Lock structure and cooking appliance

Abstract

This invention provides a lock structure and a cooking appliance. The lock structure includes: a fixing member; and a locking assembly, which includes: a carrier member detachably connected to a surface to be installed; a mounting member connected to the carrier member; a driving member, at least a portion of which is disposed within the mounting member; a first elastic member, a first end of which is connected to the driving member; and a locking member connected to a second end of the first elastic member. The locking member can move relative to the mounting member under the drive of the driving member and the first elastic member, and can lock or separate from the fixing member. A flexible connection exists between the locking member and the driving member. Thus, even when the locking assembly is in the locked position, the presence of the first elastic member allows the locking member to still move towards the driving member, improving the ease of use of the locking assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of kitchen appliance technology, and more specifically, relates to a lock structure and a cooking utensil. Background Technology

[0002] After cooking, users can directly open the door of the cooking appliance. However, the freshly cooked food is often still very hot, posing a risk of burns. This is especially true when children are using the cooking appliance, increasing the risk of accidents.

[0003] In related technologies, a button-type lock structure is used to restrict the opening and closing of door components. However, when the door components are open, there is a possibility that the user may accidentally trigger the button-type structure. In this case, the user will not be able to close the button-type lock structure, thus preventing the user from closing the door components. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related technologies.

[0005] In view of this, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a locking structure, comprising: a fixing member; and a locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising: a carrier member capable of being detachably connected to a surface to be installed; a mounting member connected to the carrier member; a driving member, at least a portion of which is disposed within the mounting member; a first elastic member, a first end of which is connected to the driving member; and a locking member connected to a second end of the first elastic member, the locking member being capable of moving relative to the mounting member under the drive of the driving member and the first elastic member, and engaging or disengaging with the fixing member.

[0006] The lock structure provided by this invention includes a fixing member and a locking assembly. The locking assembly and the fixing member can be used together to achieve a locking and limiting function. Specifically, the lock structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking utensils and used as a child lock for cooking utensils.

[0007] Specifically, the locking assembly includes a mounting member, a driving member, a first elastic member, and a locking member. The mounting member is mounted to an external object or cavity assembly; at least a portion of the driving member is disposed within the mounting member; a first end of the first elastic member is connected to the driving member; and a second end of the first elastic member is connected to the locking member. Thus, the driving member can apply a thrust to the locking member through the first elastic member, causing the locking member to move relative to the mounting member under the drive of the driving member and the first elastic member, thereby causing the locking member to pass through the mounting member and lock with the fixing member.

[0008] Specifically, in the lock structure proposed in this invention, the first elastic member abuts between the driving member and the locking member, thereby achieving a flexible connection between the locking member and the driving member. Thus, even when the locking assembly is in the locked position, the presence of the first elastic member allows the locking member to still move towards the driving member.

[0009] Specifically, the fixing component and the locking assembly can be installed on the cavity assembly and the door assembly respectively. Therefore, when the door assembly is open, if the user accidentally closes the locking assembly, the fixing component will come into contact with the locking component during the closing process without switching the locking component's position, thus forcing the locking component to move towards the drive component. In this way, on the one hand, it can ensure that the locking component and the fixing component can be connected and limited, and on the other hand, the connection and limitation between the locking component and the fixing component does not require user operation, greatly improving the ease of use of the locking assembly.

[0010] When the door assembly is closed, the locking element is in the locked position; at this time, the connection between the locking element and the fixing element is limited, and the user cannot open the door assembly. Before opening the door assembly, the connection limit between the locking element and the fixing element is released; at this time, the locking element is in the unlocked position, and the locking element is separated from the fixing element.

[0011] During the opening of the door assembly, the door assembly can be directly driven to separate from the cavity assembly to complete the opening operation; at this time, the locking component remains in the unlocked position. During the closing of the door assembly, the locking component can be switched back to its position after the door assembly is closed, allowing it to engage and limit the movement with the fixing component. Furthermore, once the user switches the locking component to the locked position when the door assembly is open, the first elastic element abuts against the locking component and the driving component, creating a flexible connection between them. This ensures that the locking component remains engaged and limited with the fixing component even when the door assembly is closing, without requiring the user to switch its position beforehand.

[0012] Specifically, the locking structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking appliances. After the cooking process is finished, the food inside the cooking cavity is still hot, and there is a risk of burns if the user directly opens the door to remove the food. Therefore, this invention, through the cooperation of the aforementioned locking component and fixing member, requires the user to pull the locking member while opening the door component. This serves as a reminder to the user and prevents children from accidentally opening the door component, greatly improving the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0013] Therefore, the lock structure proposed in this invention increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock structure by cooperating with the locking component and the fixing component, preventing users, especially children, from accidentally opening the door component and improving the safety of cooking utensils using this lock structure. Furthermore, the flexible connection between the driving component and the locking component allows the door component to be closed without actuating the locking component, even if the user accidentally switches the locking component to the locked position when the door component is open, while maintaining the connection limit between the locking component and the fixing component.

[0014] The carrier component supports the mounting component, which is then installed on it. The lock mechanism can be installed on cooking appliances; specifically, the carrier component can be detachably connected to the surface of the cooking appliance to be installed, meaning it can be removed from the appliance. When the lock mechanism is damaged, it can be removed from the surface, preventing the appliance from being unable to open or close due to lock damage, thus improving user convenience. Furthermore, when the lock mechanism is damaged, it can be disassembled, replaced, and maintained independently without disassembling the appliance's casing or other components, reducing maintenance difficulty and costs.

[0015] In addition, the lock structure in the above-described technical solution provided by the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0016] In one possible design, the support member includes: a mounting portion having a first opening and a first side surface for detachably connecting to the surface to be mounted; a support portion having a first end connected to the first side surface and having a communicating second opening and a receiving portion, the second opening being located at the second end of the support portion, the mounting member extending into the receiving portion through the first opening, and a locking member capable of moving relative to the second opening and locking or separating from the fixing member.

[0017] In this design, the locking member moves relative to the second opening and engages or disengages with the fixing member. When the locking member extends outward from the second opening, it engages with the fixing member; when it extends inward from the second opening, it disengages from the fixing member. The first end of the support portion is connected to the mounting portion, and the second end of the support portion has a second opening, so the user needs to press the locking member through the first opening. Furthermore, since the first side of the mounting portion can connect to the surface to be mounted, the mounting portion is mounted on the outer surface of the cooking appliance. The mounting portion is detachably connected to the outer surface of the cooking appliance. When the lock structure is damaged and the door of the cooking appliance cannot be opened, the mounting portion can be detached from the outer surface of the cooking appliance. This method of detaching the lock structure from the outside of the cooking appliance allows the door to be opened even if the lock structure is damaged, further improving the user's convenience in using the lock structure.

[0018] In one possible design, the mounting portion extends beyond the circumferential edge of the support portion, and the mounting portion extending beyond the circumferential edge of the support portion is used to abut against the surface to be mounted.

[0019] In this design, the end of the mounting part facing the support part is the first side surface, and the end of the support part facing the mounting part is the second side surface. The area of ​​the first side surface is larger than the area of ​​the second side surface, allowing the mounting part to extend beyond the circumferential edge of the support part. Since the first side surface of the mounting part is used to connect with the surface to be mounted, the portion of the mounting part extending beyond the circumferential edge of the support part can contact the surface to be mounted, resulting in a larger contact area between the mounting part and the surface to be mounted, thus improving the connection stability between the lock structure and the outer surface of the cooking appliance.

[0020] In one possible design, the mounting element is detachably connected to the support.

[0021] In this design, if either the mounting component or the carrier component is damaged, the mounting component can be disassembled from the carrier component, allowing for maintenance or replacement of either component, thus further reducing the maintenance cost of the lock structure.

[0022] In one possible design, the support member further includes a baffle connected to the support portion, which can slide within the receiving portion to actuate the locking member.

[0023] In this design, the baffle can slide within the receiving section. The user can press the baffle to push the locking element. The baffle has a large surface area to be pushed, resulting in a large contact area between the baffle and the user's hand, which improves the ease of operation of the locking element. Furthermore, the baffle can block the first opening, preventing impurities from entering the receiving section. This reduces the likelihood of jamming due to impurities inside the lock structure, thus improving the functional stability of the lock structure.

[0024] In one possible design, the locking assembly further includes a guide structure disposed on the mounting member, at least a portion of the drive member being movable along the guide structure and confined to an end of the guide structure.

