Steam cooking machine

Abstract

The steam cooking machine comprises the following steps: in the process that the elastic mechanism approaches the placing position, the steam injection pipe is firstly moved to the cover body, the steam injection pipe pierces the cover body and is inserted into the cooking container, the steam injection pipe continues to move with the elastic mechanism until the steam injection pipe abuts against the food with hardness in the cooking container; after the steam injection pipe abuts against the food, the elastic mechanism continues to move, in the process that the elastic mechanism continues to move, the steam injection pipe approaches the top of the elastic mechanism relative to the elastic mechanism, and the elastic member is compressed by the steam injection pipe; after the elastic mechanism continues to move, water is injected into the cooking container until the water level is higher than the steam outlet, then steam is injected into the cooking barrel through the steam outlet, after the water injection and / or steam injection, the cooking food is softened, under the elastic force of the elastic member, the elastic member drives the steam injection pipe to move to the side close to the base until the elastic member restores the original length; the steam directly exchanges heat with the water, and the steam injection pipe can be inserted into the lower part of the food after the food is softened, so that the heating effect is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of cooking equipment, and particularly relates to a steam cooking machine. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most mainstream home cooking appliances on the market use electromagnetic heating, such as noodle cookers. These appliances typically consist of a base, body, and head. The electromagnetic heating module is usually located inside the base, and the cooking container is placed on the base. The electromagnetic heating module heats the cooking container. During heating, heat is transferred from the electromagnetic heating module to the cooking container, and then from the cooking container to the water inside, cooking the food. This heat transfer process results in significant heat loss. Furthermore, the water inlet is usually located on the body or head, generating a large amount of steam that accumulates at the top or front of the appliance during cooking. This condensation obstructs the user's view and makes the top, front, and water inlet dirty, increasing cleaning difficulty. Additionally, there are currently no solutions on the market for cooking existing cup noodles. Because cup noodles often contain hard ingredients, uneven heating is highly likely. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in the related art.

[0004] Therefore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, a steam cooking appliance is provided, comprising:

[0005] The housing has a cavity inside and includes a base and a body connected to the top of the base. The top of the base has a placement position for placing a cooking container, and the placement position is located on one side of the body.

[0006] A steam generator is located inside the containment cavity and heats and evaporates the water entering there to produce steam, which flows out from the steam outlet of the steam generator.

[0007] An elastic mechanism is provided on the side of the machine body near the placement position and above the placement position; the elastic mechanism can move in a non-horizontal direction towards or away from the placement position.

[0008] The steam injection pipe has its top end inserted into the elastic mechanism from the bottom end and confined on the elastic mechanism. The steam injection pipe can move relative to the elastic mechanism towards or away from the top end of the elastic mechanism. The steam injection pipe has a steam injection chamber communicating with the steam outlet and a steam outlet hole communicating with the steam injection chamber at the bottom.

[0009] The elastic mechanism includes:

[0010] The flexible mechanism housing has an internal storage space.

[0011] An elastic element is disposed within the placement space and connected to the steam injection pipe;

[0012] As the elastic mechanism approaches the placement position, the steam injection pipe first moves with the elastic mechanism to the lid of the cooking container. The steam injection pipe pierces the lid and inserts into the cooking container. The steam injection pipe continues to move with the elastic mechanism until it comes into contact with hard food inside the cooking container. After the steam injection pipe comes into contact with the food, the elastic mechanism continues to move a certain distance closer to the placement position. As the elastic mechanism continues to move, the food hinders the movement of the steam injection pipe with the elastic mechanism and drives the steam injection pipe to move closer to the top of the elastic mechanism relative to it, compressing the elastic element.

[0013] After the elastic mechanism continues to move, water is first injected into the cooking container through the steam outlet until the water level exceeds the steam outlet. Then, steam is injected into the cooking bucket through the steam outlet. After water and / or steam are injected, the cooked food softens. Under the elastic force of the elastic element, the elastic element drives the steam injection pipe to move towards the side closer to the base until the elastic element returns to its original length.

[0014] The system is equipped with a steam generator and steam injection pipe, allowing steam to be directly introduced into the water in the cooking container. This enables direct heat exchange between the steam and water, reducing heat loss during transfer. The system introduces water first, followed by steam, with the water level exceeding the steam outlet. This ensures better heat exchange between the steam and water, preventing direct steam diffusion and improving heat utilization and heating efficiency. Since many containerized convenience foods are initially hard, and the steam injection point needs to be positioned at the bottom of the food to achieve even heating through large-area contact and turbulence, a flexible mechanism is included. This mechanism allows the steam injection pipe to extend under the food after it softens, further enhancing heating efficiency.

[0015] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the resilient mechanism housing includes:

[0016] The first outer shell has an internal receiving space with a top opening and a bottom wall, wherein the bottom wall has a bottom wall opening that penetrates the bottom wall.

[0017] The bottom cover has a first limiting part on its outer side wall. The bottom cover is inserted into the first outer shell from the top opening of the first outer shell. The bottom cover moves to the bottom wall of the first outer shell until the first limiting part abuts against the bottom wall of the outer shell.

[0018] The top cover is fixedly connected to the top of the first outer shell;

[0019] The elastic element is located between the bottom cover and the top cover; the top end of the steam injection pipe is inserted into the bottom cover from the bottom end and is confined to the bottom cover;

[0020] When the steam injection pipe moves closer to the top of the elastic mechanism relative to the elastic mechanism, the steam injection pipe drives the bottom cover to move towards the side closer to the top cover relative to the first outer shell, and the bottom cover compresses the elastic element;

[0021] After the food softens during cooking, under the elastic force of the elastic element, the bottom cover causes the steam injection pipe to move away from the top cover relative to the first outer shell until the elastic element returns to its original length.

[0022] The elastic mechanism housing includes a first housing, a bottom cover, and a top cover, which can confine the elastic element within the elastic mechanism housing and enable the interaction between the steam injection pipe and the elastic element to achieve height adjustment of the steam injection pipe, thus accommodating different ingredients. Furthermore, it can automatically lower the steam injection pipe after the ingredients soften.

[0023] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a bracket is also included. The bracket has a through hole, and the elastic mechanism is fixed in the through hole. The bracket drives the elastic mechanism to move in a non-horizontal direction toward or away from the placement position. The movement of the bracket can drive the movement of the elastic mechanism, resulting in structural stability.

[0024] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the bottom cover further includes a first guide portion disposed above the first limiting portion. The elastic element is sleeved on the first guide portion and located above the first limiting portion, which can improve the stability of the elastic element, prevent the elastic element from shifting after being compressed and shortened, thus changing the setting direction of the elastic element and affecting the compression and rebound of the elastic element, and avoid affecting the normal operation of the elastic mechanism and the steam injection pipe.

[0025] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it further includes:

[0026] A first water pump is disposed within the receiving cavity and is used to introduce water into the steam generator. The first water pump has an inlet for water supply and an outlet for water supply, and the outlet of the first water pump is connected to the water inlet of the steam generator.

[0027] A second water pump is disposed within the receiving cavity and is used to introduce water into the steam injection cavity. The second water pump has an inlet for water supply and an outlet for water supply, and the outlet of the second water pump is connected to the steam injection cavity.

[0028] It can separate the steam circuit and the water circuit and can use the steam injection pipe for steam and water injection, making the steam circuit and the water circuit independent of each other while simplifying the system.

[0029] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the top end of the first guide portion is provided with an insertion portion, and the steam cooking machine further includes:

[0030] T-shaped pipe;

[0031] The first water pipe has one end connected to the steam output port of the steam generator and the other end connected to one end of the tee pipe;

[0032] The second water pipe has one end connected to the outlet of the second water pump and the other end connected to the other end of the tee pipe.

