Steam cooking appliance, control method, device, storage medium, and electronic device thereof

Abstract

The present invention discloses a steam cooking appliance and its control method, device, storage medium, and electronic device. The method includes: upon receiving a cooking request, a water inlet pump pumps water to a steam generator at a first preset flow rate, thereby operating the steam generator; when the temperature of the steam generator reaches a first preset temperature, or the temperature of the cooking chamber reaches a second preset temperature, or the current cooking time reaches a first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches a first water inlet time, controlling a first fan to start operating to enhance air flow around the steam generator. Thus, by controlling the operation of the first fan, air heat circulation is increased, condensation of dispersed steam is prevented, the service life of the cooking appliance is extended, and the user experience is optimized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of cooking appliances, and in particular to a control method for a steam cooking appliance, a computer-readable storage medium, an electronic device, a control device for a steam cooking appliance, and a steam cooking appliance. Background Art

[0002] In steam cooking appliances, steam condenses through structures like the drain pan and inevitably escapes into the air through the exhaust vent. Furthermore, due to design requirements like insect-proofing, openings and channels are inevitably formed within the appliance. Consequently, when a steam cooker is operating, some steam can escape due to internal pressure and joint issues. Uneven heating can cause steam to condense on structural components or electrical devices, creating a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. This can easily lead to rust and corrosion of components, electrical failures, and accelerated equipment aging.

[0003] To this end, related technologies typically employ a tightly connected structure to ensure that the steam transmission channel cools in a wastewater box after steam heating is complete, preventing excessive steam from being directly discharged. However, after the cooking process is complete, the water supply pump stops supplying water, causing the steam generator temperature to remain high, inevitably causing steam to escape and easily cause burns. Furthermore, the residual heat causes thermal radiation, which can seriously corrode the cooking utensils, affecting their service life and user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to at least partially address one of the technical problems in the related art. To this end, a first object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a steam cooking appliance to increase air heat circulation, prevent condensation of overflowing steam, extend the service life of the cooking appliance, and optimize the user experience.

[0005] A second object of the present invention is to provide a computer-readable storage medium.

[0006] A third object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device.

[0007] A fourth object of the present invention is to provide a control device for a steam cooking appliance.

[0008] A fifth object of the present invention is to provide a steam cooking appliance.

[0009] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention provides a control method for a steam cooking appliance, wherein the steam cooking appliance includes a water inlet pump, a steam generator, a cooking cavity and a first fan, and the method includes the following steps: after receiving a cooking request, controlling the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a first preset flow rate, and controlling the steam generator to operate to provide steam to the cooking cavity; upon detecting that the temperature of the steam generator reaches a first preset temperature, or the temperature of the cooking cavity reaches a second preset temperature, or the current cooking time reaches a first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches a first water inlet time, controlling the first fan to start running to enhance the air flow around the steam generator.

[0010] Furthermore, after controlling the first fan to start running, the method also includes: confirming that the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches the second water inlet time, controlling the steam generator to stop working, and controlling the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a second preset flow rate, wherein the second cooking time is greater than the first cooking time, the second water inlet time is greater than the first water inlet time, and the second preset flow rate is less than the first preset flow rate; detecting that the temperature of the steam generator is less than or equal to a third preset temperature, or confirming that the current cooking time reaches the target cooking time, controlling the water inlet pump to stop pumping water, and controlling the first fan to stop running, wherein the third preset temperature is less than the first preset temperature.

[0011] Furthermore, the method further includes: after receiving a cooking request, determining the target cooking time according to the cooking request; wherein the second cooking time is the difference between the target cooking time and a preset time.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, controlling the first fan to start running includes: controlling the first fan to start running at a first preset power.

[0013] Furthermore, the method also includes: after controlling the first fan to start running, adjusting the current operating power of the first fan according to the temperature change rate of the steam generator and / or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity; and controlling the first fan according to the adjusted operating power.

[0014] Furthermore, the method further includes: confirming that the current cooking time reaches a second cooking time, and controlling the first fan to operate at a second preset power, wherein the second preset power is greater than the first preset power.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, adjusting the first preset power according to the temperature change rate of the steam generator and / or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity includes: increasing the current operating power of the first fan when detecting that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is greater than a first preset value, or that the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is greater than a second preset value; reducing the current operating power of the first fan when detecting that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is less than a third preset value, or that the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is less than a fourth preset value; maintaining the current operating power of the first fan unchanged when detecting that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is greater than or equal to the third preset value and less than or equal to the first preset value, or that the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is greater than or equal to the fourth preset value and less than or equal to the second preset value.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when it is confirmed that the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time and it is detected that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is less than the third preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is less than the fourth preset value, the steam generator is controlled to stop working.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first fan is a blowing fan or an exhaust fan, wherein, if the first fan is a blowing fan, the blowing direction of the first fan faces the steam generator; if the first fan is an exhaust fan, the exhaust direction of the first fan faces away from the steam generator.

[0018] The control method of the steam cooking appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention increases air heat circulation, avoids condensation of overflowing steam, extends the service life of the cooking appliance, and optimizes the user experience.

