Cooking appliance

Abstract

The application discloses a cooking utensil, which comprises a body assembly, a material washing bin assembly and a pot body. The pot body has a cooking cavity. The body assembly comprises a feeding mechanism. The material washing bin assembly comprises a material washing bin body. The material washing bin body forms a material washing cavity and has a material inlet. The feeding mechanism is used for conveying food materials to the material washing cavity through the material inlet. Part or all of the feeding mechanism is movable between a storage position and a matching position. When the feeding mechanism is in the storage position, the feeding mechanism is folded on one side of the body assembly or is partially or wholly accommodated in the interior of the body assembly. When the feeding mechanism is in the matching position, the feeding mechanism is stretched away from or protrudes from the body assembly. The material washing bin body has a material outlet. The material washing bin body is communicated with the cooking cavity through the material outlet to discharge materials. According to the application, the feeding mechanism can be protected from being damaged, and the structure of the cooking utensil can be more compact.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of kitchen appliances, and more specifically to a cooking utensil. Background Technology

[0002] Existing cooking appliances, such as rice cookers, typically have a separate rice washing device. The ingredients to be cooked can be washed in this device for user convenience. Some cooking appliances also have a rice feeding mechanism; however, these existing appliances with both washing and feeding devices are structurally complex, resulting in large sizes and significant space requirements.

[0003] Therefore, a cooking appliance is needed to at least partially solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The summary section introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. The summary section of this invention is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0005] To at least partially solve the above problems, the present invention provides a cooking appliance, including a body assembly, a washing chamber assembly, and a pot body. The pot body has a cooking cavity. The body assembly includes a feeding mechanism. The washing chamber assembly includes a washing chamber body forming a washing cavity and having an inlet. The feeding mechanism is used to transport food ingredients through the inlet into the washing cavity.

[0006] In this configuration, some or all of the feeding mechanism is movable at least between a retracted position and a mating position. In the retracted position, the feeding mechanism is folded to one side of the body assembly, or partially or completely housed within the body assembly. In the mating position, the feeding mechanism extends or protrudes away from the body assembly.

[0007] The main body of the washing chamber has a discharge port, and the main body of the washing chamber is connected to the cooking cavity through the discharge port for discharging materials.

[0008] This solution allows the feeding mechanism to switch between a storage position and a working position, so that when feeding is not needed, the feeding mechanism can be stored inside the body components. On the one hand, this makes the cooking appliance more compact and saves space, and on the other hand, it prevents the feeding mechanism from being exposed or from being damaged by bumps or knocks.

[0009] Optionally, the feeding mechanism extends or protrudes towards the washing hopper assembly when in the mating position, and / or the feeding mechanism is aligned with or extends into the inlet when in the mating position. This arrangement facilitates the feeding mechanism's delivery of materials into the washing hopper assembly.

[0010] Optionally, the feeding mechanism is movable along a straight line between the receiving position and the mating position. This design is easier to manufacture and saves costs.

[0011] Optionally, the body assembly is provided with a storage cavity, and the feeding mechanism is partially or wholly housed within the storage cavity. This design allows for a more compact and space-saving cooking appliance.

[0012] Optionally, the body assembly further includes a storage mechanism, and the feeding mechanism is used to transport the food ingredients in the storage mechanism to the washing chamber. The storage mechanism has the receiving cavity. This design allows the cooking appliance to store materials, thereby improving ease of use.

[0013] Optionally, the feeding mechanism includes a feeding bin, which has an inlet, an outlet located below the inlet, and a vertically extending feeding channel between the inlet and the outlet. The inlet is located on the side wall of the feeding bin, and the outlet is located on the side wall or bottom of the feeding bin. This design facilitates feeding and discharging operations.

[0014] Optionally, the storage mechanism includes a storage bin with a side outlet. When the feeding mechanism moves to the mating position, the side outlet communicates with the inlet, and the outlet communicates with the inlet. This design allows the feeding structure to not only retract and extend during movement but also perform feeding operations, improving ease of use.

[0015] Optionally, the washing bin assembly is located below the storage mechanism. This design facilitates material feeding and allows for a more rational layout and easier manufacturing of cooking appliances.

[0016] Optionally, the feeding mechanism is fully housed within the storage cavity when in the storage position. This design allows for a more compact and space-saving cooking appliance, while also preventing the feeding mechanism from being exposed and damaged.

[0017] Optionally, the cooking appliance includes a lid, which covers the pot body. A washing chamber assembly is located on the lid, and a storage mechanism is situated above the lid, with a gap between the storage mechanism and the lid. Because the feeding structure is fully housed within the storage cavity of the storage mechanism when in its retracted position, the user can easily retrieve the pot body through the gap between the storage mechanism and the lid without obstruction. Furthermore, materials can be fed from the uppermost storage mechanism to the lower washing chamber assembly via the feeding mechanism, and after washing, can be directly discharged through the discharge port of the washing chamber body above the pot body. This discharge structure is simple and fully utilizes gravity for discharging. The gap between the storage mechanism and the lid also facilitates the removal of the lid or both the lid and the pot body from below the storage mechanism.

[0018] Optionally, the assembly also includes a drive component. The washing hopper assembly includes an agitator and a washing hopper cover movably disposed within the washing hopper body. The washing hopper body has a discharge port. The drive component can cooperate with the washing hopper assembly to drive the agitator to rotate and drive the washing hopper cover to move between an open position (opening the discharge port) and a closed position (closing the discharge port). The feeding mechanism can be engaged with the drive component, and the two are combined into a single unit. This design facilitates the movement of the drive component and the feeding mechanism together between a storage position and a mating position, reducing the number of driving components that drive the feeding mechanism and the transmission assembly.

[0019] Optionally, the feeding mechanism and the drive assembly can move together between the storage position and the mating position. This design facilitates the movement of the drive assembly and the feeding mechanism together between the storage position and the mating position, and can reduce the number of driving components that drive the feeding mechanism and the transmission assembly to move.

[0020] Optionally, the feeding mechanism includes a feeding bin, which is engageable with the drive assembly and movable between the receiving position and the mating position. This design facilitates the movement of the drive assembly and the feeding mechanism together between the receiving position and the mating position.

[0021] Optionally, the feeding mechanism can move vertically along a straight line between the receiving position and the mating position, or can rotate about an axis located at one end of it. This design can increase manufacturing flexibility.

[0022] Optionally, the agitator is connected to the washing hopper cover and can move up and down synchronously with the washing hopper cover. This design facilitates manufacturing and assembly.

[0023] Optionally, the agitator and the washing hopper cover are integral parts, or the agitator and the washing hopper cover are separate parts, and the agitator is rotatable relative to the washing hopper cover. This design increases manufacturing flexibility.

[0024] Optionally, when the feeding mechanism is in the storage position, there is a gap between the feeding mechanism and the lid. This design facilitates the removal of the lid, or the lid and the pot body, from below the feeding structure. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this invention, are provided for understanding the invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention.

[0026] In the attached image:

[0027] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a cooking utensil according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance in its initial state.

[0029] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in the food dispensing position.

[0030] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in the completed feeding state.

[0031] Figure 5 for Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance shown is shown in the washing state;

[0032] Figure 6 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in a draining state.

[0033] Figure 7 for Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the cooking utensil shown is shown in the material discharge state.

[0034] Figure 8 for Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown.

[0035] Figure 9 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the pot lid and washing compartment assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0036] Figure 10 for Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown.

[0037] Figure 11 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0038] Figure 12 for Figure 1 Another cross-sectional view of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0039] Figure 13 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the feeding mechanism of the cooking appliance shown and the drive component disposed therein;

[0040] Figure 14 for Figure 1 Another cross-sectional view of the feeding mechanism of the cooking appliance shown and the drive component disposed therein;

[0041] Figure 15 for Figure 1 The exploded perspective view of the food storage mechanism of the cooking appliance shown, as well as the drive component and feeding mechanism disposed therein, has omitted some parts for simplicity.

[0042] Figure 16-18 They are shown respectively Figure 15 A perspective view, cross-sectional view, and exploded perspective view of a portion of the drive component shown;

[0043] Figure 19 It shows Figure 15 A perspective view of a portion of the feeding mechanism shown;

[0044] Figure 20 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the pot lid and washing chamber assembly of the cooking utensil shown.

[0045] Figure 21 for Figure 20 A schematic diagram of the main body of the pot lid shown;

[0046] Figure 22 for Figure 20 A schematic diagram of the removable lid shown in the image;

[0047] Figure 23 for Figure 20 The diagram shows a pot lid with a portion cut open to reveal its internal structure.

[0048] Figure 24 for Figure 20 A schematic cross-sectional view of the pot lid shown;

[0049] Figure 25 A schematic diagram of a portion of the lid of a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 26 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the pot lid and washing chamber assembly of the cooking utensil shown;

[0051] Figure 27 for Figure 26 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the pot lid and washing compartment of the cooking utensil shown;

[0052] Figure 28 for Figure 27 A magnified view of part A in the diagram;

[0053] Figure 29 for Figure 1 An exploded cross-sectional view of a portion of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0054] Figure 30 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the cover plate of the washing chamber lid of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown in the figure;

[0055] Figure 31 for Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the washing chamber cover of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown.

[0056] Figure 32 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the rotating shaft of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0057] Figure 33 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the agitator component of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0058] Figure 34 for Figure 1 Another perspective view of the agitator of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0059] Figure 35 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the limiting part of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0060] Figure 36 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the cover and sealing portion of another preferred embodiment of the washing chamber assembly of the cooking appliance shown;

[0061] Figure 37 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a portion of the washing chamber assembly of another preferred embodiment of the cooking appliance shown;

[0062] Figure 38-42 They are respectively Figure 1A perspective view of the agitator of the washing chamber assembly of another preferred embodiment of the cooking appliance shown.

[0063] Figure 43 A perspective view of a cooking appliance according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 44 for Figure 43 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance in its initial state.

[0065] Figure 45 for Figure 43 The image shows a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in a pre-cooking state.

[0066] Figure 46 for Figure 43 The image shows a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in the feeding position.

[0067] Figure 47 for Figure 43 The cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance shown is shown in the state of having finished feeding and washing the ingredients;

[0068] Figure 48 for Figure 43 The cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance shown is shown in the state of preparing to dispensing ingredients;

[0069] Figure 49 for Figure 43 The cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance shown is shown in the first feeding state;

[0070] Figure 50 for Figure 43 The cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance shown is shown in the second discharging state;

[0071] Figure 51 for Figure 43 The cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance shown is in the reset state after the material has been dispensed;

[0072] Figure 52 for Figure 44 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the washing system shown.

[0073] Figure 53 for Figure 52 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the feeding mechanism shown;

[0074] Figure 54 for Figure 52 An exploded perspective view of another part of the feeding mechanism shown;

[0075] Figure 55 for Figure 44 The cross-sectional view of the pot lid and washing hopper assembly shown;

[0076] Figure 56 for Figure 44 An exploded perspective view of the pot lid and washing hopper assembly shown.

[0077] Figure 57 for Figure 56 The image shows a perspective view of the pot lid and the main body of the washing hopper in an inverted state.

[0078] Figure 58 for Figure 56 An exploded perspective view of the first and second mounting bases shown in the figure;

[0079] Figure 59 for Figure 56 An exploded perspective view of the first mounting base and its components shown.

[0080] Figure 59A for Figure 55 Enlarged view of section A;

[0081] Figure 59B for Figure 55 Enlarged view of section B;

[0082] Figure 59C for Figure 44 The diagram shows the relationship between the translational drive component and the rotary drive component in the driving position and the translational mating component and the rotary mating component.

[0083] Figure 60 for Figure 52 A cross-sectional view of the drive component shown;

[0084] Figure 61 for Figure 52 A perspective view of the drive component shown;

[0085] Figure 62 For along Figure 60 A cross-sectional view of the section cut by the middle BB line;

[0086] Figure 63 For along Figure 47 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment cut along line AA;

[0087] Figure 64 For along Figure 47 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment cut by line AA; Detailed Implementation

[0088] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well-known in the art have not been described in order to avoid confusion with embodiments of the invention.

[0089] To fully understand the embodiments of the present invention, detailed structures will be presented in the following description. Obviously, the implementation of the embodiments of the present invention is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0090] This invention provides a washing chamber assembly, a lid, and a cooking appliance. The cooking appliance according to this invention can be a rice cooker, an electric pressure cooker, or other cooking appliances, and in addition to cooking rice, it can also perform various functions such as cooking porridge, making soup, and stir-frying. Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] It should be noted that the directional terms such as "up," "down," "high," "low," "front," and "back" used in this article are based on the position of the cooking utensil when it is placed on a horizontal table, with the lid closed, and the user is using the cooking utensil. Specifically, the direction in which the cooking utensil faces the user is defined as "front," and the opposite direction is defined as "back."

[0092] First Implementation Method

[0093] The cooking utensil 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] refer to Figure 1 The cooking appliance 1 includes a body assembly 11 and a pot assembly. The bottom of the body assembly 11 has a base 12, on which the pot assembly can be placed and removed so that the pot assembly can be placed in any desired location, such as a dining table.

[0095] The pot assembly includes a pot body 2, an inner pot 3 disposed within the pot body 2, and a lid 4 covering the pot body 2. The pot body 2 is detachably mounted on a base 12. The inner pot 3 is removably placed within the pot body 2. The lid 4 is detachably attached to the pot body 2. In a preferred embodiment, the lid 4 can be completely removed from the pot body 2, facilitating cleaning of the lid 4. When the lid 4 is closed onto the pot body 2, a cooking space is formed between the lid 4 and the inner pot 3.

[0096] The base 12 typically houses a heating device (not shown) and a power supply module for supplying power to the heating device. When the pot assembly is placed on the base 12, the power supply module supplies power to the heating device, enabling it to heat the inner pot 3 within the pot body. In a preferred embodiment, the heating device is electromagnetic heating. Exemplarily, the heating device may include a coil and a coil wound on the coil, such that when energized, the heating device generates heat to heat the inner pot 3. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, the heating device may also be configured with other structures, such as heating wire heating. Exemplarily, the power supply module may be a plug adapted to an external power source, which supplies power to the heating device when plugged in. The power supply module may also be configured as a battery housed in the base 12.