[0025] In this design, the locking assembly also includes a guide structure. The guide structure is disposed inside the mounting component, and at least a portion of the driving component is slidably connected to the guide structure and can be positioned at the end of the guide structure, thereby causing the locking component to remain in the locking position.

[0026] Specifically, a limiting part is provided at the end of the guide structure, and at least a part of the driving member can move along the guide structure; when at least a part of the driving member moves to the end of the guide structure, at least a part of the driving member abuts against the limiting part at the end of the guide structure, thereby limiting the locking member to the locked position.

[0027] Specifically, the guide structure includes a guide rib, the extension direction of which is consistent with the movement direction of the locking member; at least a portion of the driving member can move along the guide rib, and at least a portion of the driving member can abut against the end of the guide rib, thereby limiting the locking member to the locked position.

[0028] In one possible design, the driving component includes: a pressing component, which passes through and is movably connected to the mounting component, the pressing component including a first inclined surface; and a moving component, which is slidably connected to the guide structure, the moving component being connected to the first end of the first elastic component, and the moving component being able to be confined to the end of the guide structure; wherein the moving component includes a second inclined surface, the first inclined surface being able to abut against the second inclined surface to drive the moving component to switch the position of the locking component.

[0029] In this design, the driving component includes a pressing component and a moving component. The pressing component is movably connected to and passes through the mounting component; at least a portion of the pressing component is located on the outer surface of the entire cooking appliance. During use, the pressing component can be pressed to switch the position of the locking component. The moving component is disposed inside the mounting component and is slidably connected to the guide structure. Furthermore, the moving component is connected to the first end of a first elastic member, such that the first elastic member is located between the moving component and the locking component. Therefore, during use, the user can press the pressing component, which drives the moving component, which in turn drives the locking component to switch positions via the first elastic member.

[0030] Specifically, the pressing component includes a first inclined surface, and the moving component includes a second inclined surface. When the user presses the pressing component, the first inclined surface of the pressing component contacts the second inclined surface of the moving component. Upon the first press, the moving component moves along the guide structure; when the moving component reaches the end of the guide structure, the second inclined surface cooperates with the first inclined surface to drive the moving component to rotate, at which point the moving component abuts against the limiting part, and the locking component is limited to the locked position. Upon the second press, the second inclined surface cooperates with the first inclined surface to drive the moving component to rotate again, at which point the moving component moves in the opposite direction along the guide structure, thereby separating the moving component from the limiting part, and the locking component switches from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0031] In some possible designs, the press element includes a button post with a third protrusion on its side wall, which is used to limit the button post.

[0032] In this design, the pressing component includes a button post. The side wall of the button post has a third protrusion that abuts against the end of the mounting component, thereby ensuring that at least a portion of the mounting post is always inside the mounting component, thus ensuring the connection between the button post and the mounting component.

[0033] Specifically, during use, the first elastic element abuts between the locking element and the moving element. Thus, by the aforementioned third protrusion abutting against the mounting component and limiting its movement, it can be ensured that the button post will not detach from the mounting component under the elastic force of the first elastic element.

[0034] In one possible design, the moving part includes a pawl sleeve, the sidewall of which is provided with a first protrusion. The first protrusion is slidably connected to the guide structure and can abut against the end of the guide structure. A second inclined surface is provided on the first protrusion.

[0035] In this design, the moving part includes a sliding pawl sleeve. The side wall of the sliding pawl sleeve is provided with a first protrusion, which is slidably connected to the guide structure and can abut against the end of the guide structure, thereby limiting the locking member to the locked position.

[0036] Specifically, the button post is hollow inside, and at least a portion of the sliding claw sleeve can extend into the interior of the button post. Furthermore, a first inclined surface is located at the open end of the button post, and a second inclined surface is located at the first protrusion. When the button is pressed for the first time, the first protrusion drives the moving part to move along the guide structure. When the moving part reaches the end of the guide structure, the second inclined surface cooperates with the first inclined surface to drive the moving part to rotate. At this time, the first protrusion abuts against the limiting part, and the locking part is limited to the locked position. When the button is pressed for the second time, the second inclined surface cooperates with the first inclined surface to drive the moving part to rotate again. At this time, the moving part moves in the opposite direction along the guide structure under the action of the first elastic element, thereby causing the first protrusion to separate from the limiting part, and the locking part switches from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0037] In one possible design, the moving part is hollow inside, and the side wall of the moving part is provided with a guide groove, the extension direction of the guide groove being consistent with the movement direction of the locking part; at least a part of the locking part is located inside the moving part, and the side wall of the locking part is provided with a second protrusion, the second protrusion being slidably connected to the guide groove.

[0038] In this design, the moving part is hollow, and at least a portion of the locking member is located inside the moving part. Furthermore, the sidewall of the moving part has a guide groove, the extension direction of which is consistent with the movement direction of the locking member; the locking member has a second protrusion located within the guide groove, and the second protrusion is slidably connected to the guide groove. Thus, during use, the locking member can move relative to the moving part under external force, ensuring that even if the user unintentionally closes the locking assembly, the locking member can still retract into the mounting part, guaranteeing that the locking member and the fixing part can be connected and limited.

[0039] Specifically, when the door assembly is open, the first elastic member abuts against the moving member and the locking member. At this time, the second protrusion is located in the middle of the guide groove or at the first end of the guide groove near the bottom of the mounting member, so as to ensure that the locking member can retract into the mounting member under external force, thereby ensuring that even if the user accidentally closes the locking assembly, the locking member can still lock with the fixed member.

[0040] In addition, during the movement of the locking component, the second protrusion moves along the guide groove, thereby playing a certain limiting and guiding role through the cooperation between the second protrusion and the guide groove, thus improving the smoothness and stability of the locking component's operation.

[0041] In one possible design, the locking element further includes a drive ramp, and the fixing element is capable of abutting against the drive ramp to drive the locking element to move relative to the mounting element.

[0042] In this design, the locking mechanism also includes a drive ramp. Specifically, if the user accidentally triggers the locking mechanism after the door assembly is opened, the locking mechanism will extend from its mounting bracket. At this point, the user can directly drive the door assembly to close without having to press the push button again, making it more convenient for the user.

[0043] Specifically, during the process of the user closing the door assembly, the fixing member first contacts the driving ramp of the locking member. The driving ramp decomposes the force exerted on the locking member by the fixing member into a horizontal component and a vertical component. The vertical component can be used to counteract the pushing force exerted on the locking member by the first elastic member, thereby causing the locking member to move under the action of the aforementioned vertical component, causing the locking member to retract into the mounting member. At this point, the user can close the door assembly.

[0044] In one possible design, the locking assembly further includes: a second elastic member disposed within the mounting member and connected to the drive member and the mounting member, for resetting the locking member; wherein at least a portion of the first elastic member is located inside the locking member, and the second elastic member is sleeved on the locking member.

[0045] In this design, the locking assembly also includes a second elastic element. This second elastic element is disposed within the mounting component and abuts against the moving part of the drive component and the cover plate of the mounting component. Thus, the cooperation between the first and second elastic elements further enhances the stability of the locking component.

[0046] Specifically, during the pressing process, before the pressing member comes into contact with the moving member, the pressing member will squeeze the second elastic member, at which time the second elastic member is in a compressed state; after the pressing member comes into contact with the moving member, the pressing member will squeeze the first elastic member and the second elastic member at the same time, at which time both the first elastic member and the second elastic member are in a compressed state.

[0047] Specifically, when the moving part is confined to the end of the guide structure, both the first and second elastic elements, which are in a compressed state, apply a thrust to the moving part, thereby stably confining it to the end of the guide structure. Upon pressing the pressing element again, the moving part rotates and disengages from the end of the guide structure; at this time, the first and second elastic elements, still in a compressed state, cooperate to reset the moving part to its previous position. During this process, the cooperation of the first and second elastic elements significantly increases the thrust on the driving element, thereby further enhancing the stability of the locking element.

[0048] In one possible design, the mounting component includes: a fixed bracket; a third opening disposed on the fixed bracket, through which a driving member passes; a cover plate connected to the fixed bracket; and a fourth opening disposed on the cover plate, through which a locking member can pass.

[0049] In this design, the mounting components include a fixed bracket, a first opening, a cover plate, and a second opening. The fixed bracket ensures the stable installation of the entire locking assembly; the cover plate is connected to the fixed bracket, allowing the cover plate to cooperate with the fixed bracket to secure the locking element and the first elastic element, among other components.

