Cooking appliance and control method thereof

Abstract

This invention discloses a cooking appliance and its control method. The cooking appliance includes: a housing with a cooking cavity inside, the inner wall of which has an air inlet and an air outlet; a fan assembly mounted on the housing for blowing air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet; a dehumidification assembly including a movable component movably mounted on the housing, configured to simultaneously open and close the air inlet and air outlet; and a drive assembly mounted on the housing and connected to the movable component for driving the movable component to move. According to the cooking appliance of this invention, when the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state, driving the movable component to move simultaneously opens the air inlet and air outlet, thereby increasing the pressure inside the cooking cavity. This allows moisture inside the cooking cavity to be discharged through the air outlet, reducing the humidity inside the cooking cavity and thus regulating the humidity inside the cooking cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance manufacturing technology, and in particular to a cooking appliance and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Existing cooking equipment, such as steam ovens, lacks humidity control during the cooking process. Different foods have different humidity requirements. When using the baking function, the high humidity inside the cooking cavity and the difficulty in venting steam can affect the baking effect of foods that require certain dehumidification. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention proposes a cooking appliance in which a driving moving part moves to simultaneously open an air inlet and an air outlet, so that the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet, thereby achieving the regulation of humidity in the cooking cavity.

[0004] The present invention also proposes a method for controlling a cooking appliance, wherein the vehicle includes the aforementioned cooking appliance.

[0005] A cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a housing having a cooking cavity inside, the inner wall of the cooking cavity having an air inlet and an air outlet; a fan assembly disposed on the housing for blowing air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet; a dehumidification assembly including a movable component movably disposed on the housing, the movable component being configured to simultaneously open the air inlet and the air outlet and simultaneously close the air inlet and the air outlet; and a drive assembly disposed on the housing and connected to the movable component for driving the movable component to move.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cooking appliance has a cooking cavity inside its housing. The inner wall of the cooking cavity has an air inlet and an air outlet. A fan assembly is disposed on the housing and is used to blow air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet. A dehumidification assembly includes a movable component movably disposed on the housing. The movable component is configured to simultaneously open and close the air inlet and air outlet. A drive assembly is disposed on the housing and connected to the movable component, used to drive the movable component to move. When the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state, the movable component is driven to move to simultaneously open the air inlet and air outlet, and the fan assembly blows air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet, increasing the pressure inside the cooking cavity. This causes the moisture inside the cooking cavity to be discharged through the air outlet, reducing the humidity inside the cooking cavity and thus regulating the humidity inside the cooking cavity to meet the humidity requirements for steaming and baking food. When the cooking appliance is in a non-dehumidification cooking state, the movable component simultaneously closes the air inlet and air outlet to ensure the sealing of the cooking cavity and improve the reliability of the cooking appliance.

[0007] In some embodiments of the present invention, the moving component includes a first blocking mechanism and a second blocking mechanism. The first blocking mechanism is used to open or close the air inlet, and the second blocking mechanism is used to open or close the air outlet. The first blocking mechanism and the second blocking mechanism move synchronously, and at least one of the first blocking mechanism and the second blocking mechanism is connected to the drive component.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cooking appliance further includes: a water box, which is movably disposed on the housing for supplying water to the cooking cavity, the water box being configured as a second sealing mechanism, and the first sealing mechanism being connected to the drive assembly and the water box.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, the dehumidification assembly further includes a base plate disposed on the housing. The base plate has a first opening communicating with the air outlet. The water box has a water storage cavity, a first dehumidification channel, and a first air inlet and a first air outlet communicating with the first dehumidification channel. The first air inlet is located on the bottom wall of the water box. The water storage cavity is spaced apart from the first dehumidification channel and is used to supply water to the cooking cavity. The water box is movably disposed on the base plate so that the bottom wall blocks the first opening or the first air inlet communicates with the first opening.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, the direction of movement of the water box is perpendicular to the axis of the first opening.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the dehumidification assembly further includes a dehumidification element disposed on the housing and located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate. The dehumidification element has a second dehumidification channel and a second air inlet and a second air outlet communicating with the second dehumidification channel. The second air inlet and the air outlet are connected, and the second air outlet and the first opening are connected.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the housing includes a support plate located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate, the support plate having a second opening, the dehumidifying element passing through the second opening, and the fan assembly connected to the support plate.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, the dehumidification assembly further includes a top cover, the top cover and the bottom plate being connected to form a receiving space, and the water box being located within the receiving space.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the water box is detachably connected to the first sealing mechanism.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the housing has a third opening, and the water box is detachably disposed inside the housing through the third opening. When the water box closes the air outlet, the water box is located inside the housing and the outer wall surface of the water box is flush with the outer wall surface of the housing. When the water box opens the air outlet, at least a portion of the water box extends out from the third opening.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first sealing mechanism includes: a push block connected to the drive assembly and the second sealing mechanism; and a baffle disposed at one end of the push block near the cooking cavity for opening or closing the air inlet.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, the driving component includes: a drive motor; an output gear connected to the output shaft of the drive motor; and a rack on the push block that meshes with the output gear, the rack extending along the moving direction of the first sealing mechanism.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a control method for a cooking appliance, wherein the cooking appliance is as described above, the control method includes: determining that the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state; controlling the moving component to open the air inlet and the air outlet, and controlling the fan assembly to operate.

