Lock structure, cooking appliance, and control method of cooking appliance

Abstract

The application provides a lock structure, a cooking utensil and a control method of the cooking utensil, wherein the lock structure comprises a fixing part and a locking assembly, the locking assembly comprises a bearing part and a locking part, the locking part is arranged on the bearing part, the locking part is locked with the fixing part when the locking part is powered off, and an operating part is electrically connected with the locking part, the locking part is in a powered-on state when the operating part is in a first position, so that the locking part is separated from the fixing part. Through cooperation of the locking assembly and the fixing part, the user must perform power-on operation on the locking part before opening the cavity assembly if the user wants to open the cavity assembly. The situation that the child mistakenly opens the cavity assembly can be prevented, and the use safety of the cooking utensil is greatly improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of food processing equipment, and more specifically, relates to a lock structure, a cooking utensil, and a control method for the cooking utensil. Background Technology

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

[0003] The present invention aims to solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related technologies.

[0004] In view of this, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a lock structure, comprising: a fixing member; and a locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising: a bearing member; a locking member disposed on the bearing member, wherein when the locking member is de-energized, the locking member is locked to the fixing member; and an operating member electrically connected to the locking member, wherein when the operating member is in a first position, the locking member is energized to separate the locking member from the fixing member.

[0005] The lock structure provided by this invention allows the locking component and the fixing member to work together to achieve a locking and limiting function. Specifically, the lock structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking utensils and used as a child lock for cooking utensils.

[0006] Specifically, when the locking mechanism is de-energized, it is locked to the fixing mechanism. In this state, the user cannot open the cavity assembly of the cooking appliance.

[0007] Specifically, the fixing component and locking assembly can be installed on the cavity assembly and door assembly respectively. When the door assembly is closed and the cavity assembly is de-energized, the locking component is locked in place, preventing the user from opening the cavity assembly. Before opening the cavity assembly, the locking component needs to be energized to release the connection between the locking component and the fixing component, separating them. Then, the cavity assembly can be opened. This two-step process improves the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0008] The locking structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking appliances. After the cooking process is complete, the food inside the cooking cavity is still quite hot, and directly opening the door to remove the food poses a risk of burns. Therefore, this invention, through the cooperation of the aforementioned locking component and fixing member, ensures that the user must power on the locking component before opening the cavity component. This serves as a warning to the user and prevents children from accidentally opening the cavity component, greatly improving the safety of the cooking appliance.

[0009] Therefore, the lock structure proposed in this invention increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock structure by cooperating with the locking component and the fixing component, thereby preventing users, especially children, from accidentally opening the cavity component and improving the safety of cooking utensils using this lock structure.

[0010] The locking element is mounted on a carrier component, which can be installed on the door or cavity assembly of the cooking appliance. To secure the locking element, a corresponding mounting structure needs to be provided on the carrier component. Compared to directly mounting the locking element to the door or cavity assembly, mounting it to the carrier component reduces the processing difficulty of the door or cavity assembly. Furthermore, this method requires less structural modification to the cooking appliance in related technologies, reducing the investment of manpower and resources, and effectively mitigating reliability risks arising from structural improvements.

[0011] The operating element is electrically connected to the locking element, and the user can control the power supply to and from the locking element by pressing the operating element.

[0012] The operating element can be installed on the door assembly or cavity assembly of the cooking appliance. When the door assembly and cavity assembly are locked, the user can press the operating element to control the locking element to be energized. At this time, the locking element and the locking element are separated, and the user can pull the door assembly to open the cavity assembly.

[0013] Users must power on the locking mechanism before opening the cavity assembly to improve safety during cooking and prevent children from accidentally opening the cavity assembly.

[0014] In addition, the lock structure in the above-described technical solution provided by the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0015] In one possible design, the locking element is energized when the operating element is in the second position.

[0016] In this design, before cooking begins, the operating component is in its initial state, at which point it is not pressed, the locking component is energized, and the locking component is separated from the fixing component. The user can open the cavity component by pulling the door component.

[0017] Controlling the power supply to the locking mechanism via an operating element improves the ease of use of the lock structure. Furthermore, eliminating the need for direct user operation of the locking mechanism also enhances the security of the lock system.

[0018] In one possible design, the locking element includes a solenoid valve. When the solenoid valve is de-energized, the valve core of the solenoid valve is locked to the fixing element. When the solenoid valve is energized, the valve core of the solenoid valve is separated from the fixing element.

[0019] In this design, the solenoid valve includes a valve body and a valve core. The valve body is fixed to a support, making its installation position less prone to movement. When switching the energizing state of the solenoid valve, the valve core moves relative to the valve body.

[0020] Specifically, when the solenoid valve is de-energized, the valve core moves relative to the valve body to the locked position, at which point the valve body is locked to the fixing component, and the user cannot open the cavity assembly. When the solenoid valve is energized, the valve core moves relative to the valve body to the unlocked position, at which point the user can open the cavity assembly of the cooking appliance.

[0021] Using a solenoid valve as a locking element, the valve core of the solenoid valve is locked to or separated from the fixed part, which simplifies the structure of the locking element and reduces the cost of the lock structure.

[0022] In one possible design, the lock structure also includes a controller, an operating element, and a locking element electrically connected to the controller.

[0023] In this design, the operating element is electrically connected to the controller, allowing the controller to receive the pressing signal of the operating element. The controller is also electrically connected to the locking element, allowing the controller to control the energization or de-energization of the locking element.

[0024] In one possible design, the fastener includes: a fixing part; and a locking part disposed on the fixing part, wherein the valve core can be engaged with or disengaged from the fastener.

