Ventilation system for cooking equipment and cooking equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of cooking equipment, in particular to a ventilation system for cooking equipment, which comprises a mixing section and a discharge section in fluid communication with the mixing section, the mixing section is provided with a cold air inlet and a hot air inlet, and the discharge section is provided with a discharge port. Cold air from the outside and hot air from a cooking cavity of the cooking equipment enter the mixing section through the cold air inlet and the hot air inlet respectively, obtained mixed air is exhausted to the outside of the cooking equipment through the exhaust port, and in the first direction extending from the mixing section to the exhaust section, the hot air is exhausted to the outside of the cooking equipment. The cold air inlet is closer to the outlet than the hot air inlet. By means of the ventilation system, hot air generated by cooking treatment can be fully cooled and discharged to the outside of the cooking equipment in a friendly mode. The invention further relates to a corresponding cooking appliance, in particular a drawer-type cooking appliance. The cooking equipment can independently perform steaming and / or baking treatment, and has the advantages of being high in integration level and large in cooking chamber size.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of cooking equipment, and more specifically to a ventilation system for cooking equipment and a cooking equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the market offers cooking appliances such as electric steam ovens, electric ovens, and steam-grill combination ovens. In these appliances, the ventilation system is usually located above the cooking chamber because there is generally enough space at the top. However, for smaller drawer-type products, the top space is very limited. Therefore, highly integrated improvements to the ventilation system are needed to create a large-capacity cooking chamber within the limited space of drawer-type products. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this application, a ventilation system for a cooking apparatus is provided, the cooking apparatus including a cooking chamber, the ventilation system including a mixing section and an exhaust section communicating with the mixing section, the mixing section having a cold air inlet and a hot air inlet, the exhaust section having an exhaust outlet, cold air from the outside and hot air from the cooking chamber entering the mixing section through the cold air inlet and the hot air inlet respectively, the resulting mixed gas being discharged to the outside of the cooking apparatus through the exhaust outlet, wherein, in a first direction extending from the mixing section toward the exhaust section, the cold air inlet is closer to the exhaust outlet than the hot air inlet.

[0004] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the mixing section has a lateral extension dimension that gradually increases toward the discharge section in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0005] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the cold air inlet extends along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Preferably, the cold air inlet has a strip shape, more preferably an inverted trapezoidal strip shape. Preferably, the lateral extension dimension of the strip shape in the second direction accounts for most of the lateral extension dimension of the mixing section.

[0006] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the hot gas inlet has a generally circular shape.

[0007] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the mixed section has a generally inverted triangular longitudinal cross section.

[0008] According to an optional embodiment of this application, at least one first guide portion extending between the hot air inlet and the cold air inlet is provided in the mixing section, preferably a plurality of first guide portions radially distributed, for distributing hot air from the hot air inlet to different flow directions toward the cold air inlet.

[0009] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the distal ends of the plurality of first guides relative to the hot air inlet extend to different positions along the second direction of the cold air inlet. Preferably, the outermost guide of the plurality of first guides extends to the two lateral ends of the cold air inlet.

[0010] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the mixing section is further provided with at least one second guide portion extending between the hot air inlet and the cold air inlet, preferably a plurality of second guide portions radially distributed, the second guide portions being staggered from the first guide portions for subdividing the hot air and guiding the subdivided hot air flow, preferably, each of the plurality of second guide portions and each of the plurality of first guide portions are arranged alternately with each other.

[0011] According to an optional embodiment of this application, a third guide portion is further provided in the mixing section. Along the first direction, the third guide portion is arranged in front of the first guide portion to deflect the mixed gas and / or the hot gas in the edge region of the mixing section toward the outlet.

[0012] According to an optional embodiment of this application, a fourth guide portion is further provided in the mixing section. The fourth guide portion extends from the hot gas inlet to the proximal end of the first guide portion relative to the hot gas inlet and is generally funnel-shaped. Preferably, along a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions of the mixing section, the portion of the first guide portion other than the connecting area protrudes from the fourth guide portion.

