Heating cooker

Abstract

Provided is a lightweight heating cooker having a simpler structure. This heating cooker is provided with: a pot; a housing for accommodating the pot; a heating unit that is disposed so as to face the pot and heats the pot; and a bottomed cylindrical container that accommodates an object to be cooked. A plurality of holes are formed in the bottom of the container, and the holes prevent the passage of the cooked object and allow the passage of water. The container is disposed in the pot at a cooking position in which a water storage space that is sealed apart from the plurality of holes is formed between the container and the pot. When the container is in the cooking position, the pot is heated by the heating part, a part of the water accommodated in the water accommodating space is heated by the pot and vaporized, and a part of the remaining part of the water accommodated in the water accommodating space moves into the container through the plurality of holes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heating cooker for switching a cooked food between an immersed state in which the cooked food is immersed in water and a non-immersed state separated from the water. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as such a heating cooker, there is known a heating cooker described in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses a heating cooker (rice cooker) comprising: a pot (inner pot) for storing water; a container (filter) provided in the pot and storing a cooked food (rice); a heating unit for heating the pot; and a lifting unit for lifting the container in the pot.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-38351 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The heating cooker of Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement from the viewpoint of further simplifying the structure of the heating cooker and reducing the weight of the heating cooker.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide a lightweight cooking device having a simpler structure.

[0009] Means for solving problems

[0010] The heating cooker of the present invention comprises: a pot; a shell that accommodates the pot; a heating unit that is arranged opposite to the pot and heats the pot; and a bottomed cylindrical container that accommodates food to be cooked, wherein a plurality of holes are formed at the bottom of the container, and the plurality of holes hinder the passage of the food to be cooked while allowing the passage of water. The container is arranged in the pot at a cooking position that forms a water storage space that is sealed between the pot and the container except for the plurality of holes. When the container is located at the cooking position, the pot is heated by the heating unit, a portion of the water stored in the water storage space is heated by the pot and vaporized, and a portion of the remaining water stored in the water storage space moves to the interior of the container through the plurality of holes.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the heating cooker of the present invention, it is possible to provide a lightweight heating cooker having a simpler structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 It is an exploded perspective view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state before heating.

[0015] Figure 3 Observed from above Figure 1 A perspective view of the container is shown.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified top view of the bottom of the container.

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a view showing a state where the holding member is located at the holding position.

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a view showing a state where the holding member is located at the release position.

[0019] Figure 7 Observed from below Figure 3 A perspective view of a container.

[0020] Figure 8 Observed from above Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the water guiding component shown.

[0021] Fig. 9 Observed from below Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the water guiding component shown.

[0022] Fig.10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a view showing a state in which water has entered the interior of the container.

[0023] Fig.11 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state after heating.

[0024] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of the method of using the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention and the operation.

[0025] Fig.13 It is a section through the axis of the retaining member. Figure 1 The cross section of the rice cooker Figure 2 The enlarged cross-sectional view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a state where the holding member is located at the holding position.

[0026] Fig.14It is a section through the axis of the retaining member. Figure 1 The cross section of the rice cooker Figure 2 The enlarged cross-sectional view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a state where the holding member is located at the release position.

[0027] Fig.15 This is a perspective view of a container in a rice cooker according to a second embodiment of the present invention as viewed from below.

[0028] Fig.16 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state before heating.

[0029] Fig.17 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state after heating.

[0030] Fig.18 This is a flowchart showing an example of a method of using the rice cooker according to the third embodiment of the present invention and an operation.

[0031] Fig.19 is with Figure 2 The corresponding schematic cross-sectional views are diagrams showing modified examples of the water guide member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] <Foundation that forms the basis of the present invention>

[0033] The present inventors have conducted intensive studies on a heating cooker that switches a cooking food between a submerged state and a non-submerged state in order to further simplify the structure and reduce the weight of the heating cooker, and have obtained the following findings.

[0034] When using a conventional heating cooker to cook food, first, water contained in a pot is heated through the pot by a heating unit. After the water boils, the container is lowered by a lifting unit, and the food contained in the container is immersed in the boiling water. That is, the food is immersed in water. After the food is boiled for a certain period of time, before the water in the pot is completely used up, the lifting unit raises the container. By the rise of the container, the food contained in the container rises from the water in the pot and is steamed by the steam generated by the water. That is, the food is not immersed in water. In this way, in the conventional heating cooker, the immersed state and the non-immersed state of the food are changed by raising and lowering the container in the pot using the lifting unit.

[0035] However, in the conventional heating cooker, in order to raise and lower the container, the lifting unit is composed of a complicated mechanism including an actuator, etc. As a result, the structure of the heating cooker becomes complicated and the weight of the heating cooker becomes heavy.

[0036] Therefore, the inventors conducted in-depth research and found that by utilizing the vaporization of water stored in the pot, the water level in the pot can be raised and lowered, and the immersed state and non-immersed state of the food to be cooked can be changed. Since a lifting unit for raising and lowering the container is not required, the structure of the heating cooker that changes the immersed state and non-immersed state of the food to be cooked can be made simpler and lighter. Based on this new insight, the inventors completed the present invention.

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the following embodiments do not limit the present invention. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, substantially the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0038] In the following, for convenience of description, terms indicating directions such as "up" and "down" are used assuming a state in normal use, but these terms are not intended to limit the use state of the heating cooker of the present invention.