[0019] To achieve the above-mentioned object, a second embodiment of the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the control method of the steam cooking appliance is implemented.

[0020] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, an electronic device proposed in an embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention includes a memory, a processor and a computer program stored in the memory. When the computer program is executed by the processor, the control method of the steam cooking appliance is implemented.

[0021] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, a fourth embodiment of the present invention provides a control device for a steam cooking appliance, wherein the steam cooking appliance includes a water inlet pump, a steam generator, a cooking cavity and a first fan, and the device includes: a receiving module for receiving a cooking request; a detection module for detecting the temperature of the steam generator and the temperature of the cooking cavity; a timing module for recording a current cooking time; and a control module, wherein the control module is connected to the receiving module, the detection module and the timing module respectively, and the control module is used to: after receiving the cooking request, control the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a first preset flow rate, and control the steam generator to operate to provide steam to the cooking cavity; when the temperature of the steam generator reaches a first preset temperature, or the temperature of the cooking cavity reaches a second preset temperature, or the current cooking time reaches a first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches a first water inlet time, control the first fan to start running to enhance the air flow around the steam generator.

[0022] The control device for a steam cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention can increase air heat circulation, prevent condensation of overflowing steam, extend the service life of the cooking appliance, and optimize user experience.

[0023] To achieve the above-mentioned object, a fifth embodiment of the present invention provides a steam cooking appliance, comprising the electronic device described above, or the control device of the steam cooking appliance described above.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description which follows, or may be learned through practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 is a flow chart of a method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a diagram of a separated structure of a steam cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the installation of a first fan structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 is a structural diagram of a pressure component of a steam cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a steam water circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a control device for a steam cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a steam heat cycle control logic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 8 FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Wherein, the accompanying drawings are marked as follows:

[0034] 11. Water inlet pump; 12. Steam generator; 13. Cooking chamber; 14. First fan; 15. Water tank; 16. Main body; 17. Exhaust interface and channel; 18. Waste water box; 171. Exhaust interface; 172. Pressure valve; Receiving module 10; Detection module 20; Timing module 30; Control module 40. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended to be used to explain the present invention, and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0036] Please refer to the following Figure 1-8 The present invention describes a steam cooking appliance and a control method, device, storage medium, and electronic device thereof according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 1 The figure is a flow chart of a method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] In the embodiments of the present invention, see Figure 2-3 The steam cooking appliance 100 includes a water inlet pump 11 , a steam generator 12 , a cooking cavity 13 and a first fan 14 , wherein the first fan 14 may be provided corresponding to the steam generator 12 .

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the steam cooking appliance includes the following steps:

[0040] S101. After receiving a cooking request, control the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a first preset flow rate, and control the steam generator to operate to provide steam to the cooking cavity.

[0041] Specifically, a cooking request can be input through a control panel on the steam cooking appliance, or through an APP (Application) on a mobile control terminal such as a smartphone. After receiving the control instruction (i.e., the cooking request), the steam cooking appliance can start cooking and determine the cooking completion time (i.e., the target cooking time) based on the control instruction. As an example, after the cooking appliance completes the self-check of the status information, the cooking mode selected by the user, such as the steamed cake mode, the steamed bun mode, etc., can be determined based on the cooking request, and the corresponding target cooking time can be determined based on the cooking mode. The cooking completion time T (i.e., the target cooking time) can also be counted down when the cooking process officially begins.

[0042] Further, see Figure 5 When the steam cooking appliance begins cooking (i.e., the initial preheating phase), the water inlet pump can be controlled to pump water from the water tank to the steam generator at a first volume (i.e., a first preset flow rate) based on the cooking request. The water inlet volume is relatively small, allowing for rapid steam generation. The steam generator is then controlled to start operating in a constant or adjustable power mode to generate warm or cold water or steam. Water is then continuously pumped from the steam generator to complete heat exchange and input into the cooking chamber, enabling rapid preheating of the steam cooking appliance and shortening steam generation time.

[0043] S102: When it is detected that the temperature of the steam generator reaches a first preset temperature, or the temperature of the cooking cavity reaches a second preset temperature, or the current cooking time reaches a first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches a first water inlet time, the first fan is controlled to start running to enhance air flow around the steam generator.

[0044] In one example, controlling the first fan to start operating may include: controlling the first fan to start operating at a first preset power. After the first fan starts operating, the first fan may further be controlled to adjust the current operating power of the first fan based on a temperature change rate of the steam generator and / or a temperature change rate of the cooking chamber; and the first fan may be controlled based on the adjusted operating power.