[0019] According to the control method of the cooking appliance of the present invention, by determining that the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state, the moving part is controlled to open the air inlet and the air outlet, and the fan assembly is controlled to run, so that the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet, thereby reducing the humidity in the cooking cavity and realizing the dehumidification cooking state of the cooking appliance.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present invention, determining that the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state includes: obtaining the recipe currently being cooked by the cooking appliance; and determining the time period in which the current cooking time is in the dehumidification cooking state based on the current cooking recipe.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present invention, the time period of the dehumidification cooking state includes multiple sub-time periods, and the fan assembly corresponds to a different speed in each sub-time period. The control method further includes controlling the fan assembly to operate at the speed corresponding to the sub-time period.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present invention, determining that the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state includes: acquiring the humidity inside the cooking cavity; and determining that the humidity is greater than a preset humidity value.

[0023] In some embodiments of the present invention, the control method further includes: controlling the rotational speed of the fan assembly based on the humidity inside the cooking cavity.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0025] 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:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the moving part simultaneously closes the air inlet and the air outlet;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a partial structural diagram of the shell;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a partial structural diagram of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the moving part simultaneously closes the air inlet and the air outlet, and the top plate, side plate and top cover are not shown;

[0031] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged view at point B in the middle;

[0032] Figure 7This is a partial structural diagram of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the moving part simultaneously opens the air inlet and the air outlet, and the top plate, side plate and top cover are not shown;

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Enlarged view at point C;

[0034] Figure 9 This is a partial structural diagram of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the moving part simultaneously closes the air inlet and the air outlet, and the top plate, side plate, top cover, support plate and cooking cavity are not shown;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a partial structural diagram of a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the moving part simultaneously opens the air inlet and the air outlet, and the top plate, side plate, top cover, support plate and cooking cavity are not shown;

[0036] Figure 11 This is a structural diagram of the support plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 12 This is a structural diagram of the water box and the base plate when the moving part simultaneously closes the air inlet and the air outlet according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the water box and the base plate when the moving part simultaneously closes the air inlet and the air outlet according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the water box and the base plate when the moving part simultaneously opens the air inlet and the air outlet according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of a control method for a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a cooking appliance according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure label:

[0044] 100. Cooking utensils;

[0045] 1. Housing; 11. Air inlet; 12. Air outlet; 12. Support plate; 121. Second opening; 122. Fourth opening; 123. Bracket; 13. Top plate; 14. Side plate;

[0046] 2. Fan assembly;

[0047] 3. Dehumidification assembly; 31. Moving part; 311. First sealing mechanism; 3111. Push block; 3112. Rack; 3113. Baffle; 312. Second sealing mechanism; 32. Base plate; 321. First opening; 33. Dehumidification component; 331. Second exhaust port; 332. Second air inlet; 34. Top cover;

[0048] 4. Drive components; 41. Drive motor; 42. Output gear;

[0049] 5. Water box; 51. Water storage chamber; 52. First dehumidification channel; 53. Bottom wall; 531. First air inlet; 54. First exhaust outlet; 55. Cover plate; 551. Water inlet. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0051] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0052] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0053] The cooking appliance 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] like Figures 2-8 As shown, a cooking appliance 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 1, a fan assembly 2, a dehumidification assembly 3, and a drive assembly 4.

[0055] Specifically, the housing 1 has a cooking cavity, and the inner wall of the cooking cavity has an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. It can be understood that food can be placed in the cooking cavity for cooking. The cooking cavity is connected to the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12, and the moisture generated during cooking can be discharged from the cooking cavity through the air inlet 11 or the air outlet 12.

[0056] The dehumidification assembly 3 includes a movable component 31, which is movably disposed on the housing 1. The movable component 31 is configured to simultaneously open the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 and simultaneously close the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12. The fan assembly 2 and the drive assembly 4 are disposed on the housing 1. The fan assembly 2 is used to blow air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet 11. The drive assembly 4 is connected to the movable component 31 and is used to drive the movable component 31 to move.

[0057] Therefore, when the cooking appliance 100 is in the dehumidification cooking state, the driving component 4 drives the moving component 31 to move so as to open the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 at the same time. The fan component 2 blows air into the cooking cavity from the air inlet 11 to increase the pressure in the cooking cavity, so that the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet 12, thereby reducing the humidity in the cooking cavity. This achieves the regulation of the humidity in the cooking cavity, meets the humidity required for steaming and baking food, and improves the baking effect of food, thereby enhancing the professionalism of the cooking appliance 100.

[0058] Meanwhile, when the cooking appliance 100 is in dehumidification cooking mode, the moving part 31 is driven by the drive component 4 to simultaneously open the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12, achieving an immediate dehumidification effect. This structure is simple and reduces the cost of the cooking appliance 100. When the cooking appliance 100 is in non-dehumidification cooking mode, the moving part 31 simultaneously closes the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12, ensuring the cooking cavity is sealed. This guarantees the cooking environment required for food that does not require dehumidification cooking, improving the reliability of the cooking appliance 100. It should be noted that the cooking appliance 100 can be a microwave oven, oven, steamer, air fryer, or a microwave-steam-oven combination appliance, etc.