[0039] <First Embodiment>

[0040] In the first embodiment and the second and third embodiments described below, the heating cooker of the present invention is a rice cooker. In addition, the food to be cooked is rice. Figure 1 The overall structure of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 It is an exploded perspective view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, the rice cooker of the first embodiment comprises: a housing 1 having a bottom and a cylindrical shape, in which a pot storage portion 1a is formed; and a pot 2 which is stored in the pot storage portion 1a. The pot 2 stores water when cooking rice. The pot 2 has a bottom 21 and a side portion 22 extending upward from the edge of the bottom 21. A first flange portion 23 protruding outward and a second flange portion 24 extending from the outer edge of the first flange portion 23 and protruding outward further above the first flange portion 23 are provided at the upper edge of the side portion 22. The pot 2 contains: a container 3 having a bottom and a cylindrical shape, which stores rice as a food to be cooked; and a cylindrical water guide member 4, which guides the water stored in the pot 2 to the inside of the container 3. The opening 33 of the container 3 is circular in this embodiment and can be closed by a lid 7. Two retaining members 5 and a water tank 6 are installed in the container 3. The water tank 6 is configured to receive dew generated on the inner surface of the lid 7 when cooking rice.

[0042] Next, each component will be described in more detail. Hereinafter, the case where the container 3 and the water guide member 4 are arranged in the pot 2 will be described except for the case that is specifically excluded.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 , the housing 1 is described. Figure 2 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state before heating.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, the housing 1 includes: a heating unit 11, which is opposite to the pot 2 stored in the pot storage unit 1a and heats the pot 2; and a control unit 12, which controls the operation of the heating unit 11. The heating unit 11 is arranged at the bottom of the pot storage unit 1a in a manner of contacting the bottom 21 of the pot 2, for example, and heats the water stored in the pot 2 through the pot 2. The heating unit 11 is an electrically driven heater in this embodiment, but it can also be configured to induction heat the pot 2 through a heating coil, and it can also use combustible gas to heat the pot 2 through an open flame.

[0045] The control unit 12 may only switch the operation and stop of the heating unit 11, or may further adjust the heating power of the heating unit 11. In the present embodiment, the control unit 12 is a thermal switch that cuts off the power supply to the heating unit 11 when the bottom 21 of the pot 2 reaches a predetermined temperature. However, the control unit 12 may also be a microcomputer, an integrated circuit, etc. that controls the heating power of the heating unit 11 according to a preset process.

[0046] Reference Figure 3 to Figure 7 , the container 3 and the retaining component 5 are described. Figure 3 Observed from above Figure 1 A perspective view of the container is shown. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified top view of the bottom of the container. Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a view showing a state where the holding member is located at the holding position. Figure 6 yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a view showing a state where the holding member is located at the release position. Figure 7 Observed from below Figure 3 A perspective view of a container.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, the container 3 has a bottom 31 and a side portion 32 extending upward from the edge of the bottom 31. The upper edge of the side portion 32 forms an opening 33 of the container 3.

[0048] A plurality of holes 34 are formed in the bottom 31 of the container 3. Each hole 34 blocks the passage of the food stored in the container 3, while allowing the passage of water. The opening area of ​​the hole 34 is configured so that when the water stored in the pot 2 is heated and vaporized by the heating unit 11, the passage of gas generated by vaporization is suppressed, and the water storage space S1 (see Figure 2 )'s air pressure rises.

[0049] The minimum width of the hole 34 is smaller than the minimum width of the rice stored in the container 3. This can prevent the rice from falling through the hole 34 and coming out of the container 3. In addition, the maximum length of the hole 34 is greater than the maximum length of the rice stored in the container 3.

[0050] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, each hole portion 34 is substantially rectangular, and both ends in the length direction are chamfered. In this case, the minimum width of the hole portion 34 refers to the length in the short side direction, and the maximum length of the hole portion 34 refers to the length in the long side direction.

[0051] In this embodiment, three holes 34 constitute one set of holes 34, and multiple sets of holes 34 are provided. Figure 3 As shown, the plurality of groups of holes 34 are radially arranged from the center of the bottom 31 of the container 3. Figure 4 As shown, three holes 34 constituting a set of holes 34 are arranged radially at intervals of 120 degrees from a central point. The three holes 34 can be connected, for example, by overlapping the ends of the three holes 34 at the central point.

[0052] like Figure 5 As shown, at the upper edge of the container 3, a first groove 35 facing upward is formed by bending the side portion 32 outwardly into a U shape. Moreover, at the outer side of the first groove 35, a second groove 37 facing upward is formed by a U-shaped extension portion 36 branching from the upper edge of the container 3.

[0053] An annular sealing member 9 is mounted on the first groove portion 35. The sealing member 9 is provided so as to close the gap between the side portion 22 of the pot 2 and the side portion 32 of the container 3. In the present embodiment, the sealing member 9 is a gasket, and closes the gap by contacting with the upper surface of the first flange portion 23 of the pot 2.

[0054] like Figure 7 As shown, the second groove portion 37 is provided with a means for holding the holding member 5 (see Figure 1 ) is mounted on the mounting portion 38 of the container 3. In the present embodiment, two mounting portions 38 are provided for one holding member 5.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the holding member 5 includes a main body 51 and two shaft portions 52 mounted on the mounting portion 38 of the container 3. In the present embodiment, the mounting portion 38 is configured as a bearing portion receiving the shaft portions 52. By mounting the shaft portions 52 on the mounting portion 38, the holding member 5 can be moved around the tangent direction of the opening 33 of the container 3 at least within a range of Figure 5 The holding position shown is the same as Figure 6 Rotate between the release positions shown.

[0056] Fig.13It is a section through the axis of the retaining member. Figure 1 The cross section of the rice cooker Figure 2 The enlarged cross-sectional view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a state where the holding member is located at the holding position. Fig.14 It is a section through the axis of the retaining member. Figure 1 The cross section of the rice cooker Figure 2 The enlarged cross-sectional view of the Z1 region in FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a state where the holding member is located at the release position.