[0045] Specifically, after completing the initial preheating phase, the steam cooking appliance enters the heating phase. The temperature of the steam generator (e.g., the temperature of the steam generator heat pipe) and the temperature of the space within the steamer (cooking chamber) can be monitored in real time. When the steam generator temperature exceeds a set threshold (i.e., a first preset temperature), or the temperature of the space within the steamer exceeds a set threshold (i.e., a second preset temperature), or the current cooking time reaches the first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches the first water inlet time, the hot air fan (i.e., the first fan) is driven to operate at a certain power (i.e., a first preset power) using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation). As the steam generator continues to operate, heat radiation causes the temperature within the steam cooking appliance to be higher than the ambient temperature and uneven. The operation of the hot air fan promotes air flow within the steam cooking appliance. This circulating air evenly transfers heat to the surfaces of the steam cooking appliance's structural components. Excess steam generated by internal heating, as well as any small amount of escaped steam, is prevented from condensing within the appliance due to the circulating air. Simultaneously, the hot air is expelled from the internal structural voids, lowering the overall temperature of the steam cooking appliance and providing overall cooling, thereby extending its service life and optimizing the user experience. It should be noted that the hot air fan is installed facing the interior of the steam cooking appliance. It does not dissipate heat from any fixed component, but rather primarily serves to enhance air flow within the appliance.

[0046] Furthermore, adjusting the first preset power according to the temperature change rate of the steam generator and / or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity may include: increasing the current operating power of the first fan when detecting that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is greater than the first preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is greater than the second preset value; reducing the current operating power of the first fan when detecting that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is less than the third preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is less than the fourth preset value; maintaining the current operating power of the first fan unchanged when detecting that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is greater than or equal to the third preset value and less than or equal to the first preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is greater than or equal to the fourth preset value and less than or equal to the second preset value.

[0047] Specifically, by detecting whether the steam generator temperature reaches the judgment threshold A1, that is, a1≥A1, detecting whether the steamer temperature reaches the judgment threshold A2, that is, a2≥A2, detecting whether the current cooking time reaches the first cooking time, and detecting whether the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches the first water inlet time, the "OR" condition is used to determine whether to turn on the hot air fan (that is, the first fan); judging whether the hot air fan operating power should be increased or decreased by the time-dependent change rate of the temperature rise of a1 and a2, and dynamically adjusting the hot air fan operating power through feedback. If and only if the two judgment conditions meet the "OR" relationship, that is:

[0048] S1=(a12-a11) / t12-t11;

[0049] S2=(a22-a21) / t22-t21;

[0050] S=S1||S2

[0051] Where S is the hot air fan status determination and adjustment parameter, S1 is the steam generator temperature rise rate, and S2 is the steamer temperature rise rate. For example, if the steam generator 12 temperature rise rate over time (S1) is greater than threshold A1, or the steamer temperature rise rate (S2) is greater than threshold A2, this indicates a rapid temperature rise, and the hot air fan's current operating power is increased. If the steam generator 12 temperature rise rate over time (S1) is less than threshold A3, or the steamer temperature rise rate (S2) is less than threshold A4, this indicates a slow temperature rise, and the hot air fan's current operating power is reduced. If the steam generator 12 temperature rise rate over time (S1) is greater than or equal to threshold A3 and less than or equal to threshold A1, or the steamer temperature rise rate (S2) is greater than or equal to threshold A4 and less than or equal to threshold A2, the hot air fan's current operating power remains unchanged. Thus, dynamic feedback adjustment of the first fan's power can better adapt the air circulation state to the actual cooking conditions, ensuring effective heat dissipation while reducing energy consumption.

[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first fan can be a blowing type hot air fan or an exhaust type hot air fan, wherein, if the first fan is a blowing type hot air fan, the blowing direction of the first fan faces the steam generator; if the first fan is an exhaust type hot air fan, the exhaust direction of the first fan faces away from the steam generator.

[0053] Specifically, the hot air fan used in the steam cooking appliance includes but is not limited to a DC fan or an AC fan, and the heat circulation mode of the hot air fan includes but is not limited to a blowing type and an exhaust type. When a blowing type fan is installed, its blowing direction faces the steam generator, and the heat radiation from its outer surface is blown away and circulated inside the cavity of the steam cooking appliance. At this time, the blowing promotes the air to take the heat away from the steam cooking appliance; when an exhaust fan is installed, its exhaust direction faces away from the steam generator, and the heat radiation from its outer surface is extracted and diffused to other positions in the cavity of the steam cooking appliance. At this time, the exhaust promotes the air to enter the steam cooking appliance and cool it down.

[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 8 As shown, the control method of the steam cooking appliance may further include the following steps:

[0055] S103. Confirm that the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches the second water inlet time, control the steam generator to stop working, and control the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a second preset flow rate, wherein the second cooking time is greater than the first cooking time, the second water inlet time is greater than the first water inlet time, and the second preset flow rate is less than the first preset flow rate.

[0056] It should be noted that the second cooking time is the difference between the cooking completion time T (i.e., the target cooking time) and the time t before the countdown ends (i.e., the preset time), and can be calibrated as needed. After the heating stage is completed, the cooking appliance enters the completion stage, meaning that cooking has proceeded for Tt (i.e., the second cooking time).

[0057] As an example, when it is confirmed that the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time and it is detected that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is less than the third preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is less than the fourth preset value, the steam generator is controlled to stop working.