[0033] The third water pipe has one end connected to the top of the insertion part and the other end connected to the other end of the three-way pipe.

[0034] The top cover is provided with a clearance passage to avoid the third water pipe, which can facilitate the connection of the steam generator, the second water pump and the steam injection pipe.

[0035] According to embodiments of this disclosure,

[0036] The bottom cover has a bottom cover channel that passes through it. The two ends of the bottom cover channel are located at the top and bottom of the bottom cover, respectively. The side wall of the bottom cover channel has a first placement groove. The side wall of the first placement groove near the bottom of the bottom cover has a side wall notch that starts from the end of the first placement groove near the bottom cover channel.

[0037] The outer wall of the steam injection pipe is provided with a second limiting part that matches the notch in the side wall;

[0038] During the installation of the steam injection pipe on the bottom cover, the second limiting part of the steam injection pipe is first aligned with the side wall notch. The steam injection pipe is then inserted into the bottom cover so that the second limiting part passes through the side wall notch and is inserted into the first placement groove. The steam injection pipe is rotated so that the second limiting part is offset from the side wall notch. The second limiting part of the steam injection pipe is supported on the side wall of the first placement groove near the bottom end of the bottom cover, which facilitates the connection between the bottom cover and the steam injection pipe. The structure is simple, reliable, and easy to design.

[0039] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the cooking machine further includes a vent cover connected to the bottom of the elastic mechanism, the vent cover comprising:

[0040] A flared tube having a top connected to a flexible mechanism and a bottom for flaring the lid of a cooking container;

[0041] A pressure cap is fitted onto the outer wall of the flared cylinder;

[0042] A steam hood is installed on top of the pressure cap, with one end connected to the outer wall of the flared cylinder. The steam hood and the pressure cap define a steam outlet channel between the pressure cap and the steam hood. The steam outlet channel communicates with the space inside the flared cylinder through a steam vent hole on the side wall of the flared cylinder.

[0043] After the exhaust cap moves to the point where the pressure cap abuts against the cooking container lid, the steam inside the cooking container enters the space inside the flared cylinder and enters the steam outlet channel through the exhaust hole. Then the steam is discharged from the open end of the steam outlet channel, which can collect the steam inside the cooking container and discharge it outside the cooking container.

[0044] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust cover further includes a second limiting plate disposed inside the flared cylinder and connected to the side of the exhaust port near the top of the flared cylinder;

[0045] The second limiting plate is provided with a clearance hole to avoid the steam injection pipe;

[0046] The bottom end of the second limiting plate is provided with a flared spike for piercing the lid of the cooking container. The bottom end face and the side end face of the flared spike are set at an acute angle to form a pointed tip facing the bottom end of the flared cylinder. The flared spike can expand the piercing range of the lid of the cooking container, making it easier for the bottom end of the flared cylinder to be inserted into the cooking container, and making it easier to collect the steam in the cooking container.

[0047] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the bottom end of the second limiting plate is provided with a guide cylinder located inside the flared bar. The guide cylinder is sleeved on the steam injection pipe and divides the space below the flared bar located on the second limiting plate into a guiding space located inside the guide cylinder and a steam collecting space located between the guide cylinder and the flared bar. The steam collecting space is connected to the steam outlet channel through the steam exhaust hole, so that the setting space of the steam injection pipe is independent of the steam outflow path in the cooking container, thereby reducing the degree of contamination of the steam injection pipe by steam. Attached Figure Description

[0048] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a front view of a cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking machine when the steam injection pipe is in contact with food according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0052] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which a steam injection pipe extends into the food.

[0053] Figure 5 This is a front view of the elastic mechanism and steam injection pipe according to the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0054] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the elastic mechanism and steam injection pipe according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0055] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the elastic mechanism and steam injection pipe according to the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0056] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the elastic mechanism and steam injection pipe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] Figure 9 This is an exploded view of the elastic mechanism and steam injection pipe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0058] Figure 10 This is a partial view of the elastic mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0059] Figure 11 This is a structural diagram of the top cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] Figure 12 This is a partial structural diagram of a cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0061] Figure 13 This is a partial structural diagram of the cooking machine according to another perspective of an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0062] Figure 14 This is a partial exploded view of a cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] Figure 15 This is a partial exploded view of the cooking machine according to another perspective of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0064] Figure 16 This is a partial exploded view of the cooking machine according to another perspective of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0065] Figure 17 This is a partial structural diagram of the cooking machine according to another perspective of an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0066] Figure 18 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the cooking machine according to another perspective of an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0067] Figure 19 This is a partial perspective view of the cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0068] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0069] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of the cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0070] Figure 22 This is a partial perspective view of the cooking machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0071] Figure 23 This is a partial exploded view of the cooking machine according to another perspective of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0072] Figure 24 This is an exploded view of the knob assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0073] Figure 25 This is an exploded view of the knob assembly according to another perspective of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0074] Figure 26 This is a partial exploded view of the knob assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from another perspective;

[0075] Figure 27 This is a partial exploded view of the cooking machine according to another perspective of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0076] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the exhaust cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0077] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the exhaust cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0078] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of the exhaust cover from another angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0079] Figure 31 This is a partial exploded view of the cooking machine according to another perspective of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0080] Figure 32 This is a structural diagram of the water receiving tray according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0081] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view of the water receiving tray according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0082] Figure 34 This is a partial structural diagram of the cooking machine according to another perspective of an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0083] Figure 35This is a partial structural diagram of the cooking machine according to another perspective of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] In the above figures:

[0085] Cooking machine 100; cooking container 10a; lid 10b; food 10c; casing 1; receiving cavity 101; base 11; first end of base 1101; second end of base 1102; placement position 111; water tray placement groove 1111; positioning post 1112; body 12; front plate of body 121; guide groove of body 1211; water container placement part 122; cable groove 123; head 13; head cavity 131; head bottom plate 132; bottom plate through hole 1321; sleeve 1322; front plate of head 133; front plate through hole 1331; steam generator 2; elastic mechanism 3; elastic mechanism outer shell 31; placement space 311; first outer shell 312; receiving space 3121; bottom wall of outer shell 3122; bottom wall opening 31 221; First connecting part 3123; First connecting post 31231; First limiting plate 31232; Third connecting part 3124; Third limiting part 3125; Bottom cover 313; First limiting part 3131; Bottom cover channel 3132; First placement groove 3133; Side wall notch 31331; First guide part 3134; Insertion part 31341; Top cover 314; Top cover connecting plate 3141; First clearance notch 31411; Second clearance notch 31412; Second guide part 3142; Clearance channel 3143; First sealing ring 315; Elastic element 32; Bracket 4; Bracket connecting part 41; Bracket support post 42; Bracket through hole 43; Second placement groove 44; Wire insertion hole 45; Steam injection pipe 5; Steam injection chamber 51; Steam outlet; 52; Second limiting part; 53; Self-positioning mechanism; 61; Guide rod; 611; Guide groove; 6111; Guide component; 613; First water pump; 621; Second water pump; 622; First water pipe; 631; Second water pipe; 632; Third water pipe; 633; ​​T-pipe; 634; First check valve; 636; Second check valve; 637; Knob assembly; 701; Control panel; 701; Button; 7021; Display screen; 7022; Connector; 7023; Display panel; 7024; Mounting slot; 70241; Button pressing structure; 70242; Rubber pad; 703; Rotary encoder; 704; First mounting base; 7041; Second mounting base; 7042; Knob; 806; Exhaust cover; 811; Exhaust tube; Steam exhaust Through hole 8111; third clearance notch 8112; first limiting hole 8113; pressure cap 812; pressure cap plate body 8121; baffle 8122; flange 8123; flange notch 81231; water collection tank 8124; steam hood 813; steam passage 8131; second limiting plate 814; recess 8141; flared spike 815; tip 8151; guide space 816; steam collection space 817; guide cylinder 818; second sealing ring 819; water receiving tray 82; water storage box 821; positioning hole 8211; drain cover 822; drain hole 8221; drain cover body 8222; connecting plate 8223; first wire guide 83; first wire guide cavity 831; baffle plate 84; second wire guide 85; second wire guide cavity 851. Detailed Implementation

[0086] The present invention will now be described in detail through exemplary embodiments. However, it should be understood that, without further description, elements, structures, and features in one embodiment may be advantageously incorporated into other embodiments.

