Cooking device and control method thereof

Abstract

The invention discloses a cooking device and a control method thereof.The cooking device comprises a cooking box, a steam generation assembly and a steam condensation assembly, a cooking cavity is formed in the cooking box, a steam inlet and a steam outlet which communicate with the cooking cavity are formed in the cooking box, and the steam generation assembly comprises a steam generator, a water tank and a steam guide pipe; the steam generator is communicated with the steam inlet through a steam guide pipe, the steam condensation assembly comprises a heat exchange shell, a heat exchange inner pipe, a water inlet pipe and a water outlet pipe, the heat exchange shell is arranged on the cooking box body, at least part of the heat exchange inner pipe is arranged in the heat exchange shell, and the outer side wall of the heat exchange inner pipe and the inner side wall of the heat exchange shell are spaced to form a space for containing water; the heat exchange inner pipe communicates with the exterior of the cooking box and the steam outlet, the water inlet pipe communicates with the heat exchange shell and the water tank, and the water outlet pipe communicates with the heat exchange shell and a water inlet of the steam generator. The cooking device can conduct heat exchange, cooling and dehumidification on steam, hot water obtained after heat exchange is used for making steam, and energy consumption is low.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Multifunctional cooking appliances typically integrate multiple cooking functions such as steaming, microwaving, and grilling. They are highly integrated, saving kitchen space, and can select cooking functions according to the needs of different foods, thus meeting the needs of users.

[0003] Cooking appliances release a large amount of steam into the kitchen during cooking, making the entire kitchen smoky and creating a hot and humid environment, which negatively impacts the user's cooking experience. Existing technologies use methods such as air cooling to cool the steam exhaust pipes, reducing the temperature and humidity of the exhaust steam. However, this method suffers from high energy consumption and noise levels. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One object of the present invention is to provide a cooking device that can reuse the heat energy after steam has cooled down, thereby reducing energy consumption and producing low noise.

[0005] Another objective of this invention is to provide a control method for a cooking apparatus that can effectively control the temperature and humidity during steam exhaust, thereby reducing energy consumption.

[0006] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, a cooking apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0008] A cooking chamber is provided inside the cooking chamber, and a steam inlet and a steam outlet communicating with the cooking chamber are provided on the cooking chamber.

[0009] A steam generating assembly, comprising a steam generator, a water tank, and a steam conduit, wherein the steam generator is mounted on the cooking cabinet and is connected to the steam inlet via the steam conduit;

[0010] A steam condensation assembly includes a heat exchange shell, a heat exchange inner tube, a water inlet pipe, and a water outlet pipe. The heat exchange shell is disposed on the cooking chamber. The heat exchange inner tube is at least partially disposed inside the heat exchange shell, and the outer side wall of the heat exchange inner tube is spaced apart from the inner side wall of the heat exchange shell to form a space for accommodating water. One end of the heat exchange inner tube communicates with the outside of the cooking chamber and the other end communicates with the steam outlet. The water inlet pipe communicates with the heat exchange shell and the water tank, and the water outlet pipe communicates with the heat exchange shell and the water inlet of the steam generator.

[0011] As a preferred embodiment of the cooking apparatus, the heat exchange inner tube is made of stainless steel, aluminum alloy, ceramic, or glass; and / or,

[0012] The wall thickness of the heat exchange inner tube is 0.1mm~1.5mm; and / or,

[0013] The heat exchange inner tube has an air inlet end and an air outlet end. The air inlet end is connected to the steam outlet, and the air outlet end is connected to the outside of the cooking device. The height of the air inlet end is lower than the height of the air outlet end.

[0014] As a preferred embodiment of the cooking device, an exhaust connection pipe is provided on the outer wall of the cooking chamber, and the exhaust connection pipe is connected between the steam outlet and the heat exchange inner tube.

[0015] As a preferred embodiment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber is provided with a wastewater box and a first drain pipe, and the exhaust connection pipe and / or the steam outlet are connected to the wastewater box through the first drain pipe.

[0016] As a preferred embodiment of the cooking device, the cooking chamber is provided with a wastewater box and a second drain pipe. The steam generator is connected to the wastewater box through the second drain pipe. A drain valve is provided on the second drain pipe and the drain valve is connected to the controller.

[0017] As a preferred embodiment of the cooking device, the wastewater box is connected to an external drain pipe, which is used to connect the cooking device to the outside.

[0018] As a preferred embodiment of the cooking apparatus, a temperature sensor is installed on the heat exchange inner tube, the temperature sensor being adjacent to the exhaust end of the heat exchange inner tube; the water inlet pipe is connected to the water tank via a water pump; and both the temperature sensor and the water pump are connected to a controller; and / or,

[0019] The length of the heat exchange inner tube and the length of the heat exchange outer shell both extend along a set direction, and the end of the water inlet pipe connected to the heat exchange outer shell and the end of the water outlet pipe connected to the heat exchange outer shell are respectively adjacent to the two ends of the length direction of the heat exchange outer shell.