[0050] In addition, the fixed bracket is provided with a first opening, and the cover plate is provided with a second opening, with the first opening and the second opening corresponding to each other. The pressing part of the locking member passes through the first opening and is located on the surface of the cooking appliance; the locking member can pass through the second opening under the drive of the moving member and the first elastic member, and extend into the fixing port of the fixing member to complete the limiting of the door assembly.

[0051] Secondly, the present invention provides a cooking appliance comprising: a cavity assembly; a door assembly, the door assembly being openably and closedly connected to the cavity assembly; a locking structure as described in any of the above possible designs; wherein a fixing member is disposed in one of the cavity assembly and the door assembly, and a locking member is disposed in the other of the cavity assembly and the door assembly.

[0052] The cooking appliance provided by this invention has all the benefits of the locking structure provided in any of the above-mentioned technical solutions.

[0053] The cooking appliance proposed in this invention includes a cavity assembly, a door assembly, and a locking structure of any of the above designs. The cavity assembly includes a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked. The door assembly is connected to the cavity assembly and is used to open or close the cooking cavity. Specifically, the door assembly can be rotatably connected to the cavity assembly or slidably connected to it. One of the cavity assembly and the door assembly is provided with a fixing member, and the other is a locking component. The locking component cooperates with the fixing member to lock the door assembly onto the cavity assembly. Specifically, the locking component is a child lock and serves as an auxiliary connection.

[0054] When the door assembly is closed, the locking element is in the locked position; at this time, the connection between the locking element and the fixing element is limited, and the user cannot open the door assembly. Before opening the door assembly, the connection limit between the locking element and the fixing element is released; at this time, the locking element is in the unlocked position, and the locking element is separated from the fixing element.

[0055] During the opening of the door assembly, the door assembly can be directly driven to separate from the cavity assembly to complete the opening operation; at this time, the locking component remains in the unlocking position. During the closing of the door assembly, the door assembly can be directly closed and the locking component's position can be switched again, so that the locking component and the fixing component are connected and limited.

[0056] Furthermore, once the user switches the locking mechanism to the engaged position when the door assembly is open, the first elastic element abuts against the locking mechanism and the drive mechanism, creating an elastic connection between them. This ensures that the locking mechanism remains connected and limited by the fixing element during the door assembly's closing process, without requiring the user to switch the locking mechanism's position beforehand.

[0057] When the lock mechanism is damaged, it can be disassembled from the cavity assembly or door assembly, preventing the cooking appliance from being unable to open or close due to lock mechanism failure, thus improving user convenience. Furthermore, when the lock mechanism is damaged, it can be disassembled, replaced, and maintained independently without dismantling the cooking appliance's housing or other components, reducing maintenance difficulty and costs.

[0058] In one possible design, the cavity assembly includes: a cavity body; and a cover surrounding at least a portion of the cavity body.

[0059] In this design, the cavity assembly includes a cavity body and a cover. The cavity body contains a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked. The cover surrounds at least a portion of the cavity body, thus providing good protection for it. Furthermore, a mounting cavity exists between the cavity body and the cover, allowing relevant components of the cooking appliance to be installed within this cavity.

[0060] In one possible design, the door assembly also includes: a door body; a door seal connected to the door body; and a latch, disposed on the door body or the door seal, for opening and closing connection with the cavity assembly.

[0061] In this design, the door assembly includes a door body, a door seal, and a latch. The door body is connected to the cavity assembly for opening and closing, and can be used to open or close the cooking cavity. The door seal is connected to the door body and provides a good seal when the door body closes the cooking cavity, ensuring a good seal during operation. Furthermore, the latch is located on either the door body or the door seal and is connected to the cavity assembly for opening and closing. When the door body closes the cooking cavity, the latch connects to the cavity assembly to ensure the connection between the door assembly and the cavity assembly.

[0062] Specifically, the door assembly of the cooking appliance proposed in this invention includes a latch, which is used to connect with the cavity assembly, thereby ensuring a stable connection between the door assembly and the cavity assembly. That is, the cooking appliance proposed in this invention first ensures the connection between the door assembly and the cavity assembly through the latch, and then the locking assembly can be used as a child lock, allowing the locking assembly to cooperate with the fixing member to further restrict the user from opening the door assembly.

[0063] In one possible design, a locking component is provided in the cavity assembly, the mounting portion in the carrier is connected to the outer surface of the cover, the cover is provided with a mounting hole, and the carrier portion in the carrier can pass through the mounting hole.

[0064] In this design, the mounting part is detachably connected to the outer surface of the cover. When the lock structure is damaged and the door assembly of the cooking appliance cannot be opened, the mounting part can be detached from the outer surface of the cover. This method of removing the lock structure from the outside of the cooking appliance allows the door assembly to be opened even if the lock structure is damaged, improving the user's convenience in using the cooking appliance.

[0065] In some possible designs, fasteners are installed on the door assembly and connected to the door body.

[0066] In this design, the fastener can be installed in the door assembly. When the fastener is installed in the door assembly, it can be connected to the door body. In this case, the locking assembly is installed in the cavity assembly, thus ensuring that the locking assembly and the fastener are positioned correspondingly. Specifically, the fastener and the door body can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0067] In addition, the door body itself has good strength and hardness. Connecting the fastener to the door body can further ensure the connection of the fastener, improve the stability of the cooperation between the locking component and the fastener, and extend the service life of the fastener and the entire cooking appliance.

[0068] In some possible designs, the fastener is installed on the door assembly and connected to the door seal.

[0069] In this design, the fastener can be installed in the door assembly. When the fastener is installed in the door assembly, it can be connected to the door seal. In this case, the locking assembly is installed in the cavity assembly, thus ensuring that the locking assembly and the fastener are positioned correspondingly. Specifically, the fastener and the door seal can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0070] Furthermore, during the use of the cooking appliance, the door seal comes into direct contact with the cavity assembly and is closer to the cavity assembly than the door body. Therefore, installing the fastener on the door seal reduces the size requirements of the fastener and simplifies the structure of the fastener and the entire cooking appliance.

[0071] In some possible designs, the fastener is installed on the door assembly, and the fastener and the door body are an integral structure.

[0072] In this design, the fastener can be installed in the door assembly. When the fastener is installed in the door assembly, it can be an integral part of the door body. Specifically, this integral structure reduces the need for connecting parts between the fastener and the door body, and significantly improves the connection strength between them. This ensures the stability of the connection between the fastener and the locking mechanism, thereby extending the lifespan of both the fastener and the entire cooking appliance.

[0073] In some possible designs, the fastener is installed on the door assembly, and the fastener and door seal are an integrated structure.

[0074] In this design, the fastener can be installed in the door assembly. When the fastener is installed in the door assembly, it can be an integral part of the door seal. Specifically, this integral structure reduces the need for connecting parts between the fastener and the door seal, and significantly improves the connection strength between them. This ensures the stability of the connection between the fastener and the locking mechanism, thereby extending the lifespan of the fastener and the entire cooking appliance.

[0075] In one possible design, a fastener is installed on the cavity assembly and connected to the cavity body.

[0076] In this design, the fastener can be located within the cavity assembly. When the fastener is located within the cavity assembly, it can be connected to the cavity body. In this case, the locking assembly is located within the door assembly, ensuring that the locking assembly corresponds in position to the fastener. Specifically, the fastener and the cavity body can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0077] In addition, the cavity assembly itself has good strength and hardness. Connecting the fixing part to the cavity body can further ensure the connection of the fixing part, improve the stability of the cooperation between the locking component and the fixing part, and extend the service life of the fixing part and the entire cooking appliance.

[0078] In one possible design, a fastener is installed on the cavity assembly and connected to the cover.

[0079] In this design, the fastener can be located within the cavity assembly. When the fastener is located within the cavity assembly, it can be connected to the cover. In this case, the locking assembly is located within the door assembly, ensuring that the locking assembly corresponds in position to the fastener. Specifically, the fastener and the cover can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0080] Furthermore, the cover's structure is relatively simple, and the fasteners are connected to the cover, reducing the difficulty of installing the fasteners and thus improving the assembly efficiency of the locking components and cooking utensils. Moreover, the connection between the fasteners and the cover reduces the structural and manufacturing requirements of the cavity body, further improving the manufacturing efficiency of the cavity body.

[0081] In one possible design, the locking component is located on the door assembly, the mounting portion of the carrier is connected to the outer surface of the door body, the door body has mounting holes, and the carrier portion of the carrier can pass through the mounting holes.