[0087] This invention proposes a steam cooking machine 100, capable of both manual and automatic cooking. It heats food within a cooking container using steam to perform cooking processes such as instant noodles and boiled noodles. The cooking container 10a can be a box for holding food, a container for instant noodles, or other containers capable of performing the steam heating process described in this patent. The cooking container may have a lid 10b, and food 10c, which may be noodles, is placed inside the cooking container.

[0088] refer to Figures 1-4 The cooking appliance 100 includes a housing 1, within which a receiving cavity 101 is formed. The housing 1 includes a base 11 and a body 12, with the body 12 connected to the base 11 and positioned on top of the base 11. The top of the base 11 has a placement position 111 for placing a cooking container, wherein the placement position 111 is located on one side of the body 12.

[0089] For details, please refer to Figures 1-4 The base 11 includes a first end 1101 and a second end 1102 that are disposed opposite to each other. The body 12 is connected to the top of the base 11 and is located at the first end 1101. The placement position 111 is disposed on the top of the base 11 and is located at the second end.

[0090] The receiving cavity 101 is formed within the fuselage 12, or the receiving cavity 101 is formed within the base 11 and the fuselage 12. When the receiving cavity is located within the base 11 and the fuselage 12, the bottom wall of the receiving cavity 101 is located within the base 11 and the top of the receiving cavity 101 is located within the fuselage 12.

[0091] The cooking machine 100 also includes a steam generator 2, which is used to generate steam. The steam generator is disposed in the receiving cavity 101. The steam generator heats and evaporates the water entering it to generate steam, and the steam flows out from the steam output port of the steam generator.

[0092] The cooking machine 100 also includes a flexible mechanism 3, which is located on one side of the body 12. The flexible mechanism 3 is located on the side of the body close to the placement position 111 and is located above the placement position 111. The flexible mechanism 3 can move in a non-horizontal direction to the side closer to and away from the placement position 111.

[0093] Specifically, the elastic mechanism 3 is located on one side of the body 1 and directly above the placement position. The elastic mechanism 3 moves along the vertical direction or at an acute angle to the vertical direction toward the side closer to or away from the placement position.

[0094] In this application, reference is made to 5- Figure 9 The cooking appliance also includes a steam injection pipe 5. The top end of the steam injection pipe 5 is inserted into and confined within the elastic mechanism 3 from its bottom end. The steam injection pipe 5 can move relative to the elastic mechanism, either closer to or further away from the top end. The steam injection pipe 5 has a steam injection chamber 51 that communicates with the steam output port of the steam generator. Furthermore, the bottom of the steam injection pipe has a steam outlet 52 that communicates with the steam injection chamber. The bottom end of the steam injection pipe 5 has a spike, and the top section of the steam injection pipe is approximately cylindrical while its bottom end is approximately conical.

[0095] Specifically, refer to 5- Figure 9 The elastic mechanism 3 includes an elastic mechanism housing 31 and an elastic element 32. The elastic mechanism housing 31 has a placement space 311 inside, and the elastic element 32 is located in the placement space 311 and connected to the steam injection pipe.

[0096] refer to Figures 1-9 As the elastic mechanism 3 approaches the placement position 111, the steam injection pipe 5 first moves with the elastic mechanism 3 to the lid of the cooking container. The steam injection pipe pierces the lid and inserts into the cooking container. The steam injection pipe continues to move with the elastic mechanism until it comes into contact with the hard food inside the cooking container. After the steam injection pipe 5 comes into contact with the food 10c, the elastic mechanism 3 continues to move a certain distance closer to the placement position 111. During the continued movement of the elastic mechanism, the food hinders the movement of the steam injection pipe with the elastic mechanism and drives the steam injection pipe to move closer to the top of the elastic mechanism relative to the elastic mechanism, compressing the elastic element. After the elastic mechanism continues to move, water is first injected into the cooking container through the steam outlet until the water level exceeds the steam outlet. Then, steam is injected into the cooking container through the steam outlet. After water and / or steam are injected, the cooked food softens. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element, the elastic element drives the steam injection pipe to move closer to the base until the elastic element returns to its original length.

[0097] The system is equipped with a steam generator and steam injection pipe, allowing steam to be directly introduced into the water in the cooking container. This enables direct heat exchange between the steam and water, reducing heat loss during transfer. The system introduces water first, followed by steam, with the water level exceeding the steam outlet. This ensures better heat exchange between the steam and water, preventing direct steam diffusion and improving heat utilization and heating efficiency. Since many containerized convenience foods are initially hard, and the steam injection point needs to be positioned at the bottom of the food to achieve even heating through large-area contact and turbulence, a flexible mechanism is included. This mechanism allows the steam injection pipe to extend under the food after it softens, further enhancing heating efficiency.

[0098] Reference and 5- Figure 9 The elastic element can be a spring. The outer shell 31 of the elastic mechanism includes a first outer shell 312, a bottom cover 313, and a top cover 314. The first outer shell 312 has a bottom end and a top end that are disposed opposite each other. The bottom cover 313 is connected to the bottom end of the first outer shell 312, and the top cover 314 is connected to the top end of the first outer shell 312. The top cover 314 is fixedly connected to the top end of the first outer shell. The bottom cover 313 can move relative to the first outer shell 312 towards or away from the top cover 314. The elastic element 32 is disposed inside the first outer shell 312 and located between the bottom cover 313 and the top cover 314. When the steam injection pipe moves towards the top of the elastic mechanism relative to the elastic mechanism, the bottom cover 313 moves relative to the first outer shell towards the top cover, and the bottom cover compresses the elastic element. After the food softens during cooking, under the elastic force of the elastic element, the bottom cover moves relative to the first outer shell away from the top cover until the elastic element returns to its original length. The bottom cover drives the steam injection pipe to move towards the base until the elastic element returns to its original length.

[0099] The top end of the steam injection pipe is inserted into the bottom cover 313 from the bottom end and is confined to the bottom cover 313. The steam injection pipe can drive the bottom cover to move relative to the first outer shell towards the side closer to the top cover 314, and the bottom cover compresses the elastic element; after the food softens during cooking, under the elastic force of the elastic element, the bottom cover drives the steam injection pipe to move relative to the first outer shell away from the top cover until the elastic element returns to its original length.