[0025] In this design, a locking part is provided on the fixed part, and the locking part protrudes from the surface of the fixed part. When the solenoid valve is de-energized, the valve core moves to the locked position, and the valve core is located on one side of the locking part, thus limiting the movement of the locking part.

[0026] Specifically, the locking component is installed on one of the door assembly and the cavity assembly, and the fixing component is installed on the other of the door assembly and the cavity assembly. Taking the example of the locking component being installed on the cavity assembly and the fixing component being installed on the door assembly, when the user wants to open the cavity assembly, the door assembly needs to be pulled. When the valve core limits the locking part, the door assembly cannot move the fixing component, thus restricting the door assembly from opening the cavity assembly and achieving the locking function of the door assembly.

[0027] When the user presses the operating button to energize the solenoid valve, the valve core moves to the unlocked position. At this time, the valve core moves away from the locking part, allowing the valve core to avoid the locking part. When the user pulls the door assembly, the door assembly can drive the fixing part to move, thereby opening the cavity assembly.

[0028] The locking part is located at the end of the fixing part, which reduces the length of the fixing part and thus reduces the space occupied by the fixing part.

[0029] The locking part can be locked to the fixing part, or the locking part and the fixing part can be integrally formed.

[0030] In one possible application, the end of the fixing part can be bent to form a locking part.

[0031] In one possible design, the fastener includes a locking hole into which the valve core can be inserted or extended.

[0032] In this design, the fixing part is machined with a locking hole, and the valve core can be inserted into the locking hole so that the valve core can limit the movement of the fixing part.

[0033] Specifically, the locking component is installed on one of the door assembly and the cavity assembly, and the fixing component is installed on the other. Taking the example of the locking component being installed on the cavity assembly and the fixing component on the door assembly, when the user wants to open the cavity assembly, the door assembly needs to be pulled. When the valve core is inserted into the locking hole, the valve core limits the movement of the fixing component, preventing the door assembly from moving the fixing component, thus restricting the door assembly from opening the cavity assembly and achieving the locking function of the door assembly.

[0034] When the user presses the operating button to energize the solenoid valve, the valve core moves to the unlock position. At this time, the valve core moves away from the extended locking hole, allowing the valve core to avoid the fixing part. When the user pulls the door assembly, the door assembly can drive the fixing part to move, thereby opening the cavity assembly.

[0035] In one possible design, the fasteners include: a fixed door hook or a fixed lock plate.

[0036] In this design, the fixing component is limited to a fixed door hook or a fixed lock plate. That is, the fixing component is a component independent of the door hook on the cooking appliance in the related technology. By setting a fixed door hook or a fixed lock plate separately, interference between the lock structure and the door hook in the related technology can be avoided, which is conducive to improving the functional stability of the lock structure.

[0037] In one possible design, the carrier includes a locking cavity with a first opening and a second opening, a valve core extending into or out of the locking cavity through the first opening, and a fixing member extending into or out of the locking cavity through the second opening, with the valve core and the fixing member moving in different directions.

[0038] In this design, a locking cavity is machined into the support component. When the solenoid valve is de-energized, at least a portion of the valve core passes through the first opening and extends into the locking cavity; when the solenoid valve is energized, the valve core extends out of the locking cavity.

[0039] Taking the example of a locking component installed in a cavity component and a fixing member installed in a door component, when the door component opens the cavity component, the fixing member extends out of the locking cavity; when the door component closes the cavity component, at least a portion of the fixing member passes through the second opening and extends into the locking cavity.

[0040] Therefore, when the valve core and the fixing component are locked together, both the valve core and the fixing component are located within the locking cavity. The locking cavity protects the valve core and the fixing component, preventing them from being damaged by other parts while locked, thus ensuring the functional stability of the lock structure and helping to reduce the damage rate of the lock structure.

[0041] The valve core and the fixed part move in different directions to avoid interference between their movements.

[0042] In one possible design, the carrier also includes: a base with a locking cavity; and a limiting part located on the base, which guides the valve core into or out of the locking cavity.

[0043] In this design, the base is provided with a locking cavity and a limiting part, with the limiting part located on one side of the locking cavity. When the valve core moves relative to the valve seat, the valve core passes through the limiting part, so that the limiting part guides and limits the valve core.

[0044] Specifically, the limiting part guides the valve core, ensuring that the valve core can accurately extend into the locking cavity, preventing misalignment between the valve core and the locking cavity due to solenoid valve wobbling, and ensuring the functional stability of the lock structure.

[0045] The limiting part can also limit the valve core. When the valve core is locked with the fixing part, the limiting part can restrict the valve core from shifting, thereby ensuring that the valve core can stably limit the fixing part and prevent the valve core and the fixing part from separating.

[0046] In one possible design, the locking element is detachably connected to the carrier element.

[0047] In this design, the locking element can be detached from the support component. When the locking element is damaged, it can be removed from the support component for replacement or individual maintenance. This improves the ease of maintenance of the lock structure. Furthermore, when the locking element is damaged, the entire locking assembly does not need to be replaced, which helps reduce maintenance costs for the lock structure.

[0048] In one possible application, the carrier also includes a snap-fit ​​portion that is capable of elastic deformation, allowing the snap-fit ​​portion to snap into the locking member, thereby fixing the locking member to the base.

[0049] The locking element can also be locked to the load-bearing element using screws or other locking devices.

[0050] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a cooking appliance comprising: a cavity assembly; a door assembly, the door assembly being openably and closedly connected to the cavity assembly; a locking structure as in any possible design of the first aspect; wherein a fixing member is disposed in one of the cavity assembly and the door assembly, and a locking member is disposed in the other of the cavity assembly and the door assembly.

[0051] The cooking appliance provided by this invention has all the benefits of the locking structure provided in any of the above-mentioned technical solutions.