[0059] Furthermore, by controlling the wind speed of the fan assembly 2 according to the different needs of the cooking appliance 100 in the dehumidification cooking state, the speed at which the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet 12 is controlled, thereby achieving adjustable humidity in the cooking cavity to meet the different humidity requirements of the cooking appliance 100 when cooking different kinds of food. It should be noted that the fan assembly 2 can be a fan.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cooking appliance 100 has a cooking cavity inside a housing 1. The inner wall of the cooking cavity has an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. A fan assembly 2 is disposed on the housing 1 and is used to blow air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet 11. A dehumidification assembly 3 includes a movable component 31, which is movably disposed on the housing 1. The movable component 31 is configured to simultaneously open the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 and simultaneously close the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12. A drive assembly 4 is disposed on the housing 1 and connected to the movable component 31, used to drive the movable component 31 to move, thereby... When the cooking appliance 100 is in dehumidification cooking mode, the driving moving part 31 moves to simultaneously open the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12, and the fan assembly 2 blows air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet 11 to increase the pressure inside the cooking cavity, thereby causing the moisture inside the cooking cavity to be discharged through the air outlet 12, thus reducing the humidity inside the cooking cavity and regulating the humidity inside the cooking cavity. When the cooking appliance 100 is in non-dehumidification cooking mode, the moving part 31 simultaneously closes the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 to ensure the sealing of the cooking cavity and improve the reliability of the cooking appliance 100.

[0061] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-10 As shown, the moving component 31 includes a first sealing mechanism 311 and a second sealing mechanism 312. The first sealing mechanism 311 is used to open or close the air inlet 11, and the second sealing mechanism 312 is used to open or close the air outlet 12. The first sealing mechanism 311 and the second sealing mechanism 312 move synchronously, and at least one of the first sealing mechanism 311 and the second sealing mechanism 312 is connected to the drive component 4. Thus, this arrangement enables the first sealing mechanism 311 to open the air inlet 11 and the second sealing mechanism 312 to open the air outlet 12 when the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state; and enables the first sealing mechanism 311 to block the air inlet 11 and the second sealing mechanism 312 to block the air outlet 12 when the cooking appliance 100 is in a non-dehumidification cooking state.

[0062] For example, the first blocking mechanism 311 is connected to the drive assembly 4. The first blocking mechanism 311 and the second blocking mechanism 312 move synchronously, so that the drive assembly 4 drives the first blocking mechanism 311 to open the air inlet 11 while the second blocking mechanism 312 opens the air outlet 12, or the first blocking mechanism 311 blocks the air inlet 11 while the second blocking mechanism 312 blocks the air outlet 12. Alternatively, the second blocking mechanism 312 is connected to the drive assembly 4. The first blocking mechanism 311 and the second blocking mechanism 312 move synchronously, so that the drive assembly 4 drives the second blocking mechanism 312 to open the air outlet 12 while the first blocking mechanism 311 opens the air inlet 11, or the second blocking mechanism 312 blocks the air outlet while the first blocking mechanism 311 blocks the air inlet 11. Alternatively, both the first blocking mechanism 311 and the second blocking mechanism 312 are connected to the drive assembly 4. The drive assembly 4 drives the first blocking mechanism 311 and the second blocking mechanism 312 to move synchronously, so that the first blocking mechanism 311 opens the air inlet 11 while the second blocking mechanism 312 opens the air outlet 12, or the first blocking mechanism 311 blocks the air inlet 11 while the second blocking mechanism 312 blocks the air outlet 12.

[0063] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figures 8-10 As shown, the cooking appliance 100 also includes a water tank 5. The water tank 5 is movably disposed on the housing 1 for supplying water to the cooking cavity. The water tank 5 is configured as a second sealing mechanism 312, and the first sealing mechanism 311 is connected to the drive assembly 4 and the water tank 5.

[0064] Understandably, when the cooking appliance 100 is in a non-dehumidification cooking state, water can be supplied to the cooking cavity through the water box 5 to meet the different needs of the cooking appliance 100. At this time, the water box 5 blocks the air outlet 12, and the first sealing mechanism 311 blocks the air inlet 11, thereby ensuring the sealing of the cooking cavity. When the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state, the first sealing mechanism 311 is moved by the drive assembly, thereby opening the air inlet 11 and driving the water box 5 to open the air outlet 12 at the same time. Then, when the fan assembly 2 blows air into the cooking cavity from the air inlet 11, the moisture in the cooking cavity can be discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet 12. Thus, the water box 5 is configured as a second sealing mechanism 312 for opening or blocking the air outlet 12, and the water box 5 is used to supply water into the cooking cavity, thereby realizing the dual use of the water box 5. While realizing the dehumidification of the cooking appliance 100, the size of the original product is minimized, the space occupied by the dehumidification component 3 in the cooking appliance 100 is reduced, and the cost of the cooking appliance 100 is reduced.