[0020] As a preferred embodiment of the cooking apparatus, the front side of the cooking chamber has an opening communicating with the cooking cavity, and a door is provided at the opening for selective sealing. The steam generator is located on the left or right side of the cooking chamber, the heat exchange shell is located on the rear side of the cooking chamber and adjacent to the top surface of the cooking chamber, and the water tank is located on the bottom surface of the cooking chamber; and / or,

[0021] The water tank is equipped with an external inlet pipe for external water sources to enter.

[0022] Secondly, a control method for a cooking apparatus is provided, applied to the cooking apparatus, comprising the following steps:

[0023] The water in the water tank enters the steam generator of the steam generating assembly through the heat exchange shell of the steam condensing assembly;

[0024] The steam generator is activated to produce steam, which is then introduced into the cooking chamber of the cooking cabinet through a steam duct and a steam inlet.

[0025] Steam in the cooking chamber enters the heat exchange inner tube of the steam condensation assembly from the steam outlet. The steam exchanges heat with the water between the heat exchange inner tube and the heat exchange outer shell, so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified before being discharged to the outside of the cooking chamber.

[0026] As a preferred embodiment of the control method for a cooking device, the cooking device is equipped with a water pump, a drain valve, and a temperature sensor. The control method for the cooking device specifically includes the following steps:

[0027] Step S10: Select the cooking mode according to the cooking requirements of the food. When the cooking mode is steaming, proceed to step S20; when the cooking mode is microwave or baking, proceed to step S60.

[0028] Step S20: Close the drain valve on the steam generator to prevent the steam generator from draining water.

[0029] Step S30: Start the water pump, which pumps the water in the water tank into the heat exchange shell, and then into the steam generator through the heat exchange shell;

[0030] Step S40: The steam generator is started to generate steam, and the steam is introduced into the cooking chamber through the steam pipe and steam inlet;

[0031] Step S50: The steam in the cooking chamber enters the heat exchange inner tube from the steam outlet. The steam exchanges heat with the water between the heat exchange inner tube and the heat exchange outer shell, so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified and then discharged to the outside of the cooking chamber. The water pump and the steam generator continue to work until the food cooking is finished.

[0032] Step S60: Open the drain valve on the steam generator and put the food into the cooking state. The temperature sensor detects the temperature T at the exhaust end of the heat exchange inner tube. When the temperature T reaches the preset value, proceed to step S70. When the temperature T does not reach the preset value, the temperature sensor continues to detect the temperature at the exhaust end of the heat exchange inner tube.

[0033] Step S70: Start the water pump. The water pump pumps the water in the water tank into the heat exchange shell, and then into the steam generator through the heat exchange shell. Finally, the water is discharged through the opened drain valve. When the water enters the heat exchange shell, the water exchanges heat with the steam in the heat exchange inner tube so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified before being discharged to the outside of the cooking oven.

[0034] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0035] The cooking device of this invention features an inner heat exchange tube, at least partially located within a heat exchange outer shell. The outer shell surrounds the inner heat exchange tube, and the outer shell is connected to a water tank via an inlet pipe. Water from the tank is fed into the outer shell to exchange heat with the inner heat exchange tube. Steam passing through the inner heat exchange tube cools and condenses at this location, resulting in reduced temperature and humidity when discharged. This effectively lowers the temperature and humidity of the installation environment. The water, now at a certain temperature after heat exchange with the inner heat exchange tube, then enters the steam generator via an outlet pipe. The steam generator evaporates this water to produce steam, reducing energy consumption during operation. The steam condensation component uses liquid heat exchange for cooling and dehumidification, resulting in low overall noise during operation. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a first-view perspective perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a second-view perspective perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a third-view perspective perspective view of the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the steam condensation assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the cooking device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] In the picture:

[0043] 1. Cooking cabinet body; 10. Cabinet door; 11. Front side; 12. Rear side; 13. Left side; 14. Right side; 15. Top surface; 16. Bottom surface; 17. Tray; 18. Pressure plate; 19. Rear cover; 191. Protrusion; 192. Connecting edge; 193. Heat dissipation hole; 2. Steam generating assembly; 21. Steam generator; 22. Water tank; 23. Steam duct; 24. Second drain pipe; 25. Drain valve; 3. Steam condensation assembly; 31. Heat exchange shell 32. Heat exchanger inner tube; 321. Air inlet end; 322. Exhaust end; 33. Water inlet pipe; 34. Water outlet pipe; 35. Exhaust connection pipe; 351. Exhaust section; 352. Connecting section; 353. Threaded heat dissipation structure; 36. Temperature sensor; 37. Water pump; 38. First drain pipe; 4. Wastewater box; 5. Magnetron; 6. External drain pipe; 7. External inlet pipe; 8. Exhaust box; 81. Grille hole; 100. Kitchen drain pipe; 200. Water purifier; 300. Stove. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention and not the entire structure.

[0045] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0046] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0047] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used only for distinction in description and have no special meaning.