[0052] The cavity assembly includes a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked; a door assembly is connected to the cavity assembly for opening and closing the cooking cavity. Specifically, the door assembly can be rotatably connected to the cavity assembly or slidably connected to it. One of the cavity assembly and the door assembly is provided with a fixing member, and the other is provided with a locking member. The locking member cooperates with the fixing member to lock the door assembly onto the cavity assembly. Specifically, the locking member is a child lock and serves as an auxiliary connection.

[0053] When the door assembly is closed and the locking element is in the locked position, the connection between the locking element and the fixing element is limited, preventing the user from opening the door assembly. Before opening the door assembly, the connection between the locking element and the fixing element is released; at this point, the locking element is in the unlocked position, and the locking element and the fixing element are separated.

[0054] During the use of cooking utensils, the locking state of the locking and fixing parts can be changed by turning the power on and off the locking parts. The opening process requires two steps: first turning on the power to the locking parts and then pulling the door assembly, to prevent children from accidentally opening the cavity assembly.

[0055] The lock mechanism is detachably connected to the cavity assembly and door assembly. When the lock mechanism is damaged, it can be disassembled from the cavity assembly or door assembly, preventing the cooking appliance from being unable to open or close due to lock mechanism failure, thus improving user convenience. Furthermore, when the lock mechanism is damaged, it can be disassembled, replaced, and maintained independently without dismantling the cooking appliance's housing or other components, reducing maintenance difficulty and costs.

[0056] In one possible design, the cavity assembly includes: a cavity body; and a cover surrounding at least a portion of the cavity body.

[0057] In this design, the cavity assembly includes a cavity body and a cover. The cavity body contains a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked. The cover surrounds at least a portion of the cavity body, thus providing good protection for it. Furthermore, a mounting cavity exists between the cavity body and the cover, allowing relevant components of the cooking appliance to be installed within this cavity.

[0058] In one possible design, the door assembly also includes: a door body; a door seal connected to the door body; and a latch, disposed on the door body or the door seal, for opening and closing connection with the cavity assembly.

[0059] In this design, the door assembly includes a door body, a door seal, and a latch. The door body is connected to the cavity assembly for opening and closing, and can be used to open or close the cooking cavity. The door seal is connected to the door body and provides a good seal when the door body closes the cooking cavity, ensuring a good seal during operation. Furthermore, the latch is located on either the door body or the door seal and is connected to the cavity assembly for opening and closing. When the door body closes the cooking cavity, the latch connects to the cavity assembly to ensure the connection between the door assembly and the cavity assembly.

[0060] Specifically, the door assembly of the cooking appliance proposed in this invention includes a latch, which is used to connect with the cavity assembly, thereby ensuring a stable connection between the door assembly and the cavity assembly. That is, the cooking appliance proposed in this invention first ensures the connection between the door assembly and the cavity assembly through the latch, and then the lock structure can be used as a child lock, allowing the locking component to cooperate with the fixing member to further restrict the user from opening the door assembly.

[0061] In one possible design, the locking component is located within the cavity component, and the fastener is connected to the door body or door seal; or the fastener is integrally formed with the door body or door seal.

[0062] In this design, with the locking component mounted on the cavity component, the fixing component can be mounted on the door body or door seal. As the door body component moves relative to the cavity component, the fixing component can be locked or separated from the locking component.

[0063] In one possible design, the locking assembly is located within the cavity body.

[0064] In this design, the locking component is mounted on the cavity body, and when the cover is installed onto the cavity body, the locking component is located within the coverage area of ​​the cover. After the cooking appliance is assembled, the locking component is not visible from the outside, improving the surface integrity of the cooking appliance. It also prevents the locking component from being damaged by bumps and knocks, effectively reducing the damage rate of the locking component.

[0065] In one possible application, the cover is detachably connected to the cavity body, for example, by locking the cover to the cavity body with screws or other locking devices. This allows the locking device to be disassembled or maintained after the cover is removed.

[0066] In one possible design, the locking component is located on the door assembly, and the fixing member is connected to the cavity body or cover; or the fixing member is integrally formed with the cavity body or cover.

[0067] In this design, the locking assembly can be installed on the door assembly, and correspondingly, the fastener is set on the cavity body or cover. The fastener can be welded to the cavity body or cover, locked to the cavity body or cover, or the fastener and the cavity body or cover are integrally formed.

[0068] In one possible design, the cooking appliance includes a microwave oven, oven, steam oven, or steam oven / grill combo.

[0069] Thirdly, the present invention provides a control method for a cooking appliance, for any of the above possible designs of the cooking appliance, the control method comprising: in response to an unlocking command, controlling the locking element in the locking assembly to be energized so as to separate the locking element from the fixing element.

[0070] Before opening the cavity assembly, the locking mechanism needs to be energized to first release the connection limit between the lock and the fixing component, separating them. Then, the cavity assembly can be opened. This two-step process improves the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0071] Specifically, upon receiving an unlocking command, the locking mechanism is energized and separates from the fixing component, allowing the user to pull the door assembly and open the cavity assembly. To open the cavity assembly, the user must de-energize the locking mechanism beforehand. This serves as a warning to the user and prevents children from accidentally opening the cavity assembly, significantly enhancing the safety of the cooking appliance. The lock structure, through the cooperation of the locking component and the fixing component, increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock, preventing users, especially children, from accidentally opening the cavity assembly and improving the safety of cooking appliances using this lock structure.

[0072] In one possible design, after the locking element in the locking assembly is energized, the design further includes: based on the preset duration after the locking element has been energized, controlling the locking element to be de-energized so that the locking element locks with the fixing element.