[0100] Reference and 5- Figure 9 The first outer shell 312 has a receiving space 3121 with a top opening. The first outer shell 312 includes a bottom wall 3122 at its bottom, with a bottom wall opening 31221 penetrating through it. A first limiting part 3131 is provided on the outer side wall of the bottom cover. The bottom cover 313 is inserted into the first outer shell 312 through the top opening, and moves towards the bottom of the first outer shell until the first limiting part 3131 abuts against the bottom wall 3122. When the first limiting part 3131 abuts against the bottom wall 3122, the bottom end of the bottom cover can be located inside the first outer shell or extend out of the first outer shell from the bottom wall opening. The first limiting part can be a rib provided on the outer wall of the bottom cover, and the rib can be arranged circumferentially along the outer wall of the bottom cover, wherein the rib can be a circle.

[0101] The elastic mechanism housing includes a first housing, a bottom cover, and a top cover, which can confine the elastic element within the elastic mechanism housing and enable the interaction between the steam injection pipe and the elastic element to achieve height adjustment of the steam injection pipe, thus accommodating different ingredients. Furthermore, it can automatically lower the steam injection pipe after the ingredients soften.

[0102] The bottom cover has a bottom cover channel 3132 that penetrates the bottom cover. The two ends of the bottom cover channel 3132 are located at the top and bottom of the bottom cover, respectively. The side wall of the bottom cover channel has a first placement groove 3133. The side wall of the first placement groove 3133 near the bottom of the bottom cover has a side wall notch 31331 that starts from the end of the first placement groove near the bottom cover channel. The side wall notch can be at least one pair, and the two side wall notches in the pair can be arranged opposite each other. The first placement groove is arranged circumferentially along the side wall of the bottom cover channel. The first placement groove can be one or two that are spaced apart. When there is one first placement groove, the first placement groove can be a section or a circle on the side wall of the bottom cover channel. When there are two first placement grooves, the two first placement grooves can be arranged opposite each other.

[0103] refer to Figures 5-11 The outer wall of the steam injection pipe is provided with a second limiting part 53 that is adapted to the side wall notch. The second limiting part may have at least one pair, and the pairs of second limiting parts are arranged opposite to each other. During the process of installing the steam injection pipe on the bottom cover, the second limiting part 53 of the steam injection pipe is first aligned with the side wall notch 31331. The steam injection pipe is inserted into the bottom cover so that the second limiting part passes through the side wall notch and is inserted into the first placement groove 3133. The steam injection pipe is rotated so that the second limiting part 53 is misaligned with the side wall notch 31331. The second limiting part of the steam injection pipe is supported on the side wall of the first placement groove near the bottom end of the bottom cover, so that the steam injection pipe is confined on the bottom cover, which facilitates the connection between the bottom cover and the steam injection pipe. The structure is simple and reliable and easy to design.

[0104] The second limiting part 53 is located at the top of the outer wall of the steam injection pipe, and the top of the steam injection pipe is located in the first placement groove 3133. The elastic mechanism 3 also includes a first sealing ring 315 located in the first placement groove. The first sealing ring 315 is clamped between the top wall of the steam injection pipe and the side wall of the first placement groove near the top of the bottom cover.

[0105] The bottom cover 313 also includes a first guide portion 3134 disposed above the first limiting portion 3131, and an elastic member is sleeved on the first guide portion and located above the first limiting portion.

[0106] The top cover 314 includes a top cover connecting plate 3141 connected to the first housing and a second guide portion 3142 connected to the bottom of the top cover connecting plate and inserted into the first housing. The elastic element 32 is sleeved on the second guide portion 3142, which can improve the stability of the elastic element and prevent the elastic element from shifting after being compressed and shortened, thus changing the setting direction of the elastic element and affecting the compression and rebound of the elastic element, and avoiding affecting the normal operation of the elastic mechanism and the steam injection pipe.

[0107] The bottom of the second guide section has an opening leading to the bottom cover, and the top of the first guide section has an insertion part 31341 that can be inserted into the bottom opening of the second guide section. The insertion part 31341 can remain in the bottom opening of the second guide section, or, as the bottom cover moves closer to the top of the first outer shell, the insertion part 31341 gradually approaches the second guide section and is inserted into the bottom opening of the second guide section. The opening and insertion part at the bottom of the second guide section can improve the stability of the elastic element, prevent the elastic element from shifting after being compressed and shortened, thus changing the setting direction of the elastic element and affecting the compression and rebound of the elastic element, and avoiding affecting the normal operation of the elastic mechanism and the steam injection pipe.

[0108] The top of the first outer casing 312 is provided with a first connecting part 3123, and the top cover plate is provided with a second connecting part. The first connecting part is connected to the second connecting part, wherein the first connecting part and the second connecting part are engaged.

[0109] Specifically, the first connecting part includes a first connecting post 31231 connected above the top wall of the first housing and a first limiting plate 31232 connected to the top of the first connecting post and disposed on the first connecting post near the inner side of the first housing.

[0110] The second connecting part includes a first clearance notch 31411 that avoids the first connecting post and the first limiting plate. The second connecting part also includes a second clearance notch 31412 that is connected to the first clearance notch 31411 and avoids the first connecting post. The second clearance notch 31412 is located on one side of the first clearance notch 31411. During the process of installing the top cover on the first outer shell, the first clearance notch 31411 on the top cover is first aligned with the first connecting post and the first limiting plate. The top cover is inserted into the first cover body and the top cover is lower than the bottom end of the first limiting plate. The top cover is rotated so that the second clearance notch is aligned with the first connecting post. At this time, the first limiting plate and the top cover connecting plate are aligned to limit the top cover between the first limiting plate and the top end of the first outer shell.

[0111] The first connecting part and the second connecting part may have multiple parts. When there are multiple second connecting parts, the second clearance notch is located on the same side as the first clearance notch.

[0112] In some embodiments of this application, the elastic mechanism 3 can be directly connected to the housing 1, and the elastic mechanism 3 can be manually driven to move relative to the housing 1, so that the elastic mechanism moves in a non-horizontal direction toward or away from the placement position.

[0113] In some embodiments of this application, the elastic mechanism is connected to the housing via a drive mechanism, wherein the drive mechanism is connected to the housing, the elastic mechanism is connected to the drive mechanism, and the drive mechanism drives the elastic mechanism to move.

[0114] In some embodiments of this patent, reference is made to Figures 12-15 The cooking machine 100 also includes a support 4, which is located on one side of the body 12. The support 4 is located on the side of the body close to the placement position 111 and is located above the placement position 111. The support 4 can move in a non-horizontal direction to the side closer to and away from the placement position 111.

[0115] The elastic mechanism 3 is fixed on the bracket 4, and the bracket 4 drives the elastic mechanism to move along a non-horizontal direction toward the side closer to and away from the placement position 111.

[0116] The bracket 4 has a through hole 43, and the elastic mechanism 3 is located inside the through hole. The top of the elastic mechanism protrudes from the top of the through hole, and the bottom of the elastic mechanism protrudes from the bottom of the through hole 43. The movement of the bracket can drive the movement of the elastic mechanism, resulting in structural stability.

[0117] A third connecting part 3124 is provided on the outer wall of the outer shell of the elastic mechanism. Specifically, the third connecting part 3124 is provided on the outer wall of the first shell 312. The third connecting part 3124 is connected to the bracket 4, wherein the third connecting part is connected to the bottom end or the top end of the bracket. The bracket is provided with a second placement groove 44 adapted to the third connecting part, and the third connecting part is disposed in the second placement groove. The second placement groove can be disposed at the top or bottom of the bracket.

[0118] In some embodiments of this patent, the cooking machine also includes a support drive mechanism, the support being connected to the housing via the support drive mechanism, the support drive mechanism driving the support to move along a non-horizontal direction toward and away from the placement position 111.