[0048] See attached document Figures 1 to 5 As shown, this embodiment provides a cooking device, including a cooking chamber 1, a steam generating assembly 2, and a steam condensing assembly 3. The cooking chamber 1 has a cooking chamber, and a steam inlet and a steam outlet communicating with the cooking chamber are provided on the cooking chamber 1. The steam generating assembly 2 includes a steam generator 21, a water tank 22, and a steam conduit 23. The steam generator 21 is mounted on the cooking chamber 1 and is connected to the steam inlet via the steam conduit 23. The steam condensing assembly 3 includes a heat exchange shell 31. The cooking chamber 1 is equipped with a heat exchange inner tube 32, a water inlet pipe 33, and a water outlet pipe 34. The heat exchange outer shell 31 is installed on the cooking chamber 1. The heat exchange inner tube 32 is at least partially installed inside the heat exchange outer shell 31, and the outer side wall of the heat exchange inner tube 32 is spaced from the inner side wall of the heat exchange outer shell 31 to form a space for accommodating water. One end of the heat exchange inner tube 32 is connected to the outside of the cooking chamber 1, and the other end is connected to the steam outlet. The water inlet pipe 33 is connected to the heat exchange outer shell 31 and the water tank 22, and the water outlet pipe 34 is connected to the heat exchange outer shell 31 and the water inlet of the steam generator 21.

[0049] The cooking device of the present invention has a heat exchange inner tube 32, which is at least partially located inside the heat exchange outer shell 31, so that the heat exchange outer shell 31 is fitted over the heat exchange inner tube 32. The heat exchange outer shell 31 is connected to the water tank 22 through the water inlet pipe 33, so that water in the water tank 22 can be sent into the heat exchange outer shell 31 to exchange heat with the heat exchange inner tube 32. The steam passing through the heat exchange inner tube 32 is cooled and condensed at this location, and its temperature and humidity are reduced when it is discharged outward, thereby effectively reducing the temperature and humidity of the installation environment where the cooking device is located. The water with a certain temperature after heat exchange with the heat exchange inner tube 32 then enters the steam generator 21 through the water outlet pipe 34. The steam generator 21 evaporates this water to obtain steam, which can reduce the energy consumption of the steam generator 21 during operation. The steam condensation component 3 uses liquid heat exchange to achieve cooling and dehumidification, so the overall noise of the cooking device is also low when it is working.

[0050] The cooking apparatus of this invention can be an integrated cooking device that combines functions such as steaming, microwaving, and grilling, or it can be a single-function cooking device as described above. The specific structure of the cooking apparatus is not limited here. Figure 3As shown, the cooking device is an integrated cooking equipment that combines functions such as steaming, microwaving, and grilling. A magnetron 5 is provided on the bottom surface 16 of the cooking chamber 1. The magnetron 5 is used to emit microwaves into the cooking chamber of the cooking chamber 1 to cook food.

[0051] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, both the inner heat exchange tube 32 and the outer heat exchange shell 31 extend along a predetermined direction, meaning they are both elongated tubular structures. The outer heat exchange shell 31 is fitted over the inner heat exchange tube 32, and both ends of the outer heat exchange shell 31 are sealed to the outer wall of the inner heat exchange tube 32 along the predetermined direction, ensuring a watertight seal between the outer heat exchange shell 31 and the inner heat exchange tube 32. By designing the inner heat exchange tube 32 and the outer heat exchange shell 31 as elongated tubular structures, the cooling time during steam discharge can be extended, effectively reducing the temperature and humidity of the steam. In this embodiment, both ends of the inner heat exchange tube 32 extend beyond the outer ends of the outer heat exchange shell 31, meaning only a portion of the inner heat exchange tube 32 is inside the outer heat exchange shell 31. In other embodiments, the entire heat exchange inner tube 32 can be disposed inside the heat exchange outer shell 31, and the ports at both ends of the heat exchange inner tube 32 (i.e., the air inlet 321 and the air outlet 322 of the heat exchange inner tube 32) can be disposed on the heat exchange outer shell 31.

[0052] The end of the water inlet pipe 33 connected to the heat exchange shell 31 and the end of the water outlet pipe 34 connected to the heat exchange shell 31 are respectively adjacent to the two ends of the length direction of the heat exchange shell 31. This allows the water to start heat exchange from the highest temperature position of the heat exchange inner tube 32, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0053] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown in Figure 3, the cooking chamber 1 is a hexahedral chamber with a front side 11, a rear side 12, a left side 13, a right side 14, a top surface 15, and a bottom surface 16. The front side 11 of the cooking chamber 1 has an opening communicating with the cooking chamber, and a door 10 is provided at the opening for selective sealing. The heat exchange shell 31 is located on the rear side 12 of the cooking chamber 1 and adjacent to the top surface 15. By placing the heat exchange shell 31 and the heat exchange inner tube 32 on the rear side 12 of the cooking chamber 1 and adjacent to the top surface 15, not only can the steam condensation component 3 be hidden, but the obstruction of steam exhaust can also be effectively prevented.

[0054] Optionally, the length of the heat exchange shell 31 and the heat exchange inner tube 32 extends horizontally along the rear side 12 of the cooking chamber 1, i.e., the setting direction is the width direction of the cooking chamber 1 (the arrangement direction of the left side 13 and the right side 14). This allows the length of the heat exchange shell 31 and the heat exchange inner tube 32 to be as long as possible, making reasonable use of the width direction of the cooking chamber 1 to arrange the heat exchange area, extending the heat exchange area and heat exchange time, and effectively reducing the temperature and humidity when steam is discharged. In addition, the elongated tubular structure of the heat exchange shell 31 and the heat exchange inner tube 32 increases the heat exchange space in length, and the cross-sectional size can be made relatively small. While ensuring heat exchange efficiency, the cross-sectional size of the entire heat exchange shell 31 is reduced, avoiding excessively large outward protrusion of the heat exchange shell 31.