[0082] In this design, the mounting part is detachably connected to the outer surface of the door body. When the lock structure is damaged and the door assembly of the cooking appliance cannot be opened, the mounting part can be detached from the outer surface of the door body. This method of disassembling the lock structure from the outside of the cooking appliance allows the door assembly to be opened even if the lock structure is damaged, improving the user's convenience in using the cooking appliance.

[0083] In one possible design, the cooking appliance includes a microwave oven, oven, steam oven, or steam oven.

[0084] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0085] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0086] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of a lock structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0087] Figure 2This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0088] Figure 3 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0089] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the locking component in a lock structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0090] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the mounting component and the pressing component in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0091] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A structural schematic diagram of the mounting component and pressing component from another perspective;

[0092] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A structural schematic diagram of the mounting component and pressing component from another perspective;

[0093] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A structural schematic diagram of the mounting component and pressing component from another perspective;

[0094] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The cross-sectional view shown along EE;

[0095] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a pressing component according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0096] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a moving component according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0097] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fixed bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0098] Figure 13 The third schematic diagram of the structure of the cooking utensil in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0099] Figure 14 The fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the cooking utensil in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0100] Figure 15 An exploded view of one of the cooking appliances in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0101] Figure 16 A second exploded view of a cooking appliance in an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0102] in, Figures 1 to 16 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0103] 102 Cavity assembly, 104 Door assembly, 106 Fixing component, 108 Locking component, 110 Mounting component, 112 Driving component, 114 First elastic component, 116 Locking component, 118 Guide structure, 120 Pressing component, 122 Moving component, 124 First inclined surface, 126 Second inclined surface, 128 First protrusion, 130 Second protrusion, 132 Driving inclined surface, 134 Second elastic component, 136 Fixing bracket, 138 Third opening, 140 Cover plate, 142 Fourth opening, 144 Cavity body, 146 Cover body, 148 Door body, 150 Door seal, 152 Lock, 166 Third protrusion, 170 Guide groove, 180 Bearing component, 182 Mounting part, 184 First opening, 186 Bearing part, 188 Second opening, 190 Receiving part, 192 Baffle. Detailed Implementation

[0104] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0105] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein, and therefore the scope of protection of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0106] The following reference Figures 1 to 16 This invention describes a lock structure and a cooking appliance provided according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0107] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, a lock structure is proposed, including: a fixing member 106 and a locking assembly 108, wherein the locking assembly 108 includes: a carrier member 180, a mounting member 110, a driving member 112, a first elastic member 114 and a locking member 116. The carrier member 180 can be detachably connected to the surface to be mounted; the mounting member 110 is connected to the carrier member 180; at least a portion of the driving member 112 is disposed within the mounting member 110; a first end of the first elastic member 114 is connected to the driving member 112; the locking member 116 is connected to the second end of the first elastic member 114, and the locking member 116 can move relative to the mounting member 110 under the drive of the driving member 112 and the first elastic member 114, and lock or separate from the fixing member 106.

[0108] The lock structure provided in this embodiment includes a fixing member 106 and a locking component 108. The locking component 108 and the fixing member 106 can be used together to achieve a locking and limiting function. Specifically, the lock structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking utensils and used as a child lock for cooking utensils.

[0109] Specifically, the locking assembly 108 includes a mounting member 110, a driving member 112, a first elastic member 114, and a locking member 116. The mounting member 110 is mounted to an external object, such as the door assembly 104 or cavity assembly 102 of a cooking appliance. At least a portion of the driving member 112 is disposed within the mounting member 110. A first end of the first elastic member 114 is connected to the driving member 112, and a second end of the first elastic member 114 is connected to the locking member 116. Thus, the driving member 112 can apply a thrust to the locking member 116 via the first elastic member 114, causing the locking member 116 to move relative to the mounting member 110 under the drive of the driving member 112 and the first elastic member 114, thereby causing the locking member 116 to pass through the mounting member 110 and lock with the fixing member 106.

[0110] Specifically, in the lock structure proposed in this invention, the first elastic member 114 abuts against the driving member 112 and the locking member 116, thereby achieving a flexible connection between the locking member 116 and the driving member 112. Thus, when the locking assembly 108 is in the locked position, the presence of the first elastic member 114 allows the locking member 116 to still move toward the driving member 112.

[0111] Specifically, the fixing member 106 and the locking assembly 108 can be installed on the cavity assembly 102 and the door assembly 104, respectively. Therefore, when the door assembly 104 is open, if the user accidentally closes the locking assembly 108, the fixing member 106 will come into contact with the locking member 116 during the process of closing the door assembly 104 without switching the position of the locking member 116, thereby forcing the locking member 116 to move towards the drive member 112. In this way, on the one hand, it can ensure that the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106 can be connected and limited, and on the other hand, the connection and limitation of the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106 does not require user operation, which greatly improves the ease of use of the locking assembly 108.

[0112] When the door assembly 104 is closed, the locking member 116 is in the locked position; at this time, the locking member 116 is connected to the fixing member 106, and the user cannot open the door assembly 104. Before opening the door assembly 104, the connection limit between the locking member and the fixing member 106 is released; at this time, the locking member 116 is in the unlocked position, and the locking member 116 is separated from the fixing member 106.

[0113] Figure 2 The image shows the locking assembly 108 separated from the fixing member 106. Figure 3 The image shows the locking assembly 108 locked to the fastener 106.

[0114] During the opening of the door assembly 104, the door assembly 104 can be directly driven to separate from the cavity assembly 102 to complete the opening operation; at this time, the locking member 116 is still in the unlocking position. During the closing of the door assembly 104, the locking member 116 can be switched to the locking position after the door assembly 104 is closed, so that the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106 are locked and limited. Furthermore, when the door assembly 104 is open, once the user switches the locking member 116 to the locking position, the first elastic member 114 abuts between the locking member 116 and the driving member 112, so that the locking member 116 and the driving member 112 are elastically connected. In this way, the user does not need to switch the locking member 116 to the locking position in advance to ensure that the locking member 116 can still be locked and limited with the fixing member 106 during the closing of the door assembly 104.

[0115] Specifically, the locking structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking appliances. After the cooking process is finished, the food inside the cooking cavity is still hot, and there is a risk of burns if the user directly opens the door to remove the food. Therefore, through the cooperation of the locking component 108 and the fixing member 106, this invention ensures that if the user wants to open the door component 104, they must simultaneously pull out the locking member 116. This serves as a reminder to the user and prevents children from accidentally opening the door component 104, greatly improving the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0116] Therefore, the lock structure proposed in this invention, through the cooperation of the locking component 108 and the fixing member 106, increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock structure, preventing users, especially children, from accidentally opening the door component 104, and improving the safety of cooking utensils using this lock structure. Furthermore, the flexible connection between the driving member 112 and the locking member 116 allows the door component 104 to be closed without driving the locking member 116, even if the user accidentally switches the locking member 116 to the locked position when the door component 104 is open, while maintaining the connection limit between the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106.

[0117] The support member 180 supports the mounting member 110, and the mounting member 110 is installed on the support member 180. The lock structure can be installed on the cooking appliance. Specifically, the support member 180 can be detachably connected to the surface of the cooking appliance to be installed, that is, the support member 180 can be removed from the cooking appliance. When the lock structure is damaged, the lock structure can be removed from the surface to be installed, avoiding the situation where the cooking appliance cannot be opened or closed due to lock structure damage, thus improving the user's convenience in using the lock structure. Moreover, when the lock structure is damaged, the lock structure can be disassembled, replaced, and maintained independently without disassembling the housing or other components of the cooking appliance, reducing maintenance difficulty and saving maintenance costs.

[0118] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 14 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the carrier 180 includes: a mounting portion 182 and a carrier portion 186. The mounting portion 182 is provided with a first opening 184 and a first side surface for detachably connecting to the surface to be mounted. The first end of the carrier portion 186 is connected to the first side surface. The carrier portion 186 is provided with a communicating second opening 188 and a receiving portion 190. The second opening 188 is located at the second end of the carrier portion 186. The mounting member 110 extends into the receiving portion 190 through the first opening 184. The locking member 116 can move relative to the second opening 188 and lock or separate from the fixing member 106.

