Pot cover with steam channel

Abstract

The invention relates to a pot cover for a cooking pot, where the pot cover comprises a cover plate and a cover rim and is provided with a steam channel, where the steam channel forms fluid communication between a pot body volume and an ambient volume, where the steam channel is formed by a steam channel opening and a steam outlet channel on the cover plate of the pot cover, wherein the steam discharge channel extends to the cover edge for discharging steam to the cover edge, and wherein the steam discharge channel is surrounded by the housing. The invention further relates to a cooking assembly comprising the pot cover and the cooking pot.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pot cover for promoting steam evacuation and removing cooking steam. More specifically, the present invention focuses on a pot cover that supports a downdraft and / or sidedraft extraction system. Background Art

[0002] When food is heated on a cooking unit, an upward steam flow is often generated at the cooking unit. In order to absorb and carry away this steam flow, an extraction system with a steam exhaust device is usually provided near the cooking unit.

[0003] At a given flow rate, updraft extraction systems, such as traditional range hoods, offer optimal performance. Here, the steam exhaust is positioned above the cooking unit. However, these range hoods have the significant disadvantage of being bulky and unsightly. Furthermore, they are part of a fixed kitchen infrastructure, making them difficult to stow away between cooking sessions.

[0004] Taking into account the above disadvantages and other factors, downdraft and sidedraft extraction systems are becoming increasingly popular. In these systems, the actual steam exhaust device is no longer located above the cooking unit, but can be hidden inside the cooking unit, or can be arranged along or behind the cooking unit.

[0005] However, such systems generally do not seem to have enough power to extract the steam flow sideways / downwards. US5279279A attempts to address this problem by providing a deflector plate above the cooking unit. The curved surface of the deflector plate directs the steam flow towards the steam exhaust device.

[0006] However, like the range hood, the deflector is bulky and unsightly. Furthermore, the deflector is part of the kitchen's fixed infrastructure, which is another unpleasant aspect. Furthermore, it provides only minimal benefit in directing steam downwards or sideways.

[0007] EP3723562 describes an assembly comprising a cooking pot and a corresponding pot lid for closing the cooking pot, wherein the assembly is provided with a steam channel for conducting steam out of the assembly. The assembly can discharge steam downwards, but in EP3723562 its flow rate cannot be adjusted.

[0008] EP0916298 also describes an assembly comprising a cooking pot (particularly a pressure cooker or autoclave) and a corresponding lid. EP0916298 describes a mechanism for ensuring user safety, whereby pressure is not built up in the pot if the lid is not properly closed (safety closed), and the lid can only be opened when pressure is eliminated (safety open). However, EP0916298 does not describe a mechanism for regulating the removal of the steam flow.

[0009] The present invention now aims to find a solution to at least one of the above-mentioned problems or disadvantages. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The invention relates to a pot cover for promoting steam extraction and removing cooking steam.

[0011] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a pot lid according to claim 1. More particularly, the present invention relates to a pot lid for a cooking pot, wherein the pot lid comprises a cover plate and a lid rim and is provided with a steam channel, wherein the steam channel forms a fluid connection between the pot volume and the surrounding volume, wherein the steam channel is formed by a steam channel opening in the pot lid plate and a steam exhaust channel, wherein the steam exhaust channel extends to the lid rim for exhausting steam to the lid rim, and wherein the steam exhaust channel is surrounded by the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the pot lid is further provided with a valve for regulating the flow rate of the steam flow through the steam exhaust channel. Preferred embodiments are shown in claims 2 to 14. In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel protrudes from the surface of the cover plate. In another embodiment, the steam exhaust channel is located on the underside of the cover plate.

[0012] The pot lid according to the invention is therefore able to discharge steam in an adjustable manner by controlling the direction and possibly also the flow rate of the steam passage.

[0013] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a cooking assembly comprising the above-mentioned pot cover and a cooking pot. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The figure shows a perspective side view of a pot cover according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the pot cover is provided with a steam discharge channel protruding from the surface of the cover plate for controllably discharging steam flow and a valve for adjusting the flow rate of the steam flow. Figure 1 In the fully open position, the valve is in the fully open position and the steam starts to be discharged laterally from the center of the lid. Figure 2 In the embodiment, the closing wall of the valve is completely or partially located in front of the proximal opening of the steam discharge channel, and steam will not be able to flow between the pot volume and the surrounding volume, or will flow to a lesser extent.

[0015] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A perspective top view of a cooking assembly comprising a pot lid and a cooking pot according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 3 In the fully open position, the valve is in the fully open position and the steam starts to be discharged laterally from the center of the lid. Figure 4 In the open position, the valve is partially open. This still creates a steam path, but the flow rate is lower than when the valve is fully open.

[0016] Figure 5 Shown is a perspective bottom view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 6 A perspective side view of a pot lid is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the valve includes an extension and the lid includes a hinge.

[0018] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A side cross-sectional view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the valve includes an extension and the lid includes a hinge. Figure 7 In the process, the valve is in a fully open state, forming a steam channel. Figure 8 In the process, the valve is in a fully closed state, blocking the steam passage.

[0019] Figure 9 A bottom view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the valve includes an extension and the lid includes a hinge with an opening.

[0020] Figure 10 Bottom views of a valve of a pot lid, a hinge of a lid body, and a housing of a steam exhaust passage according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown in fully open (A), half-open (B), and closed (C) states.

[0021] Figure 11 A bottom view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, with the valve in an open state.

[0022] Figure 12 and Figure 13 A front view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the valve is in a half-open state.