[0097] refer to Figures 2-7 The machine body assembly 11 also includes a storage mechanism 89 and a feeding mechanism 15. The storage mechanism 89 is located above the pot lid 4, and there is a gap between the storage mechanism 89 and the pot lid 4. The storage mechanism 89 includes a storage bin 13, which can store materials such as rice, millet, corn kernels, black beans, red beans, and mung beans. The storage bin 13 has a side outlet 14, that is, the outlet 14 is located on the side of the storage bin 13 so that the materials in the storage bin 13 can flow out through the outlet 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 14 is located at the lower part of the storage bin 13, which further facilitates the materials in the storage bin 13 to flow out from the outlet 14 by gravity.

[0098] Continue to refer to Figures 2-7 The feeding mechanism 15 includes a feeding bin 16, which has a feeding inlet 88 (e.g., ...). Figure 15 As shown), the discharge port 82 is located below the feed inlet 88 (as shown). Figure 19 (as shown) and a vertically extending feed channel (not shown) for conveying solid materials, disposed between the feed inlet 88 and the discharge outlet 82. The feed inlet 88 is disposed on the side wall of the feed hopper 16, and the discharge outlet 82 is disposed on the bottom wall of the feed hopper 16. The feed hopper 16 is at least in a first position (also called the receiving position, i.e., the initial state, such as...) Figure 2 As shown) and the second position (also known as the mating position, that is, the feeding state, such as Figure 3 The feed bin 16 is movable between the outlet 14 and the inlet 7 of the washing bin assembly 5 (as shown), wherein when the feed bin 16 is in the first position, the feed bin 16 is movable between the outlet 14 and the inlet 7 of the washing bin assembly 5 (as shown). Figure 9 As shown in the diagram (described below), the feed hopper 16 is not connected to the outlet 14 and the inlet 7 when the feed hopper 16 is in the second position. Preferably, the feed hopper 16 can move vertically along a straight line between the first and second positions. When in the unloading state (e.g., ... Figure 3As shown, the inlet 88 can communicate with the outlet 14 of the storage bin 13, and the outlet 82 can communicate with the inlet 7 of the washing bin assembly 5, so that the material in the storage bin 13 enters the feeding bin 16 through the inlet 88, and then enters the washing bin assembly 5 through the outlet 82. The feeding bin 16 is generally constructed as a columnar structure. When the feeding bin 16 is in the storage position, there is a gap between the feeding mechanism 15 and the pot lid 4. This design facilitates the removal of the pot lid 4 or the pot lid 4 and the pot body 2 from below the feeding mechanism 15.

[0099] The feeding mechanism 15 is at least partially located within the receiving cavity of the storage silo 13, or at least partially located outside the storage silo 13 but within the space enclosed by the storage silo 13. The "enclosed space" mentioned here refers to a coordinate system in which projections along the X, Y, and Z directions overlap. In the illustrated embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, when the feeding bin 16 is in the first position, the feeding bin 16 is completely hidden in the storage bin 13, as... Figure 3 As shown, when the feeding bin 16 is in the second position, a portion of the feeding bin 16 extends from the storage bin 13 and protrudes toward the washing bin assembly, fitting snugly against the inlet. This design conceals the feeding bin 16 within the storage bin 13 when in the first position, preventing damage to the feeding bin 16 and allowing for a more compact structure of the cooking appliance. In other embodiments not shown, when the feeding bin 16 is in the first position, it can also be folded to one side of the body assembly, and when the feeding bin 16 moves to the second position, it can rotate about an axis located at one end to extend toward the washing bin assembly 5.

[0100] Preferably, the storage bin 13 is further provided with a sliding channel 46, and the feeding mechanism 15 is movably disposed in the sliding channel 46. This design ensures that the feeding mechanism 15 moves up and down in a predetermined direction within the storage bin 13, preventing the feeding mechanism 15 from shifting during movement.

[0101] Washing bin components

[0102] like Figure 2-7 as well as Figure 8-10As shown, the cooking appliance 1 also includes a washing chamber assembly 5, which is disposed within the pot lid 4. Since the pot lid 4 is removable, placing the washing chamber assembly 5 within the pot lid allows it to be disassembled and washed together with the pot lid 4. The washing chamber assembly 5 is located below the storage chamber and on the same side of the machine body as the pot lid. Preferably, the washing chamber assembly 5 is detachably disposed within the pot lid 4 to facilitate disassembly and washing. The washing chamber assembly 5 includes a washing chamber body 52 with a discharge port 8. The washing chamber body 52 has a washing cavity, through which washed rice can be discharged. The washing chamber body 52 also has a feeding port 7, through which material from the feeding chamber 16 described above can enter the washing cavity.

[0103] The washing hopper assembly 5 includes a side wall portion 6. The side wall portion 6 is disposed on the pot lid 4 and forms the washing hopper body 52, surrounding a washing chamber with a discharge port 8. In a preferred embodiment, the side wall portion 6 is formed as part of the pot lid 4, that is, the side wall portion 6 and the pot lid 4 are integrally formed. This design facilitates manufacturing and assembly. The side wall portion 6 can be configured to extend vertically, so that the washing chamber is of the same width from top to bottom, or it can be configured to extend obliquely from top to bottom towards the interior of the washing chamber, i.e., the washing chamber is wider at the bottom and narrower at the top, to reduce rice grain residue. Furthermore, the inner surface of the side wall portion 6 is configured as a smooth surface to further reduce rice grain residue. The washing hopper assembly 5 also includes a stirring assembly 18 disposed in the washing hopper body 52 and a washing hopper cover 17 disposed below the stirring assembly 18.

[0104] The washing hopper cover 17 is movably disposed within the washing hopper body 52. ​​Specifically, the washing hopper cover 17 is movable between an open position where the discharge port 8 is opened and a closed position where the discharge port 8 is closed. Figure 2-6 As shown, the washing hopper cover 17 is located at the top, in the closed position covering the discharge port 8; as Figure 7 As shown, the washing chamber cover 17 moves downwards to the open position of the discharge port 8, at which time the rice in the washing chamber can fall into the inner pot 3 through the discharge port 8.

[0105] The mixing assembly 18 includes a mixing element 19, which is connected to the washing hopper cover 17. The mixing element 19 and the washing hopper cover 17 can move together between an open position and a closed position, and the mixing element 19 is rotatable relative to the washing hopper cover 17, that is, when the mixing element 19 rotates, the washing hopper cover 17 does not rotate.

[0106] In one embodiment, the agitator 19 can rotate during the washing and rice-spinning operations. Preferably, the agitator 19 is provided with a conical guide surface that slopes outward from top to bottom along the radial direction of the agitator 19. This design allows the rice on the agitator 19 to be more easily spinned out during rotation, in addition to the centrifugal force, thanks to the inclined guide surface. Furthermore, the inclined guide surface facilitates the downward sliding of the rice, reducing residual rice in the washing chamber.

[0107] Preferably, such as Figure 33 As shown, the upper surface of the stirring component 19 is also provided with turbulence ribs 71 and turbulence columns 72. The combination of turbulence ribs 71 and turbulence columns 72 can turbulentize the rice and water in the washing chamber during rotation, thereby cleaning the rice more thoroughly. It is understood that those skilled in the art can also provide only turbulence ribs 71 or only turbulence columns 72 as needed.

[0108] Continue to refer to Figure 33 In the illustrated embodiment, the turbulence column 72 is cylindrical and vertically arranged. In other embodiments not shown, the turbulence column 72 may also be arranged obliquely, either inclined or perpendicular to the agitator 19, or the cross-sectional shape of the turbulence column 72 may be square, rhomboid, elliptical, polygonal, etc. The turbulence column 72 may be integrally formed with the agitator 19, or it may be two separate components from the agitator 19.

[0109] Preferably, the turbulence column 72 and the agitator 19 are made of different materials to achieve the best mixing effect, thereby reducing residual rice. Those skilled in the art can set the number of turbulence columns 72 according to actual needs; for example, one column or multiple columns can be set.

[0110] like Figure 42 As shown, preferably, the stirring component 19 is provided with two baffle columns 72, which are connected at the same position of the stirring component 19 and extend in different directions.

[0111] Preferably, the height and width of the deflector 71 are less than 10 mm. For example... Figure 38-41 As shown, the baffle 71 can be constructed as a straight line, an arc, an S-shape, etc., and the number of baffle 71 can be one or multiple.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment, such as Figure 11-12 as well as Figures 29-31 As shown, the washing hopper cover 17 includes a cover plate 53, an additional cover plate 54, and a sealing portion 47 disposed between the cover plate 53 and the additional cover plate 54. The cover plate 53 is connected to the agitator 19 below the agitator 19, and the outer periphery of the sealing portion 47 seals against the inner periphery of the side wall portion 6.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, the sealing portion 47 is constructed as a sheet and is sandwiched between the cover plate 53 and the additional cover plate 54. In the clamped state, a portion of the outer periphery of the sealing portion 47 protrudes from the cover plate 53 and the additional cover plate 54, thereby forming a seal with the sidewall portion 6. The sealing portion 47 can be made of soft rubber such as rubber or silicone, while the cover plate 53 and the additional cover plate 54 are preferably made of hard rubber to avoid deformation caused by using only soft rubber for the entire washing hopper cover 17. Exemplarily, the cover plate 53, the sealing portion 47, and the additional cover plate 54 can be fixed together by screws. In this embodiment, the washing hopper cover 17 does not rotate with the agitator 19, thereby preventing wear on the sealing portion 47. Further preferably, as... Figure 12 As shown, the minimum axial clearance D between the sealing part 47 and the stirring part 19 is less than 2 mm.

[0114] In another preferred embodiment, such as Figure 36 As shown, the sealing part 47' can also be constructed as a ring and fitted around the outer periphery of the cover plate 53. The sealing part 47' can be constructed as a separate part from the cover plate 53, or it can be integrally formed with the cover plate 53 by secondary injection molding.

[0115] like Figure 37 As shown, in another embodiment, the sealing part 47” is directly disposed on the outer periphery of the agitator 19 and can move up and down with the agitator. In this embodiment, a washing hopper cover may not be provided; instead, the agitator has an open position for opening the discharge port and a closed position for closing the discharge port. When in the closed position, the sealing part 47” and the agitator together block the discharge port. In a preferred embodiment, when the sealing part 47” is made of a wear-resistant material, the sealing part can be fixedly connected to the agitator and rotate with the agitator 19. For example, the sealing part 47” can be integrally molded with the agitator 19. In another preferred embodiment, the sealing part can be movably connected to the agitator, and the agitator can rotate relative to the sealing part; that is, when the agitator rotates, the sealing part does not rotate. This design can avoid wear caused by rotation of the sealing part, thereby improving its service life. Furthermore, when in the closed position, the sealing part does not rotate with the agitator, resulting in a better sealing effect.

[0116] like Figures 29-35 As shown, the stirring assembly 18 also includes a limiting portion 56, which has a circular cross-section. The limiting portion 56 includes a protrusion 57 and a peripheral portion 58 surrounding the protrusion 57, which is spaced apart from the protrusion 57 in the radial direction of the limiting portion 56. The protrusion 57 has a non-circular cross-section; for example, in the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 57 has a square cross-section.

[0117] A connecting port 55 is provided on the stirring member 19, extending through the stirring member 19 along its height direction. The stirring member 19 has a downwardly extending hollow sleeve portion 59, the hollow portion of which forms part of the connecting port 55. The stirring member 19 also has a downwardly opening recess 60, into which the sleeve portion 59 extends. A limiting portion 56 is connected to the connecting port 55 below it. Specifically, the protrusion 57 of the limiting portion 56 is inserted into the connecting port 55, and the peripheral portion 58 is fitted around the outer periphery of the sleeve portion 59. Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the connecting port 55 matches the cross-sectional shape of the protrusion 57, and is non-circular, so that the stirring member 19 can rotate together with the limiting portion 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-section of the connecting port 55 is square.

[0118] like Figure 29 and 30 As shown, the cover plate 53 is provided with a connector 61 protruding outward along its axial direction. The connector 61 protrudes toward the recess 60 and extends into the recess 60, abutting the peripheral portion 58 of the limiting portion 56. In a preferred embodiment, the connector 61 includes an axially extending portion 62 extending axially from the cover plate 53 and a radially extending portion 63 extending inwardly from the end of the axially extending portion 62 along the radial direction of the cover plate 53. The axially extending portion 62 has a circular cross-section and extends into the recess 60. In the assembled state, it is connected... Figure 11 and 12 As shown, the radial extension 63 extends between the bottom of the recess 60 and the peripheral edge 58 of the limiting portion 56, with the upper surface of the radial extension 63 adjacent to the bottom of the recess 60 and the lower surface adjacent to the top of the peripheral edge 58. This arrangement allows the stirring member 19, the limiting portion 56, and the cover plate 53 to move up and down together.

[0119] refer to Figure 26-28 Preferably, the washing hopper assembly 5 further includes a top cover 20, which can be closed onto the side wall portion 6, and the inlet 7 is provided on the top cover 20. Preferably, the top cover 20 is detachably connected to the side wall portion 6 to facilitate the disassembly and washing operation of the washing hopper assembly 5.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment, a limiting protrusion 64 is provided on the side wall portion 6, and the top cover 20 includes a top cover body 65 and a ring extension 66 extending downward from the periphery of the top cover body 65. A limiting opening is provided on the extension 66, wherein the limiting protrusion 64 can cooperate with the limiting opening to fix the top cover 20 on the side wall portion 6.

[0121] Furthermore, the limiting opening is generally L-shaped and includes a guide opening 67 and a limiting opening 68 extending approximately perpendicular to the guide opening 67, with the limiting opening 68 communicating with the guide opening 67. The guide opening 67 allows the limiting protrusion 64 to enter the limiting opening 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the limiting protrusion 64 is elongated, and the dimension of the guide opening 67 in the circumferential direction of the top cover 20 is slightly larger than the length of the limiting protrusion 64, so that the limiting protrusion 64 can smoothly enter the guide opening 67. The dimension of the limiting opening 68 in the height direction of the top cover 20 matches the width of the limiting protrusion 64, preferably slightly larger than the width of the limiting protrusion 64. This design facilitates the entry of the limiting protrusion 64 into the limiting opening 68 and also prevents the limiting protrusion 64 from falling out of the limiting opening 68. In actual operation, when you want to fix the top cover 20 to the side wall 6, simply align the limiting opening of the top cover 20 with the limiting protrusion 64 and insert it, and then rotate the top cover 20 to make the limiting opening 68 lock the limiting protrusion 64.