[0119] In this embodiment, the locking member 116 moves relative to the second opening 188 and locks or separates from the fixing member 106. When the locking member 116 extends outward from the second opening 188, it locks with the fixing member 106; when it extends inward from the second opening 188, it separates from the fixing member 106. The first end of the supporting part 186 is connected to the mounting part 182, and the second end of the supporting part 186 is provided with the second opening 188, so the user needs to press the locking member 116 through the first opening 184. Moreover, since the first side of the mounting part 182 can connect with the surface to be installed, the mounting part 182 is installed on the outer surface of the cooking appliance. The mounting part 182 is detachably connected to the outer surface of the cooking appliance. When the lock structure is damaged and the door of the cooking appliance cannot be opened, the mounting part 182 can be detached from the outer surface of the cooking appliance from the outside. The method of disassembling the lock structure from the outside of the cooking appliance allows the appliance door to be opened even if the lock structure is damaged, further improving the user's convenience in using the lock structure.

[0120] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 14As shown, in one possible embodiment, the mounting portion 182 extends beyond the circumferential edge of the support portion 186, and the mounting portion 182 extending beyond the circumferential edge of the support portion 186 is used to abut against the surface to be mounted.

[0121] In this embodiment, the end of the mounting portion 182 facing the support portion 186 is a first side surface, and the end of the support portion 186 facing the mounting portion 182 is a second side surface. The area of ​​the first side surface is larger than the area of ​​the second side surface, allowing the mounting portion 182 to extend beyond the circumferential edge of the support portion 186. Since the first side surface of the mounting portion 182 is used to connect with the surface to be mounted, the portion of the mounting portion 182 extending beyond the circumferential edge of the support portion 186 can contact the surface to be mounted. The mounting portion 182 has a large contact area with the surface to be mounted, improving the connection stability between the lock structure and the outer surface of the cooking appliance.

[0122] In one possible embodiment, the mounting element 110 is detachably connected to the support portion 186.

[0123] In this embodiment, if one of the mounting member 110 and the carrier member 180 is damaged, the mounting member 110 can be removed from the carrier member 180, thereby allowing maintenance or replacement of one of the mounting member 110 and the carrier member 180, further reducing the maintenance cost of the lock structure.

[0124] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 14 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the carrier 180 further includes a baffle 192, which is connected to the carrier portion 186 and is slidable within the receiving portion 190 to push the locking member 116.

[0125] In this embodiment, the baffle 192 can slide within the receiving portion 190. The user can press the baffle 192 to push the locking member 116. The area of ​​the surface to be pushed on the baffle 192 is relatively large, and the contact area between the baffle 192 and the user's hand is also large, which improves the ease with which the user can drive the locking member 116. Moreover, the baffle 192 can block the first opening 184, preventing impurities from entering the receiving portion 190. This reduces the likelihood of jamming due to impurities inside the lock structure, thus improving the functional stability of the lock structure.

[0126] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the locking assembly 108 further includes a guide structure 118 disposed on the mounting member 110, at least a portion of the drive member 112 being movable along the guide structure 118 and confined at an end of the guide structure 118.

[0127] In this embodiment, the locking assembly 108 further includes a guide structure 118. The guide structure 118 is disposed inside the mounting member 110, and at least a portion of the driving member 112 is slidably connected to the guide structure 118 and can be limited at the end of the guide structure 118, thereby causing the locking member 116 to remain in the locking position.

[0128] Specifically, a limiting portion is provided at the end of the guide structure 118, and at least a portion of the drive member 112 can move along the guide structure 118; when at least a portion of the drive member 112 moves to the end of the guide structure 118, at least a portion of the drive member 112 abuts against the limiting portion at the end of the guide structure 118, thereby limiting the locking member 116 to the locked position.

[0129] Specifically, the guide structure 118 includes a guide rib, the extension direction of which is consistent with the movement direction of the locking member 116; at least a portion of the driving member 112 can move along the guide rib, and at least a portion of the driving member 112 can abut against the end of the guide rib, thereby limiting the locking member 116 to the locked position.

[0130] Combination Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the driving member 112 includes a pressing member 120 and a moving member 122. The pressing member 120 passes through the mounting member 110 and is movably connected to the mounting member 110. The pressing member 120 includes a first inclined surface 124. The moving member 122 is slidably connected to the guide structure 118. The moving member 122 is connected to the first end of the first elastic member 114. The moving member 122 can be confined to the end of the guide structure 118. The moving member 122 includes a second inclined surface 126. The first inclined surface 124 can abut against the second inclined surface 126 to drive the moving member 122 to drive the locking member 116 to switch positions.

[0131] In this embodiment, the driving member 112 includes a pressing member 120 and a moving member 122. The pressing member 120 is movably connected to and passes through the mounting member 110; at least a portion of the pressing member 120 is located on the outer surface of the entire cooking appliance. During use, the position of the locking member 116 can be switched by pressing the pressing member 120. The moving member 122 is disposed inside the mounting member 110 and is slidably connected to the guide structure 118. Furthermore, the moving member 122 is connected to the first end of the first elastic member 114, such that the first elastic member 114 is located between the moving member 122 and the locking member 116. Therefore, during use, the user can press the pressing member 120, which drives the moving member 122, which in turn drives the locking member 116 to switch positions via the first elastic member 114.

[0132] Combination Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, specifically, the pressing member 120 includes a first inclined surface 124, and the moving member 122 includes a second inclined surface 126. When the user presses the pressing member 120, the first inclined surface 124 of the pressing member 120 contacts the second inclined surface 126 of the moving member 122. During the first press of the pressing member 120, the moving member 122 moves along the guide structure 118; when the moving member 122 moves to the end of the guide structure 118, the second inclined surface 126 cooperates with the first inclined surface 124 to drive the moving member 122 to rotate. At this time, the moving member 122 can abut against the limiting part, and the locking member 116 is limited to the locked position. When the pressing member 120 is pressed for the second time, the second inclined surface 126 cooperates with the first inclined surface 124 to drive the moving member 122 to rotate again. At this time, the moving member 122 moves in the opposite direction along the guide structure 118, thereby causing the moving member 122 to separate from the limiting part, and the locking member 116 switches from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0133] In some possible embodiments, the pressing member 120 includes a button post, the sidewall of which is provided with a third protrusion 166 for limiting the button post.

[0134] In this embodiment, the pressing member 120 includes a button post. The side wall of the button post is provided with a third protrusion 166, which can abut against the end of the mounting member 110, thereby ensuring that at least a portion of the mounting post is always inside the mounting member 110, and thus ensuring that the button post is connected to the mounting member 110.

[0135] Specifically, during use, the first elastic element 114 abuts between the locking element 116 and the moving element 122. In this way, by the third protrusion 166 abutting and limiting the mounting element 110, it can be ensured that the button post will not detach from the mounting element 110 under the elastic force of the first elastic element 114.

[0136] Combination Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the moving member 122 includes a sliding pawl sleeve, the sidewall of which is provided with a first protrusion 128. The first protrusion 128 is slidably connected to the guide structure 118 and can abut against the end of the guide structure 118. A second inclined surface 126 is provided on the first protrusion 128.

[0137] In this embodiment, the moving member 122 includes a sliding pawl sleeve. The side wall of the sliding pawl sleeve is provided with a first protrusion 128, which is slidably connected to the guide structure 118 and can abut against the end of the guide structure 118, thereby limiting the locking member 116 to the locked position.

[0138] Specifically, the button post is hollow inside, and at least a portion of the sliding claw sleeve can extend into the interior of the button post. Furthermore, a first inclined surface 124 is located at the open end of the button post, and a second inclined surface 126 is located at the first protrusion 128. When the pressing member 120 is pressed for the first time, the first protrusion 128 drives the moving member 122 to move along the guide structure 118. When the moving member 122 moves to the end of the guide structure 118, the second inclined surface 126 cooperates with the first inclined surface 124 to drive the moving member 122 to rotate. At this time, the first protrusion 128 abuts against the limiting part, and the locking member 116 is limited to the locked position. When the pressing member 120 is pressed for the second time, the second inclined surface 126 cooperates with the first inclined surface 124 to drive the moving member 122 to rotate again. At this time, the moving member 122 moves in the opposite direction along the guide structure 118 under the action of the first elastic member 114, thereby causing the first protrusion 128 to separate from the limiting part, and the locking member 116 switches from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0139] Combination Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the moving member 122 is hollow inside, and a guide groove 170 is provided on the side wall of the moving member 122. The extending direction of the guide groove 170 is consistent with the moving direction of the locking member 116. At least a portion of the locking member 116 is located inside the moving member 122, and a second protrusion 130 is provided on the side wall of the locking member 116. The second protrusion 130 is slidably connected to the guide groove 170.