[0023] Figure 14 A top view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, with the valve removed and the hinge with the opening visible.

[0024] Figure 15 A bottom view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the hinge with the opening is visible.

[0025] Figure 16 A perspective side view of a cooking assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the steam exhaust channel is located on the underside of the pot lid cover plate and its distal opening (outlet) is integrated into the lid edge.

[0026] Figure 17 A perspective side view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the steam outlet channel is located on the underside of the pot lid cover plate and its distal opening (outlet) is integrated into the lid edge.

[0027] Figure 18 A perspective side view of an inverted pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the steam exhaust channel is located on the underside of the pot lid cover.

[0028] Figure 19 and Figure 20 A cooking assembly 19 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the steam exhaust channel 9 is located on the underside of the cover plate 3 of the pot lid 1 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The invention relates to a pot cover comprising a steam channel. The pot cover according to the invention is capable of discharging cooking steam in an adjustable manner by controlling the direction on the one hand and the flow rate of the steam channel on the other hand.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the present invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. In order to better understand the description of the present invention, the following terms will be explicitly explained.

[0031] As used herein, "a," "an," and "the" refer to both the singular and the plural, unless the context dictates otherwise. For example, "a paragraph" refers to one or more paragraphs.

[0032] When the terms "about" or "approximately" are used herein to describe a measurable amount, parameter, duration, moment in time, etc., it refers to a variation within a range of about 20% or less, preferably about 10% or less, more preferably about 5% or less, even more preferably about 1% or less, and even more preferably about 0.1% or less of the recited value, so long as such variations are applicable to the invention being described. However, it must be understood that the quantitative values ​​themselves using the terms "about" or "approximately" are also specifically disclosed.

[0033] The terms "comprises," "includes," "composed of," "having," "having," "possessing," and "containing" are synonyms and are inclusive or open terms, indicating the existence of what follows and not excluding or preventing the existence of other components, features, elements, members, steps, as known or disclosed in the prior art.

[0034] The recitation of numerical intervals by endpoints includes all integers, fractions, and / or real numbers between the endpoints, inclusive of those endpoints.

[0035] As used throughout this document, the terms "steam" and "cooking effluent" are interchangeable and should be interpreted broadly. They may refer to any cooking effluent selected from the group consisting of water vapor, fat vapor, oil vapor, and other vapors and gases, smoke, hot air, fine water droplets, fat and / or oil droplets in gases / steam, other mist-like substances, powdery substances in gases / steam, and any mixtures thereof. In further or alternative definitions, "steam" and "cooking effluent" refer to any substantially gaseous mixture released during the preparation / processing of food (or, more generally, during the operation of a component) that is desired to be removed by steam extraction. Such steam may be released during the heating of food, but the invention is in no way limited thereto.

[0036] The terms "steam extraction" and "extraction system" are interchangeable and refer to systems used to extract steam during food preparation / processing (e.g., by heating). This includes updraft (e.g., conventional range hoods), downdraft, and sidedraft extraction systems. Where necessary, the system will be further specified as updraft, downdraft, or sidedraft. If not specified further, the term "downdraft extraction system" will refer to a system that extracts steam downward and / or to the side, similar to the English term "downdraft / downdraught system."

[0037] Furthermore, the present invention is in no way limited to cooking or baking. As used herein, "cooking" should be understood to include boiling, baking, frying, grilling, broiling, poaching, stir-frying, stewing, steaming, braising, and any other food preparation technique that may release steam / cooking effluent. Furthermore, when referring to a "cooking pot," the latter term may be substituted with "frying pan," "deep frying pan," "casserole pan," "wok," "steamer," and the like. Preferably, the cooking pot comprises a "bottom" and a "wall," the wall extending upward from the bottom to an open circumferential edge of the cooking pot, also referred to as the "rim." The open circumferential edge thus surrounds the upward pot opening. Incidentally, "rim" and "rim portion" are used interchangeably herein. Preferably, the cooking pot is adapted to be placed on a cooking unit comprising at least one cooktop (e.g., an electric, gas, or induction cooktop) for heating the contents of the cooking pot from the bottom. In one possible embodiment, the bottom is substantially a circular disk, the wall is substantially a circular tube, and the rim is also substantially circular. In another possible embodiment, the pot base is a substantially oval disk, wherein the pot wall is a substantially oval tube, and the pot edge is also substantially oval. Of course, the present invention is not limited to round / oval cooking pots; those skilled in the art will be able to apply and / or combine the present invention with any cooking pot design known in the art.

[0038] As used herein, the terms "lid" and "pot lid" are interchangeable. They refer to a lid used to close the mouth of a cooking pot, as is known in the art. Typically, the pot lid defines a lid rim that can be at least partially positioned within, on, or above the pot rim when the cooking pot and corresponding pot lid are in a closed position. In this closed position, the lid rim preferably rests on the pot rim and together they define an (at least partially) enclosed "pot volume" extending within the cooking pot and pot lid. The pot volume is suitable for enclosing food during food processing (e.g., by heating). An "ambient volume" extends beyond it.

[0039] "Food" is to be understood very broadly and may include any substance suitable for processing (e.g. heating) within the cooker volume and suitable for consumption after processing within the cooker volume.

[0040] As used herein, the term "steam path" refers, in its broadest sense, to a path that steam can follow. Thus, the existence of a steam path is not necessarily manifested by the presence of a tangible object, but rather by the possibility of steam passing through it. However, a (tangible) object / element / body, etc., "including a steam path" has a shape such that steam can, for example, pass along or through it. The corresponding steam path refers to the path that steam follows. Alternatively, the steam path may be determined in part by factors such as steam pressure, steam pressure gradient, and steam temperature.