[0057] like Fig.13 As shown, when the container 3 is located at the cooking position, the mounting portion 38 of the container 3 (see Figure 7 ) and the shaft portion 52 of the retaining member 5 supported by the mounting portion 38 are located above the second flange portion 24 of the pot 2.

[0058] like Figure 5 As shown, when the holding member 5 is in the holding position, a portion of the main body 51 is located below the second flange portion 24 of the pot 2 and contacts upward with the lower surface of the second flange portion 24. By this contact, the upward movement of the container 3 relative to the pot 2 is blocked, and the container 3 is held in the cooking position. That is, the relative position of the container 3 with respect to the pot 2 is maintained.

[0059] On the other hand, Figure 6 As shown, when the holding member 5 is in the release position, the main body 51 does not contact the lower surface of the second flange portion 24, and the container 3 can be moved upward. That is, when the holding member 5 is in the release position, the container 3 can be taken in and out relative to the pot 2.

[0060] In addition, holding member 5 is not limited to above-mentioned structure as long as can be held in the cooking position of container 3. In addition, for example, when the cooked object in container 3 itself or container 3 is heavy enough and container 3 does not move upward in cooking, holding member 5 may not be provided.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, the container 3 is arranged in the pot 2 in such a manner that a water storage space S1 is formed between the container 3 and the pot 2, which is sealed except for the plurality of holes 34. The position of the container 3 when the water storage space S1 is sealed except for the plurality of holes 34 is referred to as a cooking position. In the present embodiment, the gap between the side portion 22 of the pot 2 and the side portion 32 of the container 3 is blocked by the contact between the sealing member 9 of the container 3 and the first flange portion 23 of the pot 2, thereby forming the water storage space S1 which is sealed except for the plurality of holes 34. That is, in the present embodiment, the container 3 is located at the cooking position when the sealing member 9 is in contact with the first flange portion 23.

[0062] The water-conducting member 4 is disposed in the water storage space S1. That is, the water-conducting member 4 is disposed below the container 3 in the pot 2. The water-conducting member 4 is cylindrical and extends in the vertical direction, and has an upper opening 41 and a lower opening 42. The upper opening 41 surrounds all the holes 34 of the container 3 in a plan view.

[0063] In this embodiment, the water guide member 4 is funnel-shaped as a whole, and is composed of a tapered portion 43 having a tapered shape that gradually tapers downward from an upper opening portion 41, and a tube portion 44 extending between the lower end of the tapered portion 43 and the lower opening portion 42. The tube portion 44 extends in the up-down direction and has a constant diameter over the entire length. In the water guide member 4 of this structure, the area of ​​the lower opening portion 42 when viewed from above is smaller than the area of ​​the upper opening portion 41 when viewed from above.

[0064] Figure 8 Observed from above Figure 1 The three-dimensional diagram of the water guide component shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown, a connection hole 45 is formed on the upper edge 48 of the water guide member 4, and the connection hole 45 is configured to receive the protrusion 39 (see Figure 7 ). The protrusion 39 is received by the connection hole 45, and the water guide member 4 is connected to the outer surface of the container 3. At this time, the upper edge 48 of the water guide member 4 can be connected to the bottom 31 of the container 3.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the water storage space S1 is divided by the water guide member 4 into a first space S11 as the interior of the water guide member 4 and a second space S12 which is sealed except for the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4. The first space S11 connects the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4 with the hole 34 of the container 3. In the present embodiment, the first space S11 is sealed except for the lower opening 42 and the hole 34.

[0066] The second space S12 is provided with a cylindrical peripheral wall portion 8 that surrounds the water guide member 4 in a plan view. Fig. 9 Observed from below Figure 1 The three-dimensional diagram of the water guide component shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the peripheral wall portion 8 has a closed upper edge portion 81 surrounding the water guide member 4 and a lower opening portion 82. In this embodiment, the peripheral wall portion 8 is formed integrally with the water guide member 4. The upper edge portion 81 is formed by contacting the outer surface of the tapered portion 43 (at Figure 2 The downward facing surface in the middle is connected and closed without opening.

[0067] In the present embodiment, the lower opening 82 surrounds the entire heating unit 11 in a plan view, but it is sufficient to surround at least a portion of the heating unit 11 in a plan view. Figure 2As shown, the lower opening 82 is located below the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4. In other words, the lowermost portion of the lower opening 82 of the peripheral wall 8 is located below the lowermost portion of the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4.

[0068] The second space S12 includes an inner wall space S21 surrounded by the water guide member 4 and the peripheral wall portion 8 , and an outer wall space S22 located outside the peripheral wall portion 8 .

[0069] like Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, a water-passing opening 46 for connecting the outer wall space S22 with the inner part (i.e., the first space S11) of the water-conducting member 4 is formed in the portion of the tapered portion 43 facing the outer wall space S22. The water-passing opening 46 is configured to move the water from the outer wall space S22 to the inner part of the water-conducting member 4 when the water-conducting member 4 is immersed in the water contained in the pot 2. The water-passing opening 46 penetrates in the up-down direction in the present embodiment, but may also penetrate in a direction intersecting the up-down direction depending on the shape of the water-conducting member 4.

[0070] A vent portion 47 for communicating the gas between the inner wall space S21 and the interior of the water guide member 4 (i.e., the first space S11) is formed in the portion of the tapered portion 43 facing the inner wall space S21. The vent portion 47 is configured to discharge the gas in the inner wall space S21 to the interior of the water guide member 4 when the water guide member 4 is immersed in the water contained in the pot 2. The vent portion 47 is provided at a height where the gas is not immersed in the water contained in the pot 2 when the water guide member 4 is provided in the pot 2 in order to achieve the above-mentioned venting.