[0065] It should be noted that the second sealing mechanism 312 is not limited to the water box 5, but can also be other structures. For example, the second sealing mechanism 312 is a sealing plate connected to the first sealing mechanism 311. The sealing plate is movably disposed on the housing 1 to open or close the air outlet 12.

[0066] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figures 8-10 and Figures 12-14 As shown, the dehumidification assembly 3 also includes a base plate 32, which is disposed on the housing 1. The base plate 32 has a first opening 321 communicating with the air outlet 12. The water box 5 has a water storage cavity 51, a first dehumidification channel 52, and a first air inlet 531 and a first exhaust port 54 communicating with the first dehumidification channel 52. The first air inlet 531 is located on the bottom wall 53 of the water box 5. The water storage cavity 51 is spaced apart from the first dehumidification channel 52 and is used to supply water to the cooking cavity. The water box 5 is movably disposed on the base plate 32 so that the bottom wall 53 of the water box 5 blocks the first opening 321 or the first air inlet 531 communicates with the first opening 321.

[0067] Therefore, when the cooking appliance 100 is in a non-dehumidification cooking state, the bottom wall 53 of the water box 5 blocks the first opening 321, thereby indirectly blocking the air outlet 12 through the water box 5, thus sealing the cooking cavity. When the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state, the first air inlet 531 on the bottom wall 53 of the water box 5 is connected to the first opening 321. Thus, when the fan assembly 2 blows air into the cooking cavity from the air inlet 11, the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged from the cooking cavity sequentially through the air outlet 12, the first opening 321, the first air inlet 531, the first dehumidification channel 52, and the first exhaust outlet 54, thereby reducing the humidity of the cooking cavity. At the same time, the bottom plate 32 restricts the movement path of the water box 5, preventing the water box 5 from tilting during sliding, further improving the reliability of the cooking appliance 100.

[0068] Furthermore, the first exhaust port 54 is connected to the outside so that moisture can be discharged from the cooking appliance 100 through the first exhaust port 54, thereby further improving the reliability of the cooking appliance 100.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the direction of movement of the water box 5 is perpendicular to the axis of the first opening 321. Thus, by moving the water box 5 on the base plate 32 in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the first opening 321, the water box 5 can open or close the first opening 321, thereby opening or blocking the air outlet 12.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figures 8-10As shown, the dehumidification assembly 3 also includes a dehumidification component 33, which is disposed on the housing 1 and located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate 32. The dehumidification component 33 has a second dehumidification channel and a second air inlet 332 and a second air outlet 331 connected to the second dehumidification channel. The second air inlet 332 is connected to the air outlet 12, and the second air outlet 331 is connected to the first opening 321. Therefore, when the cooking appliance 100 is in the dehumidification cooking state, the water box 5 opens the first air inlet 531 and connects with the first opening 321. Thus, when the fan assembly 2 blows air into the cooking cavity from the air inlet 11, the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged sequentially through the air outlet 12, the second air inlet 332, the second dehumidification channel, the second exhaust outlet 331, the first opening 321, the first air inlet 531, the first dehumidification channel 52 and the first exhaust outlet 54. Furthermore, the dehumidification component 33 facilitates the flow of moisture from the air outlet 12, further ensuring the dehumidification effect of the cooking appliance 100.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 11 As shown, the housing 1 includes a support plate 12, which is located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate 32. The support plate 12 has a second opening 121, through which a dehumidifying component 33 passes. The fan assembly 2 is connected to the support plate 12. Thus, the dehumidifying component 33 is fixed by passing through the second opening 121, and the support plate 12 facilitates the assembly of the dehumidifying component 33 and the fan assembly 2, thereby improving the overall structural strength of the cooking appliance 100.

[0072] Furthermore, a bracket 123 is provided on the side of the support plate 12 away from the cooking cavity, and the bottom plate 32 is connected to the side of the bracket 123 away from the cooking cavity and the side of the dehumidification component 33 away from the cooking cavity, thereby fixing the bottom plate 32.

[0073] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the dehumidification assembly 3 also includes a top cover 34, which is connected to the bottom plate 32 to form a receiving space, where the water box 5 is located. Thus, the connection between the top cover 34 and the bottom plate 32 forms a receiving space for the water box 5, providing some protection for the water box 5 and further limiting its movement, thereby improving overall reliability.

[0074] Furthermore, the top cover 34 and the bottom plate 32 are detachably connected by a snap-fit ​​mechanism, which facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the dehumidification component 3 and makes maintenance easier.

[0075] In some embodiments of the present invention, the water tank 5 is detachably connected to the first sealing mechanism 311. Thus, while the first sealing mechanism 311 moves the water tank 5, the water tank 5 is also detachable, making it convenient for the user to remove the water tank 5 from the cooking appliance 100 for cleaning or to add water, thereby improving the user experience.

[0076] For example, the water box 5 and the first sealing mechanism 311 are magnetically attracted to each other to achieve a detachable connection. Specifically, the water box 5 is provided with a first magnetic attractor, and the first sealing mechanism 311 is provided with a second magnetic attractor. One of the first magnetic attractor and the second magnetic attractor is a permanent magnet, and the other is a metal part. The detachable connection between the water box 5 and the first sealing mechanism 311 is achieved through the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic attractor and the second magnetic attractor.