[0041] When "bending / deflecting the steam path", the steam is forced into a bend; the path followed thus includes at least one bend.

[0042] As used throughout this document, the term "vapor permeability" refers to a material's resistance to the transmission of (water) vapor due to air pressure differences. Materials are generally classified into three vapor permeability levels. Only a few materials are completely "vapor-tight" (for example, glass and aluminum). All other materials are either vapor-barrier or vapor-permeable. A material's vapor permeability is represented by a specific μ value; for a product of a specific thickness, the vapor permeability is expressed by the Sd value (also called the μd value). The key difference from hermeticity is that vapor is transmitted through the material (vapor diffusion), rather than (only) through any discontinuities in the material.

[0043] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a lid for a cooking pot, wherein the lid is provided with a steam duct. The lid comprises a cover plate and a lid rim. In a closed position, the lid rim rests on the rim of the cooking pot and defines an (at least partially) enclosed "pot volume" extending within the interior of the cooking pot and the lid. The pot volume is suitable for enclosing food during processing (e.g., heating). An "ambient volume" extends outside the pot volume. The steam duct in the lid of the present invention provides fluid communication between the pot volume and the ambient volume. In the lid of the present invention, the steam duct is formed by a steam duct opening in the lid plate and a steam exhaust channel.

[0044] The steam outlet channel extends to the edge of the lid, making it suitable for discharging steam from the pot volume to the surrounding volume. The pot lid according to the present invention can thus discharge cooking steam in an adjustable manner by controlling the direction of the steam channel. In one embodiment, the steam outlet channel protrudes from the surface of the lid. In another embodiment, the steam outlet channel is located on the underside of the lid. In one embodiment, the distal end (outlet) of the steam outlet channel is integrated into the lid edge. The steam outlet channel is surrounded by a housing. In one embodiment, the housing of the steam outlet channel is attached to the lid (top or bottom) via a silicone intermediate layer. This silicone intermediate layer can have different proportions and, for example, can extend over the entire surface of the underside of the steam outlet channel housing, or can cover only a portion of this surface.

[0045] Here, the expression "to the edge of the lid" should be interpreted broadly. In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel extends to the outermost point of the pot lid / lid edge (measured from the center of the pot lid). In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel extends beyond the outermost point of the pot lid. In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel is 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24% or 25% longer than the radius of the pot lid. In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel is more than 25% longer than the radius of the pot lid. In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel does not extend beyond the outermost point of the pot lid, but is shorter. In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel is 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24% or 25% shorter than the radius of the pot lid. In one embodiment, the steam exhaust channel is more than 25% shorter than the radius of the pot lid.

[0046] Therefore, the pot cover is provided with a steam channel for conducting steam out of the pot volume.Thus, when placed on a corresponding cooking pot, the pot cover still allows steam to be released from the pot volume.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the steam channel is further formed by a lid (cover) with an opening, located on the underside of the cover plate at the steam channel opening. Providing such an opening allows for better steam guidance through the steam channel opening. Importantly, the lid fits securely over the steam outlet channel (and thus forms a completely steam-tight connection therewith). This creates a steam channel between the pot volume and the surrounding volume, extending from the opening in the lid on the underside of the cover plate to the distal end of the steam outlet channel. In a further embodiment, the lid is a nut that screws into the housing of the steam outlet channel. In a further embodiment, the lid also includes a hinge for tightening the lid. Providing a lid that can be screwed onto the hinge connected to the valve allows the assembly to be securely tightened, preventing any openings that could cause steam loss. The assembly can also be unscrewed and disassembled again. This has the advantage of ensuring optimal cleaning of the various components and preventing the accumulation of dirt or food residue. In a preferred embodiment, the bottom surface of the hinge is not completely open, but rather includes a closed side with one or more openings. In one embodiment, the hinge is attached to the valve extension via a bayonet connection (see below). In this case, the two objects (the hinge and the extension) are attached to each other by inserting a (spring-loaded) pin or protrusion on one object (in this case, the hinge) into a special slot on the other object (in this case, the extension), and then rotating the two objects through a limited angle and thereby securing them. In an alternative embodiment, the hinge is attached to the valve extension via threads.

[0048] Furthermore, a lid with a sufficiently large steam channel allows for free cooking in the surrounding environment (at atmospheric pressure) while using a closed cooking pot. Steam is then directed out of the pot volume along this steam channel, while the lid protects the user from upward splashing water, oil, etc. Heat in the cooking pot is also better retained. In conventional cooking assemblies (lid and cooking pot), the lid must be placed skewed (and often in a very unstable position) on the edge of the cooking pot (the pot rim). Furthermore, the size of the steam channel between the lid edge and the pot rim cannot be precisely adjusted, and the lid no longer provides complete protection against upward splashing water, oil, etc. Therefore, according to the present invention, the extent to which steam can escape the pot volume is determined by a mechanism that adjusts the flow rate of the steam channel.