[0140] In this embodiment, the moving member 122 is hollow, and at least a portion of the locking member 116 is located inside the moving member 122. Furthermore, the sidewall of the moving member 122 is provided with a guide groove 170, the extension direction of which is consistent with the movement direction of the locking member 116; the locking member 116 is provided with a second protrusion 130, which is located within the guide groove 170 and is slidably connected to the guide groove 170. Thus, during use, the locking member 116 can move relative to the moving member 122 under the action of external force, thereby ensuring that even if the user unintentionally closes the locking assembly 108, the locking member 116 can still retract into the mounting member 110, ensuring that the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106 can be connected and limited.

[0141] Specifically, when the door assembly 104 is open, the first elastic member 114 abuts against the moving member 122 and the locking member 116. At this time, the second protrusion 130 is located in the middle of the guide groove 170 or at the first end of the guide groove 170 near the bottom of the mounting member 110, so as to ensure that the locking member 116 can retract into the mounting member 110 under external force, thereby ensuring that even if the user accidentally closes the locking assembly 108, the locking member 116 can still be locked with the fixing member 106.

[0142] In addition, when the locking member 116 moves, the second protrusion 130 moves along the guide groove 170, and the cooperation between the second protrusion 130 and the guide groove 170 plays a certain role in limiting and guiding, thereby improving the smoothness and stability of the operation of the locking member 116.

[0143] like Figure 4 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the locking member 116 further includes a driving ramp 132, and the fixing member 106 is capable of abutting against the driving ramp 132 to drive the locking member 116 to move relative to the mounting member 110.

[0144] In this embodiment, the locking member 116 further includes a driving ramp 132. When the door assembly 104 is opened, if the user accidentally triggers the locking member 108, the locking member 116 will extend the mounting member 110. At this time, when the user closes the door assembly 104, they can directly drive the door assembly 104 to close without having to press the pressing member 120 again, making it more convenient for the user.

[0145] Specifically, during the process of the user closing the door assembly 104, the fixing member 106 first contacts the driving ramp 132 of the locking member 116. The driving ramp 132 decomposes the force applied to the locking member 116 by the fixing member 106 into a horizontal component and a vertical component. The vertical component can be used to counteract the pushing force applied to the locking member 116 by the first elastic member 114, thereby causing the locking member 116 to move under the action of the aforementioned vertical component, so that the locking member 116 retracts into the mounting member 110. At this time, the user can close the door assembly 104.

[0146] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the locking assembly 108 further includes: a second elastic member 134, which is disposed within the mounting member 110 and connected to the driving member 112 and the mounting member 110, for resetting the locking member 116; wherein at least a portion of the first elastic member 114 is located inside the locking member 116, and the second elastic member 134 is sleeved on the locking member 116.

[0147] In this embodiment, the locking assembly 108 further includes a second elastic member 134. The second elastic member 134 is disposed within the mounting member 110 and abuts against the moving part 122 of the driving member 112 and the cover plate 140 of the mounting member 110. Thus, the cooperation between the first elastic member 114 and the second elastic member 134 further enhances the stability of the locking member 116.

[0148] Specifically, during the pressing of the pressing member 120, before the pressing member 120 contacts the moving member 122, the pressing member 120 will squeeze the second elastic member 134, at which time the second elastic member 134 is in a compressed state; after the pressing member 120 contacts the moving member 122, the pressing member 120 will simultaneously squeeze the first elastic member 114 and the second elastic member 134, at which time both the first elastic member 114 and the second elastic member 134 are in a compressed state.

[0149] Specifically, when the moving member 122 is positioned at the end of the guide structure 118, both the first elastic member 114 and the second elastic member 134, which are in a compressed state, apply a thrust to the moving member 122, thereby stably limiting the moving member 122 at the end of the guide structure 118. After pressing the pressing member 120 again, the moving member 122 rotates and disengages from the end of the guide structure 118; at this time, the first elastic member 114 and the second elastic member 134, which are in a compressed state, cooperate to reset the moving member 122 to its previous position. In this process, due to the cooperation of the first elastic member 114 and the second elastic member 134, the thrust on the driving member 112 is greatly increased, thereby further improving the stability of the locking member 116.

[0150] Combination Figure 4 , Figure 9 and Figure 12 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the mounting component 110 includes: a fixed bracket 136, a third opening 138, a cover plate 140, and a fourth opening 142. The third opening 138 is disposed on the fixed bracket 136, and the driving component 112 passes through the third opening 138. The cover plate 140 is connected to the fixed bracket 136. The fourth opening 142 is disposed on the cover plate 140, and the locking component 116 can pass through the fourth opening 142.

[0151] In this embodiment, the mounting component 110 includes a fixed bracket 136, a first opening 184, a cover plate 140, and a second opening 188. The fixed bracket 136 ensures the stable installation of the entire locking assembly 108; the cover plate 140 is connected to the fixed bracket 136, so that the cover plate 140 cooperates with the fixed bracket 136 to secure components such as the locking member 116 and the first elastic member 114.

[0152] Furthermore, the fixed bracket 136 is provided with a first opening 184, and the cover plate 140 is provided with a second opening 188, with the first opening 184 and the second opening 188 corresponding to each other. The pressing part of the locking member 116 passes through the first opening 184 and is located on the surface of the cooking appliance; the locking member 116 can pass through the second opening 188 under the drive of the moving member 122 and the first elastic member 114, and extend into the fixing port of the fixing member 106 to complete the limiting of the door assembly 104.

[0153] The inner wall of the fixed bracket 136 is provided with a limiting groove along the circumference. When the moving part 122 moves to the end of the guide structure 118, under the action of the first inclined surface 124 and the second inclined surface 126, the structure on the moving part with the second inclined surface 126 is pushed into the limiting groove. The limiting groove limits the structure with the second inclined surface 126, and the moving part 122 stops moving. The locking part 116 is also limited to the locked position. When the pressing part 120 is pressed for the second time, the second inclined surface 126 cooperates with the first inclined surface 124 to drive the moving part 122 to rotate again. The structure with the second inclined surface 126 is pushed out of the limiting groove, thereby separating the moving part 122 from the limiting part. The locking part 116 then switches from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0154] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, in a second aspect, the present invention provides a cooking appliance, comprising: a cavity assembly 102, a door assembly 104, and a locking structure as described in any of the above embodiments, wherein the door assembly 104 is connected to the cavity assembly 102 for opening and closing; wherein a fixing member 106 is disposed in one of the cavity assembly 102 and the door assembly 104, and a locking member 108 is disposed in the other of the cavity assembly 102 and the door assembly 104.

[0155] The cooking appliance provided in this embodiment has all the benefits of the lock structure provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0156] The cooking appliance proposed in this embodiment includes a cavity assembly 102, a door assembly 104, and a lock structure as described in any of the above embodiments. The cavity assembly 102 includes a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked. The door assembly 104 is connected to the cavity assembly 102 and is used to open or close the cooking cavity. Specifically, the door assembly 104 can be rotatably connected to the cavity assembly 102 or slidably connected to it. One of the cavity assembly 102 and the door assembly 104 is provided with a fixing member 106, and the other of the cavity assembly 102 and the door assembly 104 is provided with a locking component 108. The locking component 108 cooperates with the fixing member 106 to lock the door assembly 104 onto the cavity assembly 102. Specifically, the locking component 108 is a child lock and serves as an auxiliary connection.

[0157] When the door assembly 104 is closed, the locking member 116 is in the locked position; at this time, the locking member 116 is connected to the fixing member 106, and the user cannot open the door assembly 104. Before opening the door assembly 104, the connection limit between the locking member and the fixing member 106 is released; at this time, the locking member 116 is in the unlocked position, and the locking member 116 is separated from the fixing member 106.

[0158] During the opening of the door assembly 104, the door assembly 104 can be directly driven to separate from the cavity assembly 102 to complete the opening operation; at this time, the locking member 116 is still in the unlocking position. During the closing of the door assembly 104, the door assembly 104 can be directly closed and the position of the locking member 116 can be switched again so that the locking member 116 is connected and limited to the fixing member 106.