[0013] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the mixing section is surrounded by a first housing and a second housing in the middle, and the first housing and the second housing are assembled together by being airtightly fastened together. Preferably, the cold air inlet and the hot air inlet are both arranged on the first housing. More preferably, the first guide portion, the third guide portion and the fourth guide portion are all arranged on the first housing, and the second guide portion is arranged on the second housing.

[0014] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the height of the first housing in the first direction is greater than that of the second housing, such that the outlet is located above the second housing in the assembled state.

[0015] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the lateral extension dimension of the discharge section is greater than the lateral extension dimension of the mixing section.

[0016] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the discharge section is formed by the first housing.

[0017] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the ventilation system includes a cold air supply section for supplying cold air from the outside to the cold air inlet, preferably, a fan for drawing cold air from the outside is provided in the cold air supply section.

[0018] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the ventilation system includes a hot air supply section for supplying hot air from the cooking chamber to the hot air inlet. Preferably, the hot air section is implemented by a straight pipe connected to the cooking chamber. More preferably, at least the bottom of the straight pipe is inclined downward toward the cooking chamber.

[0019] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the cooking device includes a front panel located at the front, wherein at least the mixing section of the ventilation system is located between the cooking chamber and the front panel.

[0020] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the front panel has a top recess, and the outlet is positioned in the top recess in a manner that opens outwards.

[0021] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the front panel further includes a mounting assembly for connecting the ventilation system to the front panel.

[0022] According to a second aspect of this application, a cooking appliance, particularly a drawer-type cooking appliance, is provided, including any of the ventilation systems according to this application.

[0023] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the cooking appliance includes at least one drawer having an outer housing and an inner housing configured to move in and out of the outer housing by relative movement, the cooking chamber being located within the inner housing, wherein the inner housing includes a front-opening accommodating space, a cold air supply section and a hot air supply section of the ventilation system being placed within the accommodating space, and the front panel of the cooking appliance, particularly the mounting assembly of the front panel, closes the front of the accommodating space.

[0024] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the drawer has a lid that can open or close the cooking chamber, the lid closing the cooking chamber in an airtight manner.

[0025] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the rear and / or bottom of the cooking chamber has an inlet for steam for steaming processing.

[0026] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the cooking equipment is a steaming device, a baking device, or a steam-baking combination device.

[0027] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the cooking appliance includes a plurality of drawers arranged side by side, each drawer being configured to independently perform steaming and / or baking processes.

[0028] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the cooking device further includes a water storage box and a steam generator, the steam generator being operatively fluidly connected to the water storage box and / or the inlet for supplying steam into the cooking chamber.

[0029] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the cooking device further includes a UI module having a user interface for receiving relevant control commands from a user.

[0030] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the water storage box is arranged between the ventilation system and the cooking chamber. Preferably, the inner box has a first longitudinal cavity that opens upward, and the water storage box is configured to move in and out of the first longitudinal cavity by vertical movement.

[0031] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the steam generator is arranged behind or below the cooking chamber.

[0032] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the UI module is also arranged between the ventilation system and the cooking chamber. Preferably, the inner housing has an upwardly open second longitudinal cavity, and the UI module is preferably received in the second longitudinal cavity with the user interface facing upward. Preferably, the first longitudinal cavity and the second longitudinal cavity are arranged side by side along a second direction on both sides of the hot air section of the ventilation system. More preferably, in a third direction, the dimensions of the hot air section, the first longitudinal cavity, and the second longitudinal cavity are adapted to each other.

[0033] The innovative ventilation system according to this application features a clever design, high integration, and small footprint, allowing for maximum space utilization in the cooking chamber. This perfectly achieves the advantageous structure of "small volume (small product size) and large space (large cooking space)" in a drawer-type product. Simultaneously, the ventilation system can quickly expel heat generated during cooking in an environmentally friendly and user-friendly manner.