[0049] Specifically, the pot lid of the present invention is preferably equipped with a valve for adjusting the flow rate of steam through the steam outlet channel. The steam outlet channel is defined by an opening at a proximal end (on the steam outlet channel opening side) and an opening at a distal end (on the lid edge side). In a preferred embodiment, the valve comprises a knob and is rotatably connected to the housing of the steam outlet channel. In one embodiment, the valve is positioned such that, when open, it allows a steam channel to form between the pot volume and the steam outlet channel, thereby releasing steam from the pot volume through the steam outlet channel. When closed, the valve completely seals the proximal opening of the steam outlet channel, preventing any steam from escaping the pot volume. In the present invention, it is important that the connection between the valve and the housing of the steam outlet channel is as steam-tight as possible to avoid undesirable steam passage at this connection, thereby enabling adjustable steam discharge to the lid edge. In a preferred embodiment, a sealing ring (e.g., a silicone ring) is provided between the valve and the housing of the steam outlet channel.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the valve comprises a knob, button, adjusting rod, or stem, and a closing wall, whereby the position of the closing wall is adjusted by the knob, button, adjusting rod, or stem. In one embodiment, the valve (i.e., also comprising the knob, button, adjusting rod, or stem) is centrally located (in the middle) relative to the cover. In another embodiment, the valve (i.e., also comprising the knob, button, adjusting rod, or stem) is located more radially relative to the cover. The valve can be opened, partially opened, or closed by rotating the closing wall (e.g., by lateral movement of the knob) or by moving it up and down (e.g., by up and down movement of the button). When the valve is fully open, steam can flow unimpeded through the steam discharge channel to the edge of the lid. When the valve is closed, steam cannot move between the pot volume and the surrounding volume. The valve can also be partially opened, in which case a steam channel is still formed, but the flow rate therein is lower than when the valve is fully open.

[0051] In one embodiment, the valve further includes an extension member aligned with the closing wall, wherein the closing wall is located at the opening at the proximal end of the steam exhaust passage, and the extension member is located below the opening and aligned with the steam passage opening. In one embodiment, the extension member includes one or more closable openings for further adjusting the flow rate of steam through the steam exhaust passage. In a further embodiment, these one or more closable openings are located on the underside of the extension member and can be closed by the hinge member of the lid. When the one or more openings of the extension member align with the one or more openings of the hinge member, a steam passage is formed. When the one or more openings of the extension member partially align with the one or more openings of the hinge member, a partial steam passage is formed. When the one or more openings of the extension member are not aligned with the one or more openings of the hinge member, the steam passage is blocked. By adjusting the valve (e.g., by turning or pressing it), the flow rate is adjusted by changing the position of one or more openings in the closing wall and the extension member. This allows the steam passage to be closed (completely or partially) in two locations: at the extension member of the valve and at the proximal end of the steam exhaust passage. These openings in extension piece and hinge piece can have any shape and size.In one embodiment, these openings are triangular.

[0052] The steam outlet channel may have any shape and may, for example, have the shape of a hollow cylinder or a hollow beam.

[0053] Importantly, in the closed state of the valve, the closing wall can completely close the opening at the proximal end of the steam discharge channel. Therefore, the closing wall will always be at least as high as the height of the opening at the proximal end of the steam discharge channel.

[0054] In one embodiment, the height of the closing wall is between 2 and 25 mm, preferably between 5 and 15 mm, for example 8 mm or 10 mm.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment the closing wall comprises a portion of the cylindrical shell.In an embodiment the closing wall comprises at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, such as 50% or 60% or 70% or 80% of the complete cylindrical shell.

[0056] In one embodiment, the knob, lever, button, or rod can be adjusted in discrete steps. In one embodiment, the knob, lever, button, or rod can be positioned in three different states (closed, half-open, and open). In one embodiment, the valve includes a protrusion configured to fit into an opening provided for this purpose in the housing of the steam exhaust passage. In this way, the valve snaps onto the housing of the steam exhaust passage in a specific, fixed position. In a further embodiment, the knob, button, lever, or rod can be adjusted in discrete steps of 45 degrees. When the valve is positioned so that the closing wall is completely flush with the opening at the proximal end of the steam exhaust passage, steam cannot pass through, and the steam passage is blocked. At a specific rotation angle of the valve (in the case of a knob), the closing wall is no longer flush with the proximal opening of the steam exhaust passage, allowing steam to pass through. At a specific rotation angle of the valve (in the case of a knob), the closing wall partially closes the proximal opening of the steam exhaust passage, allowing steam to partially pass through. In the case of a button, the up and down movement of the closing wall adjusts the flow rate.

[0057] In another embodiment, the knob, button, adjusting rod or lever can be adjusted in a continuous manner, i.e. without discrete steps. In such an embodiment, the flow rate of the steam flow through the steam exhaust channel can be adjusted in a continuous manner.

[0058] In one embodiment, the distal end of the steam exhaust channel also extends laterally. In this way, the steam exhaust channel directs the steam flow to (or near) the level of the lid, and along the entire length of the path it follows, the steam flow has a (substantially) lateral component. This applies when the cooking pot and lid are in a closed position, with the lid resting on top of the cooking pot. In such an embodiment, the steam flow is ejected from the pot volume into the surrounding volume in a largely lateral direction. This assembly facilitates steam extraction using downdraft and / or sidedraft extraction systems.

[0059] In one embodiment, the distal end of the steam exhaust channel extends downward to direct the steam flow toward the cooking pot. This applies when the cooking pot and lid are in the closed position, with the lid placed on top of the cooking pot. The steam channel ultimately extends toward the cooking pot, meaning that along at least a portion of its path, the steam flow has a downward displacement component. In such an embodiment, the steam flow is ejected downward from the pot volume into the surrounding volume. This assembly facilitates steam extraction using downdraft and / or sidedraft extraction systems. In one embodiment, a portion of the steam channel extends substantially parallel to the outer surface of the pot wall. This allows the steam flow to be easily directed downward or sideways along (at least a portion of) the cooking pot wall structure, thereby providing the wall structure with additional functionality. In such an embodiment, the steam is directed downward along vertical and / or inclined portions of the wall structure. For example, the wall flow moves along the pot wall to a steam exhaust device located near or around the cooktop, where the steam is drawn in.