[0055] In this embodiment, the heat exchange inner tube 32 is made of stainless steel, aluminum alloy, ceramic, or glass. These materials have high thermal conductivity, which improves heat exchange efficiency. Of course, the heat exchange inner tube 32 is not limited to the above materials; other materials with high thermal conductivity, such as titanium alloys, can also be selected.

[0056] The wall thickness of the heat exchange inner tube 32 is 0.1mm to 1.5mm. A thinner wall thickness accelerates heat exchange between the steam inside the heat exchange inner tube 32 and the water outside, thus improving heat exchange efficiency. Optionally, the wall thickness of the heat exchange inner tube 32 can be selected from 0.1mm, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1.0mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, or 1.5mm. Preferably, the thickness of the heat exchange inner tube 32 in this embodiment is 0.3mm. A 0.3mm thick heat exchange inner tube 32 offers good heat exchange efficiency while meeting manufacturing requirements, achieving the most suitable heat exchange efficiency while reducing manufacturing costs.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown in Figure 3 (some reference numerals are retained from the attached figure), Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5The steam condensation assembly 3 also includes a water pump 37, and the water inlet pipe 33 is connected to the heat exchange shell 31 through the water pump 37. By setting the water pump 37, water in the water tank 22 can be actively pumped into the heat exchange shell 31 to achieve heat exchange. The position of the water tank 22 can be set lower than the heat exchange shell 31. In this embodiment, the water tank 22 is set on the bottom surface 16 of the cooking cabinet 1. The bottom surface 16 of the cooking cabinet 1 has enough space to accommodate the water tank 22, and the low position of the water tank 22 also facilitates its maintenance. In this embodiment, the water tank 22 can be made into a drawer-type structure, which facilitates adding clean water and cleaning the water tank 22. In other embodiments, the water tank 22 can also be fixed to the bottom surface 16 of the cooking cabinet 1, and clean water can be added by connecting an external inlet pipe 7. The external inlet pipe 7 can be directly connected to a tap water pipe or connected to an external water purifier 200 (see reference). Figure 6 The outlet of the water tank 22 can be connected to a separate clean water replenishment box, etc. As for the location of the water tank 22, it is not limited to setting the water tank 22 on the bottom surface 16 of the cooking cabinet 1. It can also be set on the top surface 15, the left side 13, the right side 14 and the rear side 12, etc. If the setting position is higher than the heat exchange shell 31, the water pump 37 can be omitted.

[0058] To facilitate the control of water tank 22 supplying clean water to heat exchange shell 31, an inlet valve can be installed on inlet pipe 33. Both the inlet valve and water pump 37 are connected to the controller of the cooking device to achieve automatic control. In this embodiment, the inlet valve can be a solenoid valve.

[0059] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown (some of the reference numerals in the attached figures are retained), Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The steam condensing assembly 3 of the cooking apparatus in this embodiment of the invention further includes an exhaust connection pipe 35, which is connected between the steam outlet and the heat exchange inner tube 32. By providing the exhaust connection pipe 35, the path of steam during the exhaust process can be extended, thereby improving the condensation effect.

[0060] In this embodiment, the exhaust connection pipe 35 is disposed on the left side 13 or the right side 14 of the cooking chamber 1. The exhaust connection pipe 35 is disposed on the left side 13 or the right side 14, which is different from the heat exchange shell 31 disposed on the side of the cooking chamber 1, which allows for more flexible arrangement of the exhaust connection pipe 35, and the length of the exhaust connection pipe 35 can also be set to be long enough.

[0061] Furthermore, the steam generator 21 and exhaust connection pipe 35 of the steam generating assembly 2 are respectively arranged on the left side 13 and right side 14 of the cooking chamber 1. The steam generated by the steam generator 21 needs to make full contact with the food after entering the cooking chamber of the cooking chamber 1 to ensure even heating. Therefore, placing the steam generator 21 and exhaust connection pipe 35 on opposite sides can maximize the residence time of the steam in the cooking chamber. Preferably, the steam inlet and steam outlet of the cooking chamber 1 are respectively located on the left side 13 and right side 14, with the steam inlet adjacent to the top surface 15 of the cooking chamber 1 and the steam outlet adjacent to the bottom surface 16 of the cooking chamber 1. By placing the steam outlet near the bottom of the cooking chamber, the hot steam generated by the steam generator 21, after entering the cooking chamber, will spread from top to bottom throughout the entire cooking chamber because the density of hot steam is lower than that of the air inside the cooking chamber. Then, it will enter the exhaust connection pipe 35 through the steam outlet, thus ensuring that the steam is evenly distributed throughout the cooking chamber.