[0071] The exhaust hole portion 47 is preferably small enough to increase the air pressure of the wall inner space S21 when the water stored in the pot 2 is heated. For example, the opening area of ​​the exhaust hole portion 47 is smaller than the opening area of ​​the water-passing opening portion 46. In addition, the opening area of ​​the exhaust hole portion 47 may be smaller than the opening area of ​​one hole portion 34. For example, when the diameter of the upper edge portion 48 of the water guide member 4 is 22 cm, the diameter of the exhaust hole portion 47 is 2 mm.

[0072] Next, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 10 to Figure 12 , an example of the method of using the rice cooker of this embodiment and the operation are described. Fig.10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a view showing a state in which water has entered the interior of the container. Fig.11 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state after heating. Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of the method of using the rice cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention and the operation.

[0073] like Figure 2 As shown, first, a container 3 and a water guide member 4 are provided on the pot 2 stored in the pot storage portion 1a of the housing 1. Fig.12 Then, the water stored in the water storage space S1 is supplied to the water storage space S1 through the hole 34 of the container 3 ( Fig.12 In step St2 in the above description, when water is supplied through the hole 34, the water guide member 4 has the tapered portion 43, so that water can be prevented from being retained on the inner surface of the water guide member 4. Therefore, the possibility of insufficient water stored in the water storage space S1 can be reduced. In addition, the water can also be put into the pot 2 before the container 3 and the water guide member 4 are set. That is, Fig.12 The step S2 shown may be performed before the step S1.

[0074] The connection between the container 3 and the water guide member 4 may be performed before or after the container 3 and the water guide member 4 are placed in the pot 2. Hereinafter, a case where the container 3 and the water guide member 4 connected to each other are placed in the pot 2 containing water will be described.

[0075] When setting the container 3, hold the extension 36 of the container 3 with both hands, and push up the main body 51 of the holding member 5 with your fingers to rotate and move it to the Fig.14 The holding member 5 does not contact the second flange portion 24 of the pot 2 when it is in the released position. That is, the container 3 can be placed relative to the pot 2.

[0076] After the container 3 is placed at the cooking position, when the finger is removed from the main body 51 of the holding member 5, the holding member 5 rotates around the shaft 52 under the action of gravity, and is arranged at Fig.13 When the holding member 5 is in the holding position, it contacts the lower surface of the second flange portion 24 upward. As a result, the upward movement of the container 3 is suppressed, and the container 3 is held in the cooking position. Since the rotation of the holding member 5 from the release position to the holding position occurs automatically, the container 3 can be more reliably held in the cooking position.

[0077] When the water guide member 4 is immersed in the water in the pot 2, the gas in the wall inner space S21 is discharged through the exhaust hole portion 47 (see Fig. 9 ) is discharged into the interior of the water guide member 4. By this discharge, even if the upper edge portion 81 of the peripheral wall portion 8 is closed, water can enter the wall inner space S21.

[0078] However, when the water guide member 4 is rapidly immersed in water, the gas in the wall space S21 cannot be fully discharged, and the water in the pot 2 is sometimes pushed away by the gas in the wall space S21. The pushed away water not only enters the interior of the water guide member 4 through the lower opening 42, but also enters the wall space S22 from the bottom of the peripheral wall 8 and flows upward. At this time, part of the water entering the wall space S22 flows out through the water opening 46 (see Figure 8 ) is guided to the interior of the water guiding component 4.

[0079] like Figure 2 As shown, when the container 3 and the water guide member 4 are installed, the water storage space S1 is sealed except for the hole 34 of the container 3. At this time, the water level of the water storage space S1 ( Figure 2 The water level is higher than the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4 and lower than the bottom 31 of the container 3. That is, the rice (not shown) stored in the container 3 is in a non-submerged state separated from the water. In the present embodiment, the water level is higher than the lower opening 82 of the peripheral wall portion 8.

[0080] Next, the heating of the heating unit 11 is started ( Fig.12 The water stored in the water storage space S1 is heated and vaporized by the pot 2, and the gas generated by the vaporization is collected in the wall space S21 ( Fig.12 The lower opening 82 of the peripheral wall 8 surrounds the heating portion 11 in a plan view, so the gas generated by vaporization is surrounded by the peripheral wall 8 in the wall inner space S21. When the gas is collected in the wall inner space S21, the gas generates buoyancy for the container 3 and the water guide member 4. However, since the holding member 5 holds the relative position of the container 3 with respect to the pot 2, the container 3 and the water guide member 4 do not move upward, and the container 3 is held in the cooking position.

[0081] In the wall space S21, the gas pressure rises due to the collection of gas, such as Fig.10 At this time, the water stored in the wall space S21 enters the first space S11 through the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4, and enters the interior of the container 3 through the hole 34. In this way, the water level in the container 3 rises, and the rice stored in the container 3 becomes submerged ( Fig.12 Step St5 in ).

[0082] Since the rice before contacting the water is not in contact with the heated pot 2, the rice is in a state of lower temperature than the water heated by contacting the pot 2. Therefore, although the water entering the container 3 is heated by the pot 2, it is cooled by contact with the rice. When the temperature of the water decreases, the gas in the wall space S21 is liquefied and the air pressure in the wall space S21 decreases, and at least a part of the water entering the container 3 flows back to the water storage space S1. That is, the water level in the container 3 rises as the water enters the container 3, and then temporarily turns to fall. Through this water level change, the rice that is unevenly arranged in the container 3 (for example, rice arranged in a mountain shape) can be made uniform.