[0058] Specifically, when the current cooking time reaches Tt (i.e., the second cooking time), if the detected rate of change of the steam generator's temperature rise over time is less than a set threshold (i.e., the third preset value), or if the rate of change of the steam pot's (i.e., the cooking chamber's) temperature rise over time is less than a set threshold (i.e., the fourth preset value), the steam generator is controlled to stop heating. Simultaneously, the water inlet pump is controlled to supply water to the steam generator at a second water volume (i.e., the second preset flow rate). In this case, the second water volume is less than the first water volume (i.e., the first preset flow rate). Therefore, the small amount of water entering can evaporate through residual heat, rapidly cooling the steam generator and ceasing heating.

[0059] For example, when the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time, the first fan can be controlled to operate at a second preset power, where the second preset power is greater than the first preset power and less than or equal to the first fan's maximum allowable operating power. This allows for rapid air circulation within the preset time, allowing exhaust steam generated by the steam generator to dissipate quickly. Simultaneously, the water inlet pump can be used to rapidly lower the overall temperature of the steam cooking appliance.

[0060] S104. Detecting that the temperature of the steam generator is less than or equal to a third preset temperature, or confirming that the current cooking time reaches the target cooking time, controlling the water inlet pump to stop pumping water, and controlling the first fan to stop running, wherein the third preset temperature is less than the first preset temperature.

[0061] Specifically, the steam generator temperature can be detected in real time. When it is detected that the steam generator temperature is less than or equal to the set threshold (i.e., the third preset temperature), or it can be confirmed that the current cooking time reaches the cooking completion time (i.e., the target cooking time), the water inlet pump is controlled to stop running, and the first fan is controlled to stop running, and the steam cooking appliance completes the entire cooking process.

[0062] As an example, the steam cooking appliance may further include a second fan, which is provided corresponding to a waste water box of the steam generator. The control method may then further include: detecting that the temperature of the steam generator reaches a first preset temperature, or that the temperature of the cooking cavity reaches a second preset temperature, controlling the second fan to start running to speed up the flow of steam output to the waste water box; and detecting that the temperature of the steam generator is less than or equal to a third preset temperature, controlling the second fan to stop running.

[0063] Specifically, an exhaust fan (i.e., a second fan) can be added to the steam cooking appliance and installed at the outlet of the waste water box component. Accordingly, according to the control instruction (i.e., cooking request), when the steam cooking appliance is working, the exhaust fan is started to generate active suction to speed up the cooking process. Figure 5 The flow of steam in the main circuit rapidly draws it from the cooking chamber into the wastewater tank for condensation. Therefore, by increasing active power, the free escape of steam can be reduced to a certain extent. Simultaneously, combined with the heat circulation provided by the hot air fan, this effectively cools the interior and reduces condensation. It's important to note that the water tank and wastewater tank can be designed based on the user's selected cooking mode and the amount of ingredients, as determined by the cooking request.

[0064] In one embodiment of the present invention, see Figure 4 A pressure valve may be provided at the steam outlet of the cooking cavity, and the pressure generated by the pressure valve is greater than one standard atmospheric pressure and less than or equal to two standard atmospheric pressures.

[0065] Specifically, see Figure 4 The pressure valve at the steam outlet of the cooking cavity can be a spherical pressure valve, and its threshold value can be detected by a pressure detection component. The threshold value is greater than one standard atmospheric pressure and does not exceed 2 times the standard atmospheric pressure, so that high-pressure cooking can be achieved and the cooking time can be shortened.

[0066] It should be noted that when the steam cooking appliance is operating and the pressure is high, the spherical pressure valve may be pushed open, allowing steam to escape. This escaped steam, on the one hand, enters the wastewater box through the steam passage and condenses. On the other hand, the high-temperature steam generated by the high pressure may partially escape into the steam cooking appliance. Therefore, the first fan can be controlled to operate throughout the entire cooking process of the steam cooking appliance, circulating air heat within the steam cooking appliance to cool the interior and reduce condensation. Accordingly, a pressure seal can be added to minimize steam escape, creating a tighter connection and enhancing the first fan's circulation efficiency.

[0067] In summary, the control method of the steam cooking appliance detects the temperature of the steam generator and the temperature of the space at the cooking cavity position, and starts the hot air fan (i.e., the first fan) at the appropriate time to increase the heat circulation of the air inside the cooking appliance and reduce condensation caused by the temperature difference. In addition, before the end of cooking, by controlling the hot air fan and the water inlet pump, the fan runs at high power at this time, so as to achieve the purpose of quickly reducing the residual temperature of the steam generator, thereby ensuring a dry environment inside the steam cooking appliance, improving the service life of the steam cooking appliance, and optimizing the user experience.

[0068] This embodiment further provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the control method of the steam cooking appliance is implemented.

[0069] This embodiment further provides an electronic device, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory. When the computer program is executed by the processor, the control method of the steam cooking appliance is implemented.

[0070] Figure 6 FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for a steam cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2-3 The steam cooking appliance 100 includes a water inlet pump 11 , a steam generator 12 , a cooking cavity 13 and a first fan 14 . The first fan 14 can be provided corresponding to the steam generator 12 .