[0122] To further prevent the limiting protrusion 64 from falling out of the limiting opening, such as Figure 28 As shown, the limiting protrusion 64 is also provided with a positioning groove 69, and the extension 66 of the top cover 20 is also provided with a positioning rib 70 that cooperates with the positioning groove 69 at a position corresponding to the limiting opening. It can be understood that in other embodiments not shown, the positioning groove may also be provided on the extension, and the positioning rib may be provided on the limiting protrusion.

[0123] More preferably, the side wall portion 6 is provided with two limiting protrusions 64 that are positioned opposite to the central axis of the washing hopper body 52, and the extension portion 66 of the top cover 20 is provided with two limiting openings that correspond to the two limiting protrusions 64 respectively. This design can securely connect the top cover 20 to the side wall portion 6.

[0124] like Figure 10-12 as well as Figure 32 and 33 As shown, the stirring assembly 18 also includes a rotating shaft 33 and a connecting shaft 27 connected to the rotating shaft 33. The connecting shaft 27 is a hollow structure, and its inner surface is provided with a toothed structure extending along its height direction. The rotating shaft 33 has a first end 38 and a second end 39. The first end 38 is connected to the interior of the connecting shaft 27, and the first end 38 is provided with a toothed structure that cooperates with the toothed structure of the connecting shaft 27, so that the connecting shaft 27 can drive the rotating shaft 33 to rotate together, and the rotating shaft 33 can move up and down relative to the connecting shaft 27. The second end 39 is inserted into the connection port 55 of the stirring member 19. Preferably, the second end 39 has a shape that matches the shape of the connection port 55. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-section of the second end 39 is square, so that the rotating shaft 33 can drive the stirring member 19 to rotate together and move up and down.

[0125] Further reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The top cover 20 has a downwardly extending recess 35, and the connecting shaft 27 is disposed in the recess 35. The bottom of the recess 35 and the bottom of the connecting shaft 27 are respectively provided with a first through hole 36 and a second through hole 37, and the rotating shaft 33 extends through the first through hole 36 and the second through hole 37 and is connected to the inside of the connecting shaft 27.

[0126] refer to Figure 12 The top of the agitator 19 has a surface that can fit into the bottom surface of the recess 35 (fitting state as follows). Figure 11 The upper bonding surface 73 (as shown). Preferably, the radial extension distance d of the upper bonding surface 73 in the stirring member 19 is less than or equal to 5 mm. This design can prevent rice grains from remaining on the upper bonding surface 73, thus preventing the stirring member 19 from moving into place. Figure 11 The location shown.

[0127] Preferably, the washing hopper assembly 5 further includes an elastic element 40, which may be configured as a spring. The elastic element 40 is sleeved inside the connecting shaft 27 on the rotating shaft 33, and the first end 38 of the rotating shaft 33 has a flange 41 extending radially outward along the rotating shaft 33 to restrain the elastic element 40 in a suitable position. The elastic element 40 can cause the rotating shaft 33 and the agitator 19 connected to the rotating shaft 33 to return upward, that is, from... Figure 12 Return to the location shown Figure 11 The location shown.

[0128] Driver components

[0129] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance 1 further includes a drive assembly capable of driving at least a portion of the stirring assembly 18 to rotate, thereby completing the washing and rice-spinning processes; and capable of driving at least a portion of the stirring assembly 18 together with the washing chamber cover 17 to move between an open position and a closed position, thereby completing operations such as discharging and draining (described later). Furthermore, the drive assembly is also capable of driving the feeding chamber 16 to move between a first position and a second position.

[0130] The drive assembly is disposed within the storage mechanism, or at least a portion thereof is disposed within the feeding mechanism 15. In one embodiment, the drive assembly is at least partially located within the storage hopper 13, or at least partially located outside the storage hopper 13 but within the space enclosed by the storage hopper 13. In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the drive assembly is disposed within the feeding mechanism 15. In particular, the drive assembly is not disposed on the lid 4. Because the drive assembly is typically electrically driven, this design, by disposing of the drive assembly outside the lid 4, facilitates user cleaning of the lid 4 and the washing hopper assembly 5, ensuring safety. Furthermore, this design eliminates the need to consider waterproofing during the manufacturing stage of the lid 4, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0131] The drive assembly is engageable with the feeding bin 16 and movable together with the feeding bin 16 between a first position and a second position. In this embodiment, the movement of the feeding bin 16 can drive the drive assembly to move, so that the feeding bin 16 and the drive assembly can produce a synchronous movement stroke, so that only one drive device is required to move the feeding bin 16 and the drive assembly, and the drive assembly and the washing bin cover 17 can move in conjunction to open and close the discharge port 8.

[0132] The feed hopper 16 is capable of linear movement between a first position and a second position together with the drive assembly. A portion of the drive assembly is movable relative to the feed hopper 16 and also has additional positions (such as...). Figure 3 and Figure 7 (As shown). In the attached position, the drive assembly can extend relative to the feeding bin 16 toward the rice washing chamber, specifically downward relative to the feeding bin 16, to facilitate engagement with the stirring assembly 18. The drive assembly has a two-stage motion relative to the feeding bin 16; it can move together with the feeding bin 16 or move separately from it, allowing the drive assembly to extend into and out of the engagement position with the stirring assembly 18, facilitating the transmission of force.

[0133] The drive assembly includes a drive shaft 26, which is engageable with and capable of driving the connecting shaft 27 to rotate, and also engageable with a rotating shaft 33 and capable of driving the rotating shaft 33 to move downward. The drive shaft 26 is movable relative to the feed hopper 16. In an additional position, the drive shaft 26 extends relative to the feed hopper 16, at which point it engages with the connecting shaft 27. The structure of the drive assembly will be described in detail below.

[0134] like Figure 2-7 as well as Figure 11-19As shown, the drive assembly includes a first drive device 21 and a first transmission device connected to the first drive device 21. The first drive device 21 is disposed in the storage bin 13; for example, the first drive device 21 can be a motor. The feeding mechanism 15 is connected to the first transmission device, and the first drive device 21 drives the feeding mechanism 15 to move between a first position and a second position via the first transmission device.

[0135] In a preferred embodiment, the first transmission device includes a screw member 22 and a nut member 23 screwed onto the screw member 22. The screw member 22 is connected to the output shaft of a first drive device 21, which is capable of driving the screw member 22 to rotate in both the forward and reverse directions. When the first drive device 21 drives the screw member 22 to rotate in both directions, the nut member 23 can move up and down accordingly. The nut member 23 is connected to the outer wall of the feeding bin 16, thereby enabling the entire feeding bin 16 to move up and down between a first position and a second position.

[0136] It is understood that the feeding bin 16 can only move within the range limited by the screw member 22. Preferably, the vertical movement range of the feeding bin 16 is 0-200mm. It is also more preferably that the feeding bin 16 has at least one third position (described below) between the first position and the second position. The position of the feeding bin 16 can be controlled by setting a first position detection device 85 in the feeding mechanism 15.

[0137] The first position detection device 85 can detect the position of the feeding bin 16 in the machine body assembly 11. When the first position detection device 85 detects that the feeding bin 16 is in the first position, the second position, or the third position, it can send a signal to the first drive device 21 to stop the first drive device 21 from driving the feeding bin 16 to move.

[0138] In one embodiment, the first position detection device 85 includes a first optical coupler plate, a second optical coupler plate, and a third optical coupler plate arranged vertically at intervals. The second and third optical coupler plates can detect signal on / off information. An extension rib may be provided on the feeding bin 16. When the feeding bin 16 moves vertically until the extension rib passes through the first optical coupler plate, the first position detection device 85 determines that the feeding bin 16 has reached a first position. When the feeding bin 16 moves vertically until the extension 66 passes through the second optical coupler plate, the first position detection device 85 determines that the feeding bin 16 has reached a second position. When the feeding bin 16 moves vertically until the extension rib passes through the third optical coupler plate, the first position detection device 85 determines that the feeding bin 16 has reached a third position. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, other suitable first position detection devices 85 may be selected, such as microswitches.

[0139] Preferably, the drive assembly further includes a second drive device 24 and a second transmission device connected to the second drive device 24. The second drive device 24 and the second transmission device are disposed in the feeding bin 16, so that both the second drive device 24 and the second transmission device can move up and down together with the feeding bin 16.

[0140] The second drive device 24 can be an electric motor. The second transmission device can be engaged with the stirring assembly 18, and the second drive device 24 is configured to drive the stirring assembly 18 to rotate via the second transmission device.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment, the second drive unit 24 may also include a gearbox 87, the output shaft of which is directly connected to the second transmission device, driving the second transmission device to rotate. In other embodiments, where the motor serving as the second drive device is infinitely variable in speed, a gearbox may not be necessary. The second transmission device includes a sliding shaft 25 connected to the output shaft of the second drive unit 24 and a transmission shaft 26 connected to the sliding shaft 25. The second drive unit 24 can drive the sliding shaft 25 to rotate, and the sliding shaft 25 can drive the transmission shaft 26 to rotate. Figure 18 As shown, one end of the drive shaft 26 has an irregular shape that mates with the sliding shaft 25, allowing the sliding shaft 25 to drive the drive shaft 26 to rotate. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-section of this end of the drive shaft 26 is hexagonal. The other end of the drive shaft 26 has a toothed structure. When in the washing state, as... Figure 5 As shown, the drive shaft 26 can engage with the connecting shaft 27 and drive the connecting shaft 27 to rotate, while the connecting shaft 27 in turn drives the rotating shaft 33 and the stirring component 19 to rotate.

[0142] Preferably, such as Figure 13 and 14 As shown, the drive assembly also includes a third drive device 28 and a third transmission device connected to the third drive device 28. The third drive device 28 and the third transmission device are disposed in the feeding bin 16, so that both the third drive device 28 and the third transmission device can move up and down together with the feeding bin 16.

[0143] The third drive device 28 can be an electric motor. The third transmission device can be engaged with the stirring assembly 18, and the third drive device 28 can drive a part of the third transmission device to move up and down, and the third transmission device drives the stirring component 19 to move down.

[0144] Preferably, such as Figure 13-19As shown, the third transmission device includes a first gear 29 connected to the output shaft of the third drive device 28, a second gear 30 meshing with the first gear 29, and a transmission screw 31. The third drive device 28 can drive the first gear 29 to rotate in both the forward and reverse directions, thereby allowing the second gear 30 to rotate in the corresponding directions. The second gear 30 has an inner hole 32, which is sleeved on the outside of the transmission screw 31. The inner hole 32 has an internal thread that engages with the external thread of the transmission screw 31. Thus, when the second gear 30 rotates in the two directions, the transmission screw 31 can move upward or downward as the second gear 30 rotates in either direction.

[0145] like Figure 13-15 As shown, the feeding mechanism also includes a gear cover 74, which is connected to the bottom of the feeding bin 16. The gear cover 74 includes a first part 79 and a second part 80 connected to the first part 79. The first part 79 is supported at the bottom of the first gear 29, and the second part 80 is supported at the bottom of the second gear 30, and has an opening for the transmission screw 31 to pass through. Preferably, the feeding bin 16 is also provided with a receiving structure that cooperates with the second gear 30, thereby limiting the second gear 30 through the receiving structure and the second part 80, so that it can only rotate and cannot move up and down.

[0146] Preferably, such as Figure 16-19 As shown, the transmission screw 31 is provided with a limit end 75 and a positioning end 76, and the feeding bin 16 is provided with a limit groove 77 that cooperates with the limit end 75 and a hole 78 that cooperates with the positioning end 76. This scheme can restrict the transmission screw 31 to only move up and down and not rotate. Preferably, the range of vertical movement of the transmission screw 31 is 0 to 500 mm, and the position of the transmission screw 31 can be controlled by providing a second position detection device 86 in the feeding mechanism 15. The structure and working principle of the second position detection device 86 are similar to those of the first position detection device described above, and will not be described again here for simplicity. In one embodiment, the positioning end 76 extends out from the hole 78 to cooperate with the optical coupler plate of the second position detection device 86.

[0147] The transmission screw 31 is sleeved on the outside of the transmission shaft 26. Preferably, the bottom of the transmission shaft 26 is provided with a stepped portion 34 extending outward in the radial direction of the transmission shaft 26. The transmission screw 31 is limited between the stepped portion 34 and the sliding shaft 25 above it, thereby preventing relative displacement of the transmission screw 31 and ensuring the accuracy of the movement.

[0148] pot lid

[0149] To further facilitate the removal and cleaning of pot lid 4, such as Figure 20-22As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the pot lid 4 includes a pot lid body 42 and a detachable cover 43. The detachable cover 43 is detachably connected to the pot lid body 42, so that when the user intends to clean the detachable cover 43, it can be directly removed, which is simple and convenient. In one embodiment, the detachable cover 43 can be sleeved on the side wall 6 of the washing bin assembly 5.

[0150] In a preferred embodiment, the cooking appliance 1 further includes a drain assembly, which includes a drain pipe 10 and a wastewater tank 48 connected to the drain pipe 10 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). The washing chamber body 52 is also provided with a drain outlet 9, and a drain pipe 10 can be connected to the drain outlet 9 to discharge wastewater from the washing chamber. At least a portion of the drain pipe 10 is located in the pot lid 4. Specifically, depending on the location of the wastewater tank 48 in the cooking appliance 1, if the wastewater tank 48 is located away from the drain pipe 10 in the pot lid 4, then a portion of the drain pipe 10 can also be located in the body assembly 11. Figure 1 and 2 As shown in the preferred embodiment, the drain pipe 10 is entirely housed within the pot lid 4. The body assembly 11 also includes a receiving seat 83 adjacent to the base 12, in which the wastewater tank 48 is removably disposed, and the drain pipe 10 can be directly connected to the wastewater tank 48.

[0151] According to this design, the drain pipe 10 is at least partially housed within the pot lid 4, which is removable. Therefore, when a user wishes to clean the drain pipe 10, they only need to remove the pot lid 4, making it convenient for the user.

[0152] In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the sewage discharge assembly is detachably or non-detachably mounted on the removable cover 43. This arrangement, by mounting at least a portion of the sewage discharge assembly on the removable cover, facilitates cleaning of the sewage discharge assembly when the cover is removed. Furthermore, by detachably mounting a portion of the sewage discharge assembly on the removable cover, it is possible to further disassemble the sewage discharge assembly for cleaning, thereby achieving a more thorough cleaning.