[0083] The heating power of the heating unit 11 is maintained constant from the time when the water enters the container 3. Therefore, the temperature of the water stored in the pot 2 rises, the air pressure of the wall space S21 rises, and the water enters the container 3 again. At this time, if the temperature difference between the water and the rice is still large, the water will flow back again. On the other hand, if the temperature difference is small, the water will continue to enter the container 3 until the water level of the wall space S21 reaches the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4, or the heating of the heating unit 11 is reduced or stopped.

[0084] The heating unit 11 stops after the rice is cooked and before the water in the pot 2 completely disappears ( Fig.12 In the present embodiment, when the temperature of the bottom 21 of the pot 2 reaches a preset temperature, the thermal switch of the control unit 12 cuts off the power supply to the heating unit 11.

[0085] When the heating unit 11 stops, the temperature of the water stored in the pot 2 drops, the gas in the wall space S21 liquefies, and the water in the container 3 flows back to the water storage space. As a result, the rice stored in the container 3 is separated from the water and becomes a non-submerged state ( Fig.12 Step St7). After that, the rice is steamed by the steam (hot air) generated from the water stored in the water storage space, and the cooking of the rice is completed. In addition, the heating unit 11 may also reduce the heating power to the extent that the water in the container 3 flows back to the water storage space instead of stopping.

[0086] According to the present embodiment, as part of the water stored in the water storage space S1 is vaporized, the air pressure of the water storage space S1 increases and becomes higher than the air pressure inside the container 3. As the air pressure of the water storage space S1 increases, the unvaporized water in the water storage space S1 can be sent to the inside of the container 3 through the hole 34 of the container 3. That is, the rice stored in the container 3 can be cooked while being immersed in water.

[0087] When the gas in the water storage space S1 is cooled and liquefied, the gas pressure in the water storage space S1 decreases, and the water in the container 3 flows back to the water storage space S1 through the hole 34. Thus, the rice and water in the container 3 can be separated to achieve a non-submerged state.

[0088] According to this embodiment, by utilizing the evaporation of the water stored in the pot 2 to raise and lower the water level in the pot 2, the immersed state and non-immersed state of the rice can be changed without raising and lowering the container 3. Therefore, the structure of the rice cooker can be made simpler and lighter.

[0089] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the gas generated by vaporization does not reach the hole portion 34 of the container 3 unless it enters the first space S11 through the lower opening portion 42 of the water guide member 4, but is collected in the second space S12 which is sealed except for the lower opening portion 42 of the water guide member 4. As a result, the gas pressure of the second space S12 is higher than the gas pressure of the first space S11, and the water stored in the second space S12 enters the first space S11 through the lower opening portion 42 and is sent to the inside of the container 3 through the hole portion 34. In this way, the rice stored in the container 3 is submerged in water.

[0090] When the heating of the heating unit 11 is weakened or stopped, the gas collected in the second space S12 is liquefied and the gas pressure in the second space S12 decreases, and the water in the container 3 flows back to the second space S12 through the first space S11. In this way, the rice can be separated from the water and placed in a non-submerged state.

[0091] Therefore, by utilizing the vaporization of the water stored in the pot 2 to raise and lower the water level in the pot 2 , the submerged state and the non-submerged state of the rice can be changed without raising and lowering the container 3 .

[0092] In addition, according to the present embodiment, since the area of ​​the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4 is smaller than the area of ​​the upper opening 41, the gas collected in the second space S12 can be increased. Therefore, the gas pressure in the second space S12 can be increased more quickly, and the time for sending a certain amount of water from the water storage space S1 to the inside of the container 3 can be shortened.

[0093] In addition, according to the present embodiment, since the peripheral wall portion 8 is provided, the gas generated by vaporization can be surrounded and collected in the wall inner space S21. By surrounding the gas, the gas pressure in the wall inner space S21 can be increased more rapidly than in the second space S12 having a structure without the peripheral wall portion 8. Therefore, the time for sending a certain amount of water from the water storage space S1 to the inside of the container 3 during the period from when the water level in the wall inner space S21 reaches the lower opening 82 of the peripheral wall portion 8 can be shortened.

[0094] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the lower opening 82 of the peripheral wall 8 is located below the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4, so the water level of the wall inner space S21 reaches the lower opening 42 of the water guide member 4 before the lower opening 82 of the peripheral wall 8. That is, the time for sending a certain amount of water from the water storage space S1 to the inside of the container 3 during the water sending period can be shortened.

[0095] In addition, according to the present embodiment, since the water-passing opening 46 is formed, when the water-conducting member 4 is placed on the pot 2 containing water, at least a portion of the water flowing into the wall outer space S22 can be guided to the inside of the water-conducting member 4. Thus, the possibility that the water flowing into the wall outer space S22 flows between the upper opening 41 of the water-conducting member 4 and the side portion 22 of the pot 2 and flies out of the pot 2 can be reduced.

[0096] In addition, according to the present embodiment, since the exhaust hole portion 47 is formed, when the water guide member 4 is set in the pot 2 containing water, the gas in the wall inner space S21 can be discharged to the inside of the water guide member 4. Through this discharge, the water contained in the pot 2 easily enters the wall inner space S21, and the possibility that the water level in the wall inner space S21 is lower than the desired water level can be reduced. Therefore, the water can be sent from the water storage space S1 to the inside of the container 3 more reliably.