[0060] It has been found that directing the steam flow downward or sideways is much more effective than deflecting an otherwise upward steam flow downward or sideways using devices such as deflectors. This means the steam flow remains more convergent, which means it maintains its direction better. Furthermore, the assembly can be easily stored between cooking sessions, much like a cooking pot and lid.

[0061] Under appropriate conditions of temperature, pressure, pressure drop, and flow rate, such a steam flow is effectively drawn to the outer surface, thereby following its shape (the so-called Coanda effect). Thus, this design of the steam assembly not only allows the apparently upward steam flow to be directed downward, but also better maintains the further downward displacement component of the steam flow. This further supports the downdraft extraction system.

[0062] Because the extraction system is supported, it can also be made lighter, resulting in lower production and installation costs. Alternatively, the extraction system can have two or more modes: in a first mode with a low suction flow, cooking can only be performed with the aforementioned components, or at least in a configuration where the downdraft extraction system is fully supported. Furthermore, when cooking with conventional components or in a cooking pot without a lid, the extraction system switches to a second mode with a high suction flow.

[0063] A known problem with side-draft and / or downdraft extraction systems is that they often don't perform very well. After all, warm steam tends to rise in a homogeneous ambient air at room temperature (Archimedes' Principle). Therefore, the extraction system must be more powerful than an updraft extraction system: both to deflect the rising steam flow and draw it in, and to actually draw it in. The present invention aims to solve this problem.

[0064] The lid of the pot according to the present invention can be made of stainless steel, (cast) aluminum, glass, borosilicate, porcelain, silicone, or any other material, as well as combinations thereof, as known in the art. The cooking pot according to the present invention can be made of stainless steel, (cast) aluminum, glass, borosilicate, porcelain, silicone, or any other material, as well as combinations thereof, as known in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the lid is made of glass or metal (e.g., stainless steel (SS)). In a preferred embodiment, the lid rim is made of silicone. In a preferred embodiment, the housing, valve, and lid of the steam vent are made of plastic.

[0065] According to one possible embodiment, the pot lid is connected to the cooking pot by means of a rubber clamp, whereby the lid edge and / or the pot edge comprises silicone. This ensures a good mutual connection so that all steam can escape in a directionally manner through the steam channel.

[0066] According to a further or alternative embodiment, the pot cover is concave. Condensed water will flow along the inner side of the pot cover towards the central axis; this is to prevent excessive condensed water from escaping from the pot volume along the steam exhaust channel (at the edge of the pot cover).

[0067] According to a further or alternative embodiment, the lid includes two handles extending in a diametrical direction, wherein the steam exhaust channel extends in a transverse direction, perpendicular to the diametrical direction of the handles. This design takes safety into account, particularly the risk of burns. In fact, the handles are as far away from the steam channel as possible.

[0068] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a cooking assembly comprising the above-mentioned pot cover and a cooking pot.