[0077] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the water box 5 also includes a cover plate 55, which is used to seal the water storage cavity 51. The cover plate 55 is provided with a water inlet 551 that communicates with the water storage cavity 51. Thus, the cover plate 55 prevents water from spilling from the water storage cavity 51, improving the reliability of the water box 5. The water inlet 551 also makes it easier for users to fill the water storage cavity 51 with water, improving the user experience.

[0078] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the housing 1 has a third opening, through which the water box 5 is detachably disposed within the housing 1. When the vent 12 of the water box 5 is closed, the water box 5 is located inside the housing 1 and its outer wall is flush with the outer wall of the housing 1. When the vent 12 of the water box 5 is open, at least a portion of the water box 5 extends out from the third opening. Thus, when the cooking appliance 100 is in a non-dehumidification cooking state, the water box 5 closes the vent 12 to ensure the sealing of the cooking cavity, and the water box 5 is located inside the housing 1 with its outer wall flush with the outer wall of the housing 1 to ensure the integrity of the overall structure of the housing 1, preventing debris and dust from entering the housing 1. When the cooking appliance 100 is in the dehumidification cooking state, the water box 5 opens the air outlet 12 to dehumidify the cooking cavity, and at least part of the water box 5 extends out from the third opening, so that the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged to the external environment through the air outlet 12, the first opening 321, the first air inlet 531, the first dehumidification channel 52, the first exhaust port 54 and the third opening, ensuring the dehumidification function of the cooking appliance 100 and improving the overall reliability.

[0079] Furthermore, such as Figure 2As shown, the housing 1 includes a top plate 13 and a side plate 14. The water box 5 is located between the top plate 13 and the cooking cavity. The side plate 14 is connected to the top plate 13. Thus, the overall integrity of the cooking appliance 100 is further protected by the side plate 14 and the top plate 13.

[0080] In some embodiments of the present invention, the housing 1 has a body and a push door, the push door being movably connected to the body, forming an accommodating space. A water box 5 is located within this accommodating space and is connected to the push door. Simultaneously, the drive assembly 4 drives the first sealing mechanism 311 to move, thereby moving the water box 5. The water box 5 also moves the push door, allowing the accommodating space to communicate with the external environment. Thus, when the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state, the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged to the external environment through the gap formed by the push door and the body via the air outlet 12, the first opening 321, the first air inlet 531, the first dehumidification channel 52, and the first exhaust outlet 54, ensuring the dehumidification function of the cooking appliance 100 and improving overall reliability.

[0081] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the first sealing mechanism 311 includes a push block 3111 and a baffle 3113. The push block 3111 is connected to the drive assembly 4 and the second sealing mechanism 312, and the baffle 3113 is located at the end of the push block 3111 near the cooking cavity, for opening or closing the air inlet 11.

[0082] Therefore, when the cooking appliance 100 is in a non-dehumidification cooking state, the air inlet 11 is closed by the baffle 3113, thus ensuring the sealing of the cooking cavity. When the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state, the push block 3111 is moved by the drive assembly. The push block 3111 moves the baffle 3113 and the second sealing mechanism 312, so that the baffle 3113 opens the second air inlet 332 while the second sealing mechanism 312 opens the air outlet 12. Thus, when the fan assembly 2 blows air into the cooking cavity from the air inlet 11, the moisture in the cooking cavity can be discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet 12. Optionally, the push block 3111 and the baffle 3113 are connected by screws.

[0083] Furthermore, when the second sealing mechanism 312 is a water box 5, the water box 5 is movably mounted on the base plate 32. The water box 5 is connected to the push block 3111, thereby enabling the water box 5 and the push block 3111 to move synchronously when the drive assembly 4 drives the push block 3111 to move. Even further, the support plate 12 has a fourth opening 122, and the base plate 32 has a groove opposite to the fourth opening 122 in the thickness direction of the base plate 32. The push block 3111 is located within the fourth opening 122, and during the process of the drive assembly 4 driving the push block 3111 to move to open the air inlet 11, the end of the push block 3111 near the water box 5 slides within the groove, thereby ensuring that the water box 5 and the push block 3111 move synchronously.

[0084] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 As shown, the drive assembly 4 includes a drive motor 41 and an output gear 42. The output gear 42 is connected to the output shaft of the drive motor 41, and the push block 3111 has a rack 3112 that meshes with the output gear 42. The rack 3112 extends along the moving direction of the first sealing mechanism 311.

[0085] Therefore, when the cooking appliance 100 changes from a non-dehumidification cooking state to a dehumidification state, the drive motor 41 rotates, and the output shaft of the drive motor 41 drives the output gear 42 to rotate. The output gear 42 meshes with the rack 3112, and the rack 3112 extends along the moving direction of the first sealing mechanism 311, thereby driving the push block 3111 to move so as to move the baffle 3113 from the position of closing the air inlet 11 to the position of opening the air inlet 11, and to move the second sealing mechanism 312 from the position of blocking the air outlet 12 to the position of opening the air outlet 12. When the cooking appliance 100 changes from a dehumidification cooking state to a non-dehumidification state, the drive motor 41 rotates in the reverse direction. The output shaft of the drive motor 41 drives the output gear 42 to rotate. The output gear 42 meshes with the rack 3112, and the rack 3112 extends along the moving direction of the first sealing mechanism 311, thereby driving the push block 3111 to move in the reverse direction, so as to move the baffle 3113 from the position of opening the air inlet 11 to the position of closing the air inlet 11, and drive the second sealing mechanism 312 from the position of opening the air outlet 12 to the position of sealing the air outlet 12.