[0097] In addition, according to the present embodiment, since the gap between the pot 2 and the side portion 32 of the container 3 is blocked by the sealing member 9, the volume of the water storage space S1 can be reduced compared to a structure in which the sealing member 9 is arranged at a higher position. As a result, when the water stored in the water storage space S1 is heated, the air pressure of the water storage space S1 can be increased rapidly, and the time for sending a certain amount of water from the water storage space S1 to the inside of the container 3 can be shortened.

[0098] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since the heating power of the heating unit 11 is maintained constant after the water enters the container 3, the temperature of the water cooled by contact with the rice can be raised again, and the water can be re-entered into the container 3. Therefore, the water level of the container 3 can be temporarily lowered and then raised, and the rice stored in the container 3 can be made uniform by the change in the water level. Therefore, the rice can be heated uniformly, and the variation in the taste and texture of the cooked rice can be reduced.

[0099] In addition, according to the present embodiment, since at least one of the holes 34 has a maximum length greater than the maximum length of the rice stored in the container 3, the possibility of the hole 34 being clogged with rice can be reduced compared to a structure in which the maximum length of the hole 34 is less than the maximum length of the rice stored in the container 3. Therefore, the movement of water between the water storage space S1 and the inside of the container 3 can be performed more reliably.

[0100] <Second Embodiment>

[0101] use Fig.15 , a rice cooker according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.15 This is a perspective view of a container in a rice cooker according to a second embodiment of the present invention as viewed from below. Fig.15 , the mounting portion 38 of the container 3 is omitted. The rice cooker of the second embodiment is different from the rice cooker of the first embodiment in that the peripheral wall portion 8 is not included.

[0102] In the rice cooker of the second embodiment, Fig.15 As shown, the container 3 has a tubular water guide member 4 extending downward from the bottom 31. That is, the water guide member 4 is not detachable from the container 3 but is integrated with the container 3.

[0103] The cylindrical water guide member 4 has an annular upper edge portion 48 as a connection portion connected to the bottom 31 of the container 3 and a lower opening portion 42. In a plan view, the upper edge portion 48 surrounds all the hole portions 34 of the container 3. The water guide member 4 has a constant diameter over the entire length from the upper edge portion 48 to the lower opening portion 42. That is, in a plan view, the area of ​​the portion surrounded by the upper edge portion 48 is the same or substantially the same as the area of ​​the lower opening portion 42.

[0104] According to the present embodiment, the water stored in the water storage space S1 is heated by the heating unit 11 through the pot 2 and vaporized. At this time, the water storage space S1 is fluidically connected to the outside of the water storage space S1 only through the hole 34, and the hole 34 limits the amount of gas discharged to the outside of the water storage space S1. As a result, the gas generated by vaporization is easily accumulated in the water storage space S1. The gas accumulated in the water storage space S1 pushes the water stored in the water storage space S1 into the inside of the container 3 through the hole 34. Therefore, water can enter the inside of the container 3, so that the rice in the container 3 is immersed in water.

[0105] <Third Embodiment>

[0106] use Figure 16 to Figure 18 , a rice cooker according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.16 and Fig.17 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a rice cooker according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Fig.16 Indicates the rice cooker before heating. Fig.17 Indicates the rice cooker after heating. Fig.18 This is a flowchart showing an example of a method of using the rice cooker according to the third embodiment of the present invention and an operation.

[0107] The rice cooker of the third embodiment is different from the rice cooker of the first embodiment in that the water guide member 4A is not provided with the exhaust hole portion 47 (see Fig. 9).

[0108] Reference Figure 16 to Figure 18 , an example of the method of using the rice cooker of this embodiment and the operation are described.

[0109] like Fig.16 As shown, first, a container 3 and a water guide member 4 are provided on the pot 2 stored in the pot storage portion 1a of the housing 1. Fig.18 Step St11 in the process).

[0110] Next, the water stored in the water storage space S1 is supplied to the water storage space S1 through the hole 34 of the container 3 ( Fig.18 At this time, the water level in the pot 2 is the same as that in the above-mentioned method of use (refer to Figure 2 ) is different from the upper surface of the rice (not shown) stored in the container 3. That is, the rice stored in the container 3 is in a water-soaked state at the time before heating.

[0111] The water fills the first space S11 inside the water guide member 4 and flows through the water opening 46 (see Fig. 9 ) fills the outer wall space S22. In addition, the water enters the inner wall space S21 through the lower opening 42 and the lower opening 82 of the peripheral wall 8.

[0112] The wall inner space S21 includes a gas collection space S23 which is a space in the wall inner space S21 which is above the lower opening portion 42 in the up-down direction. That is, the water storage space S1 includes the gas collection space S23. When the water enters the wall inner space S21, since the exhaust hole portion 47 is not provided in the water guide member 4A, the gas in the gas collection space S23 will not be discharged to the outside of the gas collection space S23, unlike the above-described method of use. Therefore, the water level of the wall inner space S21 will not rise to a position above the lower opening portion 42. As a result, the gas collection space S23 is filled with gas before heating.

[0113] The water may be added to the pot 2 before or after the container 3 and the water guide member 4A are placed. However, when the water is added before the container 3 and the water guide member 4A are placed, the container 3 and the water guide member 4A sink to the cooking position while resisting the buoyancy of the gas filling the gas collection space S23, and it is difficult to place the container 3 and the water guide member 4A in the cooking position. Therefore, considering the convenience of the rice cooker for the user, it is preferred to add water after the container 3 and the water guide member 4A are placed.