[0062] The exhaust connection pipe 35 includes multiple exhaust sections 351 arranged vertically at intervals. All exhaust sections 351 are connected end to end by a connecting section 352, so that the exhaust connection pipe 35 has at least one meandering structure. By setting the exhaust connection pipe 35 as a pipe with a meandering structure, the residence time of steam in the exhaust connection pipe 35 can be increased within the limited side area of ​​the cooking oven body 1, thereby increasing the heat dissipation time of the exhaust connection pipe 35 and improving the efficiency of steam cooling and dehumidification.

[0063] Preferably, the exhaust connection pipe 35 includes four exhaust sections 351 arranged at intervals along the vertical direction. The four exhaust sections 351 are connected end to end by three connecting sections 352, so that the exhaust connection pipe 35 is bent and coiled on the left side 13. This exhaust connection pipe 35 has three meandering structures.

[0064] More preferably, the exhaust connection pipe 35 is made of stainless steel. Stainless steel exhaust connection pipe 35 has high heat exchange efficiency, is not easily deformed, and will not rust. It also has high steam cooling efficiency, ensuring that the water returning to the cooking chamber after steam cooling is clean and hygienic. The water, after being heated and turned into steam, will not contaminate the food when it comes into contact with it again, thus guaranteeing the health of the food consumed. In other embodiments, the exhaust connection pipe 35 can be made of other materials with high heat exchange efficiency, hygiene, and rust resistance, such as copper or thermally conductive glass.

[0065] To improve the heat exchange efficiency of the exhaust connecting pipe 35, a threaded heat dissipation structure 353 is provided on the surface of the exhaust connecting pipe 35, which surrounds the outer circumference of the exhaust connecting pipe 35 along its length. By providing the threaded heat dissipation structure 353, the heat exchange area can be greatly increased without increasing the outer diameter of the exhaust connecting pipe 35, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the exhaust connecting pipe 35. Optionally, the threaded heat dissipation structure 353 is an external thread structure directly machined onto the exhaust connecting pipe 35. In other embodiments, threaded heat sinks can also be welded or bonded to the outer circumference of the exhaust connecting pipe 35.

[0066] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown (some of the reference numerals in the attached figures are retained), Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 Multiple trays 17 protrude from the left side 13 of the cooking cabinet 1. All trays 17 are arranged at intervals along the length of the exhaust connection pipe 35, and the exhaust connection pipe 35 is detachably mounted on the trays 17. By setting the trays 17, the exhaust connection pipe 35 can be detachably fixed to the left side 13 of the cooking cabinet 1, which facilitates the installation and maintenance of the exhaust connection pipe 35.

[0067] Preferably, the support plate 17 has an upward-facing slot, and the exhaust connecting pipe 35 is at least partially engaged in this slot along its radial direction. Fixing the exhaust connecting pipe 35 using this slot method can speed up the assembly and disassembly of the exhaust connecting pipe 35. More preferably, two support plates 17 are provided on each exhaust section 351, and the connecting section 352 has an arc-shaped pipe structure. An arc-shaped support plate 17 is provided at the connecting section 352, and the support plate 17 at this location has an arc-shaped slot. The connecting section 352 is fully engaged in this slot along its length, allowing the exhaust connecting pipe 35 to be fixed in curved or tortuous positions.

[0068] Furthermore, a pressure plate 18 is also provided on the left side 13 of the cooking cabinet 1. At least a portion of the support plate 17 has a pressure plate 18 on one side along the length of the exhaust connection pipe 35, and the pressure plate 18 abuts against the upper surface of the exhaust connection pipe 35. By providing the pressure plate 18, the pressure plate 18 can cooperate with the support plate 17 adjacent to the pressure plate 18 to limit the exhaust connection pipe 35 in the vertical direction. At the same time, the staggered arrangement of the pressure plate 18 and the support plate 17 can also reduce the difficulty of disassembling the exhaust connection pipe 35.

[0069] In this embodiment, a left cover plate (not shown in the figure) is provided on the left side 13 of the cooking chamber 1. The left cover plate is detachably connected to the left side 13 of the cooking chamber 1 and covers the exhaust connection pipe 35, the tray 17, and the pressure plate 18. A right cover plate (not shown in the figure) is provided on the right side 14 of the cooking chamber 1. The right cover plate is detachably connected to the right side 14 of the cooking chamber 1 and covers the steam generator 21 and steam duct 23 of the steam generating assembly 2.

[0070] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooking device also includes an exhaust box 8 with a grille hole 81 on its top. One side of the exhaust box 8 is connected to the exhaust end 322 of the heat exchange inner tube 32. The exhaust box 8 is detachably fixed to the rear side 12 of the cooking chamber 1 near the top surface 15, with the grille hole 81 facing upwards. By providing an exhaust box 8 with a grille hole 81, external debris can be prevented from entering the heat exchange inner tube 32, reducing the risk of blockage and the difficulty of cleaning.

[0071] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the air inlet 321 of the heat exchange inner tube 32 is connected to the steam outlet, and the exhaust end 322 of the heat exchange inner tube 32 is connected to the outside of the cooking device. The height of the air inlet 321 is lower than the height of the exhaust end 322. By tilting the heat exchange inner tube 32, the condensate generated during the steam cooling and dehumidification process inside the heat exchange inner tube 32 can be effectively prevented from flowing to the outside of the cooking chamber 1.