[0153] like Figure 21-24As shown, the drain pipe 10 includes a support portion 44 disposed on the removable cover 43 and a covering portion 45 disposed on the lid body 42. The cross-section of the support portion 44 is approximately U-shaped, and the covering portion 45 is plate-shaped. The positions of the support portion 44 and the covering portion 45 correspond. When the removable cover 43 is connected to the lid body 42, the covering portion 45 can cover the support portion 44 to form the drain pipe 10. This design allows the upper and lower parts of the drain pipe 10 to be disassembled when the removable cover 43 is removed from the lid body 42, thereby enabling a more thorough cleaning of the drain pipe 10 and avoiding the formation of unsanitary corners. In other embodiments not shown, the support portion 44 and the covering portion 45 can also be constructed in other shapes, as long as they can cooperate to form a complete drain pipe 10.

[0154] Preferably, such as Figure 22 and 23 As shown, the drain pipe 10 also includes a sealing element 49 disposed between the support portion 44 and the cover portion 45. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing element 49 is connected to the support portion 44, and when the removable cover 43 is connected to the pot lid body 42, the cover portion 45 can press against the sealing element 49 to form a seal.

[0155] In a preferred embodiment, the drain pipe 10 includes a first pipe 50 and a second pipe 51 communicating with the first pipe 50. The first pipe 50 is arranged in a ring around the side wall portion 6, and the second pipe 51 extends from the first pipe 50 along the radial direction of the pot lid 4 to the outer periphery of the pot lid 4. Figure 20 and 22 As shown, the inner ring portion 84 of the removable cover 43, which is connected to the side wall portion 6, is also provided with a sealing structure. The inner ring portion 84 forms part of the first pipe 50, and the inner ring portion 84 is located below the side wall portion 6 relative to the drain outlet 9.

[0156] To improve drainage efficiency, preferably, the main body 52 of the washing silo includes multiple drain outlets 9, which are all located on the side wall 6 and are evenly spaced along the circumferential direction of the side wall 6. The drainage process will be described in detail below.

[0157] In one embodiment, the washing hopper cover 17, while capable of opening and closing the discharge port, can also function as a drain valve, opening or closing the drain port as needed. Specifically, the washing hopper cover 17 has a communicating position and a sealed position, such as... Figure 6 As shown, when the washing chamber cover 17 is in the connected position, the washing chamber cover 17 is located below the drain outlet 9 within the main body of the washing chamber, and the drain outlet 9 is connected to the washing chamber. Figure 5 As shown, when the washing hopper cover 17 is in the closed position, the washing hopper cover 17 is positioned above the drain port 9 within the main body of the washing hopper, and the drain port 9 is not connected to the washing chamber. This design eliminates the need for a drain valve.

[0158] In another implementation, such as Figure 25 As shown, the main body 52 of the washing hopper includes only one drain outlet 9' provided on the side wall portion 6. In this embodiment, the drain pipe 10' extends radially from the drain outlet 9' to the outer periphery of the lid 4 within the lid 4. That is, in this embodiment, the drain pipe 10' does not include the annular first pipe.

[0159] Return to reference Figure 1 The cooking appliance 1 also includes a water inlet assembly. The water inlet assembly includes a clean water tank 81 and a water inlet pipe 99 (such as...). Figure 15 (Shown) and a water pump (not shown). A clean water tank 81 is detachably mounted on the machine body assembly 11, allowing for convenient water addition by the user. The clean water tank 81 is located near the storage mechanism and above the wastewater tank 48. The clean water tank 81 can connect to the washing chamber via a water inlet pipe 99. Preferably, the water inlet pipe 99 is located in the feeding mechanism 15 and is driven by a drive assembly to connect with the washing chamber for water addition. The liquid inlet of the washing chamber can be located on the top cover 20. Preferably, the liquid inlet of the washing chamber can be the same as the feed inlet 7. When adding water, the water pump can be turned on, supplying water from the clean water tank 81 to the washing chamber through the water inlet pipe 99 in the feeding mechanism 15. The clean water tank and the wastewater tank are located on the side of the machine body opposite to the storage hopper.

[0160] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance further includes a control unit that can be coupled to a first drive device, a second drive device, a third drive device, and a water pump to control the operation of the aforementioned components.

[0161] In a preferred embodiment, all electrical components (such as motors, heating elements, and temperature sensors) in the cooking appliance are located on the main body and the pot body, leaving no electrical components in the lid. This eliminates the need for waterproofing during lid manufacturing and makes cleaning easier. When the lid is detachable from the pot body, it can be removed for separate cleaning. Since it contains no electrical components, it can be rinsed under running water or washed in a basin. Alternatively, all electrical components are located on the main body, leaving neither the lid nor the pot body with any electrical components. With no electrical components in either the lid or the pot body, waterproofing is not a concern, and both the lid and pot body can even be rinsed under running water.

[0162] The following text is for reference only. Figures 2-7 The entire working process of the cooking appliance 1 according to the preferred embodiment is described as follows:

[0163] like Figure 2As shown, the cooking appliance 1 is in its initial state. At this time, the feeding bin 16 is in the first position, and the feeding bin 16 is not connected to the outlet 14 of the storage bin 13 or the inlet 7 of the washing bin assembly 5.

[0164] When the intention is to perform a feeding operation, the first drive device 21 can drive the first transmission device to operate, thereby causing the first transmission device to move the feeding bin 16 downwards to the second position. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the cooking appliance 1 is in the feeding state. At this time, the feeding bin 16 is in the second position, and it is connected to both the outlet 14 and inlet 7 of the storage bin 13. When in the feeding state, the inlet 88 can connect to the outlet 14 of the storage bin 13, and the outlet 82 can connect to the inlet 7 of the washing bin assembly 5, so that the material in the storage bin 13 enters the feeding bin 16 through the inlet 88 and then enters the washing bin assembly 5 through the outlet 82. The amount of rice flowing into the washing chamber can be calculated over time.

[0165] After the material feeding operation is completed or during the material feeding operation, the control unit can control the water pump of the water inlet component to start, so that the water in the clean water tank is introduced into the main body of the washing bin through the water inlet pipe 99, in preparation for the washing operation.

[0166] When the feeding and unloading operations are completed, the first drive device 21 drives the first transmission device to move, and the first transmission device drives the feeding bin 16 to move upward to the third position, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown. The third position is located between the first and second positions. In the third position, the feeding bin 16 is not connected to the outlet 14 of the storage bin 13 or the inlet 7 of the washing bin assembly 5. This design, by setting a third position, diverts a portion of the vertical movement of the drive shaft 26 to the feeding bin 16, thereby reducing the travel distance of the drive shaft 26 and preventing it from becoming too long.

[0167] When you intend to perform a washing operation, such as Figure 5 , Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown, the third drive device 28 can drive the first gear 29 to rotate, the first gear 29 drives the second gear 30 to rotate, and the second gear 30 drives the transmission screw 31 to move downward. Since the transmission screw 31 is sleeved outside the transmission shaft 26, the transmission shaft 26 also moves downward with the transmission screw 31 until it engages with the connecting shaft 27 of the washing chamber assembly 5. At this time, the second drive device 24 can be opened, so that the second drive device 24 drives the transmission shaft 26 to rotate, thereby the transmission shaft 26 can drive the connecting shaft 27 to rotate. When the connecting shaft 27 rotates, the rotating shaft 33 engaged with the connecting shaft 27 and the agitator 19 can rotate, thereby enabling the washing operation. The washing chamber contains material and water, which are stirred together by the agitator 19. It can be understood that during the washing operation, the washing chamber cover 17 is located above the drain port 9.

[0168] When the washing operation is complete and drainage is desired, the third drive device 28 can be activated to drive the transmission screw 31 downwards. The transmission screw 31 pushes the rotating shaft 33 downwards, thereby causing the agitator 19 to move downwards. When the agitator 19 moves downwards until the washing hopper cover 17 is below the drain port 9, as... Figure 6 As shown, the third drive device 28 is stopped, and at this time the sewage in the washing chamber can flow through the drain outlet 9 to the drain pipe 10 and the sewage tank 48.

[0169] When drainage is complete and the material is ready to be discharged, the third drive device 28 can be activated to drive the transmission screw 31 to continue moving downwards. The transmission screw 31 pushes the rotating shaft 33 downwards, thereby allowing the agitator 19 to move downwards and leave the washing chamber. Figure 7 As shown. When the stirring element 19 moves down to leave the washing chamber, the third drive device 28 is stopped and the second drive device 24 is opened, so that the stirring element 19 can be driven to rotate and throw the washed rice into the inner pot 3.

[0170] After the rice is thrown into the inner pot, or at the same time as the rice is thrown into the inner pot, the control unit can control the water pump of the water inlet component to turn on, so that the water in the clean water tank is introduced into the washing chamber through the water inlet pipe 99 and flows into the inner pot through the washing chamber to prepare for cooking.

[0171] After the feeding operation is completed, the third drive device 28 can drive the transmission screw 31 to move upward. After the transmission screw 31 moves upward into the feeding bin 16, the first drive device 21 can drive the feeding bin 16 back to the first position. At this time, the rotating shaft 33 and the agitator 19 connected to it can return to their original positions upward through the elastic element 40.

[0172] According to this embodiment, the inner pot 3, pot lid 4, washing chamber assembly 5, clean water tank 81, and wastewater tank 48 of the cooking utensil 1 can all be easily removed for washing, simplifying the entire cleaning process of the cooking utensil 1.

[0173] Second Implementation Method

[0174] The cooking appliance according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the figures. Except for the drive component, the cooking appliance according to the second preferred embodiment is substantially the same in structure as the cooking appliance according to the first preferred embodiment. For the sake of brevity, only the differences will be described in detail here.

[0175] like Figure 43 As shown, in this embodiment, the cooking appliance 1 further includes a drive assembly 300, which is movable in a straight line. Specifically, the drive assembly 300 can be engaged with the feeding bin 110 so that the drive assembly 300 moves together with the feeding bin 110 in a first position (e.g., ...). Figure 44 (as shown) and the second position (as shown) Figure 45 The drive assembly 300 can drive at least a portion of the washing bin assembly 200 to rotate, for example, at least the agitator 19, to complete the washing and / or discharge process; and can drive the agitator 19 together with the washing bin cover 270 to move between an open position and a closed position to complete the discharge and drainage process.

[0176] The drive assembly 300 is disposed within the storage mechanism or the feeding mechanism 100. Specifically, the drive assembly 300 is not disposed on the lid 4. This design, by placing the energized drive assembly 300 elsewhere on the lid 4, reduces the number of components on the lid 4, simplifying the lid structure. It also facilitates cleaning of the lid 4 and the washing chamber assembly 200 by the user. Furthermore, this design eliminates the need to consider waterproofing of the drive assembly 300 during the manufacturing stage of the lid 4, thus simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0177] The aforementioned storage mechanism, feeding mechanism 100, drive assembly 300, and washing bin assembly 200 constitute part of the washing system of this embodiment.

[0178] The transmission structure between the feeding mechanism 100, the drive assembly 300, and the washing bin assembly 200 is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0179] The feeding mechanism 100 can be connected to the drive assembly 300 via contact transmission. The drive assembly 300 can be connected to the washing chamber assembly 200 via magnetic force generated by a magnetic component, enabling a contactless transmission between the drive assembly 300 and the washing chamber assembly 200. In this embodiment, the washing chamber cover 270 can be in a closed or open position initially. In other words, when the cooking appliance 1 is not in operation, the discharge port 212 can be in a normally closed or normally open state.

[0180] The illustrated embodiment shows one implementation of the transmission structure between the feeding mechanism 100, the drive assembly 300, and the washing bin assembly 200. The discharge port 212 is schematically shown to be in a normally closed state.

[0181] As described above, the feeding bin 110 is capable of moving linearly between a first position and a second position together with the drive assembly 300. Figure 46 As shown, the feeding bin 110 also has an additional position. In the additional position, the feeding bin 110 is closer to the washing chamber 211. The feeding bin 110 has a feed channel for conveying solid materials, which is not in communication with either the storage bin 13 or the washing chamber 211 in the first and second positions. When the feeding bin 110 moves to the additional position, the drive assembly 300 does not move accordingly. Thus, in the additional position, the feeding bin 110 can extend relative to the drive assembly 300 and into the washing chamber 211, at which point the feed channel of the feeding bin 110 can communicate with both the storage bin 13 and the washing chamber 211. In this embodiment, the feeding bin 110 has a two-stage movement relative to the drive assembly 300. In one stage of movement, i.e., when moving from the first position to the second position and when returning from the second position to the first position, the feeding bin 110 moves together with the drive assembly 300. In the other stage of movement, i.e., when moving from the second position to the additional position and when moving from the additional position to the second position, the feeding bin 110 moves separately from the drive assembly 300. The feeding bin 110 can move from the second position to the additional position and from the additional position to the second position, allowing the feeding bin 110 to enter or leave the washing chamber 211, facilitating material feeding and termination.

[0182] The washing hopper assembly 200 is located below the drive assembly 300. When the feeding hopper 110 is in the additional position, the drive assembly 300 can abut against the top surface of the washing hopper body 210, so that the drive assembly 300 can stop moving when the feeding hopper 110 moves from the second position to the additional position. In other embodiments not shown, a separate fixed support frame is included, which abuts the drive assembly 300 when the feeding hopper 110 is in the additional position. This fixed support frame can be a separate support frame directly fixed to the pot lid 4.

[0183] like Figures 52 to 54As shown, the feeding mechanism 100 may further include a linkage 130. The linkage 130 is disposed at the bottom of the feeding bin 110. For example, a rotary connection structure 117 is provided on the bottom surface of the feeding bin 110, and the linkage 130 is provided with a structure that cooperates with the rotary connection structure 117. Rotating the linkage 130 connects it to the rotary connection structure 117. The linkage 130 is then fixed to the rotary connection structure 117 with screws. The transmission body 310 is provided with a central hole 313, which is located at the center of the transmission body 310. The feeding bin 110 is located within the central hole 313.

[0184] The linkage 130 is located on the lower side of the transmission body 310 and has an upward-facing linkage support surface 131 for supporting the drive assembly 300 upwards. With the aid of the linkage support surface 131, the feeding bin 110 can drive the drive assembly 300 to move upwards. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive assembly 300 can move downwards along with the feeding bin 110 due to its own weight. The linkage support surface 131 can be constructed as an inclined surface in the vertical direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the linkage support surface 131 is shown as an annular conical surface, specifically inclined outwards from top to bottom along the radial direction of the linkage 130. This guides the feeding bin assembly 110 and the drive assembly 300 as they move from a separated state to a coupled state, resulting in better cooperation.