[0069] In the following, the present invention is described by way of non-limiting examples illustrating the present invention, which are not intended to and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] Figure 1 and Figure 2A perspective side view of a pot lid 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The pot lid 1 comprises a cover plate 3 made of glass and a lid rim 4 comprising a silicone rim for secure connection to a cooking pot (not shown). In the closed position, the lid rim 4 of the pot lid 1 rests on the pot rim of the cooking pot and together they define an (at least partially) enclosed "pot volume" extending within the cooking pot and the pot lid 1. The pot volume is suitable for enclosing food during processing (e.g., by heating). An "ambient volume" 7 extends outside of the pot volume. The pot lid 1 is provided with a steam channel 5, which creates a fluid connection between the pot volume and the ambient volume 7, thereby enabling controlled drainage of steam from the pot volume. Thus, when placed on a corresponding cooking pot, the pot lid 1 still allows steam to escape from the pot volume. Furthermore, a pot lid 1 with a sufficiently large steam channel 5 allows for free cooking in the ambient environment (at atmospheric pressure) while using a closed cooking pot. The steam is then discharged from the pot volume along the aforementioned steam channel 5, while the lid 1 protects the user from upward splashes of water, oil, etc. Heat in the cooking pot is also better retained. In conventional cooking assemblies (lid and cooking pot), the lid must be placed skewed (and often in a very unstable manner) on the edge of the cooking pot (the pot rim). Furthermore, the size of the steam channel between the lid edge and the pot rim cannot be precisely adjusted, and the lid no longer provides complete protection against upward splashes of water, oil, etc. Figure 1 The steam channel 5 in the pot is formed by an opening 18 in a cover (hood) 17, which is placed on the underside of the cover plate 3 at the steam channel opening 8, and a steam outlet channel 9. By providing such a cover 17 with an opening 18, the steam can be better guided through the steam channel opening 8. It is important that the cover 17 fits securely on the steam outlet channel 9 (and thus forms a preferably completely steam-tight connection therewith). In this way, a steam channel 5 is formed between the pot volume and the surrounding volume 7, which steam channel starts from the opening 18 in the cover 17 on the underside of the cover plate 3 and extends to the far end 9b of the steam outlet channel. The cover 17 is a screw cap that is screwed into the housing 16 of the steam outlet channel. In Figures 1 to 2 In the pot lid 1, the steam channel opening 8 is located in the center of the cover plate 3. The steam exhaust channel 9 extends from the steam channel opening 8 to the lid edge 4, thereby exhausting the steam to the lid edge 4. The steam exhaust channel 9 protrudes from the surface of the cover plate 3 and is surrounded by a shell 16. According to the present invention, the extent to which steam can leave the pot volume is determined by a valve that can adjust the flow rate of the steam channel 5 through the steam exhaust channel 9. That is, the pot lid 1 is provided with a valve 10 with a closing wall 12, wherein the position of the closing wall is adjusted by a knob 11. In Figures 1 to 2 In the embodiment, the closing wall 12 comprises a partially cylindrical housing, wherein the height of the closing wall is 10 mm. By rotating the closing wall 12 by means of the knob 11, the valve 10 can be in an open, partially open or closed state. Figures 1 to 2 The knob 11 can be adjusted in discrete steps. To this end, the valve comprises a protrusion 14 which is configured to fit into an opening (not visible) provided for this purpose in the housing of the steam outlet channel. In this way, the valve snaps onto the housing of the steam outlet channel in specific fixed positions. These positions are indicated on the outside of the housing 16 by markings 22. When the valve 10 is in the fully open position ( Figure 1 ), steam is discharged unhindered from the pot volume through the opening in the lid (through the steam channel opening) and the steam discharge channel 9 (on the top of the cover plate 3) to the lid edge 4. Figure 2 In the case where the closing wall of the valve is completely or partially located in front of the proximal opening of the steam discharge channel, the steam will not be able to move between the volume of the pot and the volume of the surrounding environment, or will move to a lesser extent (in the case of Figure 2 ). When the valve 10 is in the closed position by turning the knob, steam will not be able to move between the pot volume and the surrounding volume 7. The valve 10 can also be in a partially open state, whereby a steam channel 5 is still formed, but the flow rate therein is lower than when the valve 10 is in the fully open state. Updraft extraction systems (e.g. conventional range hoods), in which the steam exhaust device is mounted above the cooking unit, have the main disadvantages of being bulky and unsightly. In addition, they are part of a fixed kitchen infrastructure. Therefore, conventional range hoods cannot be easily put away between cooking times. The pot lid of the present invention is able to vent steam in an adjustable manner. In Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this case, steam is discharged laterally to the lid edge rather than upward. Furthermore, the lid of the present invention can adjust the flow rate of the steam channel via a valve. Therefore, the lid of the present invention can support both downdraft and sidedraft extraction systems. Because the extraction system is supported, it can also be made lighter, resulting in lower production and installation costs.

[0071] Figure 3 and Figure 4A perspective top view of a cooking assembly 19 comprising a pot lid 1 and a cooking pot 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The cooking assembly 19 is placed on a cooking unit 20 equipped with a steam exhaust device 21. The pot lid 1 comprises a glass cover plate 3 and a silicone rim 4 for secure connection to the cooking pot 2. An "ambient volume" 7 extends outside the pot volume. The pot lid 1 is provided with a steam channel 5, which creates fluid communication between the pot volume and the ambient volume 7, thereby enabling controlled drainage of steam from the pot volume. A steam exhaust channel 9 extends to the lid rim 4, thereby draining steam there. The steam exhaust channel 9 protrudes from the surface of the cover plate 3 and is enclosed by a housing 16. According to the present invention, the extent to which steam can escape from the pot volume is determined by a valve 10 that adjusts the flow rate of the steam channel 5 through the steam exhaust channel 9. Specifically, the pot lid 1 is provided with a valve 10 having a closing wall (not visible), the position of which is adjusted by a knob 11. By rotating the closing wall with the aid of the knob 11, the valve 10 can be in an open, partially open or closed state. Figures 3 and 4 The knob 11 can be adjusted in discrete steps. When the valve 10 is in the fully open state ( Figure 3 ), steam is discharged unhindered (the steam passage 5 is unobstructed, as shown by the solid line) from the pot volume through the steam discharge passage 9 to the lid edge 4. When the valve 10 is in the closed position by turning the knob, steam will not be able to move between the pot volume and the surrounding volume 7. The valve 10 can also be in a partially open state (for example, by turning the knob 45 degrees, see Figure 4 ), whereby the steam channel 5 is still formed, but the flow rate therein is lower than the flow rate when the valve 10 is in the fully open state (at Figure 4 shown by dotted lines). Figure 3 and Figure 4 The pot lid has two handles 15 extending in a diametrical direction, and the steam exhaust channel 9 extends transversely, perpendicular to the diametrical direction of the handles. This design takes safety into account, particularly the risk of burns. In fact, the handles are positioned as far away from the steam channel 5 as possible. As described above, the pot lid of the present invention can discharge steam laterally and / or downwardly in a controlled manner, with the flow rate of the steam channel adjusted by a valve. Therefore, the pot lid of the present invention can support both downdraft and sidedraft extraction systems.

[0072] Figure 5A perspective bottom view of a pot lid 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The pot lid 1 comprises a cover plate 3 and a cover rim 4 including a silicone rim 23 for secure connection to a cooking pot (not shown). An opening 18 in a lid (cover) 17 on the underside of the cover plate 3 and at the steam channel opening are clearly visible. The provision of a lid 17 with an opening 18 allows for better steam guidance through the steam channel opening. Importantly, the lid 17 fits securely over the steam channel 9 (and thus forms a completely steam-tight connection therewith). This creates a steam channel 5 between the pot volume and the surrounding volume, extending from the opening 18 in the lid 17 on the underside of the cover plate 3 to the distal end 9b of the steam outlet channel. The lid 17 is a screw cap that screws into the housing of the steam outlet channel. According to the present invention, the extent to which steam can escape from the pot volume is determined by a valve that adjusts the steam flow rate through the steam outlet channel. Specifically, the pot lid 1 is provided with a valve 10 with a closing wall (not visible), the position of which is adjusted by a knob 11.