[0072] Instead of simply tilting the heat exchange inner tube 32 as a whole, the bottom inner wall of the heat exchange inner tube 32 can also be tilted, that is, the end near the exhaust end 322 is higher than the end near the intake end 321.

[0073] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown (some reference numerals are retained), in this embodiment, the cooking chamber 1 is equipped with a wastewater box 4 and a first drain pipe 38. The end of the exhaust connection pipe 35 near the steam outlet is connected to the wastewater box 4 through the first drain pipe 38. By setting the first drain pipe 38, the condensate in the exhaust connection pipe 35 is discharged into the wastewater box 4, preventing a large amount of condensate from flowing back into the cooking cavity and affecting the cooking effect of the food.

[0074] The wastewater box 4 is located on the bottom surface 16 of the cooking cabinet 1, below the door 10. The wastewater box 4 can collect not only the condensate discharged from the first drain pipe 38, but also the condensate on the door 10. In this embodiment, the wastewater box 4 can adopt a drawer-type structure to facilitate disassembly, emptying of wastewater, and cleaning.

[0075] Of course, it is not limited to connecting the first drain pipe 38 to the end of the exhaust connection pipe 35 near the steam outlet. The first drain pipe 38 can also be connected to other relatively low or lower positions of the exhaust connection pipe 35. In addition, the first drain pipe 38 can also be connected separately at the steam outlet.

[0076] The steam generator 21 is connected to the wastewater box 4 via a second drain pipe 24. Connecting the steam generator 21 to the wastewater box 4 via the second drain pipe 24 allows residual water to be discharged when the steam generator 21 is stopped or not used for an extended period, preventing water from deteriorating due to prolonged storage inside the steam generator 21. In this embodiment, a drain valve 25 is installed on the second drain pipe 24. By installing the drain valve 25, water inside the steam generator 21 is prevented from being directly discharged during operation. The drain valve 25 can be a solenoid valve, which is connected to a controller and can automatically open and close for easy control.

[0077] Wastewater box 4 is connected to drain pipe 6, which connects to the outside of the cooking appliance. By installing drain pipe 6, water in wastewater box 4 can be promptly discharged to the outside of the cooking appliance, such as... Figure 6 As shown, when the cooking device is installed on the stove 300 in the kitchen, the external drain pipe 6 can be connected to the kitchen drain pipe 100, so that the water can be discharged into the kitchen drain pipe 100 in a timely manner, avoiding the user from frequently taking out the wastewater box 4 to empty the water, and also preventing the wastewater box 4 from overflowing after the water level exceeds the standard.

[0078] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown (see attached) Figures 1 to 3A temperature sensor 36 is installed on the heat exchange inner tube 32. The temperature sensor 36 is adjacent to the exhaust end 322 of the heat exchange inner tube 32. The water inlet pipe 33 is connected to the water tank 22 through the water pump 37. The temperature sensor 36 and the water pump 37 are connected to the controller. By setting a temperature sensor 36, when the user uses the microwave and grill functions to cook food with high humidity, a large amount of steam is generated in the cooking cavity and overflows from the steam inlet of the cooking cavity, is introduced into the exhaust connection pipe 35, and enters the heat exchange inner tube 32 through the exhaust connection pipe 35. The steam will heat the tube wall of the heat exchange inner tube 32. When the temperature sensor 36 detects that the temperature of the heat exchange inner tube 32 exceeds temperature T, the controller will control the water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe 33 to open and start the water pump 37. Water is pumped from the water tank 22 into the heat exchange outer shell 31 to exchange heat with the heat exchange inner tube 32 and cool down the heat exchange inner tube 32. The steam is then cooled and dehumidified before being discharged to the outside of the cooking cabinet 1 (i.e., discharged to the area where the cooking device is installed, such as the kitchen). At the same time, the water after heat exchange passes through the steam generator 21. At this time, no steam needs to be generated, so the steam generator 21 is not started. After passing through the steam generator 21, the water is directly discharged to the wastewater box 4 through the second drain pipe 24 (the valve at this position is in the open state). This design allows the cooking appliance to selectively activate the steam condenser 3 based on the steam generated by the food during cooking when it is in microwave or grilling mode, thus saving energy.

[0079] In this embodiment, the temperature T is between 40°C and 70°C. Optionally, the temperature T can be any one of 40°C, 45°C, 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 65°C, and 70°C. Preferably, the temperature T is 60°C.

[0080] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, a rear cover plate 19 is also provided on the rear side 12 of the cooking cabinet 1. The rear cover plate 19 is detachably connected to the rear side 12 by screws, and the rear cover plate 19 has a protrusion 191 and a connecting edge 192. The protrusion 191 is stamped and formed in the middle of the rear cover plate 19, and the connecting edge 192 is connected to at least a portion of the side of the protrusion 191. The connecting edge 192 is detachably connected to the rear side 12 by screws, and a receiving cavity is formed between the protrusion 191 and the rear side 12. Components such as motors can be installed in the receiving cavity. Several heat dissipation holes 193 are provided on the protrusion 191. By providing the rear cover plate 19 and stamping the rear cover plate 19 to form the outwardly protruding protrusion 191, the protrusion 191 not only enhances the strength of the rear cover plate 19 to reduce the thickness of the sheet metal, but also forms a receiving cavity to accommodate components that need to be covered, maintaining the aesthetic appearance and protecting the components from damage.