[0119] In some embodiments of this patent, reference is made to Figures 15-16 The cooking machine also includes a self-positioning mechanism 61, which includes a guide rod 611, a coil spring (not shown), and a guide member 613. The guide rod 611 is inserted into the receiving cavity, the coil spring is disposed in the guide rod, the guide rod is provided with a guide groove 6111, the guide member is inserted into the guide groove, the head of the coil spring is connected to the guide rod, and the coiled part of the coil spring is connected to the guide member.

[0120] When the guide member is stationary, the coil spring provides an upward pulling force to the guide member, keeping it stationary on the guide rod. As the guide member is pushed towards the bottom of the guide groove, it descends, and the coiled portion of the coil spring gradually unfolds. As the guide member moves towards the top of the guide groove, it rises, and the straightened portion of the coil spring gradually retracts. By incorporating a self-positioning mechanism including the coil spring, the guide member can be stopped at any time and stably fixed in place without changing its position when stopped.

[0121] The self-positioning mechanism 61 may also include a shielding member disposed in the guide rod 611. The shielding member is disposed at the guide groove 6111 of the guide rod and is located between the coil spring and the guide groove. It can shield the coil spring, prevent the coil spring from being exposed, and make the guide rod look aesthetically pleasing.

[0122] The guide component is fixedly connected to the bracket, and the guide groove is set along the moving direction of the bracket, allowing manual control of the bracket to move towards or away from the placement position 111 in a non-horizontal direction. The guide component is connected to the end of the bracket closest to the machine body. This connection between the bracket and the guide component allows the bracket to be stopped at any time and stably fixed in place without changing its position when stopped.

[0123] The bracket 4 includes a bracket connecting part 41 located at one end near the body. The bracket connecting part is connected to a guide member. The bracket connecting part is located at the top or bottom of the bracket. The bracket connecting part can be a bracket connecting column located at the top of the bracket. There are two bracket connecting columns arranged opposite each other. The guide member is located between the two bracket connecting columns and is connected to the two bracket connecting columns.

[0124] The bracket is also provided with a bracket support column 42 located between the two bracket connecting columns, wherein the bracket support column is supported at the lower end of the guide.

[0125] The fuselage includes a front panel 121 located on the side near the support 4. The front panel has a guide groove 1211 that is opposite to the guide slot and avoids the guide member. The guide member passes through the guide groove and is connected to the guide rod. Alternatively, the top of the front panel has a guide space (not shown) for placing the guide rod. The bottom of the guide space communicates with the receiving cavity, and the side of the guide space near the guide member is open to facilitate the installation of the guide member, allowing it to move along the guide slot. The top of the guide space may also be open to facilitate the installation of the guide rod.

[0126] In some embodiments of this patent, reference is made to Figures 17-19 The cooking appliance 100 also includes a water pump located in the housing 101, which is used to deliver water to the steam generator and / or to the steam injection pipe.

[0127] The water pump that supplies water to the steam generator and the water pump that supplies water to the steam injection pipe may be the same or different.

[0128] Specifically, when the water pump supplying water to the steam generator and the water pump supplying water to the steam injection pipe are not the same, there can be two water pumps. These include a first water pump 621 for supplying water to the steam generator and a second water pump 622 for supplying water to the steam injection pipe. The first and second water pumps 621 and 622 are housed within the receiving cavity 101. The first water pump has an inlet for water inflow and an outlet for water outflow. Water flows into the first water pump through its inlet, and its outlet is connected to the water inlet of the steam generator. The second water pump 622 also has an inlet for water inflow and an outlet for water outflow. Water flows into the second water pump through its inlet, and its outlet is connected to the steam injection chamber of the steam injection pipe. The steam outlet of the steam generator is also connected to the steam injection chamber of the steam injection pipe. This allows for the separation of the steam and water circuits and enables the use of the steam injection pipe for both steam and water injection, simplifying the system while ensuring the steam and water circuits remain independent.

[0129] Specifically, the cooking machine 100 also includes a first water pipe 631, a second water pipe 632, a third water pipe 633, and a three-way pipe 634. One end of the first water pipe is connected to the steam output port of the steam generator, and the other end of the first water pipe 631 is connected to one end of the three-way pipe 634. One end of the second water pipe 632 is connected to the outlet of the second water pump 622, and the other end of the second water pipe is connected to the other end of the three-way pipe 634. One end of the third water pipe is connected to the top of the bottom cover insertion part 31341, and the other end of the third water pipe 633 is connected to another end of the three-way pipe 634.

[0130] Since the third water pipe is connected to the insertion part of the bottom cover, in order to avoid interference between the elastic element and the third water pipe, the top cover is provided with a clearance channel 3143 to avoid the third water pipe 633. The two ends of the clearance channel 3143 are respectively located at the top and bottom of the top cover. The clearance channel is located in the top cover connecting plate and the second guide part.

[0131] The steam generated by the steam generator flows into the steam injection pipe through the first water pipe, the tee pipe, and the third water pipe. The water output by the second water pump flows into the steam injection pipe through the second water pipe, the tee pipe, and the third water pipe, which can easily connect the steam generator, the second water pump, and the steam injection pipe.

[0132] The cooking machine also includes support components (not shown) installed inside the first, second, and third water pipes to prevent the first water pipe from being crushed and flattened, thus avoiding a break in the circuit. The support components can be helical springs, which provide support while reducing resistance to the steam formation in the water tank, ensuring normal flow of water and steam.

[0133] The cooking machine also includes a first one-way valve 636 located at the connection between the first water pipe and the tee pipe or inside the first water pipe, and a second one-way valve 637 located at the connection between the second water pipe and the tee pipe or inside the second water pipe, so that the connection and isolation between the outlet of the second water pump and the steam injection chamber, as well as the connection and isolation between the output port of the steam generator and the steam injection chamber, can be achieved by controlling the one-way valves, which facilitates control.

[0134] In some embodiments of this patent, reference is made to Figure 19 The cooking appliance 100 also includes a water container (not shown), which is placed on the side of the housing away from the elastic mechanism. The cooking appliance 100 also includes a water container placement section 122 located on the side of the housing away from the elastic mechanism, on which the water container rests. The water container placement section can be a platform, on which the water container rests and can be fixed to the housing. Alternatively, the water container placement section can be a boss, with a recess at the bottom of the water container that fits the boss, allowing the water container to be fitted onto the boss through the recess at its bottom. Alternatively, the water container placement part is an opening facing the top of the casing, and a stud can be provided in the opening. The stud can be inserted into the water container, and the water in the water container flows out of the water container through the stud. The bottom of the water container placement part is provided with a water outlet, which can be connected to the inlet of the first water pump and the inlet of the second water pump through a water pipe. The first water pump draws water from the water container and sends it to the steam generator, and the second water pump draws water from the water container and sends it to the steam injection chamber.

[0135] In some embodiments of this patent, reference is made to Figures 20-27 The housing also includes a head 13, which is fixed to the top of the bracket 4. The head 13 has a head cavity 131 and a head base plate 132 at its bottom. The head base plate has a through hole 1321 through which the top of the elastic mechanism 3 is inserted into the head cavity 131. Alternatively, the head base plate protrudes towards its top wall to form a sleeve 1322, which is fitted over the elastic hook mechanism. The top and / or side walls of the sleeve have openings for electrical or water passages. The head is fixed to the bracket via the head base plate.

[0136] The head unit 13 also includes a front plate 133 located on the side of the head unit away from the body. The cooking machine 100 also includes a knob assembly 7, which is installed on the front plate 133 of the head unit of the cooking machine 100. The knob assembly 7 can be used to select menus, working modes, working times and confirm operations.