[0185] The feeding mechanism 100 also includes a linear drive device 120. The linear drive device 120 is connected to the feeding bin 110 and drives the feeding bin 110 to move linearly. Specifically, the feeding bin 110 is provided with a vertically extending screw hole 115, and the feeding mechanism 100 also includes a screw 121. The screw 121 is connected to the output shaft of the linear drive device 120 and is located within the screw hole 115. When the output shaft rotates, the screw 121 can move relative to the feeding bin 110 within the screw hole 115, thereby causing the feeding bin 110 to move up and down.

[0186] The feeding mechanism 100 also includes a fixed bracket 122, a fixed seat 123, and a fixed pressure plate 124. The fixed bracket 122 is located within the storage bin 13 and can be connected to the storage bin 13. For example, the inner bottom surface of the storage bin 13 may be provided with upwardly extending studs (not shown), and the fixed bracket 122 may be provided with screw bases 126 with through holes at intervals, through which screws can pass and be locked to the studs, thereby allowing the fixed bracket 122 to be installed into the storage bin 13. The fixed bracket 122 may be provided with a downward-opening receiving cavity, and a linear drive device 120 is connected to the fixed bracket 122 and located within the receiving cavity. Specifically, the linear drive device 120 is located within a recess in the fixed seat 123, which is accommodated within the receiving cavity. The recess is adapted to the shape of the linear drive device 120 to limit the rotation and vertical movement of the linear drive device 120. The fixed pressure plate 124 is located on the lower side of the linear drive device 120 opposite to the fixed base 123. The fixed pressure plate 124 can be connected to the fixed base 123. For example, both the fixed pressure plate 124 and the fixed base 123 are provided with screw holes, and the fixed bracket 122 is provided with a downwardly extending screw post 127. The screw passes through the screw holes of the fixed pressure plate 124 and the fixed base 123 and is locked to the screw post 127. The end of the screw 121 is clamped between the fixed pressure plate 124 and the fixed base 123.

[0187] An outlet for the storage hopper 13 can be formed between the bottom of the fixed bracket 122 and the inner bottom surface of the storage hopper 13. This outlet is located on one side of the fixed bracket 122. An outlet seal 125 is provided on the side of the fixed bracket 122 corresponding to this outlet. The outlet seal 125 can abut against the side wall of the feeding hopper 110 to prevent material from entering the feeding mechanism 100. The fixed bracket 122 is also provided with vertically extending guide posts 128 at intervals. Guide protrusions 116 are provided at intervals on the top of the feeding hopper 110, protruding from the side wall of the feeding hopper 110. The guide protrusions 116 are located between the spaced guide posts 128 and are movable along the guide posts 128 to prevent the feeding hopper 110 from shifting during movement.

[0188] The washing hopper assembly 200 also includes a washing hopper mating part 230 and a mounting base 240. The washing hopper mating part 230 can be connected to the mounting base 240. Part or all of the mounting base 240 can be movably disposed in a straight line on the washing hopper body 210. In the illustrated embodiment, part of the mounting base 240 is movable in a straight line. The agitator 19 is located in the washing chamber 211 and connected to the mounting base 240. The agitator 19 is rotatable with the mounting base 240 relative to the washing hopper body 210 about a first rotation axis Ax1. The washing hopper cover 270 can be disposed on the mounting base 240 and is movable in a straight line with the mounting base 240. The mounting base 240 is rotatable with respect to the washing hopper body 210 about the first rotation axis Ax1. The drive assembly 300 includes a transmission body 310 and a washing hopper drive 320. The transmission body 310 is rotatable with respect to the washing hopper body 210 about a second rotation axis Ax2. The transmission body 310 is engageable with and rotatable relative to the feeding bin 110. The washing bin drive 320 is disposed on the transmission body 310 and can be installed to the transmission body 310, for example, by means of screw connection.

[0189] There may be a magnetic force between the washing hopper mating part 230 and the washing hopper drive part 320. When the transmission body rotates, the mounting base 240 and the stirring part 19 thereon rotate under the action of the magnetic force; and when the magnetic force between the washing hopper mating part 230 and the washing hopper drive part 320 is changed, the mounting base 240 moves in a straight line to open and close the washing hopper cover 270.

[0190] The transmission body 310 has a non-drive position that disengages the washing bin mating part 230 from the washing bin drive part 320 (e.g., Figure 48 and Figure 49 (The different material feeding states shown) and the driving positions that link the washing bin mating part 230 and the washing bin drive part 320. The driving positions include a first driving position (e.g., Figures 45 to 47 The states shown) and the second drive position (as shown) Figure 50 The material feeding state is shown. The first drive position corresponds to the closed position, the second drive position corresponds to the open position, and the non-drive position can be the open position (e.g., ...). Figure 48 and Figure 49 The different material feeding states shown can also be in the closed position (e.g., ...). Figure 44 (The initial position), of course, in other embodiments, the initial position can be set to the open position.

[0191] The first position can be a non-driven position, which includes an initial position and an intermediate position (e.g., ...). Figure 48 and Figure 49(Different material dropping states are shown); the second position can be a driving position and includes both the first and second driving positions. Further, when the transmission body 310 is in the first position, the washing bin driving component 320 is disengaged from the washing bin mating component 230. When the transmission body 310 is in the second position, the washing bin driving component 320 is engaged with the washing bin mating component 230. The intermediate position is located between the initial position and the second driving position. It should be noted that, for ease of understanding, Figure 48 and Figure 51 The transition state during the operation is shown, and the mounting base 240 of the washing hopper cover 270 is subjected to unbalanced forces in this transition state.

[0192] The washing chamber assembly 200 and the drive assembly 300 form a contactless transmission system. When washing occurs in the washing chamber 211, the washing water exists in a space isolated from the drive assembly 300 and does not come into contact with it. This prevents the washing water from soiling the drive assembly 300. Compared to mechanical transmission, the contactless transmission system eliminates the need for cleaning the transmission structure, thus improving the user experience.

[0193] In this embodiment, the feeding bin 110 and the drive assembly 300 can move synchronously, and the drive assembly 300 and the washing bin cover 270 can move in coordination. This allows only one drive device to move the feeding bin 110, which is sufficient to complete the three linear movements of the feeding bin 110, the drive assembly 300, and the washing bin cover 270, thus realizing the movement of the feeding bin 110 and the opening and closing of the discharge port 212. Furthermore, only one drive device is needed to rotate the transmission body 310, which is sufficient to realize the throwing action during washing and unloading.

[0194] The washing hopper mating component 230 may include a translational mating component 231. The translational mating component 231 is disposed on the mounting base 240. The washing hopper drive component 320 may include a translational drive component 321. The translational drive component is disposed on the transmission body 310. Both the translational drive component 321 and the translational mating component 231 are magnetic components, and a magnetic force may exist between them. When the state of the translational drive component 321 is changed to change the magnetic force between the translational mating component 231 and the translational drive component 321, the washing hopper cover 270 moves between the open position of opening the discharge port 212 and the closed position of closing the discharge port 212. The drive assembly 300 and the washing hopper cover 270 can achieve mating movement through magnetic force. When the transmission body 310 is moved, the washing hopper cover 270 can be opened and / or closed by magnetic force, thereby realizing the opening and closing action of the discharge port 212.

[0195] In one embodiment, when the state of the translational drive member 321 is changed, the washing hopper cover 270 moves from the open position to the closed position. Thus, the washing hopper cover 270 can be closed by means of the magnetic force between the translational mating member 231 and the translational drive member 321. In another embodiment, when the state of the translational drive member 321 is changed, the washing hopper cover 270 moves from the closed position to the open position. Thus, the washing hopper cover 270 can be opened by means of the magnetic force between the translational mating member 231 and the translational drive member 321. In the illustrated embodiment, when the state of the translational drive member 321 is changed, the washing hopper cover 270 moves from the open position to the closed position and from the closed position to the open position. Thus, the washing hopper cover 270 can be opened and closed simultaneously by means of the magnetic force between the translational mating member 231 and the translational drive member 321.

[0196] The washing hopper assembly 230 may include a rotating assembly 232. The washing hopper drive unit 320 may include a rotating drive unit 322. The rotating assembly 232 is mounted on the mounting base 240. The rotating drive unit 322 is mounted on the transmission body 310, and both the rotating drive unit 322 and the rotating assembly 232 are magnets. When the transmission body 310 rotates, the agitator 19 rotates under the magnetic force between the rotating drive unit 322 and the rotating assembly 232. Thus, when the transmission body 310 is rotated while the washing hopper cover 270 is being opened and closed, the washing and discharging actions can be achieved.

[0197] The magnetic component may include at least one of a magnet, an electromagnet, iron, nickel, cobalt, ferritic steel, martensitic steel, or austenitic-ferritic dual-phase steel. Optionally, the magnet may be a permanent magnet. Optionally, at least one of the translational mating component 231 and the translational driving component 321 may be a magnet. For example, the translational mating component 231 may be a magnet; the translational driving component 321 may be one of a magnet, an electromagnet, iron, nickel, cobalt, ferritic steel, martensitic steel, or austenitic-ferritic dual-phase steel. One example is that both the translational mating component 231 and the translational driving component 321 are magnets, thereby allowing a large magnetic force to exist between the translational mating component 231 and the translational driving component 321 and maintaining a stable state. Another example is that the translational mating component 231 is made of iron, nickel, cobalt, ferritic steel, martensitic steel, or austenitic-ferritic dual-phase steel, and the translational driving component 321 is a magnet. Since the magnetism of iron, nickel, cobalt, ferritic steel, martensitic steel, and austenitic-ferritic dual-phase steel is not affected by high temperatures, the high temperatures during cooking can be avoided from affecting the magnetism of the translational mating component 231, thus maintaining its performance. Optionally, at least one of the translational mating component 231 and the translational driving component 321 is an electromagnet.

[0198] When the washing hopper cover 270 and the agitator 19 are both mounted on the same mounting base 240, considering that rotating the mounting base 240 would cause the wires to become tangled, the translational mating component 231 and the translational drive component 321 are not selected as electromagnets. When the washing hopper cover 270 and the agitator 19 are mounted on different mounting bases 240, the opening and closing of the washing hopper cover 270 and the rotation of the agitator 19 are independent of each other, and the translational mating component 231 and the translational drive component 321 can be selected as electromagnets.

[0199] In embodiments excluding electromagnets, the drive assembly 300 is linearly movable relative to the washing hopper body 210. When the drive assembly 300 moves to change the magnetic force between the translational mating member 231 and the translational drive member 321, the washing hopper cover 270 moves between an open position with the discharge port 212 open and a closed position with the discharge port 212 closed. In the illustrated embodiment, the direction of movement of the washing hopper cover 270 is controlled by controlling the vertical movement of the drive assembly 300, based on the change in the direction of the resultant force of the magnetic force and gravity, thus moving it to the open and closed positions.

[0200] In the implementation of the electromagnet, when the energization state of the electromagnet is changed, the washing bin cover 270 can move in a straight line to open and close the discharge port 212.

[0201] According to design requirements, the rotary drive member 322 can be located radially outside the rotary mating member 232 in the drive position. Alternatively, the rotary drive member 322 can be located radially inside the rotary mating member 232 in the drive position. Alternatively, the rotary drive member 322 can be located above the rotary mating member 232 in the drive position.

[0202] The washing hopper assembly 200 is located below the drive assembly 300. The feeding hopper 110, the washing hopper cover 270, and the drive assembly 300 can all move vertically. The translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231 are vertically aligned, and their magnetic poles are opposite or the same. When the magnetic poles are opposite, the magnetic force between the translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231 is a magnetic attraction force, which moves the washing hopper cover 270. When the magnetic poles are the same, the magnetic force between the translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231 is a magnetic repulsion force, which moves the washing hopper cover 270. In the illustrated embodiment, the translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231 have opposite magnetic poles, and the magnetic force between them is a magnetic attraction force.

[0203] like Figure 52As shown, the transmission body 310 is configured in a turntable shape and includes a transmission top wall 311 and a transmission side wall 312 connected to the transmission top wall 311. The transmission side wall 312 extends vertically, a translational drive member 321 is disposed on the transmission top wall 311, and a rotational drive member 322 is disposed on the transmission side wall 312. The translational drive member 321 is disposed on the transmission body 310 by at least one of snap-fit, fastener connection, or in-mold injection molding. In the illustrated embodiment, the translational drive member 321 is detachably mounted to the transmission body 310 by fasteners such as screws.

[0204] The height of the transmission body 310 in the first driving position is lower than its height in the second driving position. More specifically, the first driving position is above the second driving position. When the transmission body 310 is in the first driving position, the translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231 can be linked, and the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 can be linked. When the transmission body 310 is in the second driving position, the translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231 are disengaged, and the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 are linked. For the illustrated embodiment, see [reference needed]. Figure 50 When the transmission body 310 is in the second driving position, the magnetic force between the translational drive component 321 and the translational mating component 231 is less than the weight of the washing hopper cover 270 and the first mounting base 220 and the agitator 19 connected thereto. As a result, the washing hopper cover 270 can be kept in the open position.

[0205] In this embodiment, the washing chamber fitting 230 can be located outside the washing chamber 211, that is, the rotary fitting 232 and the translational fitting 231 are located outside the washing chamber 211. When the transmission body 310 is in the first driving position and the second driving position, the rotary drive 322 is located radially outside the rotary fitting 232.

[0206] The following is for reference. Figures 55 to 59 The structure of the washing bin assembly 200 according to the second embodiment is described.

[0207] like Figure 55 and Figure 56 As shown, the mounting base 240 includes a first mounting base 220 and a second mounting base 250 connected to the first mounting base 220. The first mounting base 220 is located radially inside the second mounting base 250 and is linearly movable relative to the second mounting base 250. The agitator 19, the washing hopper cover 270, and the translational fitting 231 can be disposed on the first mounting base 220. The rotational fitting 232 can be disposed on the second mounting base 250. The first mounting base 220 can rotate with the second mounting base 250.

[0208] The first mounting base 220 may include a mounting base 221 and a mounting cylinder 222 connected to the mounting base 221. The agitator 19 and the washing chamber cover 270 are located on the mounting base 221. The mounting cylinder 222 is located radially outside the washing chamber 211, and its bottom is provided with circumferentially spaced seat openings 224 so that material falls into the inner pot 3 through these openings during material discharge. A translational mating member 231 is provided on the top of the mounting cylinder 222 so that a small distance exists between the translational mating member 231 and the translational drive member 321, generating a sufficiently large magnetic force to move the washing chamber cover 270 up and down.