[0081] The heat exchange shell 31, heat exchange inner tube 32, and exhaust box 8 of the steam condensation assembly 3 are all located outside the rear cover plate 19. By placing the heat exchange shell 31 and exhaust box 8 outside the rear cover plate 19, the rear cover plate 19 can be prevented from obstructing the normal exhaust of the exhaust box 8, and the heat generated by the components inside the rear cover plate 19 can also be prevented from affecting the heat exchange of water inside the heat exchange shell 31.

[0082] In this embodiment, the height of the protrusion 191 protruding from the rear side 12 is greater than or equal to the height of the heat exchange shell 31 protruding from the rear side 12. By limiting the size of the heat exchange shell 31 to no more than the size of the protrusion 191, the protrusion of the heat exchange shell 31 can be effectively prevented, reducing the risk of the heat exchange shell 31 scraping against walls or other locations.

[0083] See attached document Figure 1 To be continued Figure 5 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also discloses a control method for a cooking device. Using the cooking device of any of the above embodiments, after the food is placed in the cooking chamber of the cooking device, the water in the water tank 22 enters the steam generator 21 of the steam generating assembly 2 through the heat exchange shell 31 of the steam condensing assembly 3; the steam generator 21 is started to generate steam, and the steam is introduced into the cooking chamber of the cooking box 1 through the steam conduit 23 and the steam inlet; the steam in the cooking chamber enters the heat exchange inner tube 32 of the steam condensing assembly 3 from the steam outlet, and the steam exchanges heat with the water between the heat exchange inner tube 32 and the heat exchange shell 31, so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified and then discharged to the outside of the cooking box 1.

[0084] By passing the water in the water tank 22 through the steam condenser 3 and then into the steam generator 21, the steam in the steam condenser 3 can be cooled and dehumidified by the water, which reduces the temperature and humidity of the exhaust steam and improves the comfort of the environment. At the same time, the water after heat exchange enters the steam generator 21. The water at this time has a certain temperature. The steam generator 21 heats the water at a certain temperature, so the heat energy of the water after heat exchange is reused, which effectively reduces energy consumption.

[0085] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cooking device is a device that integrates multiple functions such as steaming, microwaving, and grilling. In this embodiment, the control method of the cooking device specifically includes the following steps:

[0086] Step S10: Select the cooking mode according to the cooking requirements of the food. When the cooking mode is steaming, proceed to step S20; when the cooking mode is microwave or baking, proceed to step S60.

[0087] Step S20: Close the drain valve 25 on the steam generator 21 to prevent the steam generator 21 from draining water.

[0088] Step S30: Start water pump 37. Water pump 37 pumps water from water tank 22 into heat exchange shell 31, and then into steam generator 21 through heat exchange shell 31.

[0089] Step S40: Steam generator 21 starts to generate steam, and the steam is introduced into the cooking chamber through steam pipe 23 and steam inlet;

[0090] Step S50: Steam in the cooking chamber enters the heat exchange inner tube 32 from the steam outlet. The steam exchanges heat with the water between the heat exchange inner tube 32 and the heat exchange outer shell 31 (both water and steam are in contact with the heat exchange inner tube 32, so they can exchange heat indirectly). After the steam is cooled and dehumidified, it is discharged to the outside of the cooking chamber 1. The water pump 37 and the steam generator 21 continue to work until the food cooking is finished.

[0091] Step S60: Open the drain valve 25 on the steam generator 21 and put the food into the cooking state. The temperature sensor 36 detects the temperature T of the exhaust end 322 of the heat exchange inner tube 32. When the temperature T reaches the preset value, proceed to step S70. When the temperature T does not reach the preset value, the temperature sensor 36 continues to detect the temperature of the exhaust end 322 of the heat exchange inner tube 32.

[0092] Step S70: Start the water pump 37. The water pump 37 pumps the water in the water tank 22 into the heat exchange shell 31, and then into the steam generator 21 through the heat exchange shell 31. Finally, it is discharged through the open drain valve 25. When the water enters the heat exchange shell 31, the water exchanges heat with the steam in the heat exchange inner tube 32 so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified before being discharged to the outside of the cooking cabinet 1.

[0093] By setting a drain valve 25, the steam generator 21 can meet the requirements of not draining water during operation, and also meet the requirements of not storing water in the steam generator 21 when the cooking device is not used for a long time or when the cooking device is selected for microwave and baking functions; by setting a temperature sensor 36, the cooking device can meet the selection of different cooking modes, and shut off the steam condenser component 3 when steam generation is not required and the amount of steam generated by the food itself is not large, thereby reducing energy consumption.