[0086] Meanwhile, this configuration converts the rotational operation of the drive motor 41 into the linear motion of the push block 3111, ensuring reliable and stable transmission. Furthermore, the speed of the push block 3111 can be controlled by adjusting the output speed of the drive motor 41. The meshing method between the rack 3112 and the output gear 42 increases the system's stability and torsional rigidity, preventing noticeable loosening of the push block 3111 during operation and reducing severe vibration and noise. In addition, this structure is relatively simple, reducing costs and facilitating maintenance.

[0087] The following is for reference. Figures 1-14 The cooking appliance 100 of the present invention is described in detail below. It should be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the utility model.

[0088] The cooking appliance 100 includes a housing 1, a fan assembly 2, a dehumidification assembly 3, and a drive assembly 4. The housing 1 has a cooking cavity, and the inner wall of the cooking cavity has an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. The fan assembly 2 and the drive assembly 4 are disposed on the housing 1. The fan assembly 2 is used to blow air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet 11.

[0089] The dehumidification assembly 3 includes a movable component 31, which includes a first sealing mechanism 311 and a second sealing mechanism 312. The cooking appliance 100 also includes a water tank 5. The dehumidification assembly 3 also includes a base plate 32, which is mounted on the housing 1. The base plate 32 has a first opening 321 communicating with the air outlet 12. The water tank 5 has a water storage chamber 51, a first dehumidification channel 52, and a first air inlet 531 and a first exhaust outlet 54 communicating with the first dehumidification channel 52. The first air inlet 531 is located on the bottom wall 53 of the water tank 5. The water storage chamber 51 is spaced apart from the first dehumidification channel 52 and is used to supply water to the cooking chamber. The water tank 5 is movably mounted on the base plate 32 so that the bottom wall 53 of the water tank 5 blocks the first opening 321 or the first air inlet 531 communicates with the first opening 321. The first sealing mechanism 311 includes a push block 3111 and a baffle 3113. The push block 3111 is connected to the drive assembly 4 and the second sealing mechanism 312. The baffle 3113 is located at one end of the push block 3111 near the cooking cavity and is used to open or close the air inlet 11. The drive assembly 4 is used to move the push block 3111 so that the water box 5 opens the air inlet 11 while the baffle 3113 opens the air outlet 12, or the water box 5 closes the air inlet 11 while the baffle 3113 closes the air outlet 12.

[0090] Therefore, when the cooking appliance 100 is in a non-dehumidification cooking state, the bottom wall 53 of the water box 5 blocks the first opening 321, thereby indirectly blocking the air outlet 12 through the water box 5, and the baffle 3113 closes the air outlet 12, thus achieving the sealing of the cooking cavity. When the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state, the baffle 3113 opens the air outlet 12, and the first air inlet 531 on the bottom wall 53 of the water box 5 connects with the first opening 321. Thus, when the fan assembly 2 blows air into the cooking cavity from the air inlet 11, the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged from the cooking cavity in sequence through the air outlet 12, the first opening 321, the first air inlet 531, the first dehumidification channel 52, and the first exhaust outlet 54, thereby reducing the humidity in the cooking cavity and achieving the regulation of humidity in the cooking cavity.

[0091] The dehumidification assembly 3 also includes a dehumidification component 33, which is disposed on the housing 1 and located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate 32. The dehumidification component 33 has a second dehumidification channel and a second air inlet 332 and a second exhaust outlet 331 communicating with the second dehumidification channel. The second air inlet 332 is connected to the air outlet 12, and the second exhaust outlet 331 is connected to the first opening 321. Thus, when the cooking appliance 100 is in the dehumidification cooking state, the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged sequentially through the air outlet 12, the second air inlet 332, the second dehumidification channel, the second exhaust outlet 331, the first opening 321, the first air inlet 531, the first dehumidification channel 52, and the first exhaust outlet 54.

[0092] The dehumidification assembly 3 also includes a top cover 34, which is connected to the bottom plate 32 to form a receiving space. The water box 5 is located within the receiving space. The top cover 34 and the bottom plate 32 are detachably connected by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. The water box 5 also includes a cover plate 55, which is used to seal the water storage chamber 51. The cover plate 55 has a water inlet 551 that communicates with the water storage chamber 51. This allows the water storage chamber 51 to store water and improves the reliability of the water box 5.