[0073] In this design, if the locking component is powered on for a set period of time, it may be due to user misoperation causing the locking component to lose power, or the user closing the cavity assembly and forgetting to turn off the power to the locking component. To prevent children from opening the cavity assembly, the locking component is automatically powered off at this time, so that the locking component and the fixing component are locked together, further improving the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0074] In one possible design, after the locking element in the locking assembly is energized, the design further includes: based on the fact that the energization time of the locking element reaches a preset time and the door assembly closes the cavity assembly, controlling the locking element to de-energize so that the locking element locks with the fixing element.

[0075] In this design, if the locking mechanism is powered on for a set period of time and the door assembly closes the cavity assembly, the locking mechanism may be de-energized due to user error or the user may have closed the cavity assembly but forgotten to de-energize the locking mechanism. To prevent children from opening the cavity assembly, the locking mechanism is automatically de-energized, locking the locking mechanism and the fixing component together, further enhancing the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0076] In one possible design, after the locking element in the locking assembly is energized, the system further includes: in response to a locking command, de-energizing the locking element to lock the locking element to the fixing element.

[0077] In this design, after the locking mechanism is energized, the user can pull the door assembly and open the cavity assembly. When the user needs to use the cooking utensils again, the user can control the locking mechanism to de-energize through the operating component, so that the locking mechanism and the fixing component are locked together, preventing the cavity assembly from being opened during the cooking process.

[0078] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0079] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0080] Figure 1 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the cooking utensil in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0081] Figure 2 A second schematic diagram of the structure of the cooking utensil in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0082] Figure 3 The third schematic diagram of the structure of the cooking utensil in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0083] Figure 4The fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the cooking utensil in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0084] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the open state of the cooking appliance in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0085] Figure 6 An exploded view of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0086] Figure 7 The fifth schematic diagram of the structure of the cooking utensil in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0087] Figure 8 An exploded view of the door assembly in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0088] Figure 9 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0089] Figure 10 A second schematic diagram of the lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0090] Figure 11 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the fastener in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0091] Figure 12 A second schematic diagram of the structure of the fastener in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0092] Figure 13 The third schematic diagram of the lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0093] Figure 14 The fourth schematic diagram of the lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0094] Figure 15 The fifth schematic diagram of the lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0095] Figure 16 The sixth schematic diagram of the lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0096] Figure 17 An exploded view of the lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0097] Figure 18 A flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0098] in, Figures 1 to 17 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0099] 100 Fixing component, 110 Fixing part, 120 Locking part, 130 Locking hole, 200 Locking assembly, 210 Bearing component, 211 Base, 212 Locking cavity, 213 Limiting part, 214 Snap-fit ​​part, 220 Locking component, 221 Valve body, 222 Valve core, 230 Operating component, 300 Cavity assembly, 310 Cavity body, 320 Cover, 330 Control panel, 400 Door assembly, 410 Door body, 420 Door seal, 430 Buckle. Detailed Implementation

[0100] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0101] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein, and therefore the scope of protection of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0102] The following reference Figures 1 to 18 This invention describes a lock structure, a cooking appliance, and a method for controlling the cooking appliance, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0103] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, a lock structure is proposed, comprising: a fixing member 100 and a locking component 200; the locking component 200 and the fixing member 100 can be used together to perform a locking and limiting function. Specifically, the lock structure proposed in this invention can be applied to cooking utensils and used as a child lock for cooking utensils.

[0104] The locking assembly 200 includes a support member 210, a locking member 220, and an operating member 230. The locking member 220 is disposed on the support member 210. When the locking member 220 is de-energized, the locking member 220 is locked to the fixing member 100. The operating member 230 is electrically connected to the locking member 220. When the operating member 230 is in the first position, the locking member 220 is energized, so that the locking member 220 is separated from the fixing member 100.

[0105] Specifically, when the locking member 220 is in the de-energized state, it is locked to the fixing member 100. At this time, the user cannot open the cavity assembly 300 of the cooking appliance.

[0106] Specifically, the fixing component 100 and the locking component 200 can be installed on the cavity component 300 and the door component 400, respectively. When the door component 400 is closed and the cavity component 300 is de-energized, the locking component 220 is locked to the fixing component 100, preventing the user from opening the cavity component 300. Before opening the cavity component 300, the locking component 220 needs to be energized to release the connection between the locking component and the fixing component 100, separating the locking component 220 from the fixing component 100, and then the cavity component 300 can be opened. Opening the cavity component 300 requires two steps, which improves the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0107] The locking structure proposed in this embodiment can be applied to cooking appliances. After the cooking process is finished, the food inside the cooking cavity is still hot, and there is a risk of burns if the user directly opens the door to remove the food. Therefore, this invention, through the cooperation of the locking component 200 and the fixing member 100, requires the user to power on the locking member 220 before opening the cavity component 300. This serves as a reminder to the user and prevents children from accidentally opening the cavity component 300, greatly improving the safety of the cooking appliance.

[0108] Therefore, the lock structure proposed in this invention, through the cooperation of the locking component 200 and the fixing component 100, increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock structure, prevents users, especially children, from accidentally opening the cavity component 300, and improves the safety of cooking utensils using this lock structure.

[0109] The locking element 220 is mounted on the carrier element 210. The carrier element 210 can be mounted on the door assembly 400 or the cavity assembly 300 in the cooking appliance. To secure the locking element 220, a corresponding mounting structure needs to be provided on the carrier element 210. Compared to directly mounting the locking element 220 onto the door assembly 400 or the cavity assembly 300, mounting the locking element 220 onto the carrier element 210 reduces the processing difficulty of the door assembly 400 or the cavity assembly 300. Moreover, this method requires less structural modification to the cooking appliance in related technologies, reducing the investment of manpower and resources, and effectively reducing the reliability risks caused by structural modifications.