[0071] Specifically, because the steam generator 12 has the greatest effect on the temperature rise of the entire machine, the first fan 14 can be installed near the steam generator 12. The water inlet pump 11 includes but is not limited to a DC or AC electromagnetic pump, which is resistant to high temperatures up to 100°C and meets the life requirements, and the auxiliary devices of the water inlet pump 11 include power supply, control and detection units, which provide necessary conditions for the normal operation of the entire equipment. The steam generator 12 includes but is not limited to steam generators formed by processes such as die-cast aluminum contact, boiler or thick film heating, and its control method is to operate in a constant power or adjustable power mode. The exhaust component includes an exhaust interface and channel 17 and a waste water box 18, which are installed integrally with the pressure detection component (including the pressure valve 172). The water tank 15 and the waste water box 18 can be designed according to the cooking mode selected by the user determined by the cooking request, and the amount of ingredients.

[0072] like Figure 6 As shown, the control device 200 of the steam cooking appliance includes: a receiving module 10, used to receive a cooking request; a detection module 20, used to detect the temperature of the steam generator 12 and the temperature of the cooking cavity 13; a timing module 30, used to record the current cooking time; and a control module 40, which is connected to the receiving module 10, the detection module 20 and the timing module 30 respectively.

[0073] The control module 40 is configured to: upon receiving a cooking request, control the water inlet pump 11 to pump water to the steam generator 12 at a first preset flow rate, and control the steam generator 12 to operate so as to provide steam to the cooking cavity 13 .

[0074] Specifically, the receiving module can be a control panel on the steam cooking appliance 100, through which the cooking request is input, or can be an APP (Application) on a mobile control terminal such as a smartphone. After receiving the control instruction (i.e., the cooking request), the steam cooking appliance 100 can start cooking and determine the cooking completion time T (i.e., the target cooking time) based on the control instruction. Figure 7 After the steam cooking appliance 100 completes a status self-check, the cooking mode is set and the cooking process officially begins. The control module 40, which can be an MCU (Micro-Controller Unit), simultaneously controls the steam generator 12 and the water inlet pump 11 during the preheating phase. The steam generator 12 starts operating in a constant power or adjustable power mode, while the water inlet pump 11 simultaneously supplies water at a relatively low flow rate C1 (i.e., a first preset flow rate). This low water flow rate allows for rapid steam generation in the cooking chamber 13. Supplying a small amount of water during the preheating phase while simultaneously activating the steam generator 12 allows for rapid preheating of the steam cooking appliance 100 and shortens steam generation time.

[0075] When the temperature of the steam generator 12 reaches the first preset temperature, or the temperature of the cooking cavity 13 reaches the second preset temperature, or the current cooking time reaches the first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump 11 reaches the first water inlet time, the control module 40 controls the first fan 14 to start running to enhance the air flow around the steam generator 12.

[0076] Specifically, see Figure 7After completing the preheating phase, the steam cooking appliance 100 enters the heating phase. The detection module 20 can detect the temperature of the steam generator 12 or the temperature of the cooking chamber 13, and the MCU (i.e., the control module 40) samples the temperature a1 of the steam generator 12 or the temperature a2 of the cooking chamber 13 to obtain the temperature. When it is detected that the temperature a1 of the steam generator 12 reaches the threshold value A1 (i.e., the preset first temperature), i.e., a1 ≥ A1, or when it is detected that the temperature a2 of the cooking chamber 13 reaches the threshold value A2 (i.e., the preset second temperature), i.e., a2 ≥ A2, or when the current cooking time reaches the first cooking time, or when the water inlet time of the water inlet pump 11 reaches the first water inlet time, the hot air fan (i.e., the first fan 14) is turned on and driven in a PWM manner to operate at the set threshold value W1 (i.e., the first preset power). The operation of the hot air fan can promote air flow in the internal space. The air circulation allows heat to be evenly transferred to the surface of the steam cooking appliance 100 structural components. Excess steam generated by internal heating and a small amount of escaped steam are prevented from condensing inside the steam cooking appliance 100 due to the air heat circulation. At the same time, the internal hot air is discharged from the structural gaps through the flow, reducing the overall temperature of the steam cooking appliance 100 and playing an overall cooling role, thereby extending the service life of the steam cooking appliance 100 and optimizing the user experience. Among them, the detection module 20 can be an integrated temperature detection device. It is also possible to determine whether to increase the operating power of the hot air fan, reduce the operating power of the hot air fan, or keep the current operating power of the hot air fan unchanged based on the rate of change of the temperature rise of a1 and a2 over time. Dynamic feedback adjustment of the operating power of the hot air fan can better adapt the air circulation state to the actual cooking situation, ensure the heat dissipation effect, and reduce energy consumption. If and only if the two judgment conditions meet the "or" relationship, the current operating power of the hot air fan is adjusted, that is:

[0077] S1=(a12-a11) / t12-t11;

[0078] S2=(a22-a21) / t22-t21;

[0079] S=S1||S2

[0080] Wherein, S is a hot air fan status judgment adjustment parameter, S1 is the rate of change of the steam generator 12 temperature rise over time, and S2 is the rate of change of the steam pot position temperature rise over time. For example, if it is detected that the steam generator 12 temperature rise rate over time S1 is greater than threshold value A1, or the steam pot position temperature change rate S2 is greater than threshold value A2, it indicates that the temperature rise is rapid, and the current operating power of the hot air fan is increased; if it is detected that the steam generator 12 temperature rise rate over time S1 is less than threshold value A3, or the steam pot position temperature change rate S2 is less than threshold value A4, it indicates that the temperature rise is slow, and the current operating power of the hot air fan is reduced; if it is detected that the steam generator 12 temperature rise rate over time S1 is greater than or equal to threshold value A3 and less than or equal to threshold value A1, or the steam pot position temperature change rate S2 is greater than or equal to threshold value A4 and less than or equal to threshold value A2, the current operating power of the hot air fan is maintained unchanged.