[0034] It is worth noting that the advantages and beneficial effects of this application are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art can understand other advantages and beneficial effects not mentioned in this application through the following detailed embodiments and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The principles, features, and advantages of this application will be better understood below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0036] Figure 1 A perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown;

[0037] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 3D exploded view of the cooking equipment in the picture;

[0038] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 Front and rear views of the ventilation system integrating the cooking equipment into the front panel;

[0039] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 Exploded 3D view of the front panel and ventilation system;

[0040] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB of the front panel and ventilation system;

[0041] Figure 6 The front and rear views of the ventilation system are shown.

[0042] Figure 7 An exploded three-dimensional view of the ventilation system is shown from one perspective.

[0043] Figure 8 An exploded three-dimensional view of the ventilation system is shown from another perspective; and

[0044] Figure 9 The first and second shells and their internal structures are shown.

[0045] List of reference numerals

[0046] 100 Ventilation System

[0047] 200 cooking chambers

[0048] 210 Steam inlet for steaming treatment

[0049] 300 Front Panel

[0050] 400 cover

[0051] 510 outer box

[0052] 520 inner box

[0053] 521 First longitudinal cavity

[0054] 522 Second longitudinal cavity

[0055] 600 water storage box

[0056] 700 UI modules

[0057] 1 Mixed Section

[0058] 11. Air conditioning inlet

[0059] 12 Hot air inlet

[0060] 13 First Guiding Section

[0061] 131 The distal end of the first guide section

[0062] 132 Proximal end of the first guide section

[0063] 14 Second Guide Section

[0064] 15 Third Guiding Section

[0065] 16 Fourth Guiding Section

[0066] 171 First Shell

[0067] 172 Second shell

[0068] CG air conditioning

[0069] HG Hot Air

[0070] D1 First direction, longitudinal direction

[0071] D2 Second direction, horizontal direction, left and right direction

[0072] D3 Third direction, forward and backward direction

[0073] 2 Discharge Section

[0074] 21 Discharge outlet

[0075] 31 Air conditioning supply section

[0076] 311 Fan

[0077] 312 Air Conditioning Aisle

[0078] 32. Heat supply section Detailed Implementation

[0079] To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial technical effects of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and several exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for explaining the principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. In the various drawings of this application, features with the same structure or similar function are represented by the same reference numerals.

[0080] The cooking equipment includes a cooking chamber 200. During cooking, hot air is generated within the cooking chamber 200. If this hot air is directly vented to the outside, it could potentially burn the user or adversely affect the environment surrounding the cooking equipment. Therefore, it is necessary to cool the hot air to a suitable temperature before venting it to the outside. For this purpose, it is essential to design a ventilation system within the cooking equipment to cool and exhaust the hot air generated during cooking to the outside.

[0081] Currently, drawer-type cooking appliances have been developed, which are compact, portable, easy to store, and can be integrated with a variety of cabinets. For drawer-type cooking appliances, the development of corresponding ventilation systems requires careful consideration of their space utilization within the entire appliance to ensure the capacity of the cooking chamber.

[0082] According to an exemplary embodiment of this application, an integrated ventilation system 100 for a cooking appliance is provided. Figures 4 to 9 As shown, the ventilation system 100 may include a mixing section 1 and an exhaust section 2 in fluid communication with the mixing section 1. The mixing section 1 has a cold air inlet 11 and a hot air inlet 12, and the exhaust section 2 has an exhaust outlet 21. Cold air CG from the outside (such as...) Figure 5 (as shown by the thin dashed line in the image) and hot air HG from the cooking chamber 200 (such as...) Figure 5 (As shown by the thick dashed line in the image) enters the mixing section 1 through the cold gas inlet 11 and the hot gas inlet 12, respectively, and the resulting mixed gas MG (as shown by the thick dashed line in the image) enters the mixing section 1. Figure 5 (As shown by the dashed line in the diagram) the gas is discharged to the outside of the cooking equipment through outlet 21. Therefore, by using cold air introduced into the mixing section 1 to cool the hot air generated during the cooking process, the resulting mixed gas MG is discharged to the outside of the cooking equipment at a suitable temperature. This avoids the direct discharge of hot air from causing adverse effects on users around the cooking equipment or the environment in which the cooking equipment is located, such as heat-related injuries to users.