[0073] Figure 6 A perspective side view of a pot lid 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, in which the valve 10 includes an additional extension 24. The lid 17a also includes an additional hinge 17b. The extension 24 is part of the valve and is located below the closure wall 12, which is located at the opening of the proximal end 9a of the steam exhaust passage. The extension 24 is aligned with the steam passage opening 8 and is located below the plane of the lid plate. The hinge 17b snaps onto the valve extension 24 at the steam passage opening 8 via a bayonet connection and is threaded onto which the lid 17a is screwed. The underside of the lid 17a has an opening 18, allowing the free passage of steam. The underside of the extension 24 is provided with two openings (not visible). When these openings align with the openings on the underside of the hinge 17b, a steam passage 5 is formed between the pot volume and the surrounding volume. This passage extends from the opening 18 in the lid 17a on the underside of the lid plate 3 to the distal end 9b of the steam exhaust passage.

[0074] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A side cross-sectional view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the valve includes an extension and the lid includes a hinge. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the valve is in a fully open state, forming a steam passage 5 between the pot volume and the surrounding volume. The extension 24 includes two closable openings 25a, 25b for further adjusting the flow rate of the steam passage 5 through the steam exhaust passage 9. The closable openings 25a, 25b are located on the underside of the extension 24 and can be closed by the hinge 17b of the lid. That is, when these openings 25a, 25b of the extension 24 are aligned with the openings 26a, 26b of the hinge, the steam passage 5 is formed (see also Figure 10A). When these openings of the extension are aligned with the openings of the hinge, a partial steam passage is formed (see Figure 10 B). When these openings of the extension are not aligned with the openings of the hinge, the steam passage is blocked (see Figure 10 C). By adjusting the valve 10 (e.g. by turning or pressing), the flow rate will be adjusted by changing the position of the closing wall 12 and the opening in the extension. Figure 7 In the embodiment, steam can flow through the opening 18 in the cover 17a, via the aligned openings 26a, 26b in the hinge 17b and the openings 25a, 25b in the extension 24, through the opening 27 in the closing wall 12 and through the steam outlet channel 9 to the ambient volume. Figure 8 In the embodiment, the valve is in a fully closed state, blocking the steam passage 5. The openings 25a, 25b of the extension 24 are not aligned with the openings 26a, 26b of the hinge 17b, and the opening 27 (not visible) in the closing wall is not aligned with the proximal end 9a of the steam exhaust passage.

[0075] Figure 9 A bottom view of a pot lid 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the valve comprises an extension (not visible) and the lid 17a comprises a hinge 17b with openings 26a, 26b. The openings 26a, 26b in the hinge 17b align with the openings in the extension to allow steam to pass through.

[0076] Figure 10 Bottom views of the valve of a pot lid, the lid hinge 17b, and the housing 16 of the steam exhaust passage 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown in fully open (A), half-open (B), and closed (C) states. In Figure A, the openings 26a, 26b in the hinge 17b are aligned with the openings 25a, 25b in the extension 24, and the opening 27 in the closing wall 12 is aligned with the steam exhaust passage 9. In Figure B, the openings 26a, 26b in the hinge 17b are partially aligned with the openings 25a, 25b in the extension 24, and the opening 27 in the closing wall 12 is partially aligned with the steam exhaust passage 9. In Figure C, the opening in the hinge 17b is not aligned with the openings 25a, 25b in the extension 24, and the opening 27 in the closing wall 12 is not aligned with the steam exhaust passage 9.

[0077] Figure 11 The bottom view of the pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the valve is in an open state. The openings 26a, 26b in the hinge member 17b are aligned with the openings 25a, 25b in the extension member 24, and the opening 27 in the closing wall 12 is aligned with the steam exhaust channel 9.

[0078] Figure 12 and Figure 13A front view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, with the valve in a partially open position. The opening 27 in the closure wall 12 is partially aligned with the steam outlet channel 9, thereby forming a partial steam channel between the pot volume and the surrounding volume. Steam exits the cooking pot through the distal end 9b of the steam outlet channel.

[0079] Figure 14 A top view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, with the valve removed and the hinge 17b with openings 26a, 26b visible.

[0080] Figure 15 A bottom view of a pot lid according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the hinge member with openings is visible. The openings 26a, 26b in the hinge member 17b are partially aligned with the openings 25a, 25b in the extension member.

[0081] Figure 16 A perspective side view of a cooking assembly 19 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the steam exhaust channel 9 is located on the underside of the cover plate 3 of the pot lid 1. Only the distal end 9b of the steam exhaust channel is visible in the figure.