[0159] The locking assembly 108 includes a mounting member 110, a driving member 112, a first elastic member 114, and a locking member 116. The mounting member 110 is mounted to an external object, such as the door assembly 104 or cavity assembly 102 of a cooking appliance. At least a portion of the driving member 112 is disposed within the mounting member 110. A first end of the first elastic member 114 is connected to the driving member 112, and a second end of the first elastic member 114 is connected to the locking member 116. Thus, the driving member 112 can apply a thrust to the locking member 116 via the first elastic member 114, causing the locking member 116 to move relative to the mounting member 110 under the drive of the driving member 112 and the first elastic member 114, thereby allowing the locking member 116 to pass through the mounting member 110 and lock with the fixing member 106.

[0160] Specifically, in the lock structure proposed in this invention, the first elastic member 114 abuts against the driving member 112 and the locking member 116, thereby achieving a flexible connection between the locking member 116 and the driving member 112. Thus, when the locking assembly 108 is in the locked position, the presence of the first elastic member 114 allows the locking member 116 to still move toward the driving member 112.

[0161] Specifically, the fixing member 106 and the locking assembly 108 can be installed on the cavity assembly 102 and the door assembly 104, respectively. Therefore, when the door assembly 104 is open, if the user accidentally closes the locking assembly 108, the fixing member 106 will come into contact with the locking member 116 during the process of closing the door assembly 104 without switching the position of the locking member 116, thereby forcing the locking member 116 to move towards the drive member 112. In this way, on the one hand, it can ensure that the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106 can be connected and limited, and on the other hand, the connection and limitation of the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106 does not require user operation, which greatly improves the ease of use of the locking assembly 108.

[0162] When the door assembly 104 is closed, the locking member 116 is in the locked position; at this time, the locking member 116 is connected to the fixing member 106, and the user cannot open the door assembly 104. Before opening the door assembly 104, the connection limit between the locking member and the fixing member 106 is released; at this time, the locking member 116 is in the unlocked position, and the locking member 116 is separated from the fixing member 106.

[0163] Figure 2 The image shows the locking assembly 108 separated from the fixing member 106. Figure 3 The image shows the locking assembly 108 locked to the fastener 106.

[0164] During the opening of the door assembly 104, the door assembly 104 can be directly driven to separate from the cavity assembly 102 to complete the opening operation; at this time, the locking member 116 is still in the unlocking position. During the closing of the door assembly 104, the locking member 116 can be switched to the locking position after the door assembly 104 is closed, so that the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106 are locked and limited. Furthermore, when the door assembly 104 is open, once the user switches the locking member 116 to the locking position, the first elastic member 114 abuts between the locking member 116 and the driving member 112, so that the locking member 116 and the driving member 112 are elastically connected. In this way, the user does not need to switch the locking member 116 to the locking position in advance to ensure that the locking member 116 can still be locked and limited with the fixing member 106 during the closing of the door assembly 104.

[0165] Specifically, the locking structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking appliances. After the cooking process is finished, the food inside the cooking cavity is still hot, and there is a risk of burns if the user directly opens the door to remove the food. Therefore, through the cooperation of the locking component 108 and the fixing member 106, this invention ensures that if the user wants to open the door component 104, they must simultaneously pull out the locking member 116. This serves as a reminder to the user and prevents children from accidentally opening the door component 104, greatly improving the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0166] Therefore, the lock structure proposed in this invention, through the cooperation of the locking component 108 and the fixing member 106, increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock structure, preventing users, especially children, from accidentally opening the door component 104, and improving the safety of cooking utensils using this lock structure. Furthermore, the flexible connection between the driving member 112 and the locking member 116 allows the door component 104 to be closed without driving the locking member 116, even if the user accidentally switches the locking member 116 to the locked position when the door component 104 is open, while maintaining the connection limit between the locking member 116 and the fixing member 106.

[0167] The support member 180 supports the mounting member 110, and the mounting member 110 is installed on the support member 180. The lock structure can be installed on the cooking appliance. Specifically, the support member 180 can be detachably connected to the surface of the cooking appliance to be installed, that is, the support member 180 can be removed from the cooking appliance. When the lock structure is damaged, the lock structure can be removed from the surface to be installed, avoiding the situation where the cooking appliance cannot be opened or closed due to lock structure damage, thus improving the user's convenience in using the lock structure. Moreover, when the lock structure is damaged, the lock structure can be disassembled, replaced, and maintained independently without disassembling the housing or other components of the cooking appliance, reducing maintenance difficulty and saving maintenance costs.

[0168] In one possible embodiment, the cavity assembly 102 includes a cavity body 144 and a cover 146, the cover 146 surrounding at least a portion of the cavity body 144.

[0169] In this embodiment, the cavity assembly 102 includes a cavity body 144 and a cover 146. The cavity body 144 contains a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked. The cover 146 surrounds at least a portion of the cavity body 144, thus providing good protection for the cavity body 144. Furthermore, a mounting cavity exists between the cavity body 144 and the cover 146, allowing relevant components of the cooking appliance to be installed within this mounting cavity.

[0170] In one possible embodiment, the door assembly 104 further includes: a door body 148, a door seal 150, and a latch 152, wherein the door seal 150 is connected to the door body 148; and the latch 152 is disposed on the door body 148 or the door seal 150 for opening and closing connection with the cavity assembly 102.

[0171] In this embodiment, the door assembly 104 includes a door body 148, a door seal 150, and a latch 152. The door body 148 is connected to the cavity assembly 102 for opening and closing, and can be used to open or close the cooking cavity. The door seal 150 is connected to the door body 148 and provides a good sealing function when the door body 148 closes the cooking cavity, ensuring a good sealing effect during operation. Furthermore, the latch 152 is provided on either the door body 148 or the door seal 150 and is connected to the cavity assembly 102 for opening and closing. When the door body 148 closes the cooking cavity, the latch 152 is connected to the cavity assembly 102 to ensure the connection between the door assembly 104 and the cavity assembly 102.

[0172] Specifically, the door assembly 104 of the cooking appliance proposed in this invention includes a latch 152, which is used to connect with the cavity assembly 102, thereby ensuring a stable connection between the door assembly 104 and the cavity assembly 102. That is, the cooking appliance proposed in this invention can first ensure the connection between the door assembly 104 and the cavity assembly 102 through the latch 152, and then the locking assembly 108 can be used as a child lock, so that the locking assembly 108 cooperates with the fixing member 106 to further restrict the user from opening the door assembly 104.

[0173] In one possible embodiment, based on the locking component 108 disposed in the cavity component 102, the mounting portion 182 in the carrier 180 is connected to the outer surface of the cover 146, the cover 146 is provided with a mounting hole, and the carrier portion 186 in the carrier 180 can pass through the mounting hole.

[0174] In this embodiment, the mounting part 182 is detachably connected to the outer surface of the cover 146. When the lock structure is damaged and the door assembly 104 of the cooking appliance cannot be opened, the mounting part 182 can be detached from the outer surface of the cover 146. This method of detaching the lock structure from the outside of the cooking appliance allows the door assembly 104 to be opened even if the lock structure is damaged, improving the user's convenience in using the cooking appliance.

[0175] In some possible embodiments, a fastener 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104 and connected to the door body 148.

[0176] In this embodiment, the fixing member 106 can be disposed on the door assembly 104. When the fixing member 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104, it can be connected to the door body 148. In this case, the locking component 108 is disposed on the cavity assembly 102, thereby ensuring that the locking component 108 and the fixing member 106 are positioned correspondingly. Specifically, the fixing member 106 and the door body 148 can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0177] In addition, the door body 148 itself has good strength and hardness. Connecting the fastener 106 to the door body 148 can further ensure the connection firmness of the fastener 106, improve the cooperation stability between the locking component 108 and the fastener 106, and extend the service life of the fastener 106 and the entire cooking appliance.

[0178] In some possible embodiments, a fastener 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104 and connected to the door seal 150.

[0179] In this embodiment, the fixing member 106 can be disposed on the door assembly 104. When the fixing member 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104, it can be connected to the door seal 150. In this case, the locking assembly 108 is disposed on the cavity assembly 102, thereby ensuring that the locking assembly 108 and the fixing member 106 are positioned correspondingly. Specifically, the fixing member 106 and the door seal 150 can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0180] Furthermore, during the use of the cooking appliance, the door seal 150 is in direct contact with the cavity assembly 102 and is closer to the cavity assembly 102 than the door body 148. Therefore, installing the fastener 106 on the door seal 150 reduces the size requirements of the fastener 106 and simplifies the structure of the fastener 106 and the entire cooking appliance.

[0181] In some possible embodiments, the fastener 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104, and the fastener 106 and the door body 148 are an integral structure.

