove 204 of the stove body 200 and is covered by the cover plate 205, and the second water inlet pipe 342' and the second drain pipe 522' are in a folded state.

[0093] See Figures 14-16 When the range hood body 1 needs cleaning, remove the cover plate 205 to expose the base 36. Pull the base 36 upwards. During this process, the upper ends of the water inlet pipe 34 and the drain pipe 52 are pulled upwards, increasing their vertical height. When the base 36 is pulled up to the bottom of the housing 11, the water inlet connector 111 on the housing 11 is aligned and connected to the upper end of the water inlet channel 361 of the base 36, and the drain connector 112 on the housing 11 is aligned and connected to the upper end of the drain channel 362 of the base 36.

[0094] The term "fluid connectivity" as used in this invention refers to the spatial relationship between two components or parts (hereinafter referred to as the first part and the second part, respectively), that is, a fluid (gas, liquid, or a mixture of both) can flow from the first part along a flow path and / or be transported to the second part. This can be a direct connection between the first part and the second part, or an indirect connection between the first part and the second part through at least one third party. This third party can be a fluid channel such as a pipe, channel, conduit, guide, hole, or groove, or a chamber or combination thereof that allows fluid to flow through.

Claims

1. An integrated cooking appliance, comprising a range hood body (1), a cleaning device, and a countertop (201) located below the range hood body (1), wherein the range hood body (1) comprises a housing (11) and an oil collecting component (12) located at the bottom of the housing (11), the oil collecting component (12) being used to collect fluid flowing down inside the housing (11), characterized in that: The cleaning device includes: The water inlet and outlet device includes an inlet pipe (51) connected to a tap water pipe and a drain pipe (52) connected to a sewer, wherein the inlet pipe (51) is located below the countertop (201); The water inlet pipe (34) is in fluid communication with the water outlet pipe (51); When the cleaning device is in operation, the water supply pipe (34) connects the water inlet pipe (51) and the housing (11) in fluid communication, thereby the water supply pipe (34) and the water inlet pipe (51) provide cleaning medium for cleaning the range hood body (1), and the drain pipe (52) is in fluid communication with the housing (11); When the cleaning device is not in operation, the passage between the water inlet pipe (51), the water supply pipe (34) and the housing (11) is disconnected, and the passage between the sewage pipe (52) and the housing (11) is disconnected. The water inlet pipe (34) is hidden inside the range hood body (1) and extends upward from the oil collection component (12) to connect with the housing (11); the drain pipe (52) is fixedly installed below the countertop (201); When the cleaning device is in operation, the oil collecting component (12) descends to make the water supply pipe (34) and the water inlet pipe (51) in fluid communication, and to make the oil collecting component (12) and the drain pipe (52) in fluid communication; When the cleaning device is not in operation, the oil collection component (12) rises, the water supply pipe (34) also rises and disconnects from the water inlet pipe (51), and the oil collection component (12) and the drain pipe (52) are disconnected. The integrated cooking appliance also includes a lifting docking device, which is connected to the water inlet pipe (34) and the oil collection component (12) respectively; the water inlet pipe (51) and the drain pipe (52) are connected to the countertop (201) respectively. After the docking device is lowered, it is aligned with the countertop (201) so that the water inlet pipe (34) and the water inlet pipe (51), the oil collection component (12) and the drain pipe (52) are in fluid communication respectively. The platform (201) has a downwardly recessed docking groove (204) formed thereon, and the docking device includes a housing (41) for aligning with the docking groove (204); The docking device also includes a slide rail (42), which is a cross slide rail and is connected between the oil collecting component (12) and the outer casing (41), so that the outer casing (41) can move left and right and / or back and forth relative to the oil collecting component (12).

2. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bottom of the oil collecting component (12) is respectively provided with a first water inlet connector (121) and a first drain connector (122). The lower end of the water inlet pipe (34) is connected to the first water inlet connector (121). The docking device also includes a second water inlet connector (44) and a second drain connector (45) provided at the bottom of the outer casing (41). The first water inlet connector (121) and the second water inlet connector (44), and the first drain connector (122) and the second drain connector (45) are connected together. The components are connected by flexible hoses. The bottom of the docking groove (204) is provided with a third water inlet connector (2041) and a third sewage outlet connector (2042). The second water inlet connector (44) can be connected to the third water inlet connector (2041), and the second sewage outlet connector (45) can be connected to the third sewage outlet connector (2042). The water inlet pipe (51) is connected to the third water inlet connector (2041), and the sewage outlet pipe (52) is connected to the third sewage outlet connector (2042).

3. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second water inlet connector (44), the second drain connector (45), the third water inlet connector (2041) and the third drain connector (2042) are all quick-connect connectors. Each of the four connectors has the function of a one-way valve, so that the fluid can only flow from the water inlet pipe (51) to the water inlet pipe (34) and from the oil collection component (12) to the drain pipe (52).

4. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 3, characterized in that: A drain valve (46) for controlling the on / off state is installed on the pipeline between the first drain connector (122) and the second drain connector (45).

5. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: A guide pipe (13) is provided between the housing (11) and the oil collecting component (12) to enable fluid communication between the housing (11) and the oil collecting component (12). The lower end of the guide pipe (13) is connected to the oil collecting component (12) and is in fluid communication, while the upper end of the guide pipe (13) is connected to the bottom of the housing (11) and is in fluid communication.

6. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that: The integrated cooking appliance also includes a flow guide connector (132). The flow guide pipe (13) corresponds to two flow guide connectors (132). The oil collecting component (12) is provided with a bracket (131). One of the flow guide connectors (132) is located inside the bracket (131), so that the bracket (131) and the flow guide pipe (13) are connected through the flow guide connector (132) to support the flow guide pipe (13). There is a certain gap between the lower end of the flow guide pipe (13) and the bottom of the oil collecting component (12). The other flow guide connector (132) is located at the bottom of the housing (11). The flow guide pipe (13) is connected between the two flow guide connectors (132).

7. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that: Both the guide pipe (13) and the water supply pipe (34) are flexible hoses and are covered with corrugated pipes (32) on their outer periphery.

8. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The docking device is fixed to the oil collection component (12) and is raised and lowered synchronously by a lifting device. The lifting device includes a linear drive module, and the output end of the linear drive module is connected to the oil collection component (12).

9. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 8, characterized in that: The lifting device also includes a guide column (33), the lower end of which is connected and fixed to the oil collecting component (12), and the upper end of which is slidably connected to the housing (11).

10. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mating groove (204) is covered with a cover plate (205).

11. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 10, characterized in that: The top surface of the cover plate (205) is flat and flush with the table surface (201), and a magnet (206) is embedded in the bottom of the cover plate (205).

12. An integrated cooking appliance, comprising a range hood body (1), a cleaning device, and a countertop (201) located below the range hood body (1), wherein the range hood body (1) comprises a housing (11) and an oil collecting component (12) located at the bottom of the housing (11), the oil collecting component (12) being used to collect fluid flowing down inside the housing (11), characterized in that: The cleaning device includes: The water inlet and outlet device includes an inlet pipe (51) connected to a tap water pipe and a drain pipe (52) connected to a sewer, wherein the inlet pipe (51) is located below the countertop (201); The water inlet pipe (34) is in fluid communication with the water outlet pipe (51); When the cleaning device is in operation, the water supply pipe (34) connects the water inlet pipe (51) and the housing (11) in fluid communication, thereby the water supply pipe (34) and the water inlet pipe (51) provide cleaning medium for cleaning the range hood body (1), and the drain pipe (52) is in fluid communication with the housing (11); When the cleaning device is not in operation, the passage between the water inlet pipe (51), the water supply pipe (34) and the housing (11) is disconnected, and the passage between the sewage pipe (52) and the housing (11) is disconnected. When the cleaning device is not in operation, the water inlet pipe (34) and the drain pipe (52) are hidden under the countertop (201); when the cleaning device is in operation, the water inlet pipe (34) and the drain pipe (52) extend upwards and connect to the housing (11). The water supply pipe (34) and at least part of the sewage pipe (52) are flexible, such that when the cleaning device is not in operation, the water supply pipe (34) and the sewage pipe (52) are folded, and when the cleaning device is in operation, the water supply pipe (34) and the sewage pipe (52) are unfolded. The water supply pipe (34) includes a first water supply pipe section (341') ​​and a second water supply pipe section (342'). The first water supply pipe section (341') ​​is a rigid pipe, and the second water supply pipe section (342') is a flexible pipe. A first stop ring (343') is provided at the bottom of the first water supply pipe section (341'), and a first elastic member (351) is provided on the outer periphery of the first water supply pipe section (341'). The upper end of the first elastic member (351) abuts against the bottom surface of the countertop (201), and the lower end of the first elastic member (351) abuts against the first stop ring (343'), thereby keeping the water supply pipe (34) hidden under the countertop (201).

13. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 12, characterized in that: The drain pipe (52) includes a first drain pipe section (521') and a second drain pipe section (522'). The first drain pipe section (521') is a rigid pipe, and the second drain pipe section (522') is a flexible pipe. A second stop ring (523') is provided at the bottom of the first drain pipe section (521'). A second elastic member (352) is provided on the outer periphery of the first drain pipe section (521'). The upper end of the second elastic member (352) abuts against the bottom surface of the countertop (201), and the lower end of the second elastic member (352) abuts against the second stop ring (523'), thereby keeping the drain pipe (52) hidden under the countertop (201).

14. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 12, characterized in that: The cleaning device also includes a base (36), the upper end of the water inlet pipe (34) is connected to the bottom of the base (36) and the lower end is in fluid communication with the water inlet pipe (51), the upper end of the drain pipe (52) is connected to the bottom of the base (36), when the cleaning device is not in operation, the base (36) is located on the table (201), when the cleaning device is in operation, the base (36) rises to connect with the housing (11) so that the water inlet pipe (34) and the drain pipe (52) are in fluid communication with the inside of the housing (11).

15. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 14, characterized in that: The bottom of the housing (11) is provided with a water inlet connector (111) and a sewage outlet connector (112). The base (36) is provided with a water inlet channel (361) and a sewage outlet channel (362). The upper and lower ends of the water inlet channel (361) and the sewage outlet channel (362) penetrate the corresponding upper and lower surfaces of the base (36). The upper end of the water inlet pipe (34) is connected to the lower end of the water inlet channel (361) and they are fluidly connected. The upper end of the sewage outlet pipe (52) is connected to the lower end of the sewage outlet channel (362) and they are fluidly connected. When the cleaning device is in working condition, the water inlet connector (111) on the housing (11) is aligned with and connected to the upper end of the water inlet channel (361) of the base (36). The sewage outlet connector (112) on the housing (11) is aligned with and connected to the upper end of the sewage outlet channel (362) of the base (36).

16. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 14, characterized in that: A recessed docking groove (204) is formed on the tabletop (201). When the cleaning device is not in operation, the base (36) is located in the docking groove (204) and is covered by the cover plate (205).

17. The integrated cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1, 12 to 16, characterized in that: The inlet pipe (51) is provided with an inlet valve (512) for opening and closing the inlet pipe (51) and a throttle valve (513) for controlling the flow rate of the inlet pipe (51). The throttle valve (513) is located downstream of the inlet valve (512).

18. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 17, characterized in that: A heating module (53) is also provided on the water inlet pipe (51), and the heating module (53) is located downstream of the throttle valve (513).

19. The integrated cooking appliance according to claim 18, characterized in that: The inlet pipe (51) is also provided with a three-way valve (54) that enables the inlet pipe (51) to be opened and closed. The three-way valve (54) is located downstream of the heating module (53). The three-way valve (54) has an outlet that is connected to the drain pipe (52) through a connecting pipe (55) and is in fluid communication with the drain pipe (52).

20. The integrated cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1, 12 to 16, characterized in that: The integrated cooking appliance also includes a cabinet (202) located below the countertop (201), and the water inlet / outlet device is located inside the cabinet (202) or behind the cabinet (202).

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