[0083] Specifically, in the first direction D1 extending from the mixing section 1 towards the discharge section 2, the cold air inlet 11 is closer to the discharge outlet 21 than the hot air inlet 12. During cooking, a slight overpressure is created within the cooking chamber 200 due to the generation of hot air (HG), allowing the HG to naturally pass through the hot air inlet 12 into the mixing section 1 without the need for suction. Compared to the hot air (HG), the cold air (CG) introduced into the mixing section 1 has a higher flow velocity. Once the flow path of the cold air (CG) passes through the hot air inlet 12, the cold air flow is likely to obstruct the hot air (HG) from passing through the hot air inlet 12 into the mixing section 1. This will hinder the smooth discharge of the hot air (HG) from the cooking chamber 200 and will also result in a significant portion of the cold air (CG) not being used to cool the hot air (HG), thus wasting the electricity used to introduce the cold air (CG) (e.g., the electricity used to drive the fan 311, which will be mentioned below).

[0084] Therefore, by arranging the cold air inlet 11 closer to the outlet 21 than the hot air inlet 12, the cold air inlet 11 is located downstream of the hot air inlet 12 in the gas flow path, i.e. Figure 5 As shown by the arrows, the cold air CG (thin dashed line) flows upward after entering the mixing section 1, in the same direction as the previously introduced hot air HG (thick dashed line). This allows the introduced cold air CG to not obstruct the flow of hot air HG from the cooking chamber 200 to the mixing section 1.

[0085] Here, the hot gas HG can be hot air or hot steam, depending on the cooking process taking place in the cooking chamber 200. Therefore, in this document, unless otherwise specified, the hot gas HG can be hot air or hot steam.

[0086] In some optional embodiments according to this application, the mixing section 1 may have a gradually increasing lateral extension dimension toward the discharge section 2 in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. Here, the second direction D2 may be the lateral direction of the mixing section 1. This allows the hot gas HG to diffuse and spread out before encountering the cold gas CG, and both the hot gas HG and the cold gas CG can diffuse into the gradually increasing range after entering the mixing section 1, thereby facilitating thorough mixing and heat transfer between the hot gas HG and the cold gas CG, achieving rapid cooling of the hot gas HG within the limited fluid path of the mixing section 1.

[0087] Additionally or alternatively, the cold air inlet 11 may extend along the second direction D2, and preferably, the cold air inlet 11 may have a strip shape. This allows the cold air CG to be introduced laterally along the upward flow path of the hot air HG, saving the diffusion and spreading process of the cold air CG, thereby facilitating rapid cooling of the hot air HG. In particular, the cold air inlet 11 may preferably have a shape such as... Figure 6The inverted trapezoidal strip shape shown is designed to facilitate the upward flow of cold gas (CG) after it is introduced into the mixing section 1 through the cold gas inlet 11, thereby further promoting the mixing and heat transfer of the cold gas (CG) and hot gas (HG). For the same purpose, more preferably, the lateral extension dimension of the cold gas inlet 11 in the second direction D2 can occupy a large portion of the lateral extension dimension of the mixing section 1, thus providing a larger cold gas inlet 11 and a greater amount of cold gas (CG). Therefore, the lateral extension dimension of the cold gas inlet 11 can be designed according to the distribution range of the hot gas (HG) within the mixing section 1, so that the hot gas (HG) can be sufficiently cooled.