[0182] In this embodiment, the fastener 106 can be disposed on the door assembly 104. When the fastener 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104, it can be an integral structure with the door body 148. Specifically, this integral structure reduces the need for connecting parts between the fastener 106 and the door body 148, and significantly improves the connection strength between them, thereby ensuring the connection stability between the fastener 106 and the locking member 116 and extending the service life of the fastener 106 and the entire cooking appliance.

[0183] In some possible embodiments, the fastener 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104, and the fastener 106 and the door seal 150 are an integral structure.

[0184] In this embodiment, the fastener 106 can be disposed on the door assembly 104. When the fastener 106 is disposed on the door assembly 104, it can be an integral structure with the door seal 150. Specifically, this integral structure reduces the need for connecting parts between the fastener 106 and the door seal 150, and significantly improves the connection strength between them, thereby ensuring the connection stability between the fastener 106 and the locking member 116 and extending the service life of the fastener 106 and the entire cooking appliance.

[0185] In one possible embodiment, a fastener 106 is disposed on the cavity assembly 102 and connected to the cavity body 144.

[0186] In this embodiment, the fixing member 106 can be disposed in the cavity assembly 102. When the fixing member 106 is disposed in the cavity assembly 102, it can be connected to the cavity body 144. In this case, the locking assembly 108 is disposed in the door assembly 104, thereby ensuring that the locking assembly 108 corresponds in position to the fixing member 106. Specifically, the fixing member 106 and the cavity body 144 can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0187] In addition, the cavity assembly 102 itself has good strength and hardness. Connecting the fixing member 106 to the cavity body 144 can further ensure the connection firmness of the fixing member 106, improve the cooperation stability between the locking assembly 108 and the fixing member 106, and extend the service life of the fixing member 106 and the entire cooking appliance.

[0188] In one possible embodiment, a fastener 106 is disposed on the cavity assembly 102, and the fastener 106 is connected to the cover 146.

[0189] In this embodiment, the fixing member 106 can be disposed in the cavity assembly 102. When the fixing member 106 is disposed in the cavity assembly 102, it can be connected to the cover 146. In this case, the locking assembly 108 is disposed in the door assembly 104, thereby ensuring that the locking assembly 108 and the fixing member 106 are positioned correspondingly. Specifically, the fixing member 106 and the cover 146 can be connected using fasteners such as screws, or they can be engaged using snap-fit ​​connections.

[0190] Furthermore, the structure of the cover 146 is relatively simple. The fastener 106 is connected to the cover 146, which reduces the installation difficulty of the fastener 106 and thus improves the assembly efficiency of the locking assembly 108 and the cooking appliance. In addition, the connection between the fastener 106 and the cover 146 reduces the structural and manufacturing requirements of the cavity body 144, further improving the manufacturing efficiency of the cavity body 144.

[0191] In one possible embodiment, the locking component 108 is disposed on the door assembly 104, the mounting portion 182 in the carrier 180 is connected to the outer surface of the door body 148, the door body 148 is provided with a mounting hole, and the carrier portion 186 in the carrier 180 can pass through the mounting hole.

[0192] In this embodiment, the mounting part 182 is detachably connected to the outer surface of the door body 148. When the lock structure is damaged and the door assembly 104 of the cooking appliance cannot be opened, the mounting part 182 can be detached from the outer surface of the door body 148. This method of detaching the lock structure from the outside of the cooking appliance allows the door assembly 104 to be opened even if the lock structure is damaged, improving the user's convenience in using the cooking appliance.

[0193] In one possible embodiment, the cooking appliance includes a microwave oven, oven, steam oven, or steam oven.

[0194] In this invention, the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0195] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above 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 one or more embodiments or examples.

[0196] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A lock structure characterized by comprising: Applied to a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance includes a cavity assembly and a door assembly, the door assembly being openably and closeably connected to the cavity assembly; the lock structure includes: A fastener is disposed in one of the cavity assembly and the door assembly; and A locking assembly, disposed in the other of the cavity assembly and the door assembly, the locking assembly comprising: A support member capable of being detachably connected to the surface to be installed, the support member including a mounting portion detachable from the outer surface of the cooking utensil; The mounting component is connected to the carrier component; A driving member, at least a portion of which is disposed within the mounting member, the driving member including a pressing member that passes through the mounting member and is movably connected to the mounting member; A first elastic element, the first end of which is connected to the driving element; and A locking member is connected to the second end of the first elastic member. The locking member can move relative to the mounting member under the drive of the driving member and the first elastic member, and can lock or separate from the fixing member. The locking assembly further includes a guide structure disposed on the mounting member, the end of the guide structure being provided with a limiting portion, and at least a portion of the driving member being movable along the guide structure and limited to the end of the guide structure; The driving component further includes a moving component connected to the first end of the first elastic component and slidably connected to the guide structure; the pressing component includes a first inclined surface, and the moving component includes a second inclined surface. When the pressing member is pressed, the first inclined surface contacts the second inclined surface. During the first pressing of the pressing member, the moving member moves along the guide structure. When it reaches the end of the guide structure, the second inclined surface cooperates with the first inclined surface to drive the moving member to rotate, so that the moving member abuts against the limiting part, and the locking member is limited to the locked position. During the second pressing of the pressing member, the second inclined surface cooperates with the first inclined surface to drive the moving member to rotate again, so that the moving member moves in the opposite direction along the guide structure, so that the moving member separates from the limiting part, and the locking member switches from the locked position to the unlocked position.

2. The lock structure according to claim 1, characterized in that The mounting portion has a first opening and a first side surface for detachably connecting to the surface to be mounted. The support member further includes: The support portion has a first end connected to the first side surface. The support portion is provided with a second opening and a receiving portion that are connected. The second opening is located at the second end of the support portion. The mounting member extends into the receiving portion through the first opening. The locking member can move relative to the second opening and lock or separate from the fixing member.

3. The lock structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting portion extends beyond the circumferential edge of the supporting portion, and the mounting portion extending beyond the circumferential edge of the supporting portion is used to abut against the surface to be mounted.

4. The lock structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting component is detachably connected to the support portion.

5. The lock structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The carrier also includes: A baffle, connected to the supporting part, is slidable within the receiving part to push the locking member.

6. The lock structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The moving component includes a sliding pawl sleeve, the side wall of which is provided with a first protrusion. The first protrusion is slidably connected to the guide structure and can abut against the end of the guide structure. A second inclined surface is provided on the first protrusion.

7. The lock structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The locking element further includes: A driving ramp is provided, and the fixing member can abut against the driving ramp to drive the locking member to move relative to the mounting member.

8. The lock structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The locking component further includes: The second elastic element is disposed within the mounting component and connected to the driving component and the mounting component, and is used for resetting the locking component; In this configuration, at least a portion of the first elastic element is located inside the locking element, and the second elastic element is sleeved on the locking element.

9. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, include: Cavity assembly; A door assembly, wherein the door assembly is connected to the cavity assembly for opening and closing; The lock structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 8; The fixing member is disposed in one of the cavity assembly and the door assembly, and the locking assembly is disposed in the other of the cavity assembly and the door assembly.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cavity assembly includes: cavity body; A cover is provided for at least a portion of the cavity body.

11. The cooking utensil according to claim 9, characterized in that, The door assembly also includes: The door itself; Door seal, connected to the door body; A latch, provided on the door body or the door seal, is used to open and close with the cavity assembly.

12. The cooking utensil according to claim 10, characterized in that, Based on the locking component being disposed in the cavity assembly, the mounting portion in the carrier is connected to the outer surface of the cover, and the cover is provided with a mounting hole, through which the carrier portion in the carrier can pass.

13. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fastener is installed on the door assembly and is connected to the door body or the door seal.

14. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fastener is installed on the door assembly, and the fastener is an integral structure with the door body or with the door seal.

15. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The locking component is disposed on the door assembly, the mounting portion of the carrier is connected to the outer surface of the door body, the door body is provided with a mounting hole, and the carrier portion of the carrier can pass through the mounting hole.

16. The cooking utensil according to claim 10, characterized in that, The fixing member is disposed on the cavity assembly and is connected to the cavity body.

17. The cooking utensil according to claim 10, characterized in that, The fixing member is disposed on the cavity assembly and is connected to the cover.

18. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 9 to 17, characterized in that, The cooking appliances include microwave ovens, ovens, steam ovens, or steam ovens.

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