[0093] The housing 1 has a third opening, through which the water tank 5 is detachably disposed within the housing 1. When the vent 12 of the water tank 5 is closed, the water tank 5 is located inside the housing 1 and its outer wall is flush with the outer wall of the housing 1. When the vent 12 of the water tank 5 is open, at least a portion of the water tank 5 extends out from the third opening. Thus, when the cooking appliance 100 is in a non-dehumidification cooking state, the water tank 5 closes the vent 12 to ensure the sealing of the cooking cavity, and the water tank 5 is located inside the housing 1 with its outer wall flush with the outer wall of the housing 1 to ensure the integrity of the overall structure of the housing 1 and prevent debris and dust from entering the housing 1. When the cooking appliance 100 is in the dehumidification cooking state, the water box 5 opens the air outlet 12 to dehumidify the cooking cavity, and at least part of the water box 5 extends out from the third opening, so that the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged to the external environment through the air outlet 12, the first opening 321, the first air inlet 531, the first dehumidification channel 52, the first exhaust port 54 and the third opening, ensuring the dehumidification function of the cooking appliance 100 and improving the overall reliability.

[0094] The housing 1 includes a support plate 12, which is located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate 32. The support plate 12 has a second opening 121 and a fourth opening 122. The dehumidification component 33 passes through the second opening 121. The fan assembly 2 is connected to the support plate 12. The bottom plate 32 has a groove that is opposite to the fourth opening 122 in the thickness direction of the bottom plate 32. The push block 3111 is located in the fourth opening 122. During the process of the drive assembly 4 driving the push block 3111 to move to open the air inlet 11, the end of the push block 3111 near the water box 5 slides in the groove, thereby ensuring that the water box 5 and the push block 3111 move synchronously.

[0095] The drive assembly 4 includes a drive motor 41 and an output gear 42. The output gear 42 is connected to the output shaft of the drive motor 41, and the push block 3111 has a rack 3112 that meshes with the output gear 42. The rack 3112 extends along the moving direction of the first sealing mechanism 311. This arrangement converts the rotational operation of the drive motor 41 into the linear motion of the push block 3111, ensuring reliable and stable transmission.

[0096] The following describes a control method for a cooking appliance 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] The control method of the cooking appliance 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 15 As shown, the cooking appliance 100 is the cooking appliance 100 described above, and the control method includes:

[0098] It is determined that the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state. It is understood that the cooking appliance 100 may include a dehumidification cooking state and a non-dehumidification cooking state depending on the food being cooked.

[0099] The control moving part 31 opens the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12, and controls the operation of the fan assembly 2. Thus, the drive assembly 4 drives the moving part 31 to move so as to open the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 simultaneously, and the fan assembly 2 blows air into the cooking cavity from the air inlet 11 to increase the pressure in the cooking cavity, thereby causing the moisture in the cooking cavity to be discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet 12, thereby reducing the humidity in the cooking cavity and realizing the dehumidification cooking state of the cooking appliance 100.

[0100] According to the control method of the cooking appliance 100 of the present invention, by determining that the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state, the moving part 31 is controlled to open the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12, and the fan assembly 2 is controlled to run, so that the moisture in the cooking cavity is discharged from the cooking cavity through the air outlet 12, thereby reducing the humidity in the cooking cavity and realizing the dehumidification cooking state of the cooking appliance 100.

[0101] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 16 As shown, determining that the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state includes:

[0102] Obtain the recipe currently being cooked by cooking appliance 100. It is understandable that cooking appliance 100 has different recipes depending on the food being cooked. Some recipes require cooking appliance 100 to be in dehumidification cooking mode at certain times to meet the different humidity requirements of steaming or baking food, thereby ensuring the taste of the food.

[0103] The cooking time period within the dehumidification cooking state is determined based on the current cooking recipe. Therefore, the current cooking recipe is obtained according to the steps described above, and the time period within the dehumidification cooking state is determined based on the current cooking recipe, thus confirming that the cooking appliance 100 is in the dehumidification cooking state during that time period. Specifically, one of the recipes cooked by the cooking appliance 100 includes multiple time periods, some of which require the cooking appliance 100 to be in the dehumidification cooking state; therefore, the cooking appliance 100 is determined to be in the dehumidification cooking state during those time periods.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 16As shown, the dehumidification cooking state includes multiple sub-time periods, with each sub-time period corresponding to a different rotation speed of the fan assembly 2. The control method further includes controlling the fan assembly 2 to operate according to the rotation speed of the corresponding sub-time period. It can be understood that the cooking appliance 100 is in the dehumidification cooking state for multiple sub-time periods. By using a different rotation speed for each sub-time period, the pressure increase rate inside the cooking chamber is different, resulting in different rates at which moisture inside the cooking chamber is discharged through the air outlet 12. This, in turn, reduces the humidity inside the cooking chamber differently, thus achieving different humidity levels in the cooking chamber during different time periods of the cooking appliance 100's operation, thereby meeting the different humidity requirements of food at different stages of cooking.

[0105] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 17 As shown, determining that the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state includes:

[0106] The humidity inside the cooking cavity is measured. It is understood that the required humidity level inside the cooking cavity varies depending on the food being cooked. Measuring the humidity level helps subsequent steps determine whether the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state. Furthermore, a humidity sensor is installed inside the cooking cavity to obtain the current humidity level in real time, further improving the reliability of the control method for the cooking appliance 100.