[0110] The operating element 230 is electrically connected to the locking element, and the user can control the power supply to and from the locking element by pressing the operating element 230.

[0111] In one possible application, the actuator 230 may be a physical button or a virtual button.

[0112] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the operating element 230 can be installed on the door assembly 400 or the cavity assembly 300 of the cooking appliance. When the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300 are in the locked state, the user can press the operating element 230 to control the locking element 220 to be energized. At this time, the locking element 220 and the locking element 220 are separated, and the user can pull the door assembly 400 to open the cavity assembly 300.

[0113] To open the cavity assembly 300, the user must power on the locking element 220 before opening the cavity assembly 300, which improves the safety of using the cooking appliance and prevents children from accidentally opening the cavity assembly 300.

[0114] In one possible embodiment, when the operating member 230 is in the second position, the locking member 220 is energized.

[0115] In this embodiment, before cooking is started, the operating member 230 is in the initial state. At this time, the operating member 230 is not pressed, the locking member 220 is in the energized state, the locking member 220 is separated from the fixing member 100, and the user can open the cavity assembly by pulling the door assembly.

[0116] By controlling the power supply to and from the locking element 220 via the operating component 230, the ease of use of the lock structure can be improved. Furthermore, since the user does not need to directly operate the locking element 220, the security of the lock structure can also be enhanced.

[0117] For example, when the operating element 230 is a button, the first position can be the pressed position, and the second position is the initial position. When the operating element 230 is a knob, the first position can be the rotated position, and the second position is the unrotated position.

[0118] Combination Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, ( Figure 13 and Figure 14 (The angle is directly opposite the locking member 220 and the fixing member 100) In one possible embodiment, the locking member 220 includes a solenoid valve. When the solenoid valve is de-energized, the valve core 222 of the solenoid valve is locked to the fixing member 100. When the solenoid valve is energized, the valve core 222 of the solenoid valve is separated from the fixing member 100.

[0119] In this embodiment, the solenoid valve includes a valve body 221 and a valve core 222. The valve body 221 is fixed on the support member 210, making it difficult for the installation position of the valve body 221 to move. When switching the energizing state of the solenoid valve, the valve core 222 of the solenoid valve will move relative to the valve body 221.

[0120] Specifically, when the solenoid valve is de-energized, the valve core 222 moves to the locked position relative to the valve body 221, at which point the valve body 221 is locked to the fixing member 100, and the user cannot open the cavity assembly 300. When the solenoid valve is energized, the valve core 222 moves to the unlocked position relative to the valve body 221, at which point the user can open the cavity assembly 300 of the cooking appliance.

[0121] Using a solenoid valve as a locking element 220, the valve core 222 of the solenoid valve is locked or separated from the fixing element 100, which simplifies the structure of the locking element 220 and reduces the cost of the lock structure.

[0122] This setup requires minimal structural changes to cooking appliances in the relevant technologies, reducing the investment of manpower and resources, and effectively mitigating reliability risks arising from structural improvements.

[0123] In other embodiments, the locking member 220 may further include an electromagnetic attractor and a limiting member, with the limiting member located below the electromagnetic attractor. When the electromagnetic attractor is energized, it magnetically attracts the limiting member, causing the limiting member to rise and separate from the fixing member 100. When the electromagnetic attractor is de-energized, it no longer attracts the limiting member, and the limiting member falls due to gravity, locking the limiting member and the fixing member 100 together.

[0124] Combination Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the fastener 100 includes a fastening part 110 and a locking part 120, the locking part 120 being disposed on the fastening part 110, and the valve core 222 being able to engage or disengage from the fastener 100.

[0125] In this embodiment, a locking part 120 is provided on the fixing part 110, and the locking part 120 protrudes from the surface of the fixing part 110. When the solenoid valve is de-energized, the valve core 222 moves to the locking position, and the valve core 222 is located on one side of the locking part 120, limiting the movement of the locking part 120.

[0126] Specifically, the locking component 200 is installed on one of the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300, and the fixing member 100 is installed on the other of the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300. Taking the example of the locking component 200 being installed on the cavity assembly 300 and the fixing member 100 being installed on the door assembly 400, when the user wants to open the cavity assembly 300, the door assembly 400 needs to be pulled. When the valve core 222 limits the locking part 120, the door assembly 400 cannot move the fixing member 100, thereby restricting the door assembly 400 from opening the cavity assembly 300 and achieving the locking function of the door assembly 400.

[0127] When the user presses the operating element 230 to energize the solenoid valve, the valve core 222 moves to the unlock position. At this time, the valve core 222 moves away from the locking part 120, so that the valve core 222 avoids the locking part 120. When the user pulls the door assembly 400, the door assembly 400 can drive the fixing part 100 to move, thereby opening the cavity assembly 300.

[0128] The locking part 120 is provided at the end of the fixing part 110, thereby reducing the length of the fixing member 100 and thus reducing the space occupied by the fixing member 100.

[0129] The locking part 120 can be locked to the fixing part 110, or the locking part 120 and the fixing part 110 are integrally formed.

[0130] In one possible application, the end of the fixing part 110 can be bent to form the locking part 120.

[0131] like Figure 12 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the fastener 100 includes a locking hole 130 into which the valve core 222 can be inserted or extended.

[0132] In this embodiment, a locking hole 130 is machined on the fixing member 100, and the valve core 222 can be inserted into the locking hole 130 so that the valve core 222 can limit the movement of the fixing member 100.

[0133] Specifically, the locking component 200 is installed on one of the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300, and the fixing member 100 is installed on the other of the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300. Taking the example of the locking component 200 being installed on the cavity assembly 300 and the fixing member 100 being installed on the door assembly 400, when the user wants to open the cavity assembly 300, the door assembly 400 needs to be pulled. When the valve core 222 is inserted into the locking hole 130, and the valve core 222 limits the fixing member 100, the door assembly 400 cannot move the fixing member 100, thus restricting the door assembly 400 from opening the cavity assembly 300, achieving the locking function of the door assembly 400.