[0209] The translational mating part 231 is disposed on the mounting base 240 by at least one of the following methods: snap-fit, fastener connection, or in-mold injection molding. For example... Figure 55 As shown, the translational mating component 231 can be pre-embedded in the mounting base 222, for example, by in-mold injection molding. Alternatively, in embodiments not shown, the translational mating component 231 can also be detachably mounted to the mounting base 222 using fasteners such as screws. Specifically, the top surface of the mounting base 222 is provided with a downwardly recessed mounting groove, in which the translational mating component 231 is fixed. Multiple translational mating components 231 can be provided, and they can be block-shaped members, or a single component can be provided, and it can be an annular member, etc. In embodiments with multiple translational mating components 231, the multiple translational mating components 231 can be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first mounting base 220, preferably arranged in a ring array.

[0210] The washing hopper assembly 200 also includes a hopper body base 217. The hopper body base 217 is located below the washing hopper body 210 and is detachably connected to the washing hopper body 210 by means such as a fastening connection. A second mounting base 250 is supported on the hopper body base 217 located below it. A rotating mating member 232 can be disposed on the vertically extending outer peripheral surface of the second mounting base 250 so that a small radial distance exists between the rotating mating member 232 and the rotating drive member 322, generating a sufficiently large magnetic force to rotate the mounting base 240. Multiple rotating drive members 322 and rotating mating members 232 can be provided and are block-shaped components. Multiple rotating drive members 322 are arranged circumferentially spaced along the transmission body 310. Multiple rotating mating members 232 are arranged circumferentially spaced along the second mounting base 250.

[0211] When the drive assembly 300 is in the drive position, the projections of the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 on the plane parallel to the axial direction overlap. When the drive assembly 300 is in the first drive position, the projections of the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 on the plane parallel to the axial direction have a first overlapping area. When the drive assembly 300 is in the second drive position, the projections of the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 on the plane parallel to the axial direction have a second overlapping area. The first overlapping area can be larger than the second overlapping area. Multiple rotary drive members 322 and multiple rotary mating members 232 can be arranged in one or two rows axially. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as shown... Figure 52 and Figure 56 As shown, the rotary drive component 322 and the rotary mating component 232 can both be arranged in a row along the axial direction, and both can be constructed into long strips, i.e., long strip-shaped components. The rotary drive component 322 is placed horizontally, and the rotary mating component 232 is placed vertically.

[0212] The main body 210 of the washing silo may also include a top wall 216, an inner side wall 214 and an outer side wall 215 connected to the top wall 216. Figure 57 These three components constitute the aforementioned sidewall portion 6. The inner sidewall 214 is located radially inside the outer sidewall 215 and is radially spaced from it. The inner sidewall 214 encloses the washing chamber 211. The second mounting seat 250 and the mounting sleeve portion 222 are located between the inner sidewall 214 and the outer sidewall 215. One of the first mounting seat 220 and the second mounting seat 250 may be provided with a seat guide groove 223, which extends axially. The other of the first mounting seat 220 and the second mounting seat 250 may be provided with a seat guide portion 251, which is located within the seat guide groove 223 and is linearly movable relative to the seat guide groove 223. By providing a convex-concave guide structure in the first mounting seat 220 and the second mounting seat 250, the first mounting seat 220 can rotate together with the second mounting seat 250, and the first mounting seat 220 can maintain linear movement, preventing displacement.

[0213] The washing bin assembly also includes a support component. The support component is located on the washing bin body 210. The support component has an upward-facing seat limiting surface 252 for supporting the mounting base 240 upwards. In this embodiment, the support component includes a second mounting base 250 and a bin body base 217. The second mounting base 250 has an upward-facing seat limiting surface 252 for supporting the first mounting base 220 upwards. The bin body base 217 supports the first mounting base 220 upwards. Figure 58The image shows a mounting base 222 with a seat guide groove 223 and a second mounting base 250 with a seat guide portion 251. The top surface of the seat guide portion 251 is a seat limiting surface 252. In an embodiment not shown, the second mounting base 250 has a seat guide groove 223, and the mounting base 222 has a seat guide portion 251. The bottom surface of the seat guide groove 223 is a seat limiting surface 252.

[0214] Optionally, the mounting sleeve portion 222 may include an upper sleeve portion and a lower sleeve portion. The upper sleeve portion protrudes radially outward from the lower sleeve portion, that is, the thickness of the upper sleeve portion is greater than the thickness of the lower sleeve portion. The seat guide groove 223 may be provided in the upper sleeve portion, and the seat opening 224 may be provided in the lower sleeve portion.

[0215] like Figure 55 , Figure 59 and Figure 59A As shown, to prevent water leakage during the washing process, the washing hopper assembly 200 also includes a discharge port seal 261. The discharge port seal 261 is disposed on the outer periphery of the washing hopper cover 270 so that it moves up and down with the washing hopper cover 270. When the washing hopper cover 270 is in the closed position, the discharge port seal 261 abuts against the washing hopper body 210 at the discharge port 212. Thus, the washing hopper cover 270 is under pressure and does not rotate relative to the first mounting base 220 and the agitator 19. When the washing hopper cover 270 is in the closed position, the discharge port seal 261 seals the gap between the washing hopper cover 270 and the washing hopper body 210, preventing washing water from leaking out of this gap during washing. When the washing hopper cover 270 is in the closed position and the agitator 19 rotates, the washing hopper cover 270 remains stationary relative to the washing hopper body 210, that is, its relative position to the washing hopper body 210 remains unchanged, and it does not rotate with the agitator 19. This ensures a better sealing effect for the material outlet seal 261 and a tighter fit for the washing hopper cover 270, preventing water leakage.

[0216] The washing chamber cover 270 is disposed on the side of the mounting base 221 facing the washing chamber 211, specifically on the upper side of the mounting base 221. The mounting base 221 is rotatable relative to the washing chamber cover 270. The outer periphery of the washing chamber cover 270 may be provided with a radially inwardly recessed cover groove 273. The cover groove 273 is annular. A portion of the inlet seal 261 may be located within the cover groove 273.

[0217] In one embodiment, as illustrated, the inlet seal 261 may be located below the washing hopper body 210. The washing hopper cover 270 may have a cover support surface 271. The cover support surface 271 faces the side where the discharge port 212 is located, specifically facing upwards. The inlet seal 261 may abut against the cover support surface 271 to provide upward support force to the inlet seal 261. When the washing hopper cover 270 is in the closed position, the inlet seal 261 is sandwiched between the bottom of the washing hopper body 210 and the cover support surface 271, and the washing hopper cover 270 is subjected to downward pressure at the cover support surface 271 and remains stationary relative to the washing hopper body 210. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the side wall portion 6 may abut against the inlet seal 261, specifically the bottom surface of the inner side wall 214 may abut against the inlet seal 261. The inlet seal 261 is subjected to downward compressive force. In other embodiments not shown, the inner surface of the sidewall portion 6 may abut against the inlet seal 261, and the friction between the inlet seal 261 and the sidewall portion 6 may restrict the rotation of the washing hopper cover 270.

[0218] like Figure 59A As shown, the bottom of the washing hopper body 210 is provided with a main arc-shaped surface 218, which can abut against the material outlet seal 261. The increased contact area between the bottom of the washing hopper body 210 and the material outlet seal 261 facilitates a more stable abutment and a better sealing effect.

[0219] The inlet seal 261 is an annular component and is fitted onto the outer periphery of the washing hopper cover 270. The outer periphery of the washing hopper cover 270 may be provided with a radially outwardly protruding cover boss 272. The inlet seal 261 is disposed on the cover boss 272. The upper surface of the cover boss 272 is a cover support surface 271, which can support the washing hopper cover 270.

[0220] The mounting base 221 may be provided with a cover mounting portion 263, and the washing hopper cover 270 may be provided with a cover mounting hole 264. The cover mounting portion 263 can be located within the cover mounting hole 264. A mounting seal 262 is provided between the cover mounting portion 263 and the hole wall of the cover mounting hole 264 to seal the gap between the mounting base 221 and the washing hopper cover 270. The cover mounting portion 263 is provided with a radially recessed mounting groove 265, and the mounting seal 262 is located within the mounting groove 265. An abutment boss is provided within the cover mounting hole 264, and the abutment boss is provided with a seat arc-shaped surface 274 facing the mounting groove 265 to increase the contact area between the mounting seal 262 and the cover mounting hole 264 and improve the sealing effect.

[0221] The agitator 19 can be located on the side of the washing hopper cover 270 opposite to the mounting base 221, specifically on the upper side. That is, the washing hopper cover 270 is located between the agitator 19 and the mounting base 221. The agitator 19 is connected to the cover mounting portion 263. One of the agitator 19 and the cover mounting portion 263 may be provided with a connecting protrusion, and the other may be provided with a connecting groove, with the connecting protrusion located within the connecting groove. Fasteners such as screws can pass through the mounting base 221 and be connected to the connecting protrusion to connect the agitator 19 to the mounting base 221. The figure schematically shows the agitator 19 provided with a connecting protrusion and the cover mounting portion 263 provided with a connecting groove.

[0222] In the embodiment shown, the washing hopper cover 270, the mounting base 221, the agitator 19, and the inlet seal 261 are assembled together. When the washing hopper cover 270 is in the closed position, the washing hopper cover 270, the mounting base 221, the agitator 19, and the inlet seal 261 together block the discharge port 212. When the agitator 19 and the bottom of the mounting base 211 rotate together, the washing hopper cover 270 and the inlet seal 261 do not rotate, that is, their relative positions with the washing hopper body 210 remain unchanged. This ensures a better sealing effect of the inlet seal 261 and a tighter fit of the washing hopper cover 270, preventing water leakage.

[0223] Alternatively, the discharge port 212 can be sealed in other ways, such as by sealing the discharge port 212 separately with the washing hopper cover 270, or by sealing the discharge port 212 together with one or more of the seal, agitator 19, and mounting base. One or more of the seal, agitator 19, and mounting base can move synchronously with the washing hopper cover 270, i.e., move together to open and close the discharge port 212 together. Alternatively, one or more of the seal, agitator 19, and mounting base can move separately from the washing hopper cover 270 to open and close the discharge port 212.

[0224] Optionally, the discharge port 212 can be blocked solely by the washing hopper cover 270, which is sufficient to cover the discharge port 212. Furthermore, a sealing element can be provided between the washing hopper cover 270 and the washing hopper body, so that the discharge port 212 is blocked together by the washing hopper cover 270 and the sealing element. The sealing element can be located on the washing hopper cover 270 or on the washing hopper body.

[0225] Optionally, the discharge port 212 is sealed together by the washing hopper cover 270 and a portion of the mounting base. Further, a sealing element may be included, with the washing hopper cover 270, the portion of the mounting base, and the sealing element sealing the discharge port 212 together. The sealing element may be provided on one or more of the washing hopper cover 270, the portion of the mounting base, and the washing hopper body to better seal the discharge port 212. It is understood that this method of sealing the discharge port 212 involves opening and closing a portion of the discharge port 212 via the washing hopper cover 270, and also involves the washing hopper cover 270 moving between an open position (open discharge port 212) and a closed position (closed discharge port 212). Optionally, the washing hopper cover 270 may also be integrally formed with the mounting base.

[0226] Optionally, the discharge port 212 is sealed together by the washing hopper cover 270 and the agitator 19. Further, a sealing element is also included. The washing hopper cover 270, the agitator 19 and the sealing element seal the discharge port 212 together. The sealing element can be provided on one or more of the washing hopper cover 270, the agitator 19 and the washing hopper body to better seal the discharge port 212.

[0227] Optionally, the washing hopper cover 270, the mixing component 19, and the mounting base are formed as a single piece.

[0228] Optionally, the discharge port 212 is sealed together by the washing hopper cover 270, the agitator 19, and the mounting base. Further, a sealing element is also included. The washing hopper cover 270, the agitator 19, the mounting base, and the sealing element seal the discharge port 212 together. The sealing element can be located on one or more of the washing hopper cover 270, the agitator 19, the mounting base, and the main body of the washing hopper. It is understood that the above sealing method of the discharge port 212 involves opening and closing part of the discharge port 212 by the washing hopper cover 270, and also involves the washing hopper cover 270 moving between an open position and a closed position of the discharge port 212, and also involves the washing hopper cover 270 opening and closing the discharge port 212.

[0229] like Figure 55 and Figure 59BAs shown, the washing hopper cover 270 can be held in the closed position by magnetic connection in the initial state. Specifically, the washing hopper assembly 200 may also include a retaining member 237 and a retaining mating member 238. The retaining member 237 can be disposed on the washing hopper body 210. In other embodiments not shown, the retaining member 237 may be disposed on a mounting support frame. The mounting support frame is connected to the pot lid 4. This mounting support frame may be a separate support frame directly fixed to the pot lid 4. Both the retaining member 237 and the retaining mating member 238 are magnetic members. At least one of the retaining member 237 and the retaining mating member 238 is a magnet. For example, the retaining member 237 is a magnet, and the retaining mating member 238 is at least one of a magnet, iron, nickel, cobalt, ferritic steel, martensitic steel, or austenitic-ferritic dual-phase steel; the retaining member 237 is at least one of iron, nickel, cobalt, ferritic steel, martensitic steel, or austenitic-ferritic dual-phase steel, and the retaining mating member 238 is a magnet. Under the magnetic force between the retaining member 237 and the retaining fitting member 238, the washing chamber cover 270 is initially held in the closed position. Thus, the washing chamber cover 270 can be kept closed due to the magnetic force between the retaining member 237 and the retaining fitting member 238. When the washing chamber 211 is not in use, for example, when the cooking appliance 1 is not working or when the cooking appliance 1 is cooking, the discharge port 212 can remain closed, isolating the space of the inner pot 3 from the outside world. This prevents foreign objects such as dust and insects from entering the inner pot 3, thus keeping the inner pot 3 clean when the cooking appliance 1 is not working, and ensuring that the food in the inner pot 3 is not contaminated and has good heat retention when the cooking appliance 1 is cooking, thereby improving cooking efficiency.