[0081] Specifically, the first fan 14 can be a blowing hot air fan or an exhaust hot air fan. If the first fan 14 is a blowing hot air fan, the blowing direction of the first fan 14 faces the steam generator 12; if the first fan 14 is an exhaust hot air fan, the exhaust direction of the first fan 14 faces away from the steam generator 12. The hot air fan used in the steam cooking appliance 100 includes, but is not limited to, a DC fan or an AC fan. The heat circulation mode of the hot air fan includes, but is not limited to, blowing and exhaust. When the blowing fan is installed, its blowing direction faces the steam generator 12, dissipating heat radiated from its outer surface and circulating it within the steam cooking appliance 100. In this case, the blowing air promotes the air to carry heat away from the steam cooking appliance 100. When the exhaust hot air fan is installed, its exhaust air direction faces away from the steam generator 12, dissipating heat radiated from its outer surface and dispersing it to other locations within the steam cooking appliance 100. In this case, the exhaust air promotes the air to enter the steam cooking appliance 100 and cool it down.

[0082] Furthermore, the control module 40 can also be used to control the steam generator 12 to stop working and control the water inlet pump 11 to pump water to the steam generator 12 at a second preset flow rate when the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches the second water inlet time, wherein the second cooking time is greater than the first cooking time, the second water inlet time is greater than the first water inlet time, and the second preset flow rate is less than the first preset flow rate.

[0083] As an example, see Figure 7The MCU counts down to the cooking completion time T (i.e., the target cooking time). After the heating phase is completed, the steam cooking appliance 100 enters the completion phase t time (i.e., the preset time) before the MCU countdown ends. The timing module 30 records the current cooking time, i.e., cooking has been performed for Tt time (i.e., the second cooking time). When the MCU (i.e., control module 40) detects that the rate of change S1 of the temperature rise of the steam generator 12 over time is less than a threshold value A3 (i.e., the third preset value), or that the rate of change S2 of the temperature rise of the steamer (i.e., the cooking chamber 13) over time is less than a threshold value A4 (i.e., the fourth preset value), the MCU (i.e., control module 40) controls the steam generator 12 to stop heating and controls the water inlet pump 11 to supply water at a water volume C2 (i.e., the second preset flow rate), where C2 ≤ C1. This small amount of water is used to rapidly cool the steam generator, allowing the water inlet pump to evaporate water through residual heat.

[0084] As an example, when it is confirmed that the current cooking time reaches Tt time (i.e., the second cooking time), the MCU (i.e., the control module 40) can also control the hot air fan (i.e., the first fan 14) to operate at W2 power. At this time, W1≤W2≤Wmax, where Wmax is the maximum operating power allowed by the hot air fan. Within the t time, the air heat circulates quickly, so that the exhaust steam generated by the waste heat of the steam generator 12 is quickly dissipated, and the water inlet pump 11 cooperates to rapidly reduce the overall temperature of the steam cooking appliance 100.

[0085] Furthermore, the control module 40 controls the water inlet pump 11 to stop pumping water and controls the first fan 14 to stop running when the temperature of the steam generator 12 is less than or equal to a third preset temperature, or when the current cooking time reaches the target cooking time, wherein the third preset temperature is lower than the first preset temperature.

[0086] Specifically, see Figure 7 The temperature a3 (i.e., the third preset temperature) of the steam generator 12 is detected in real time to control the water inlet pump 12's water inlet timing. When the temperature of the steam generator 12 falls below the set threshold A3 (i.e., a3 ≤ A3), or when the current cooking time reaches the cooking completion time (i.e., the target cooking time), the MCU (i.e., the control module 40) controls the water inlet pump 11 and the hot air fan (i.e., the first fan 14) to stop. Where a3 < a1, the steam cooking appliance 100 completes the entire cooking process.

[0087] As an example, the steam cooking appliance 100 may also include a second fan, which is provided corresponding to the waste water box 18 of the steam generator 12. Then the control module 40 in the control device 200 may also include: when the detection module 20 detects that the temperature of the steam generator 12 reaches a set threshold (i.e., the first preset temperature), or the temperature of the cooking cavity 13 reaches a set threshold (i.e., the second preset temperature), controlling the second fan to start running to speed up the flow of steam output to the waste water box 18; and when it is detected that the temperature of the steam generator 12 is less than or equal to the set threshold (i.e., the third preset temperature), controlling the second fan to stop running.