[0082] Figure 17 A perspective side view of a pot lid 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, showing the steam vent channel 9 located on the underside of the cover plate 3 of the pot lid 1. The valve includes an additional extension 24. Extension 24 is part of the valve and is located below the closure wall 12, where the closure wall 12 is located at the opening of the steam vent channel proximal end 9a. Extension 24 is positioned below this opening, aligned with the steam channel opening 8, and below the plane of the cover plate. Extension 24 has two openings (not visible) on its underside that, when aligned with openings (not visible) on the underside of the lid 17, allow steam to pass between the pot volume and the surrounding volume. The lid 17 snaps onto the valve extension 24 at the steam channel opening 8 via a bayonet connection. The lid 17 has openings (not visible) that may or may not align with the openings (not visible) in the extension. By adjusting the valve 10 (e.g., by turning or pressing), the flow rate is adjusted by varying the position of the closure wall 12 and the openings in the extension.

[0083] Figure 18 Shown as Figure 17 A perspective side view of a pot lid 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, with the steam vent 9 located on the underside of the lid plate 3. In this view, the pot lid 1 is inverted (top-down). The lid 17 is snap-fitted to the valve extension 24 at the steam vent opening 8 via a bayonet connection. The lid 17 has openings 28a, 28b, which may or may not align with the openings 25a, 25b in the extension.

[0084] Figure 19A side view of a cooking assembly 19 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the steam exhaust channel 9 is located on the underside of the cover plate 3 of the pot lid 1. Only the distal end 9b of the steam exhaust channel is visible in the figure.

[0085] Figure 20 A cooking assembly 19 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the steam exhaust channel 9 is located on the underside of the cover plate 3 of the pot lid 1 . Figure 20 The underside of the pot cover 1 can be seen in FIG. The cover 17 is snapped onto the extension 24 of the valve at the steam passage opening. The cover 17 is provided with openings 28a, 28b which may or may not be aligned with the openings 25a, 25b in the extension.

[0086] List of reference numerals:

[0087] 1. Pot lid

[0088] 2. Cooking Pot

[0089] 3. Cover

[0090] 4. Cover the edge

[0091] 5. Steam channel

[0092] 6. Pot volume

[0093] 7. Surrounding volume

[0094] 8. Steam channel opening

[0095] 9. Steam exhaust channel

[0096] 9a. Near end of steam exhaust channel

[0097] 9b. Far end of steam exhaust channel

[0098] 10. Valve

[0099] 11. Valve knob

[0100] 12. Valve closing wall

[0101] 13. Sealing ring

[0102] 14. Valve protrusion

[0103] 15. Handle

[0104] 16. Steam exhaust channel shell

[0105] 17 or 17a. Cover of steam channel opening

[0106] 17b. Lid hinge

[0107] 18. Opening in cover

[0108] 19. Cooking components

[0109] 20. Cooking unit

[0110] 21. Steam exhaust device

[0111] 22. Marking

[0112] 23. Silicone rim of the lid

[0113] 24. Valve extension

[0114] 25. Openings in valve extension (a, b)

[0115] 26. Openings in the hinges of the lid (a, b)

[0116] 27. Close the opening in the wall

[0117] 28. Openings in cover (a, b)

Claims

1. A pot cover 1 for a cooking pot 2, wherein: The pot lid 1 includes a cover plate 3 and a lid edge 4, and is provided with a steam channel 5, wherein the steam channel 5 forms a fluid connection between the pot body volume 6 and the surrounding environment volume 7, wherein the steam channel 5 is composed of a steam channel opening 8 in the cover plate 3 of the pot lid 1 and a steam exhaust channel 9, wherein the steam exhaust channel 9 extends to the lid edge 4 for exhausting steam to the lid edge 4, and wherein the steam exhaust channel 9 is surrounded by a shell 16.

2. The pot cover 1 for the cooking pot 2 according to claim 1, wherein: The pot cover 1 is further provided with a valve 10 for adjusting the flow rate of the steam channel 5 passing through the steam exhaust channel 9 .

3. A pot lid 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The steam exhaust channel 9 protrudes from the surface of the cover plate 3 , or the steam exhaust channel 9 is located below the cover plate 3 .

4. A pot cover 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein: The valve 10 is rotatably connected to the housing 16 of the steam exhaust passage.

5. A lid 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The steam channel 5 is further formed by a cover 17 ( a ) with an opening 18 , wherein the cover 17 ( a ) is located on the lower side of the cover plate 3 and at the same height as the steam channel opening 8 , for better guiding steam through the steam channel opening 8 .

6. The pot cover 1 for the cooking pot 2 according to claim 5, wherein: The cover 17a further includes a hinge member 17b.

7. A pot cover 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The valve 10 comprises a knob, a button, an adjusting rod or a stem 11 and a closing wall 12 .

8. A pot cover 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: The valve 10 further includes an extension 24 .

9. The pot cover 1 for the cooking pot 2 according to claim 8, wherein: The extension 24 includes one or more closable openings 25 a , 25 b for adjusting the flow rate of the steam channel 5 through the steam exhaust channel 9 .

10. A pot cover 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 9, wherein: The knob, button, adjustment lever or rod 11 can be adjusted in discrete steps or in a continuous manner.

11. A pot lid 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims 7 to 10, wherein: Said closing wall 12 comprises a partially cylindrical shell.

12. A lid 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The lid edge 4 comprises a rubber gripper 23 , such as a silicone edge, for good connection with the cooking pot 2 .

13. A lid 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The distal end of the steam exhaust passage 9 extends downward to guide the steam passage 5 toward the cooking pot 2 .

14. A lid 1 for a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The pot cover 1 comprises two handles, wherein the handles 15 extend in a diameter direction, and wherein the steam exhaust channel 9 extends in a transverse direction perpendicular to the diameter direction of the handles 15 .

15. A cooking assembly 19 comprising a pot lid 1 and a cooking pot 2 according to any one of the preceding claims.

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