[0088] Additionally or alternatively, the hot air inlet 12 may have a generally circular shape. This allows for minimizing the extension of the mixing section 1 at the hot air inlet 12, and also enables the use of a smaller cross-sectional area of ​​the hot air inlet 12 to fully utilize the driving effect of the micro-overpressure within the cooking chamber 200 on the inflow of hot air into the mixing section 1. Thus, the mixing section 1 can have a shape such as... Figure 6 The longitudinal section of the figure is roughly an inverted triangle, with the hot gas inlet 12 located at the apex of the inverted triangle.

[0089] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, such as Figure 9As shown, at least one first guide portion 13 extending between the hot air inlet 12 and the cold air inlet 11 may be provided in the mixing section 1, preferably a plurality of first guide portions 13 arranged radially, for distributing the hot air HG from the hot air inlet 12 to different flow directions toward the cold air inlet 11. Here, radial means that each first guide portion 13 extends toward the cold air inlet 11 with the hot air inlet 12 as the center, and the spacing between adjacent first guide portions 13 gradually widens as they move away from the hot air inlet 12. Preferably, the distal ends 131 of the plurality of first guide portions 13 relative to the hot air inlet 12 extend to different positions along the second direction D2 of the cold air inlet 11. More preferably, the outermost guide portion of the plurality of first guide portions 13 extends to the two lateral ends of the cold air inlet 11. By providing the first guide section 13, hot gas can be guided to flow along the first guide section 13 to different positions of the cold gas inlet 11, and the hot gas can be distributed before mixing with the cold gas. This allows the hot gas to be distributed across the entire lateral extension of the cold gas inlet 11, so that the hot gas HG guided to a certain position can mix with the cold gas CG introduced from that position. In other words, the arrangement of the first guide section 13 can divide the flow area of ​​the hot gas in the mixing section 1 before mixing with the cold gas into multiple sub-spaces, which allows for precise planning of the hot gas flow path and full utilization of the cold gas to more effectively cool the hot gas. In addition, the radially distributed first guide section 13 can guide the flow of hot gas so that the mixed gas MG can be uniformly discharged in the lateral extension direction of the discharge section 2. That is, the first guide section 13 is used both to distribute the hot gas HG to different positions of the cold gas inlet 11 to facilitate mixing and cooling, and to distribute the hot gas HG to different discharge paths to facilitate the uniform discharge of the mixed gas MG.

[0090] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, such as Figure 9 As shown, at least one second guide section 14 extending between the hot air inlet 12 and the cold air inlet 11 may also be provided within the mixing section 1. Preferably, multiple second guide sections 14 are radially distributed, staggered from the first guide sections 13, for subdividing the hot air (HG) and guiding the subdivided flow of the hot air (HG). Based on the first guide sections 13, the second guide sections 14 provide further subdivision of the hot air (HG), thereby further optimizing the cooling of the hot air (HG) using the cold air (CG). Preferably, each of the multiple second guide sections 14 and each of the multiple first guide sections 13 are arranged alternately. This allows for the arrangement of as many first guide sections 13 and second guide sections 14 as possible, thereby maximizing the distribution and guidance of the hot air (HG) to different locations on the cold air inlet 11 and along different emission paths.

[0091] By rationally distributing the inclined extension angle and number of the first guide section 13 and the second guide section 14, the hot gas HG can be guided to distribute more widely within the mixing section 1. Additionally or alternatively, by rationally designing the height of the first guide section 13 and the second guide section 14, the hot gas HG can enter the different sub-flow channels more evenly, thereby fully mixing with the cold gas for cooling, ensuring the mixed gas MG has a suitable temperature and preventing burns to the user from its emission. Figure 5 As can be seen in the cross-sectional view shown, the first guide portion 13 may have a bent cross-sectional shape.