[0088] Specifically, an exhaust fan (i.e., a second fan) can be added to the steam cooking appliance 100 and installed at the outlet of the waste water box 18. Accordingly, according to the control instruction (i.e., cooking request), when the steam cooking appliance 100 is working, the exhaust fan is started to generate active suction to accelerate the steam cooking process. Figure 5 The flow of steam in the main circuit allows it to be quickly absorbed from the cooking chamber 13 and condensed in the wastewater box 18. Therefore, by increasing the active power, the degree of free steam dissipation can be reduced to a certain extent. At the same time, combined with the heat circulation of the hot air fan, the internal space can be cooled and condensation can be reduced.

[0089] In one embodiment of the present invention, see Figure 4 A pressure valve 172 may be provided at the steam outlet of the cooking cavity 13. The pressure generated by the pressure valve 172 is greater than one standard atmospheric pressure and less than or equal to two standard atmospheric pressures.

[0090] Specifically, see Figure 4 The pressure valve 172 at the steam outlet of the cooking cavity 13 can be a spherical pressure valve, and its threshold value can be detected by a pressure detection component. The threshold value is greater than one standard atmospheric pressure and does not exceed 2 times the standard atmospheric pressure, so as to achieve high-pressure cooking and shorten the cooking time.

[0091] It should be noted that when the steam cooking appliance 100 is operating and the pressure is high, the spherical pressure valve may be pushed open, allowing steam to escape. This escaped steam, on the one hand, enters the wastewater box through the steam passage and condenses. On the other hand, the high-temperature steam generated by the high pressure may partially escape into the steam cooking appliance. Therefore, the first fan can be controlled to operate throughout the entire cooking process of the steam cooking appliance 100, circulating air heat within the steam cooking appliance 100 to cool the interior and reduce condensation. Accordingly, a pressure seal can be added to minimize steam escape, creating a tighter connection and enhancing the first fan's circulation efficiency.

[0092] In summary, the control device 200 of the steam cooking appliance detects the temperature of the steam generator and the temperature of the space at the cooking cavity through the detection module 20, and starts the heat circulation fan at a timely manner to improve the heat circulation of the air inside the steam cooking appliance 100 and reduce condensation caused by the temperature difference. In addition, before the end of cooking, the hot air fan and the water inlet pump are controlled by the control module 40. At this time, the fan runs at high power to quickly reduce the residual temperature of the steam generator, thereby ensuring a dry environment inside the steam cooking appliance 100 and extending the service life of the steam cooking appliance 100.

[0093] This embodiment further provides a steam cooking appliance 100, comprising the aforementioned electronic device or the aforementioned control device for the steam cooking appliance. The steam cooking appliance 100 uses a steam generator 12 to provide steam to cook different ingredients in different cooking modes, thereby maintaining both the taste and the nutrition of the ingredients.

[0094] In summary, during a normal cooking process, the integrated temperature detection device (i.e., detection module 20) monitors the surface temperature of the cooking cavity 13 and the temperature of the steam generator 12 in real time. The MCU (i.e., control module 40) obtains the surface temperature of the cooking cavity 13 and the temperature of the steam generator 12 in real time through sampling. The target cooking time is determined based on the cooking mode. During this process, the hot air fan (i.e., first fan) is controlled and adjusted in speed to enhance internal air flow, improve heat circulation efficiency, and prevent localized condensation within the cooking appliance, which could cause water corrosion. A certain time (i.e., a preset time) before the end of the cooking process, the steam generator 12 is controlled to stop heating, and the water inlet pump 11 is controlled to cool the steam generator 12 with a small amount of water. Simultaneously, the hot air fan (i.e., first fan) is operated at maximum power and speed. This utilizes the residual heat of the steam generator 12 to dissipate the escaping steam through the structural gaps and out of the steam cooking appliance 100, rapidly cooling the entire steam cooking appliance 100 and extending its service life.

[0095] It should be noted that the logic and / or steps represented in the flowcharts or otherwise described herein, for example, can be considered as a sequenced list of executable instructions for implementing the logical functions, and can be embodied in any computer-readable medium for use by, or in conjunction with, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device (e.g., a computer-based system, a system including a processor, or other system that can fetch and execute instructions from an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device). For purposes of this specification, a "computer-readable medium" can be any device that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transmit a program for use by, or in conjunction with, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples (non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable media include the following: an electrical connection portion having one or more wires (electronic device), a portable computer disk cartridge (magnetic device), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable and programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), fiber optic devices, and portable compact disc read-only memory (CDROM). Furthermore, the computer-readable medium may even be paper or other suitable medium on which the program is printed, since the program may be obtained electronically, for example, by optically scanning the paper or other medium and then editing, interpreting or processing it in another suitable manner as necessary, and then storing it in a computer memory.

[0096] It should be understood that various parts of the present invention can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the above-described embodiments, multiple steps or methods can be implemented using software or firmware stored in a memory and executed by a suitable instruction execution system. For example, if implemented using hardware, as in another embodiment, any one of the following technologies known in the art or a combination thereof can be used: a discrete logic circuit having a logic gate circuit for implementing a logic function on a data signal, an application-specific integrated circuit having a suitable combination of logic gate circuits, a programmable gate array (PGA), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), etc.