[0094] In this embodiment of the invention, the inlet valve, drain valve 25, water pump 37, steam generator 21, and other electrically controlled components are all connected to the controller of the cooking device. The device is activated by selecting the corresponding program through the controller, without the need for manual adjustment. The program within the controller is prior art readily available to those skilled in the art, and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0095] Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will be able to make various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cooking apparatus, characterized by, include: A cooking chamber is provided inside the cooking chamber, and a steam inlet and a steam outlet communicating with the cooking chamber are provided on the cooking chamber. A steam generating assembly, comprising a steam generator, a water tank, and a steam conduit, wherein the steam generator is mounted on the cooking cabinet and is connected to the steam inlet via the steam conduit; A steam condensation assembly includes a heat exchange shell, a heat exchange inner tube, a water inlet pipe, and a water outlet pipe. The heat exchange shell is disposed on the cooking chamber. The heat exchange inner tube is at least partially disposed inside the heat exchange shell, and the outer side wall of the heat exchange inner tube is spaced apart from the inner side wall of the heat exchange shell to form a space for accommodating water. One end of the heat exchange inner tube communicates with the outside of the cooking chamber and the other end communicates with the steam outlet. The water inlet pipe communicates with the heat exchange shell and the water tank, and the water outlet pipe communicates with the heat exchange shell and the water inlet of the steam generator.

2. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange inner tube is made of stainless steel, aluminum alloy, ceramic, or glass; and / or... The wall thickness of the heat exchange inner tube is 0.1mm~1.5mm; and / or, The heat exchange inner tube has an air inlet end and an air outlet end. The air inlet end is connected to the steam outlet, and the air outlet end is connected to the outside of the cooking device. The height of the air inlet end is lower than the height of the air outlet end.

3. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, An exhaust connection pipe is provided on the outer wall of the cooking chamber, and the exhaust connection pipe is connected between the steam outlet and the heat exchange inner tube.

4. The cooking apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cooking chamber is equipped with a wastewater box and a first drain pipe, and the exhaust connection pipe and / or the steam outlet are connected to the wastewater box through the first drain pipe.

5. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking unit is equipped with a wastewater box and a second drain pipe. The steam generator is connected to the wastewater box through the second drain pipe. A drain valve is installed on the second drain pipe and is connected to the controller.

6. The cooking apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The wastewater box is connected to an external drain pipe, which is used to connect the cooking device to the outside.

7. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, A temperature sensor is installed on the inner heat exchange tube, and the temperature sensor is located near the exhaust end of the inner heat exchange tube. The water inlet pipe is connected to the water tank via a water pump. Both the temperature sensor and the water pump are connected to a controller; and / or, The length of the heat exchange inner tube and the length of the heat exchange outer shell both extend along a set direction, and the end of the water inlet pipe connected to the heat exchange outer shell and the end of the water outlet pipe connected to the heat exchange outer shell are respectively adjacent to the two ends of the length direction of the heat exchange outer shell.

8. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The front side of the cooking chamber has an opening communicating with the cooking cavity, and a door is provided at the opening for selective sealing. The steam generator is located on the left or right side of the cooking chamber. The heat exchange shell is located on the rear side of the cooking chamber and adjacent to the top surface of the cooking chamber. The water tank is located on the bottom surface of the cooking chamber; and / or, The water tank is equipped with an external inlet pipe for external water sources to enter.

9. A method for controlling a cooking apparatus, characterized in that, Applied to the cooking apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the following steps: The water in the water tank enters the steam generator of the steam generating assembly through the heat exchange shell of the steam condensing assembly; The steam generator is activated to produce steam, which is then introduced into the cooking chamber of the cooking cabinet through a steam duct and a steam inlet. Steam in the cooking chamber enters the heat exchange inner tube of the steam condensation assembly from the steam outlet. The steam exchanges heat with the water between the heat exchange inner tube and the heat exchange outer shell, so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified before being discharged to the outside of the cooking chamber.

10. The control method for the cooking apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cooking device is equipped with a water pump, a drain valve, and a temperature sensor. The control method of the cooking device specifically includes the following steps: Step S10: Select the cooking mode according to the cooking requirements of the food. When the cooking mode is steaming, proceed to step S20; when the cooking mode is microwave or baking, proceed to step S60. Step S20: Close the drain valve on the steam generator to prevent the steam generator from draining water. Step S30: Start the water pump, which pumps the water in the water tank into the heat exchange shell, and then into the steam generator through the heat exchange shell; Step S40: The steam generator is started to generate steam, and the steam is introduced into the cooking chamber through the steam duct and the steam inlet; Step S50: The steam in the cooking chamber enters the heat exchange inner tube from the steam outlet. The steam exchanges heat with the water between the heat exchange inner tube and the heat exchange outer shell, so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified and then discharged to the outside of the cooking chamber. The water pump and the steam generator continue to work until the food cooking is finished. Step S60: Open the drain valve on the steam generator and put the food into the cooking state. The temperature sensor detects the temperature T at the exhaust end of the heat exchange inner tube. When the temperature T reaches the preset value, proceed to step S70. When the temperature T does not reach the preset value, the temperature sensor continues to detect the temperature at the exhaust end of the heat exchange inner tube. Step S70: Start the water pump. The water pump pumps the water in the water tank into the heat exchange shell, and then into the steam generator through the heat exchange shell. Finally, the water is discharged through the opened drain valve. When the water enters the heat exchange shell, the water exchanges heat with the steam in the heat exchange inner tube so that the steam is cooled and dehumidified before being discharged to the outside of the cooking oven.

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