[0114] Next, the heating of the heating unit 11 is started ( Fig.18During the heating period, the water stored in the water storage space S1 is heated by the pot 2 to boil and vaporize. At this time, part of the water stored in the water storage space S1 is pushed out of the water storage space S1 by the bubbles generated by the boiling, and moves to the inside of the container 3 through the hole 34 ( Fig.18 In addition, the bubbles may move to the inside of the container 3 through the hole 34 in the opposite direction of the movement, thereby the water inside the container 3 moves to the water storage space S1 through the hole 34. That is, the movement of water from the water storage space S1 to the inside of the container 3 and the movement of water from the inside of the container 3 to the water storage space S1 may occur simultaneously.

[0115] During heating by the heating unit 11 , the water level inside the container 3 may rise, or may be maintained at the same or substantially the same water level as before heating due to the mutual movement of water between the water storage space S1 and the inside of the container 3 .

[0116] In addition, the gas in the gas collecting space S23 is also heated via the pot 2 and the water.

[0117] When the heating unit 11 stops ( Fig.18 In step St15), the volume of the gas in the gas collection space S23 decreases due to the decrease in the temperature of the gas. Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 1 , the water in the container 3 is introduced into the gas collecting space S23 via the first space S11 and the outer wall space S22. As a result, the rice stored in the container 3 is separated from the water and becomes a non-immersed state ( Fig.18 Step St16).

[0118] Thereafter, the rice is steamed by steam (hot air) generated from the water stored in the water storage space, and cooking of the rice is completed.

[0119] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and can be implemented in various other forms. For example, in the above, the heating cooker is a rice cooker, and the food to be cooked is rice, but the present invention is not limited to this. The food to be cooked can be any food that is boiled in heated water and then taken out of the water, for example, vegetables or noodles. The heating cooker can cook rice and other ingredients, and can also cook ingredients other than rice.

[0120] In the above description, the connection between the container 3 and the water guide member 4 is performed by inserting the protrusion 39 of the container 3 into the connection hole 45 of the water guide member 4, but the connection may be performed by other methods. The container 3 may not be connected to the water guide member 4, but may be placed on the water guide member 4 in the pot 2. Alternatively, the container 3 may be integrated with the water guide member 4.

[0121] In addition, in the above description, the sealing member 9 is arranged in the first groove portion 35 of the container 3, but it is not limited to this as long as it can block the gap between the side portion 22 of the pot 2 and the side portion 32 of the container 3. For example, the sealing member 9 can be arranged around the bottom 31 of the container 3 when the container 3 is set in the pot 2 to block the gap. In this case, it is possible to suppress water and gas from entering the gap, and the volume of the water storage space S1 can be further reduced.

[0122] Furthermore, in the above description, the water guide member 4 has the tapered portion 43 which tapers downward from the upper opening portion 41 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. Fig.19 is with Figure 2 The corresponding schematic cross-sectional view is a diagram showing a modified example of the water guide member. Fig.19 In the example shown, the upper edge 81 of the peripheral wall 8 is connected to the bottom 31 of the container 3. The water guide member 4 includes a tube portion 44 and a top surface portion 43A extending between the upper end portion of the tube portion 44 and the inner surface of the peripheral wall 8 and constituting the top surface of the wall inner space S21. The top surface portion 43A is inclined downward from the upper end portion of the tube portion 44 as it approaches the peripheral wall 8.

[0123] In the above description, the peripheral wall portion 8 is integrated with the water guide member 4 and extends downward from the tapered portion 43, but it may be detachable from the water guide member 4. The peripheral wall portion 8 may be configured as long as it can form a space capable of collecting gas between the peripheral wall portion 8 and the water guide member 4. For example, the upper edge portion 81 of the peripheral wall portion 8 may be connected to the bottom 31 of the container 3 instead of being connected to the water guide member 4.

[0124] In addition, by appropriately combining arbitrary embodiments from the above-mentioned various embodiments, the effects possessed by each can be exhibited.

[0125] The present invention has been fully described in association with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Various modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations should be understood to be included therein as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention of the appended claims.

[0126] <Overview of Embodiment>

[0127] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a heating cooker is provided, comprising: a pot; a shell that accommodates the pot; a heating unit that is arranged opposite to the pot and heats the pot; and a bottomed cylindrical container that accommodates food to be cooked, wherein a plurality of holes are formed at the bottom of the container, the plurality of holes obstructing the passage of the food to be cooked but allowing the passage of water, the container being arranged in the pot at a cooking position that forms a water storage space that is sealed between the pot and the shell except for the plurality of holes, and when the container is located at the cooking position, the pot is heated by the heating unit, a portion of the water stored in the water storage space is heated by the pot and vaporized, and a portion of the remaining water stored in the water storage space moves to the interior of the container through the plurality of holes.

[0128] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a heating cooker as described in the first aspect is provided, wherein the heating cooker has a cylindrical water-guiding component, which is arranged in the water receiving space and guides the water received in the water receiving space to the multiple hole portions. The water-guiding component extends in the up-down direction and has an upper opening portion and a lower opening portion, and the upper opening portion surrounds the multiple hole portions when viewed from above along the up-down direction. The water-guiding component is configured to divide the water receiving space into a first space and a second space, the first space includes an internal space of the water-guiding component, so that the multiple hole portions are liquid-connected with the lower opening portion, and the second space is sealed except for the lower opening portion.

[0129] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a heating cooker as described in the second aspect, wherein the water guide component has a tapered portion, which is a tapered shape that gradually tapers downward from the upper opening portion, and when viewed from above, the area of ​​the lower opening portion is smaller than the area of ​​the upper opening portion.

[0130] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a heating cooker as described in the second aspect or the third aspect is provided, wherein the heating cooker has a cylindrical peripheral wall portion, the peripheral wall portion is arranged in the water storage space, and surrounds the water guiding component when viewed from above, the peripheral wall portion has an upper edge portion that surrounds the water guiding component and is closed, and a lower opening portion, the heating portion is arranged to be surrounded by the lower opening portion of the peripheral wall portion when viewed from above, and an intra-wall space is formed between the peripheral wall portion and the water guiding component.