[0097] Throughout this specification, reference to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples" means that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in conjunction with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, schematic representations 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 any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0098] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present invention.

[0099] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description of the present invention, "plurality" means at least two, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0100] In the present invention, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, when a first feature is "above" or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediary. Furthermore, when a first feature is "above," "above," or "above" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a higher level than the second feature. When a first feature is "below," "below," or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a lower level than the second feature.

[0101] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it will be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative and are not to be construed as limitations on the present invention. A person skilled in the art may change, modify, replace and modify the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a steam cooking appliance, characterized in that: The cooking method comprises a water inlet pump, a steam generator, a cooking cavity and a first fan, and the method comprises the following steps: After receiving a cooking request, controlling the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a first preset flow rate, and controlling the steam generator to operate to provide steam to the cooking cavity; detecting that the temperature of the steam generator reaches a first preset temperature, or the temperature of the cooking cavity reaches a second preset temperature, or the current cooking time reaches a first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches a first water inlet time, controlling the first fan to start running to enhance air flow around the steam generator; After controlling the first fan to start running, the method further includes: confirming that the current cooking time reaches a second cooking time, or that the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches a second water inlet time, controlling the steam generator to stop working, and controlling the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a second preset flow rate, wherein the second cooking time is greater than the first cooking time, the second water inlet time is greater than the first water inlet time, and the second preset flow rate is less than the first preset flow rate.

2. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein: After controlling the first fan to start running, the method further includes: It is detected that the temperature of the steam generator is less than or equal to a third preset temperature, or it is confirmed that the current cooking time reaches the target cooking time, the water inlet pump is controlled to stop pumping water, and the first fan is controlled to stop running, wherein the third preset temperature is lower than the first preset temperature.

3. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 2, wherein: The method further comprises: After receiving the cooking request, determining the target cooking time according to the cooking request; The second cooking time is the difference between the target cooking time and the preset time.

4. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 2, wherein: The controlling the first fan to start running includes: The first fan is controlled to start running at a first preset power.

5. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 4, wherein: The method further comprises: After controlling the first fan to start running, adjusting the current operating power of the first fan according to the temperature change rate of the steam generator and / or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity; The first fan is controlled according to the adjusted operating power.

6. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The method further comprises: It is confirmed that the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time, and the first fan is controlled to operate at a second preset power, wherein the second preset power is greater than the first preset power.

7. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 5, wherein: The adjusting the first preset power according to the temperature change rate of the steam generator and / or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity includes: If it is detected that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is greater than a first preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is greater than a second preset value, then the current operating power of the first fan is increased; When it is detected that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is less than a third preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is less than a fourth preset value, reducing the current operating power of the first fan; If it is detected that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is greater than or equal to the third preset value and less than or equal to the first preset value, or that the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is greater than or equal to the fourth preset value and less than or equal to the second preset value, the current operating power of the first fan is maintained unchanged.

8. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 2, wherein: It is confirmed that the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time and it is detected that the temperature change rate of the steam generator is less than a third preset value, or the temperature change rate of the cooking cavity is less than a fourth preset value, and the steam generator is controlled to stop working.

9. The method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein: The first fan is a blowing fan or an exhaust fan, wherein: If the first fan is a blowing fan, the blowing direction of the first fan faces the steam generator; If the first fan is an exhaust fan, the exhaust direction of the first fan is facing away from the steam generator.

10. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that: When the computer program is executed by a processor, the control method of the steam cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is implemented.

11. An electronic device comprising a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory, characterized in that: When the computer program is executed by the processor, the method for controlling a steam cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is implemented.

12. A control device for a steam cooking appliance, characterized in that: The steam cooking appliance comprises a water inlet pump, a steam generator, a cooking cavity and a first fan, and the device comprises: A receiving module, configured to receive a cooking request; a detection module, configured to detect the temperature of the steam generator and the temperature of the cooking cavity; Timing module, used to record the current cooking time; A control module, which is connected to the receiving module, the detection module and the timing module respectively, and is used to: After receiving a cooking request, controlling the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a first preset flow rate, and controlling the steam generator to operate to provide steam to the cooking cavity; When the temperature of the steam generator reaches a first preset temperature, or the temperature of the cooking cavity reaches a second preset temperature, or the current cooking time reaches a first cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches a first water inlet time, controlling the first fan to start running to enhance air flow around the steam generator; After controlling the first fan to start running, it also includes: confirming that the current cooking time reaches the second cooking time, or the water inlet time of the water inlet pump reaches the second water inlet time, controlling the steam generator to stop working, and controlling the water inlet pump to pump water to the steam generator at a second preset flow rate, wherein the second cooking time is greater than the first cooking time, the second water inlet time is greater than the first water inlet time, and the second preset flow rate is less than the first preset flow rate.

13. A steam cooking appliance, characterized in that: The device comprises the electronic device according to claim 11, or the control device of the steam cooking appliance according to claim 12.

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