[0230] The retaining member 237 and the retaining mating member 238 are arranged vertically and opposite to each other in magnetic polarity, so that the magnetic force between them is a magnetic attraction. The washing hopper cover 270 is held in the closed position by the magnetic attraction between the retaining member 237 and the retaining mating member 238. For the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 59B As shown, the retaining member 237 is located above the retaining fitting member 238. The retaining member 237 can be embedded in the washing hopper body 210, for example, by in-mold injection molding. Alternatively, in embodiments not shown, the retaining member 237 can also be detachably installed in the washing hopper body 210 by fasteners such as screws. The retaining member 237 can be provided on the top wall 216 of the hopper body.

[0231] In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining fitting member 238 and the translational fitting member 231 are formed as a single unit. In an embodiment not shown, the retaining fitting member 238 and the translational fitting member 231 are separate components.

[0232] Optionally, such as Figure 59CAs shown, the upper end face of the translational mating part 231 can have an included angle α with the side end face of the rotary mating part 232, where 30°≤α≤150°, for example, α is 30°, 50°, 70°, 80°, 90°, 100°, 110°, 120°, 130°, 150°, etc. Preferably, 85°≤α≤95°. Thus, the magnetic fields generated by the translational mating part 231 and the rotary mating part 232 are independent and do not interfere with each other as much as possible. When the transmission body 310 is in the driving position, there is a first magnetic force between the translational driving member 321 and the translational mating member 231, and a second magnetic force between the rotary driving member 322 and the rotary mating member 232. The first and second magnetic forces are at an angle β, where 30°≤β≤150°. For example, β can be 30°, 50°, 70°, 80°, 90°, 100°, 110°, 120°, 130°, or 150°. Preferably, 85°≤β≤95°. Figure 59C The diagram schematically shows that the translational mating member 231 is subjected to a first magnetic force Fa from the translational drive member 321, and the rotary mating member 232 is subjected to a second magnetic force Fb from the rotary drive member 322, with an included angle β between Fa and Fb.

[0233] like Figures 60 to 62 As shown, the drive assembly 300 may further include a transmission support 330, a mounting bracket 340, and a rotary drive device 301. The transmission support 330 can be located within the central hole 313 of the main body and connected to the transmission body 310. The transmission body 310 can be rotatable relative to the transmission support 330. The mounting bracket 340 is located above the transmission body 310 and can be connected to the transmission support 330, for example, by fasteners such as screws. The rotary drive device 301 can be disposed on the mounting bracket 340, and its output shaft is connected to the transmission body 310 to rotate the transmission body 310. The mounting bracket 340 supports the rotary drive device 301 upward. In this embodiment, the rotary drive device 301 can move linearly together with the transmission body 310, so that the energized rotary drive device 301 can be disposed at a position other than the pot lid 4.

[0234] Specifically, the transmission support 330 may have a downward-facing support surface 332, which abuts against the linkage support surface 131. When the feeding bin 110 moves between the first position and the second position, the support surface 332 abuts against the linkage support surface 131 to enable the drive assembly 300 to move smoothly. When the feeding bin 110 moves between the second position and the additional position, the support surface 332 separates from the linkage support surface 131.

[0235] The support surface 332 can be adapted to the shape of the linkage support surface 131, for example, it can be constructed as an inclined surface in the vertical direction, or optionally as an annular conical surface. The transmission support 330 can be provided with a support center hole 331 and a support boss 333 extending radially outward. It is understood that the support center hole 331 is located at the center of the transmission support 330. The feed bin 110 can be located within the support center hole 331, and the support surface 332 is arranged around the support center hole 331. The top of the transmission body 310 can be located between the support boss 333 and the mounting bracket 340, which can limit the linear movement of the transmission body 310 relative to the transmission support 330.

[0236] The top of the transmission body 310 may be provided with an upwardly protruding gear portion 314, which surrounds the central hole 331 of the support and has a ring of teeth. The output shaft is provided with a transmission gear 302, the teeth of which mesh with the teeth of the gear portion 314. The illustrated embodiment schematically shows one transmission gear 302 between the output shaft and the gear portion 314; however, the number of transmission gears 302 is not limited and can be set to two or more as needed.

[0237] The mounting bracket 340 may be provided with a bracket guide 341, which extends vertically. (See also: [link to previous section]) Figure 52 The storage bin 13 may be provided with a vertically extending guide wall 102. At least a portion of the guide wall 102 is located inside the storage bin 13 and connected to the fixed bracket 122 to isolate the transmission structure from the space for storing food. Figure 52 The diagram schematically shows the guide wall 102 connected to the bottom wall of the storage hopper 13, with a portion located above the bottom wall and a portion extending downwards from it. A support guide portion 341 is located within a sliding channel 46 enclosed by the guide wall 102. The mounting bracket 340 may include a bracket base 342 and a bracket stand 343 located above the bracket base 342. The bracket base 342 may have the support guide portion 341 integrally formed therewith. The support guide portion 341 may, for example, include three sequentially connected walls, with the bracket stand 343 located within a generally square area enclosed by these three walls. The bracket stand 343 is detachably connected to the bracket base 342 by fasteners such as screws. A rotary drive device 301 is mounted to the bracket stand 343 and is also located within the support guide portion 341. A support cylinder is provided in the middle of the bracket stand 343, and the output shaft of the rotary drive device 301 is located within the support cylinder. The lower end of the support cylinder abuts against a transmission gear 302 to restrict the axial movement of the transmission gear 302.

[0238] like Figure 47 , Figure 50 , Figure 63 and Figure 64As shown, the first rotation axis Ax1 can be collinear with the second rotation axis Ax2. The washing chamber 211 is centrally symmetrical; for example, the shape of the washing chamber 211 can be cylindrical. The central axis of the washing chamber 211 is collinear with the first rotation axis Ax1. Both the first rotation axis Ax1 and the second rotation axis Ax2 can extend vertically. The central axis of the washing chamber 211 can also extend vertically. Multiple rotating mating parts 232 can be spaced apart circumferentially along the mounting base 240, specifically spaced apart circumferentially along the second mounting base 250. Multiple rotating driving parts 322 are spaced apart circumferentially along the transmission body 310. The multiple rotating mating parts 232 have the same magnetism and are centrally symmetrically arranged around the first rotation axis Ax1. The multiple rotating driving parts 322 have the same magnetism and are centrally symmetrically arranged around the second rotation axis Ax2. The multiple rotating mating parts 232 are uniformly arranged circumferentially along the mounting base 240; the multiple rotating driving parts 322 are uniformly arranged circumferentially along the transmission body 310. Therefore, the magnetic force on the second mounting base 250 in the circumferential direction can be equal and uniform, thus ensuring that the first rotation axis Ax1 and the second rotation axis Ax2 remain collinear. The magnetic properties of the multiple rotating mating parts 232 can also be different, but the number of rotating mating parts 232 with different magnetic properties must be equal. Preferably, the rotating mating parts 232 with different magnetic properties are evenly and intermittently arranged, provided that the number is equal. For example, a group of rotating mating parts with the first magnetic property can be arranged first, then a group of rotating mating parts with the other magnetic property, then another group of rotating mating parts with the first magnetic property, then another group of rotating mating parts with the second magnetic property, and so on, intermittently, to ensure that adjacent groups of rotating mating parts have different magnetic properties but the same number, and that the number of magnets in each group is the same and greater than or equal to 1. The specific arrangement can be flexibly set according to needs; for example, the number can be two, three, four, five, or six, etc. For example, the total number of rotating mating parts 232 can be two and evenly arranged, with one magnet facing outward as the N pole and the other magnet facing outward as the S pole. Correspondingly, two rotating drive components can be set. Or, as... Figure 64 As shown, there are four groups of rotating mating parts, each with three magnets. The outward-facing poles of all three magnets in one group can be designated as N poles, and the outward-facing poles of all three magnets in adjacent groups can be designated as S poles. Therefore, the outward-facing poles of the rotating mating parts are NNN, SSS, NNN, and SSS, respectively. Correspondingly, the magnetism of the multiple mating rotating drive components 322 must also be different, but their numbers must be equal and they must be evenly and spaced. For example, in... Figure 64As shown, there are 16 rotating drive components, which can be arranged into 4 groups. In one group, the outward-facing magnetic poles of the four magnets are all designated as N poles, and the outward-facing magnetic poles of the four adjacent magnets are all designated as S poles. Therefore, the outward-facing magnetic poles of the rotating drive components are NNNN, SSSS, NNNN, and SSSS. During rotation, the outward-facing magnetic poles of the NNNN group of rotating drive components interact with the outward-facing magnetic poles of the SSS group of rotating mating components to generate magnetic force. Similarly, the outward-facing magnetic poles of the SSSS group of rotating drive components interact with the outward-facing magnetic poles of the NNN group of rotating mating components to generate magnetic force. This ensures that the second mounting base 250 experiences equal and uniform magnetic force in the circumferential direction.

[0239] The washing hopper assembly 200 may also include a limiting member. The mounting base 240 rotates around the limiting member, and the surfaces of the limiting member and the mounting base 240 abut against each other. In this embodiment, the second mounting base 250 drives the first mounting base 220 to rotate around the limiting member, which includes the inner sidewall 214 and the outer sidewall 215 of the washing hopper body 210.

[0240] The transmission body 310 is constructed in a centrally symmetrical shape, specifically a turntable shape as described above. The mounting base 240 is also constructed in a centrally symmetrical shape. Specifically, both the first mounting base 220 and the second mounting base 250 are cylindrical. In this embodiment, as described above, the mounting base 240 and the agitator 19 can be separate components, specifically the first mounting base 220 and the agitator 19 are separate components, to facilitate the installation of the washing hopper cover 270.

[0241] like Figure 63 As shown, when the transmission body 310 is in the first driving position and the second driving position, that is, when the rotary drive member 322 is in the driving position, the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 are radially aligned and their magnetic poles face opposite directions. At this time, the magnetic force between the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 is a magnetic attraction force, which causes the stirring member 19 to rotate. Figure 64 As shown, when the rotary drive 322 is in the drive position, it is radially offset from the rotary mating member 232, and their magnetic poles face each other. At this time, the magnetic force between the rotary drive 322 and the rotary mating member 232 is a magnetic repulsion force, which causes the stirring member 19 to rotate.

[0242] Multiple rotary drive components 322 are arranged at circumferential intervals along the transmission body 310. The transmission sidewall 312 has multiple transmission mounting surfaces 315 arranged circumferentially. Figure 52The transmission mounting surface 315 is planar and extends vertically, and the rotary drive member 322 is mounted to the transmission mounting surface 315. Multiple rotary mating members 232 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the transmission body 310. The second mounting base 250 has multiple seat mounting surfaces 253 arranged circumferentially, the seat mounting surfaces 253 being planar and extending vertically, and the rotary mating members 232 are mounted to the seat mounting surfaces 253. One of the rotary mating members 232 and the rotary drive member 322 can be arranged in one row, and the other can be arranged in two rows at intervals along the vertical direction. Alternatively, both the rotary mating members 232 and the rotary drive member 322 can be arranged in one row, and one of them can be a vertically arranged elongated strip.

[0243] The following text is for reference only. Figures 44-51 The entire washing process of the cooking utensil 1 according to the second embodiment is described as follows:

[0244] like Figure 44 As shown, the cooking appliance 1 is in its initial state. At this time, the feeding bin 110 and the drive assembly 300 are both in their initial positions within the first position. The feeding bin 110 is not connected to the outlet of the storage bin 13 or the inlet 201 of the washing bin assembly 200, and the washing bin cover 270 is in the closed position. In the initial state, the force relationship of the washing bin cover 270 is F1+F2≥G1+G2, where F1 is the magnetic force between the translational mating part 231 and the translational drive part 321; F2 is the magnetic force between the holding member 237 and the holding mating member 238; G1 is the total weight of the washing bin cover 270 and the follower load that moves with it in a straight line. In this embodiment, the follower load includes at least the first mounting base 220, the translational mating part 231, and the stirring member 19; G2 is the weight of the water and materials in the washing chamber 211. It can be understood that G1 is a fixed value, and F1, F2, and G2 are variable values. In this state, F1 is small, and may even be close to or equal to 0. When F1 = 0, F2 ≥ G1 + G2; F2 is the largest, i.e., F2max; G2 = 0, or G2 is the weight of a small amount of residual water after cleaning on the washing chamber 211.

[0245] When the material feeding operation is to be performed, the linear drive device 120 first drives the screw 121 to move, thereby the screw 121 drives the feeding bin 110 downward to the first drive position in the second position. For example... Figure 45 As shown, the cooking appliance 1 is in the preparation to feed ingredients. At this time, both the feeding bin 110 and the drive assembly 300 are in the first drive position of the second position. The feeding bin 110 is still not connected to the outlet of the storage bin 13 and the inlet 201 of the washing bin assembly 200, and the washing bin cover 270 is still in the closed position. Figure 45In the shown state, the force relationship of the washing hopper cover 270 is F1+F2>G1+G2, where F1 and F2 are at their maximum, i.e., F1max and F2max, and G2 is the same as in the initial state. Therefore, the washing hopper cover 270 is subjected to an upward magnetic force, and the washing hopper assembly 200 is connected radially by a magnetic force. Then, the linear drive device 120 can continue to drive the screw 121, and the feeding hopper 110 continues to move downward and extend into the washing chamber 211, while the drive assembly 300 does not move accordingly. Figure 46 As shown, the cooking appliance 1 is in the feeding state. At this time, the feeding bin 110 is in the additional position, the drive component 300 is in the first drive position of the second position, and the feeding bin 110 is still connected to the outlet of the storage bin 13 and the inlet 201 of the washing bin component 200. The washing bin cover 270 is still in the closed position. The material in the storage bin 13 enters the feeding bin 110 through the inlet 111, and then enters the washing chamber 211 through the outlet 112 to perform the feeding action. The amount of material flowing into the washing chamber 211 can be calculated by time. The cooking appliance controls the time when the feeding bin 110 is in the additional position according to the amount of material required by the user to achieve quantitative feeding. Water can also be supplied to the washing chamber 211 in this feeding state. Feeding and water supply can be carried out simultaneously, or water supply can be carried out after feeding is completed. The clean water in the clean water tank 81 enters the feeding hopper 110 through the pipeline and the water inlet 113, and then enters the washing chamber 211 through the water outlet 114. When the feeding and water supply are completed, the force relationship of the washing hopper cover 270 is F1+F2>G1+G2, where F1 and F2 are F1max and F2max, and G2 is the weight of water and material.