[0137] A control board 701 is provided at one end of the knob assembly 7 near the body 12. The control board 701 integrates buttons 7011. By triggering the buttons 7011, functions can be selected. The control board 701 integrates numerous control modules to realize the cooking machine 100's timer, heating, reservation, water filling and other functions.

[0138] refer to Figures 20-27 The knob assembly 7 also includes a display module for displaying information on the cooking machine 100. The display module 701 is connected to the housing and is located on the side of the knob assembly 7 closest to the user.

[0139] The knob assembly 7 also includes an operation module connected to the front panel 133 of the machine head. Specifically, the front panel 133 has a through hole 1331, and the operation module is connected to the through hole 1331. The front panel of the operation module can be flush with the front panel of the machine head 133 or protrude from the front panel of the machine head 133. Operation of the knob assembly 7 includes pressing and rotating.

[0140] refer to Figures 20-27 The display module includes a display screen 7021, a connector 7022, a display panel 7023, and a display screen mounting base 7024. The connector 7022 is electrically connected to the control board 701, and various information from the cooking machine 100 can be displayed on the display screen 7021. A mounting groove 70241 is formed on the front side of the display screen mounting base 7024. The display screen 7021, connector 7022, and display panel 7023 are mounted sequentially from the side closest to the mounting groove to the side furthest away from it. The connector 7022 abuts against or has a certain gap with the display panel 7023. The connector 7022 and the display screen 7021 are installed in the mounting groove, and the display panel 7023 is mounted on the display screen mounting base 7024. Specifically, the edge of the display panel 7023 engages with the edge of the display screen mounting base 7024, forming a space between them. This space can accommodate the connector 7022 and the display screen 7021, etc.

[0141] The operation module includes a rubber pad 703, which is installed between the display mounting base 7024 and the connector 7022. The edge of the rubber pad 703 extends towards the side closer to the display 7021, forming a display mounting space. The display 7021 can be placed in the display mounting space. The rubber pad 703 is installed in the mounting groove 70241 in the display mounting base 7024. The rear end of the display mounting base 7024 is provided with a button pressing structure 70242. By pressing the display panel 3013, the display mounting base 3014 moves backward. Pressing the button 3021 realizes the input of digital signals such as confirmation.

[0142] refer to Figures 20-27The button pressing structure 70242 is located on the side of the display mounting base 7024 near the button 7011, and one end of the button pressing structure 70242 protrudes into the display mounting base 7024. When the display mounting base 7024 moves backward, the button pressing structure 70242 moves synchronously to press the button 7011, realizing operations such as confirming or switching modes. Specifically, the button pressing structure 70242 is designed as a near-cylindrical structure, and its setting position corresponds to the setting position of the button 7011 to achieve precise pressing. The cross-section of the near-cylindrical structure is equal to or slightly larger than the cross-section of the button 7011, improving the fault tolerance of the button 7011 and effectively preventing the button 7011 from malfunctioning to a certain extent. The button pressing structure 70242 is connected to the inside of the display mounting base 7024 through multiple connecting ribs to ensure the stability of the button pressing structure 70242 and prevent the button 7011 from malfunctioning due to the button pressing structure 70242 falling off.

[0143] The control board 701 also integrates a rotary encoder 704. Different operating modes can be selected by triggering different positions. A button 7011 can be installed inside the rotary encoder 704, and selection and other functions can be performed by triggering the button 7011. The rotary encoder 704 can be set as a contact-type brush encoder. A knob 706 is sleeved on the outside of the display screen mounting base 7024. The rotary encoder 704 can generate corresponding signals according to the rotation angle of the knob 706 and transmit them to the control board 702.

[0144] To ensure the stability of the knob assembly 300 during installation, a first mounting base 7041 is provided inside the rotary encoder 704 for mounting the display screen mounting base 7024. The display screen mounting base 7024 is fixedly installed between the first mounting base 7041 and the rotary encoder 704. A second mounting base 7042 is provided on the periphery of the rotary encoder 704 for mounting the knob 706. The knob 706 is connected to the second mounting base 7042 of the rotary encoder. When the knob 706 is rotated, the rotary encoder 704 rotates together. The menu can be selected by rotating the knob 706.

[0145] refer to Figures 20-27 The cooking machine 100 also includes a screen control line 705. One end of the screen control line 705 is connected to the control board 701. The screen control line 705 passes through the through hole of the control board 701 and is connected to the connector 7022 to display different content in real time according to different electrical signals.

[0146] By setting the knob assembly 7, operation and display are integrated, realizing the intelligence of the device while ensuring its miniaturization. The knob assembly 7 can be installed first and then installed on the cooking machine 100, which greatly improves production efficiency.

[0147] The display module may also include a shielding component, which is sleeved on the outside of the connector 7022 and its front and rear ends abut against the operation module and the display panel, respectively. The shielding component forms a closed space in which the connector 7022 is placed, so that the space where the connector 7022 is located is only transparent to the display area, so that the connector 7022 can better pass through the display area for clear display.

[0148] refer to Figures 34-35 The first and second motors of the cooking machine can be connected to the control board 702 via wires. A first wire guide 83 is connected to the bottom wall of the machine head, and a first wire guide cavity 831 is formed within the first wire guide 83. The top of the first wire guide cavity 831 communicates with the machine head cavity 131 through a wire guide opening on the bottom plate of the machine head. The bracket 4 is provided with a wire guide insertion hole 45 adapted to the first wire guide. The top of the first wire guide is connected to the bottom plate of the machine head, and the bottom end of the first wire guide passes through the wire guide insertion hole and is located below the bracket. The first wire guide can be an arc-shaped tube.

[0149] refer to Figures 34-35 and Figure 23 The machine body is provided with a wire guide groove 123 for adapting the wires. The wire guide groove is set along the moving direction of the elastic mechanism and can be located on the front plate 121 of the machine body. A baffle plate 84 is provided at the wire guide groove 123. A second wire guide member 85 is provided on the top of the baffle plate. A second wire guide cavity 851 is provided in the second wire guide member. The wire between the machine head and the machine body is set in the first wire guide cavity 831 and the second wire guide cavity 851. The second wire guide member moves synchronously with the first wire guide member. The second wire guide member moves synchronously with the baffle plate.

[0150] In some embodiments of this application, the cooking machine 100 may also include a power converter for converting household electricity into the electricity required for the cooking machine 100 to operate.

[0151] In some embodiments of this application, the cooking machine 100 further includes a camera and a camera mounting base, the camera mounting base being mounted on the housing. The camera is fixed to the camera mounting base. By setting up the camera, the cooking machine 100 can automatically recognize information about the food being cooked, and placing the camera on the mounting base ensures that the camera is fixed and stable.

[0152] In some embodiments of this application, magnets are respectively provided on the head and the upper shell of the machine. When the head moves to a certain position, the magnet on the head and the magnet on the body are opposite to each other and generate a magnetic force that attracts each other, so that the position of the head relative to the body is fixed and the head and the bracket will not move to the top of the shell due to the pressure of the steam injection pipe on the spring, so that the position of the head is relatively stable.