[0134] When the user presses the operating element 230 to energize the solenoid valve, the valve core 222 moves to the unlock position. At this time, the valve core 222 moves away from the extended locking hole 130, so that the valve core 222 avoids the fixing element 100. When the user pulls the door assembly 400, the door assembly 400 can drive the fixing element 100 to move, thereby opening the cavity assembly 300.

[0135] The embodiments of the present invention show two structures of the fastener 100. The structure of the fastener 100 is not limited to the two structural forms in the embodiments of the present invention, as long as it can form an opening and closing relationship with the locking member 220.

[0136] In one possible embodiment, the fastener 100 includes: a door hook or a lock plate.

[0137] In this embodiment, the fixing member 100 is defined as a fixed door hook or a fixed lock plate. That is, the fixing member 100 is a component independent of the door hook on cooking utensils in the related art. By setting a fixed door hook or a fixed lock plate separately, interference between the lock structure and the door hook in the related art can be avoided, which is beneficial to improving the functional stability of the lock structure.

[0138] Combination Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the carrier 210 includes: a locking cavity 212, the locking cavity 212 having a first opening and a second opening, the valve core 222 extending into or out of the locking cavity 212 through the first opening, and the fixing member 100 extending into or out of the locking cavity 212 through the second opening, the valve core 222 and the fixing member 100 moving in different directions.

[0139] In this embodiment, a locking cavity 212 is machined on the carrier 210. When the solenoid valve is de-energized, at least a portion of the valve core 222 passes through the first opening and extends into the locking cavity 212. When the solenoid valve is energized, the valve core 222 extends out of the locking cavity 212.

[0140] Taking the example of locking component 200 installed in cavity component 300 and fastener 100 installed in door component 400, when door component 400 opens cavity component 300, fastener 100 extends out of locking cavity 212. When door component 400 closes cavity component 300, at least a portion of fastener 100 passes through the second opening and extends into locking cavity 212.

[0141] Therefore, when the valve core 222 and the fixing member 100 are locked together, both the valve core 222 and the fixing member 100 are located within the locking cavity 212. The locking cavity 212 can protect the valve core 222 and the fixing member 100, preventing them from being damaged by other components while locked, thereby ensuring the functional stability of the lock structure and helping to reduce the damage rate of the lock structure.

[0142] The valve core 222 and the fixing member 100 move in different directions to avoid interference between their movements.

[0143] Combination Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown, in one possible embodiment, the carrier 210 further includes a base 211 and a limiting part 213. The base 211 is provided with a locking cavity 212. The limiting part 213 is provided on the base 211 and is used to guide the valve core 222 to extend into or out of the locking cavity 212.

[0144] In this embodiment, the base 211 is provided with a locking cavity 212 and a limiting part 213, with the limiting part 213 located on one side of the locking cavity 212. When the valve core 222 moves relative to the valve seat, the valve core 222 passes through the limiting part 213, so that the limiting part 213 guides and limits the valve core 222.

[0145] Specifically, the limiting part 213 guides the valve core 222, ensuring that the valve core 222 can accurately extend into the locking cavity 212, avoiding misalignment between the valve core 222 and the locking cavity 212 due to the shaking of the solenoid valve, and ensuring the functional stability of the lock structure.

[0146] The limiting part 213 can also limit the valve core 222. When the valve core 222 is locked with the fixing member 100, the limiting part 213 can restrict the valve core 222 from shifting, thereby ensuring that the valve core 222 can stably limit the fixing member 100 and prevent the valve core 222 from separating from the fixing member 100.

[0147] In one possible embodiment, the locking member 220 is detachably connected to the carrier member 210.

[0148] In this embodiment, the locking member 220 is detachable from the support member 210. When the locking member 220 is damaged, it can be removed from the support member 210 for replacement or individual maintenance. This improves the ease of maintenance of the lock structure. Furthermore, when the locking member 220 is damaged, the entire locking assembly 200 does not need to be replaced, which helps reduce maintenance costs.

[0149] In one possible application, the carrier 210 further includes a snap-fit ​​portion 214, which is capable of elastic deformation, so that the snap-fit ​​portion 214 can snap into the locking member 220, thereby fixing the locking member 220 to the base 211.

[0150] The locking member 220 can also be locked to the bearing member 210 by means of screws or other locking devices.

[0151] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, a cooking appliance is provided, comprising: a cavity assembly 300, a door assembly 400, and a locking structure as described in any of the above possible embodiments, wherein the door assembly 400 is openably connected to the cavity assembly 300; wherein a fixing member 100 is disposed in one of the cavity assembly 300 and the door assembly 400, and a locking member 200 is disposed in the other of the cavity assembly 300 and the door assembly 400.

[0152] The cooking appliance provided in this embodiment has all the benefits of the lock structure provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0153] The cavity assembly 300 includes a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked; a door assembly 400 is connected to the cavity assembly 300 for opening and closing the cooking cavity. Specifically, the door assembly 400 can be rotatably connected to the cavity assembly 300 or slidably connected to it. One of the cavity assembly 300 and the door assembly 400 is provided with a fixing member 100, and the other of the cavity assembly 300 and the door assembly 400 is provided with a locking member 200. The locking member 200 cooperates with the fixing member 100 to lock the door assembly 400 onto the cavity assembly 300. Specifically, the locking member 200 is a child lock and serves as an auxiliary connection.