[0246] When the feeding operation is completed, the linear drive device 120 drives the screw 121 to move again. The screw 121 drives the feeding bin 110 to move upward to the first drive position in the second position, as shown. Figure 47 As shown. In Figure 47 In the state shown, water can be supplied to the washing chamber 211, or it can also be... Figure 46 Water is supplied to the washing chamber under the specified condition. When... Figure 47When water is supplied in the shown state, the weight of G2 increases. After the water supply is completed, the rotary drive device 301 can drive the transmission main body 310 to rotate. Then, the magnetic force between the rotary drive member 322 and the rotary mating member 232 can drive the second mounting seat 250 to rotate, and further drive the first mounting seat 220 and the stirring member 19 thereon to rotate together to perform the material washing action. It can be understood that for the illustrated embodiment, when performing the material washing action, the water level in the material washing chamber 211 is lower than the highest part of the sewage discharge pipe 10. In other embodiments not shown, an electromagnetic valve for separately opening and closing the sewage discharge port 213 can be provided, and whether to drain water can be directly controlled by directly controlling the opening and closing state of the electromagnetic valve. This drainage method does not limit that the water level in the material washing chamber 211 must be lower than the highest part of the sewage discharge pipe.

[0247] For the illustrated embodiment, when it is intended to drain water after the material washing action is completed, first supply water to the material washing chamber 211 until the water level in the material washing chamber 211 is higher than the highest part of the sewage discharge pipe 10, and use the siphon principle to drain water. And there will be a velocity head at the highest position of the drainage channel, thereby forming a full flow in the sewage discharge pipe 10. When the water level drops to be lower than the highest position of the sewage discharge pipe 10, since the drainage channel is already in a full flow state at this time, and since the water level in the material washing chamber 211 is higher than the water level at the water outlet 114 of the sewage discharge pipe 107, according to Bernoulli's principle, there will be a velocity head at the outlet of the sewage discharge pipe 107 at this time, and the water in the material washing bin can be drained completely. When the drainage is completed, the force relationship of the material washing bin cover 270 is F1 + F2 > G1 + G2, where F1 and F2 are F1max and F2max, and G2 is the weight of the water-absorbed material and a small amount of residual water. If necessary, clean water can also be added after drainage for cooking; in this case, G2 is the weight of the water-absorbed material and clean water.

[0248] The actions of water supply, material washing, throwing off materials during washing, and drainage can be repeatedly executed to achieve multiple material washings for a single batch of materials.

[0249] When it is intended to discharge materials after the drainage action is completed, the linear drive device 120 drives the feeding bin 110 to move upward to the middle position in the first position, as Figure 48 shown. In the state shown in Figure 48 , the force relationship of the material washing bin cover 270 is F1 + F2 < G1 + G2, where F1 decreases, that is, F1 < F1max, F2 is F2max, and G2 is the same as when the drainage is completed. Since F1 + F2 < G1 + G2, the force on the material washing bin cover 270 is unbalanced and it cannot remain in the closed position and will move downward, and the discharge port 212 will open. The cooking appliance quickly switches from the state shown in Figure 48 to the state shown in Figure 49 , that is, the material washing bin cover 270 moves downward to the open position. During this process, F1 continues to decrease and F2 decreases. As Figure 49 As shown, the material washing bin cover 270 is already in the open position, and the discharge port 212 is open. At this time, some materials and / or water will fall into the inner pot 3, and G2 decreases. Figure 49 In the state shown, the force relationship of the material washing bin cover 270 is F1 + F2 < G1 + G2, where F1 < F1max, F2 is the minimum, that is, F2min, and G2 is the weight of the remaining water-absorbing materials and a small amount of residual water. Then the linear drive device 120 drives the screw 121 to move the transmission main body 310 downward from the middle position to the second drive position in the second position. At this time, as Figure 50 shown, the cooking appliance 1 is in the state of discharging materials. There is a distance d1 between the translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231, and the force relationship of the material washing bin cover 270 is F1 + F2 < G1 + G2, where F1 < F1max, F2 is F2min, and G2 is Figure 49 the same as the state shown, so that during the material discharging process, the material washing bin cover 270 always remains in the open position. Then the rotary drive device 301 drives the transmission main body 310 to rotate again, so that the stirring member 19 rotates, starts to throw materials, and performs the material discharging action. The materials quickly fall into the inner pot 3 under the action of centrifugal force. When throwing materials, G2 continues to decrease. After the material throwing is completed, the force relationship of the material washing bin cover 270 is F1 + F2 < G1 + G2, where F1 < F1max, F2 is F2min, and G2 is the weight of a small amount of residual water. As an example, the difference between F1 + F2 and G1 + G2 at this time can be 30 g.

[0250] When the material discharging action is completed and resetting is required, the linear drive device 120 continues to drive the screw 121 to move the transmission main body 310 from the second drive position to the first drive position, as Figure 51 shown. During this process, F1 increases. At this time, there is a distance d2 between the translational drive member 321 and the translational mating member 231, and d2 is less than d1. The force relationship of the material washing bin cover 270 is F1 + F2 > G1 + G2, where F1 is F1max, F2 is F2max, and G2 is the weight of a small amount of residual water, so that the material washing bin cover 270 will move upward to the closed position under the action of magnetic force. For example, Figure 45 shown, the resetting of the material washing bin cover 270 is realized. The cooking appliance quickly switches from the Figure 51 state shown to the Figure 45 state shown, that is, the material washing bin cover 270 moves upward to the closed position. During this process, F1 continues to increase to F1max, F2 increases to F2max, and G2 is Figure 51 the same as the state, and at this time F1 + F2 > G1 + G2.

[0251] The various actions in the process from feeding materials to discharging materials can be repeatedly executed to realize the washing of materials multiple times; that is, the Figures 45 to 51 states shown are repeatedly executed.

[0252] Then, the linear driving device 120 drives the feeding bin 110 to move upward to the initial position in the first position, as Figure 44 shown, to reset the feeding bin 110 and the driving component 300. During this process, F1 decreases to a smaller value, and may even be close to or equal to 0. F2 is F2max, and G2 is in the same Figure 51 state. At this time, F1 + F2 > G1 + G2.

[0253] It can be understood that in other embodiments not shown, the washing bin cover 270 may be in the open position in the initial state. In other words, when the cooking appliance 1 is not working, the discharge port 212 may be in the normally open state, that is, the washing bin cover 270 is in the open position in the initial state. Specifically, except for canceling the holding member 237 and the holding mating member 238, the rest of the structure is the same as that of the cooking appliance in the illustrated embodiment. For the sake of simplicity, only the differences will be described in detail here. Specifically, the washing bin assembly 200 does not include the holding member 237 and the holding mating member 238, that is, there is no F2, and F2 is the magnetic force between the holding member 237 and the holding mating member 238. Therefore, in the initial state, at this time, both the feeding bin 110 and the driving component 300 are in the initial position in the first position, the feeding bin 110 is not connected to the outlet of the storage bin 13 and the inlet 201 of the washing bin assembly 200, and the washing bin cover 270 is in the open position.

[0254] In the initial state, the force relationship of the washing bin cover 270 is F1 < G1 + G2. In this state, F1 is smaller, and may even be close to or equal to 0, G2 = 0, or G2 is the weight of a small amount of residual water remaining after cleaning in the washing cavity 211. When intending to perform the feeding operation, it is necessary to first move the washing bin cover 270 from the open position to the closed position, that is, the linear driving device 120 can drive the screw 121 to act, so that the screw 121 can drive the feeding bin 110 to move downward to the first driving position in the second position (as Figure 3 shown). At this time, the force relationship of the washing bin cover 270 is F1 > G1 + G2. Under the action of the magnetic force, the washing bin cover 270 moves to the closed position.

[0255] The remaining feeding, washing, draining, dropping, and water supply operations are the same as those of the cooking appliance in the illustrated embodiment. The only difference is that the magnetic force on the washing chamber cover 270 is F1, not F1+F2, meaning there is no magnetic force of F2. However, the relationship between the magnetic force on the washing chamber cover 270 and G1+G2 during the feeding, washing, draining, and dropping stages is consistent with the relationship between the magnetic force on the cooking appliance in the illustrated embodiment during the same stages. The operations of the linear drive device 120 and the rotary drive device 301 are also consistent. Taking the feeding stage as an example, in the embodiment where the discharge port 212 is normally open, the force relationship on the washing chamber cover 270 is F1>G1+G2; in the illustrated embodiment, the force relationship is F1+F2>G1+G2. The magnetic force during the feeding stage in both embodiments is greater than G1+G2, meaning the magnitude relationship is consistent. The difference is that after the material feeding action is completed, the washing hopper cover 270 does not need to be reset. That is, the washing hopper cover 270 remains in the open state. After the linear drive device 120 drives the feeding hopper 110 to move upward to the initial position in the first position, the washing hopper cover 270 continues to remain in the open state.

[0256] Furthermore, in other embodiments not shown, both the translational mating member 231 and the rotary mating member 232 are located inside the washing chamber 211. When the rotary drive member 322 is in the drive position, i.e., when the transmission body 310 is in the first drive position and the second drive position, the rotary drive member 322 is located radially inside the rotary mating member 232. Therefore, the external structure of the cooking appliance is simple, which is beneficial for product miniaturization; and the structure of the drive assembly 300 can be further simplified.

[0257] As an example, a cylindrical mounting base may be included inside the washing chamber 211. The washing chamber cover 270 and the agitator 19 may both be connected to this mounting base. A rotary fitting 232 and a translational fitting 231 are provided on this mounting base. The washing chamber body 210 has a trough portion located inside the washing chamber. The trough portion forms a receiving trough to receive the translational drive 321 and the rotary drive 322, more specifically, to receive the transmission body.

[0258] It should be noted that the force relationship mentioned in this article can be understood as the force relationship of the component consisting of the washing hopper cover 270 and the follower load that moves with it in a straight line. For the sake of simplicity, it is simply referred to as the force relationship of the washing hopper cover 270. Similarly, the descriptions of the washing hopper cover 270 being subjected to magnetic force, physical force, magnetic force, gravity, etc. can be understood as various descriptions of the forces of the component consisting of the washing hopper cover 270 and the follower load that moves with it in a straight line. For the sake of simplicity, it is simply referred to as the washing hopper cover 270. As an example, the magnetic force on the washing hopper cover 270 can be understood as the magnetic force on the component consisting of the washing hopper cover 270 and the follower load that moves with it in a straight line.

[0259] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Terms such as “set” appearing herein can refer to either a component being directly attached to another component or a component being attached to another component via an intermediary. A feature described in one embodiment herein may be applied, alone or in combination with other features, to another embodiment, unless that feature is not applicable in that other embodiment or is otherwise stated.

[0260] The present invention has been described through the above embodiments; however, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present invention to the described embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of the present invention, and all such variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, The device includes a body assembly, a washing chamber assembly, and a pot body. The pot body has a cooking cavity. The body assembly includes a feeding mechanism. The washing chamber assembly includes a washing chamber body, a stirring component, and a washing chamber cover movably disposed within the washing chamber body. The washing chamber body forms a washing cavity and has an inlet. The feeding mechanism is used to transport food ingredients through the inlet into the washing cavity. In this configuration, some or all of the feeding mechanism is movable at least between a retracted position and a mating position. In the retracted position, the feeding mechanism is folded to one side of the body assembly, or partially or completely housed within the body assembly. In the mating position, the feeding mechanism extends or protrudes away from the body assembly. The main body of the washing chamber has a discharge port, and the main body of the washing chamber is connected to the cooking chamber through the discharge port for discharging materials. The cooking appliance also includes a drive assembly, which includes a first drive device, a second drive device, and a third drive device; The first driving device is used to drive the feeding mechanism to move between the receiving position and the mating position; Both the second driving device and the third driving device are disposed in the feeding mechanism; The second driving device is used to drive the stirring element to rotate; The third driving device is used to drive the washing hopper cover to move between the open position and the closed position; The drive component has a two-stage motion relative to the feeding mechanism; it can move together with the feeding mechanism or move separately from it.

2. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the feeding mechanism is in the mating position, it extends or protrudes toward the washing bin assembly and / or when the feeding mechanism is in the mating position, it fits against or extends into the inlet.

3. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism is movable along a straight line between the receiving position and the mating position.

4. The cooking utensil according to claim 3, characterized in that, The machine body assembly is provided with a storage cavity, and the feeding mechanism is partially or wholly housed within the storage cavity.

5. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The machine body assembly also includes a storage mechanism, and the feeding mechanism is used to transport the food ingredients in the storage mechanism to the washing chamber. The storage mechanism has the receiving chamber.

6. The cooking utensil according to claim 5, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism includes a feeding bin, which has an inlet, an outlet located below the inlet, and a feeding channel extending vertically between the inlet and the outlet. The inlet is located on the side wall of the feeding bin, and the outlet is located on the side wall or bottom of the feeding bin.

7. The cooking utensil according to claim 6, characterized in that, The storage mechanism includes a storage bin with a side outlet. When the feeding mechanism moves to the mating position, the side outlet is connected to the inlet, and the outlet is connected to the inlet.

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 5, characterized in that, The washing bin assembly is located below the storage mechanism.

9. The cooking utensil according to claim 8, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism is fully housed within the storage cavity when in the storage position.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes a pot lid, which is placed on the pot body. The washing chamber assembly is located on the pot lid, and the storage mechanism is located above the pot lid. There is a gap between the storage mechanism and the pot lid.

11. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a drive assembly. The main body of the washing hopper has a discharge port. The drive assembly can cooperate with the washing hopper assembly to drive the agitator to rotate and drive the washing hopper cover to move between an open position with the discharge port open and a closed position with the discharge port closed. The feeding mechanism can be engaged with the drive assembly, and the two are combined into a whole.

12. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism and the drive assembly are movable together between the storage position and the mating position.

13. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism includes a feeding bin, which is engageable with the drive assembly and movable between the storage position and the mating position.

14. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism can move up and down along a straight line between the storage position and the mating position, or can rotate about an axis located at one end of it.

15. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The agitator is connected to the washing hopper cover and can move up and down synchronously with the washing hopper cover.

16. The cooking utensil according to claim 15, characterized in that, The agitator and the washing hopper cover are either an integral part or separate parts, and the agitator is rotatable relative to the washing hopper cover.

17. The cooking utensil according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the feeding mechanism is in the storage position, there is a gap between the feeding mechanism and the pot lid.

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