[0153] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figures 27-30The cooking appliance also includes a vent cap 81 connected to the bottom of the elastic mechanism. The vent cap 81 is sleeved on the outside of the steam injection pipe and connected to the bottom of the elastic mechanism. The vent cap 81 includes a flared cylinder 811 and a pressure cap 812 sleeved on the outer wall of the flared cylinder. The top of the flared cylinder 811 is connected to the elastic mechanism. Specifically, the flared cylinder is connected to the first outer shell. The bottom of the flared cylinder is used to flare the lid of the cooking container when inserted into it. The vent cap also includes an outlet cap that covers the top of the pressure cap and whose one end is connected to the outer wall of the flared cylinder. Steam hood 813 and pressure cap define a steam outlet passage 8131 located between them. The end of the steam outlet passage away from the flared cylinder is open. The side wall of the flared cylinder 811 is provided with a steam vent hole 8111 to connect the steam outlet passage with the inner space of the flared cylinder. After the vent cap 81 moves to the point where the pressure cap abuts against the lid of the cooking container, the steam in the cooking container enters the inner space of the flared cylinder, enters the steam outlet passage through the vent hole 8111, and then exits from the open end of the steam outlet passage. This can collect the steam in the cooking container and discharge it outside the cooking container.

[0154] The exhaust cover 81 also includes a second limiting plate 814 disposed inside the flared cylinder and connected to the side of the exhaust port near the top of the flared cylinder. The second limiting plate is used to limit the position of the elastic mechanism, and the second limiting plate 814 is provided with a clearance hole to avoid the steam injection pipe 5.

[0155] The bottom end of the second limiting plate 814 is provided with a flared spike 815 for piercing the lid of the cooking container. The bottom end face and the side end face of the flared spike 815 are set at an acute angle to form a pointed tip 8151 facing the bottom end of the flared cylinder. The flared spike can expand the piercing range of the lid of the cooking container, making it easier for the bottom end of the flared cylinder to be inserted into the cooking container and to collect the steam inside the cooking container.

[0156] The flaring spikes can be multiple, with the top end of the bottom face of one flaring spike connected to the bottom end of the flaring cylinder, allowing the bottom face of the flaring spike to act as a guide, facilitating the insertion of the bottom end of the flaring cylinder into the cooking container. Multiple flaring spikes can be arranged around the central axis of the flaring cylinder.

[0157] The bottom end of the second limiting plate 814 is provided with a guide cylinder 818 located inside the flared bar. The guide cylinder is sleeved on the steam injection pipe and divides the space below the flared cylinder into a guide space 816 located inside the guide cylinder and a steam collection space 817 located between the guide cylinder and the flared cylinder. This makes the space where the steam injection pipe is set independent of the steam outflow path in the cooking container, reducing the degree of contamination of the steam injection pipe by steam. The steam collection space 817 is connected to the steam outlet channel through the steam exhaust hole.

[0158] The outer wall of the guide tube 815 can be connected to one end of the flared barb, and the central axis of the guide tube intersects the straight line in the direction of extension of the flared barb.

[0159] The top of the second limiting plate 814 is recessed towards the bottom to form a recess 8141. A second sealing ring 819 is provided in the recess. When the flared cylinder is connected to the elastic mechanism, the second sealing ring is sandwiched between the second limiting plate and the elastic mechanism. Specifically, the second sealing ring is sandwiched between the second limiting plate and the bottom cover.

[0160] The elastic mechanism is provided with a third limiting part 3125 on its outer side wall. The third limiting part is provided on the outer side wall of the first housing. The top of the flared cylinder is provided with a fourth limiting part connected to the third limiting part. The fourth limiting part includes a third clearance notch 8112 starting from the top of the flared cylinder and a first limiting hole 8113 connected to the third clearance notch and located on one side of the third clearance notch. The third limiting part may have at least one pair, and the paired third limiting parts are arranged opposite each other. The third limiting part may be a limiting protrusion. The number and setting position of the fourth limiting parts are adapted to the third limiting parts. When there are multiple fourth limiting parts, the first limiting holes of the multiple fourth limiting parts are located on the same side of the third clearance notch.

[0161] During the connection process between the elastic mechanism and the flared cylinder, the third limiting part is first aligned with the third clearance notch, the flared cylinder is then fitted onto the elastic mechanism with the third limiting part located within the third clearance notch and aligned with the first limiting hole, and the flared cylinder is rotated to position the third limiting part within the first limiting hole to limit the flared cylinder onto the elastic mechanism.

[0162] The cover 812 includes a cover plate body 8121 and a baffle 8122 connected to the outer edge of the cover plate body and located at the bottom of the cover plate body. The inner side of the baffle is provided with a flange 8123 facing the inner side of the cover. The top wall of the flange is provided with a water collection groove 8124 for condensation inside the cover. The flange is provided with a flange notch 81231, which is located at the lowest point of the bottom wall of the water collection groove. The bottom wall of the water collection groove has a highest point located on the side of the flange notch, and gradually decreases from the highest point of the bottom wall towards the end of the bottom wall of the water collection groove near the flange notch.

[0163] The notch on the flange is located on the side of the flange closest to the fuselage. The flange and the notch are located above the base.

[0164] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figures 31-33 The cooking machine also includes a water tray 82, which is located at the placement position 111. The placement position has a water tray placement groove 1111, and the water tray 82 is placed in the water tray placement groove. The water tray is located below the flange notch to receive water flowing out of the water collection tank.

[0165] The water receiving tray includes a water storage box 821 with an open top and a drain cover 822 covering the top of the water storage box and having a drain hole 8221 thereon. The drain cover 822 includes a drain cover body 8222 on its top and a connecting plate 8223 connected to the bottom of the drain cover body. The connecting plate has a fourth connecting part, and the inner side wall of the water storage box has a fifth connecting part that is adapted to the fourth connecting part. The first connecting part and the second connecting part are connected. The fourth connecting part cannot be a slot, and the fifth connecting part can be a protrusion. The fourth connecting part and the fifth connecting part are engaged.

[0166] A positioning post 1112 may be provided on the bottom wall of the water receiving tray placement groove, and a positioning hole 8211 adapted to the positioning post 1112 is provided at the bottom of the water receiving tray. The positioning hole is located at the bottom of the water storage box 821.

[0167] In some embodiments of this patent, a control module is also included. This control module has preset cooking information for various items. After the item is selected, the cooking machine can cook according to the preset information without human intervention. Specifically, the control module can be mounted on a control board.

[0168] The cooking machine 100 also includes an information acquisition module for obtaining information about the items. It should be noted that the items here can be instant noodles. Item information includes the item's category, weight, manufacturer, and types of ingredients.

[0169] The information acquisition module can acquire item information by scanning a code, taking a photo, speaking, or using a mobile terminal. The acquisition methods are diverse, easy to configure according to user needs, and applicable to a wide range of users.

[0170] When information is acquired via QR code scanning, the information acquisition module can be a camera capable of scanning QR codes. When acquired via photo taking, the information acquisition module can be a camera capable of taking photos. When acquired via voice, the information acquisition module can be a microphone, in which case the microphone needs to be configured on the cooking machine 100. When acquired via a mobile terminal, the cooking machine 100 casing must be equipped with a mobile terminal or the mobile terminal must be compatible with the cooking machine 100, allowing the item information to be input into the mobile terminal.

[0171] When acquiring information via QR code scanning, photo capture, or voice command, the control module can directly connect to the camera and microphone for acquisition. When acquiring information via a mobile terminal, the mobile terminal can connect to the control module via Bluetooth to transmit information to the control module.

[0172] After the information acquisition module obtains the item information, the control module matches it with the preset cooking information within the item. Each item has its own preset cooking information, and once an item is determined, its preset cooking information is also determined.

[0173] After the control module completes the matching of preset cooking information, the control module can control the speaker to broadcast the cooking process of the item, which can help users understand the preparation process of the food and improve the taste of the food by following the process.