[0154] When the door assembly 400 is closed and the locking member 220 is in the locked position, the connection between the locking member 220 and the fixing member 100 is limited, and the user cannot open the door assembly 400. Before opening the door assembly 400, the connection between the locking member 220 and the fixing member 100 is released; at this time, the locking member 220 is in the unlocked position, and the locking member 220 is separated from the fixing member 100.

[0155] During the use of cooking appliances, the locking state of the locking component 220 and the fixing component 100 can be changed by turning the power on and off the locking component 220. The opening process requires two steps: first turning the power on the locking component 220 and then pulling the door assembly 400, to prevent children from accidentally opening the cavity assembly 300.

[0156] The lock structure is detachably connected to the cavity assembly 300 and the door assembly 400. When the lock structure is damaged, it can be disassembled from either the cavity assembly 300 or the door assembly 400, preventing the cooking appliance from being unable to open or close due to lock structure damage and improving user convenience. Furthermore, when the lock structure is damaged, it can be disassembled, replaced, and maintained independently without disassembling the cooking appliance's casing or other components, reducing maintenance difficulty and costs.

[0157] Therefore, the lock structure proposed in the above embodiment increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock structure by cooperating with the locking component 200 and the fixing component 100, thereby preventing users, especially children, from accidentally opening the cavity component 300 and improving the safety of cooking utensils using this lock structure.

[0158] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the cavity assembly 300 includes a cavity body 310 and a cover 320, the cover 320 surrounding at least a portion of the cavity body 310.

[0159] In this embodiment, the cavity assembly 300 includes a cavity body 310 and a cover 320. The cavity body 310 has a cooking cavity for holding food to be cooked. The cover 320 surrounds at least a portion of the cavity body 310, thus providing good protection for the cavity body 310. Furthermore, a mounting cavity exists between the cavity body 310 and the cover 320, allowing relevant components of the cooking appliance to be installed within this mounting cavity.

[0160] like Figure 7 As shown, the cavity assembly 300 also includes a control panel 330, which is disposed on the cavity assembly 300. The operating element 230 in the lock structure can be mounted on the control panel 330 for convenient operation by the user. In other embodiments, the operating element 230 can also be mounted on one of the door assembly 400, the cavity body 310, and the cover 320. The controller in the lock structure can be mounted on the control panel 330, or the controller can be mounted on the door assembly 400.

[0161] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the door assembly 400 further includes: a door body 410, a door seal 420, and a latch 430, wherein the door seal 420 is connected to the door body 410; the latch 430 is disposed on the door body 410 or the door seal 420 for opening and closing connection with the cavity assembly 300.

[0162] In this embodiment, the door assembly 400 includes a door body 410, a door seal 420, and a latch 430. The door body 410 is connected to the cavity assembly 300 for opening and closing, and can be used to open or close the cooking cavity. The door seal 420 is connected to the door body 410 and provides a good sealing function when the door body 410 closes the cooking cavity, ensuring a good sealing effect during operation. Furthermore, the latch 430 is provided with either the door body 410 or the door seal 420 and is connected to the cavity assembly 300 for opening and closing. When the door body 410 closes the cooking cavity, the latch 430 is connected to the cavity assembly 300 to ensure the connection between the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300.

[0163] Specifically, the door assembly 400 of the cooking appliance proposed in this invention includes a latch 430, which is used to connect with the cavity assembly 300, thereby ensuring a stable connection between the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300. That is, the cooking appliance proposed in this invention first ensures the connection between the door assembly 400 and the cavity assembly 300 through the latch 430, and then the lock structure can be used as a child lock, allowing the locking assembly 200 to cooperate with the fixing member 100, further restricting the user from opening the door assembly 400.

[0164] In one possible embodiment, the locking component 200 is disposed in the cavity component 300, and the fixing member 100 is connected to the door body 410 or the door seal 420; or the fixing member 100 is integrally formed with the door body 410 or the door seal 420.

[0165] In this embodiment, when the locking component 200 is disposed on the cavity component 300, the fixing member 100 can be disposed on the door body 410 or the door seal 420. As the door body component 400 moves relative to the cavity component 300, the fixing member 100 can be locked or separated from the locking component 200.

[0166] In one possible embodiment, the locking component 200 is disposed in the cavity body 310.

[0167] In this embodiment, the locking component 200 is mounted on the cavity body 310, and when the cover 320 is installed onto the cavity body 310, the locking component 200 is located within the coverage area of ​​the cover 320. After the cooking appliance is assembled, the locking component 200 is not visible from the outside, improving the surface integrity of the cooking appliance. It also prevents the locking component 200 from being damaged by bumps and knocks, effectively reducing the damage rate of the locking component 200.

[0168] In one possible application, the cover 320 is detachably connected to the cavity body 310, for example, by locking the cover 320 to the cavity body 310 with a screw or other locking device. This allows the locking device 220 to be disassembled or maintained after the cover 320 has been removed.

[0169] In one possible embodiment, the locking component 200 is disposed on the door assembly 400, and the fixing member 100 is connected to the cavity body 310 or the cover 320; or the fixing member 100 is integrally formed with the cavity body 310 or the cover 320.

[0170] In this embodiment, the locking component 200 can be installed on the door assembly 400, and correspondingly, the fixing member 100 is disposed on the cavity body 310 or the cover 320. The fixing member 100 can be welded to the cavity body 310 or the cover 320, or the fixing member 100 can be locked to the cavity body 310 or the cover 320, or the fixing member 100 and the cavity body 310 or the cover 320 can be integrally formed.

[0171] In one possible embodiment, the cooking appliance includes a microwave oven, an oven, a steam oven, or a steam oven / grill combo.

[0172] like Figure 18 As shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, a method for controlling a cooking appliance is proposed for the cooking appliance in any of the above possible embodiments. The method for controlling the cooking appliance includes:

[0173] Step 102: In response to the unlocking command, the locking element in the locking assembly is energized to separate the locking element from the fixing element.