[0107] The humidity is determined to be greater than a preset humidity value. This preset humidity value can be a single humidity level or a humidity range. By confirming that the humidity inside the cooking cavity is greater than the preset humidity value through the above steps, it is determined that the cooking appliance 100 is in a dehumidification cooking state.

[0108] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 17 As shown, the control method also includes controlling the rotation speed of the fan assembly 2 based on the humidity inside the cooking cavity. It can be understood that by controlling the rotation speed of the fan assembly 2 based on the humidity inside the cooking cavity, different rotation speeds of the fan assembly 2 result in different rates of pressure increase inside the cooking cavity, which in turn causes different rates at which moisture inside the cooking cavity is discharged through the air outlet 12, thereby reducing the humidity inside the cooking cavity. This allows for adjustment based on the humidity level inside the cooking cavity to meet the different needs of the user for the cooking appliance 100.

[0109] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the 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.

[0110] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A cooking appliance characterized by, include: A housing having a cooking cavity inside, the inner wall of which has an air inlet and an air outlet; A fan assembly, which is disposed on the housing, is used to blow air into the cooking cavity through the air inlet; A dehumidification assembly includes a movable component, which includes a first sealing mechanism and a second sealing mechanism. The first sealing mechanism is used to open or close the air inlet. The movable component is movably disposed on the housing. The movable component is configured to simultaneously open the air inlet and the air outlet and simultaneously close the air inlet and the air outlet. A drive assembly is disposed on the housing and connected to the moving part for driving the moving part to move; The water box is configured as the second sealing mechanism. The water box has a water storage cavity, a first dehumidification channel, and a first air inlet and a first exhaust port communicating with the first dehumidification channel. The water storage cavity is used to supply water to the cooking cavity. The water box is movably disposed on the housing so that the water box blocks the exhaust port or the first air inlet communicates with the exhaust port.

2. The cooking appliance of claim 1, wherein, The first blocking mechanism and the second blocking mechanism move synchronously, and at least one of the first blocking mechanism and the second blocking mechanism is connected to the drive component.

3. The cooking appliance of claim 2, wherein, The first sealing mechanism is connected to the drive assembly and the water box.

4. The cooking utensil according to claim 3, characterized in that, The dehumidification assembly also includes a base plate disposed on the housing. The base plate has a first opening communicating with the air outlet. The first air inlet is located on the bottom wall of the water box. The water storage chamber is spaced apart from the first dehumidification channel. The water box is movably disposed on the base plate so that the bottom wall blocks the first opening or the first air inlet communicates with the first opening.

5. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The direction of movement of the water box is perpendicular to the axis of the first opening.

6. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dehumidification assembly further includes a dehumidification component, which is disposed on the housing and located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate. The dehumidification component has a second dehumidification channel and a second air inlet and a second air outlet communicating with the second dehumidification channel. The second air inlet and the air outlet are connected, and the second air outlet and the first opening are connected.

7. The cooking utensil according to claim 6, characterized in that, The housing includes a support plate located between the cooking cavity and the bottom plate. The support plate has a second opening, and the dehumidification component passes through the second opening. The fan assembly is connected to the support plate.

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dehumidification assembly also includes a top cover, which is connected to the bottom plate to form a receiving space, and the water box is located within the receiving space.

9. The cooking utensil according to claim 3, characterized in that, The water box is detachably connected to the first sealing mechanism.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 3, characterized in that, The housing has a third opening, and the water box is detachably disposed inside the housing through the third opening. When the water box closes the air outlet, the water box is located inside the housing and the outer wall surface of the water box is flush with the outer wall surface of the housing. When the water box opens the air outlet, at least a portion of the water box extends out from the third opening.

11. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first blocking mechanism includes: A pusher block, which is connected to the drive assembly and the second blocking mechanism; A baffle is provided at one end of the push block near the cooking cavity, and is used to open or close the air inlet.

12. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The driving component includes: Drive motor; An output gear is connected to the output shaft of the drive motor. The push block has a rack that meshes with the output gear, and the rack extends along the moving direction of the first sealing mechanism.

13. A method for controlling a cooking utensil, characterized in that, The cooking appliance is the cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1-12, and the control method includes: It is determined that the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state; The moving part is controlled to open the air inlet and the air outlet, and the fan assembly is controlled to operate.

14. The method for controlling a cooking appliance according to claim 13, characterized in that, Determining that the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state includes: Obtain the recipe currently being cooked by the cooking appliance; Determine the time period in the dehumidification cooking state based on the current cooking recipe.

15. The method for controlling a cooking appliance according to claim 14, characterized in that, The dehumidification cooking state includes multiple sub-time periods, each of which corresponds to a different fan speed. The control method further includes: The fan assembly is controlled to operate at the speed corresponding to the sub-time period.

16. The method for controlling a cooking appliance according to claim 13, characterized in that, Determining that the cooking appliance is in a dehumidification cooking state includes: Obtain the humidity inside the cooking cavity; The humidity is determined to be greater than a preset humidity value.

17. The method for controlling a cooking appliance according to claim 16, characterized in that, The control method further includes: The rotational speed of the fan assembly is controlled based on the humidity inside the cooking cavity.

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