[0174] After the control module completes the matching of preset cooking information, it can prompt the user whether to start cooking via the display screen or speaker. The user can directly confirm to start cooking, or set a timer to start cooking after the timer expires. The design allows for scheduled cooking, greatly saving the user's cooking time, freeing up time and improving the user's quality of life. The user can confirm to start cooking via the knob component 7, and can also set the timer via the knob component 7, or can confirm to start cooking and set the timer via voice.

[0175] Users should note that before starting cooking, the items to be cooked need to be placed in the cooking container and on the cooking machine 100. For example, with noodles, the packaging needs to be opened and the noodles and seasonings to be added need to be placed in the cooking container.

[0176] The cooking appliance 100 also includes a temperature acquisition unit, which is used to detect the temperature inside the cooking container. The temperature acquisition unit can be a temperature sensor, capable of timely temperature detection for temperature acquisition or to control the coordinated operation of other modules.

Claims

1. A steam cooking machine, characterized in that, include: The housing has a cavity inside and includes a base and a body connected to the top of the base. The top of the base has a placement position for placing a cooking container, and the placement position is located on one side of the body. A steam generator is located inside the containment cavity and heats and evaporates the water entering there to produce steam, which flows out from the steam outlet of the steam generator. An elastic mechanism is provided on the side of the machine body near the placement position and above the placement position; the elastic mechanism can move in a non-horizontal direction towards or away from the placement position. The steam injection pipe has its top end inserted into the elastic mechanism from the bottom end and confined on the elastic mechanism. The steam injection pipe can move relative to the elastic mechanism towards or away from the top end of the elastic mechanism. The steam injection pipe has a steam injection chamber communicating with the steam outlet and a steam outlet hole communicating with the steam injection chamber at the bottom. The elastic mechanism includes: The flexible mechanism housing has an internal storage space. An elastic element is disposed within the placement space and connected to the steam injection pipe; As the elastic mechanism approaches the placement position, the steam injection pipe first moves with the elastic mechanism to the lid of the cooking container. The steam injection pipe pierces the lid and inserts into the cooking container. The steam injection pipe continues to move with the elastic mechanism until it comes into contact with hard food inside the cooking container. After the steam injection pipe comes into contact with the food, the elastic mechanism continues to move a certain distance closer to the placement position. As the elastic mechanism continues to move, the food hinders the movement of the steam injection pipe with the elastic mechanism and drives the steam injection pipe to move closer to the top of the elastic mechanism relative to it, compressing the elastic element. After the elastic mechanism continues to move, water is first injected into the cooking container through the steam outlet until the water level exceeds the steam outlet. Then, steam is injected into the cooking bucket through the steam outlet. After water and / or steam are injected, the cooked food softens. Under the elastic force of the elastic element, the elastic element drives the steam injection pipe to move towards the side closer to the base until the elastic element returns to its original length.

2. The steam cooking machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing of the elastic mechanism includes: The first outer shell has an internal receiving space with a top opening and a bottom wall, wherein the bottom wall has a bottom wall opening that penetrates the bottom wall. The bottom cover has a first limiting part on its outer side wall. The bottom cover is inserted into the first outer shell from the top opening of the first outer shell. The bottom cover moves to the bottom wall of the first outer shell until the first limiting part abuts against the bottom wall of the outer shell. The top cover is fixedly connected to the top of the first outer shell; The elastic element is located between the bottom cover and the top cover; the top end of the steam injection pipe is inserted into the bottom cover from the bottom end and is confined to the bottom cover; When the steam injection pipe moves closer to the top of the elastic mechanism relative to the elastic mechanism, the steam injection pipe drives the bottom cover to move towards the side closer to the top cover relative to the first outer shell, and the bottom cover compresses the elastic element; After the food softens during cooking, under the elastic force of the elastic element, the bottom cover causes the steam injection pipe to move away from the top cover relative to the first outer shell until the elastic element returns to its original length.

3. The steam cooking machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a bracket with a through hole, and the elastic mechanism is fixed in the through hole. The bracket drives the elastic mechanism to move in a non-horizontal direction toward or away from the placement position.

4. The steam cooking machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottom cover also includes a first guide portion disposed above the first limiting portion, and the elastic element is sleeved on the first guide portion and located above the first limiting portion.

5. The steam cooking machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A first water pump is disposed within the receiving cavity and is used to introduce water into the steam generator. The first water pump has an inlet for water supply and an outlet for water supply, and the outlet of the first water pump is connected to the water inlet of the steam generator. A second water pump is disposed within the receiving cavity and is used to introduce water into the steam injection cavity. The second water pump has an inlet for water supply and an outlet for water supply, and the outlet of the second water pump is connected to the steam injection cavity.

6. The steam cooking machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first guide portion has an insertion portion at its top end, and the steam cooking machine further includes: T-shaped pipe; The first water pipe has one end connected to the steam output port of the steam generator and the other end connected to one end of the tee pipe; The second water pipe has one end connected to the outlet of the second water pump and the other end connected to the other end of the tee pipe. The third water pipe has one end connected to the top of the insertion part and the other end connected to the other end of the three-way pipe. The top cover is provided with a clearance passage to avoid the third water pipe.

7. The steam cooking machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottom cover has a bottom cover channel that passes through it. The two ends of the bottom cover channel are located at the top and bottom of the bottom cover, respectively. The side wall of the bottom cover channel has a first placement groove. The side wall of the first placement groove near the bottom of the bottom cover has a side wall notch that starts from the end of the first placement groove near the bottom cover channel. The outer wall of the steam injection pipe is provided with a second limiting part that matches the notch in the side wall; During the process of installing the steam injection pipe on the bottom cover, the second limiting part of the steam injection pipe is first aligned with the side wall notch. The steam injection pipe is then inserted into the bottom cover so that the second limiting part passes through the side wall notch and is inserted into the first placement groove. The steam injection pipe is rotated so that the second limiting part is misaligned with the side wall notch. The second limiting part of the steam injection pipe is supported on the side wall of the first placement groove near the bottom end of the bottom cover.

8. The steam cooking machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cooking machine also includes a vent cover connected to the bottom of the elastic mechanism, the vent cover comprising: A flared tube having a top connected to a flexible mechanism and a bottom for flaring the lid of a cooking container; A pressure cap is fitted onto the outer wall of the flared cylinder; A steam hood is installed on top of the pressure cap, with one end connected to the outer wall of the flared cylinder. The steam hood and the pressure cap define a steam outlet channel between the pressure cap and the steam hood. The steam outlet channel communicates with the space inside the flared cylinder through a steam vent hole on the side wall of the flared cylinder. After the vent cap moves to the point where the pressure cap abuts against the lid of the cooking container, the steam inside the cooking container enters the space inside the flared cylinder and enters the steam outlet channel through the vent hole. Then, the steam is discharged from the open end of the steam outlet channel.

9. The steam cooking machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The exhaust cover also includes a second limiting plate disposed inside the flared cylinder and connected to the side of the exhaust hole near the top of the flared cylinder. The second limiting plate is provided with a clearance hole to avoid the steam injection pipe; The bottom end of the second limiting plate is provided with a flared spike for piercing the lid of the cooking container. The bottom end face and the side end face of the flared spike are set at an acute angle to form a pointed tip facing the bottom end of the flared cylinder.

10. The steam cooking machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The bottom end of the second limiting plate is provided with a guide cylinder located inside the flared bar. The guide cylinder is sleeved on the steam injection pipe and divides the space below the flared bar located on the second limiting plate into a guide space located inside the guide cylinder and a steam collection space located between the guide cylinder and the flared bar. The steam collection space is connected to the steam outlet channel through the steam exhaust hole.

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