[0174] Before opening the cavity assembly, the locking mechanism needs to be energized to first release the connection limit between the lock and the fixing component, separating them. Then, the cavity assembly can be opened. This two-step process improves the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0175] Specifically, upon receiving an unlocking command, the locking mechanism is energized and separates from the fixing component, allowing the user to pull the door assembly and open the cavity assembly. To open the cavity assembly, the user must de-energize the locking mechanism beforehand. This serves as a warning to the user and prevents children from accidentally opening the cavity assembly, significantly enhancing the safety of the cooking appliance. The lock structure, through the cooperation of the locking component and the fixing component, increases the difficulty of unlocking the lock, preventing users, especially children, from accidentally opening the cavity assembly and improving the safety of cooking appliances using this lock structure.

[0176] In one possible embodiment, after the locking element in the locking assembly is energized, the method further includes: based on the time after the locking element has been energized reaching a preset time, controlling the locking element to be de-energized, so that the locking element locks with the fixing element.

[0177] In this embodiment, if the locking component is powered on for a set period of time, it may be due to user misoperation causing the locking component to be de-energized, or the user closing the cavity assembly but forgetting to de-energize the locking component. To prevent children from opening the cavity assembly, the locking component is automatically de-energized, so that the locking component and the fixing component are locked together, further improving the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0178] In one possible embodiment, after energizing the locking element in the locking assembly, the method further includes: based on the fact that the energization time of the locking element reaches a preset time and the door assembly closes the cavity assembly, controlling the locking element to de-energize so that the locking element locks with the fixing element.

[0179] In this embodiment, if the locking component is energized for a set duration and the door assembly closes the cavity assembly, it may be due to user error causing the locking component to lose power, or the user closing the cavity assembly but forgetting to turn off the power to the locking component. To prevent children from opening the cavity assembly, the locking component is automatically de-energized, so that the locking component and the fixing component are locked together, further improving the safety of using the cooking appliance.

[0180] In one possible embodiment, after energizing the locking element in the locking assembly, the method further includes: de-energizing the locking element in response to a locking command, so as to lock the locking element to the fixing element.

[0181] In this embodiment, after the locking element is energized, the user can pull the door assembly and open the cavity assembly. When the user needs to use the cooking appliance again, the user can control the locking element to be de-energized through the operating component, so that the locking element and the fixing component are locked together, preventing the cavity assembly from being opened during the cooking process.

[0182] In this invention, the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0183] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0184] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A lock structure, characterized in that, include: Fasteners; as well as Locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising: A support member for mounting on a door assembly or cavity assembly in a cooking appliance; A locking member is provided on the bearing member. When the power is off, the locking member locks with the fixing member. An operating component is electrically connected to the locking component. When the operating component is in the first position, the locking component is energized to separate the locking component from the fixing component. The carrier includes: Base; The snap-fit ​​part is capable of elastic deformation and snaps into the locking member, thereby fixing the locking member to the base; The locking element includes a solenoid valve. When the solenoid valve is de-energized, the valve core of the solenoid valve is locked to the fixing element. When the solenoid valve is energized, the valve core is separated from the fixing element. The fastener includes: Fixing part; A locking part is provided on the fixing part, and the valve core can be engaged with or disengaged from the fixing member; The locking part is formed by bending the end of the fixing part.

2. The lock structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lock structure also includes: The controller, the operating element, and the locking element are electrically connected to the controller.

3. The lock structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fasteners include: a door hook or a lock plate.

4. The lock structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The carrier also includes: The locking cavity has a first opening and a second opening. The valve core extends into or out of the locking cavity through the first opening, and the fixing member extends into or out of the locking cavity through the second opening. The valve core and the fixing member move in different directions.

5. The lock structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base is provided with the locking cavity; The carrier also includes: A limiting part is provided on the base to guide the valve core into or out of the locking cavity.

6. The lock structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The locking element is detachably connected to the carrier element.

7. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, include: Cavity assembly; A door assembly, wherein the door assembly is connected to the cavity assembly for opening and closing; The lock structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 6; The fixing member is disposed in one of the cavity assembly and the door assembly, and the locking assembly is disposed in the other of the cavity assembly and the door assembly.

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cavity assembly includes: cavity body; A cover is provided for at least a portion of the cavity body.

9. The cooking utensil according to claim 8, characterized in that, The door assembly also includes: The door itself; Door seal, connected to the door body; A latch, provided on the door body or the door seal, is used to open and close with the cavity assembly.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 9, characterized in that, Based on the locking assembly being disposed in the cavity assembly, the fixing member is connected to the door body or door seal; or The fastener is integrally formed with the door body or door seal.

11. The cooking utensil according to claim 8, characterized in that, The locking assembly is located in the cavity body.

12. The cooking utensil according to claim 8, characterized in that, Based on the locking assembly being disposed on the door assembly, the fixing member is connected to the cavity body or cover; or The fastener is integrally formed with the cavity body or cover.

13. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 7 to 12, characterized in that, The cooking appliances include microwave ovens, ovens, steam ovens, or steam ovens.

14. A method for controlling a cooking appliance, used with any of the cooking appliances described in any one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that, Methods for controlling cooking appliances include: In response to an unlocking command, the locking element in the locking assembly is energized to separate the locking element from the fixing element; After the locking element in the locking assembly is energized, the method further includes: When the locking member is energized for a preset period of time and the door assembly closes the cavity assembly, the locking member is de-energized to lock the locking member with the fixing member. After the locking element in the locking assembly is energized, the method further includes: In response to a locking command, the locking element is de-energized to lock it to the fixing element.

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