[0131] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the cooking device according to the fourth aspect, wherein when the container is located at the cooking position, the lowest portion of the lower opening of the peripheral wall is located lower than the lowest portion of the lower opening of the water guide member.

[0132] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a heating cooker as described in the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect is provided, wherein an upper edge portion of the peripheral wall portion is connected to the outer surface of the water guiding component and is closed, and a water passage opening portion is formed in the water guiding component, and the water passage opening portion is used to move the water contained in the pot from the space outside the peripheral wall portion to the inside of the water guiding component when the water guiding component is arranged in the pot containing water.

[0133] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a heating cooker as described in the sixth aspect is provided, wherein a vent portion is formed in the water guiding component, and the vent portion is used to discharge the gas in the wall space to the interior of the water guiding component when the water guiding component is arranged in the pot containing water, and the opening area of ​​the vent portion is smaller than the opening area of ​​the water passing opening portion.

[0134] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the cooking device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, comprising a sealing member that closes a gap between the pan and a side portion of the container.

[0135] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a heating cooker as described in any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein when the container is located at the cooking position, after the water stored in the water storage space enters the interior of the container, the heating unit maintains the heating force constant.

[0136] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the cooking device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the food to be cooked is rice, and the plurality of holes have a minimum width that is smaller than a minimum width of the rice stored in the container.

[0137] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided the cooking device according to the tenth aspect, wherein at least one hole portion among the plurality of hole portions has a maximum length greater than the maximum length of the meter.

[0138] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the cooking device according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the cooking device includes a holding member that holds the container at the cooking position.

[0139] Possibility of Industrial Application

[0140] The cooking device of the present invention can be a lightweight cooking device having a simpler structure, and thus can be used as a cooking device for household and commercial use.

[0141] Description of Reference Numerals

[0142] 1: Shell; 11: Heating part; 2: Pot; 21: Bottom; 3: Container; 31: Bottom; 32: Side; 34: Hole; 4: Water guide part; 41: Upper opening; 42: Lower opening; 43: Conical part; 46: Water opening; 47: Exhaust hole; 5: Holding part; 8: Peripheral wall; 81: Upper edge; 82: Lower opening; 9: Sealing part.

Claims

1. A heating cooker, wherein: The heating cooker comprises: pot; a housing for housing the pot; a heating unit disposed opposite to the pot and heating the pot; and A cylindrical container with a bottom for storing food to be cooked. A plurality of holes are formed at the bottom of the container, and the plurality of holes prevent the passage of the food to be cooked and allow the passage of water. The container is arranged in the pot at a cooking position so as to form a water storage space sealed with the pot except for the plurality of holes. The heating cooker is configured such that when the container is located at the cooking position, the pot is heated by the heating portion, a portion of the water stored in the water storage space is heated and vaporized by the pot, and a portion of the remaining water stored in the water storage space moves to the interior of the container through the plurality of holes.

2. The heating cooker according to claim 1, wherein: The heating cooker includes a cylindrical water guide member disposed in the water storage space and guiding the water stored in the water storage space to the plurality of holes. The water guide member extends in the up-down direction and has an upper opening and a lower opening. The upper opening surrounds the plurality of holes when viewed from above in the vertical direction. The water guide member is configured to divide the water storage space into a first space and a second space, the first space including the inner space of the water guide member, so that the plurality of holes are in liquid communication with the lower opening, and the second space is sealed except for the lower opening.

3. The heating cooker according to claim 2, wherein: The water guide member has a tapered portion, which is a tapered shape that gradually tapers downward from the upper opening portion, and in the plan view, the area of ​​the lower opening portion is smaller than the area of ​​the upper opening portion.

4. The heating cooker according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The heating cooker has a cylindrical peripheral wall portion, which is arranged in the water storage space and surrounds the water guide member in the plan view. The peripheral wall portion has an upper edge portion surrounding the water guide member and being closed, and a lower opening portion. The heating portion is arranged to be surrounded by the lower opening of the peripheral wall portion in the plan view. The peripheral wall portion is configured to form an intra-wall space between the peripheral wall portion and the water guide member.

5. The heating cooker according to claim 4, wherein: When the container is located at the cooking position, the lowest portion of the lower opening of the peripheral wall portion is located lower than the lowest portion of the lower opening of the water guide member.

6. The heating cooker according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The upper edge of the peripheral wall is connected to the outer surface of the water guide member and is sealed. The water guide member has a water passing opening formed therein for allowing the water contained in the pot to move from a space outside the peripheral wall portion to an interior of the water guide member when the water guide member is arranged in the pot containing water.

7. The heating cooker according to claim 6, wherein: The water guide member is provided with an exhaust hole for exhausting gas in the wall inner space to the inside of the water guide member when the water guide member is arranged in the pot containing water. The opening area of ​​the exhaust hole portion is smaller than the opening area of ​​the water passage opening portion.

8. The heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The cooking device includes a sealing member that closes a gap between the pot and a side portion of the container.

9. The heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein When the container is located at the cooking position, after the water stored in the water storage space enters the interior of the container, the heating unit maintains a constant heating force.

10. The heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein The food to be cooked is rice, The plurality of holes have a minimum width that is smaller than a minimum width of a meter that can be accommodated in the container.

11. The heating cooker according to claim 10, wherein: At least one of the plurality of hole portions has a maximum length greater than the maximum length of the meter.

12. The heating cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein The heating cooker includes a holding member that holds the container at the cooking position.

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