[0092] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, such as Figure 9 As shown, a third guide section 15 can also be provided within the mixing section 1. The third guide section 15 is arranged along the first direction D1 in front of the first guide section 13, and is used to deflect the mixed gas MG and / or hot gas HG in the edge region of the mixing section 1 towards the outlet 21. Since it is difficult for the cold gas CG to flow to the sides and above the cold gas inlet 11 at the edges far from the cold gas inlet 11 within the mixing section 1, the hot gas HG moving to these edges cannot be cooled by mixing with the cold gas CG. Therefore, the third guide section 15 can deflect this portion of the hot gas HG towards the outlet 21, thereby allowing this portion of the hot gas HG to mix with the cold gas CG. In addition, the third guide section 15 can also deflect the mixed gas MG towards the outlet 21. A vortex can be formed at the third guide section 15, thereby increasing the residence time of the mixed gas MG at this location to a certain extent, which is beneficial for mixing and heat transfer.

[0093] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, such as Figure 9 As shown, a fourth guide section 16 may also be provided within the mixing section 1. The fourth guide section 16 extends from the hot gas inlet 12 to the proximal end 132 of the first guide section 13 relative to the hot gas inlet 12 and is generally funnel-shaped. The fourth guide section 16 establishes a channel for guiding the flow of hot gas HG between the hot gas inlet 12 and the proximal end 132 of the first guide section 13 (and the second guide section 14). Preferably, along a third direction D3 perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 of the mixing section 1, i.e., in Figure 9 In the direction perpendicular to the paper, that is, in the front-to-back direction of the mixing section 1, the portion of the first guide section 13, excluding the connecting area, protrudes beyond the fourth guide section 16. Its roughly trumpet-shaped form facilitates both connection to the hot gas supply section 32, which will be described below, and smooth guidance of the hot gas HG into the mixing section 1.

[0094] Preferably, the mixing section 1 can be formed by a first housing 171 and a second housing 172 in the middle, with the first housing 171 and the second housing 172 being assembled by airtightly fastening together. Exemplarily, the first housing 171 and the second housing 172 can be connected to each other at their edges by welding or bonding to achieve assembly. This facilitates the manufacturing of the mixing section 1, while the airtight fastening prevents gas leakage from the mixing section 1. Furthermore, the assembly formed by the first housing 171 and the second housing 172 can be fixed to the front panel of the cooking device with screws to improve connection stability. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first housing 171 can form the back plate of the mixing section 1, while the second housing 172 can form the front plate of the mixing section 1.

[0095] Preferably, both the cold air inlet 11 and the hot air inlet 12 can be arranged on the first housing 171. This eliminates the need to consider the relative positions of the cold air inlet 11 and the hot air inlet 12 when assembling the first housing 171 and the second housing 172, thus facilitating assembly. Furthermore, by significantly simplifying the structure of the second housing 172, the implementation of the mixing section 1 is simplified overall. For the same purpose, more preferably, the first guide portion 13, the third guide portion 15, and the fourth guide portion 16 are also arranged on the first housing 171, and the second guide portion 14 is arranged on the second housing 172. Thus, the assembly of the first housing 171 and the second housing 172 can be achieved without affecting their mutual alignment simply by adjusting the arrangement of the guide portions during the manufacturing of the first housing 171 and the second housing 172 (e.g., by injection molding).

[0096] In some optional embodiments according to this application, at least see Figure 6 and Figure 9 The first housing 171 is higher than the second housing 172 in the first direction D1, such that the outlet 21 is located above the second housing 172 in the assembled state. This allows the outlet 21 to be arranged using the offset height between the second housing 172 and the first housing 171, providing a compact structure in the height direction. Preferably, as shown, the outlet 21 is open to the outside, i.e., open to the front of the cooking appliance, to allow the mixed gas MG to be discharged to the outside through the outlet 21. Specifically, the outlet 21 is along... Figure 6 and Figure 9 The outlets open outwards in a direction perpendicular to the paper, that is, they extend in the left-right (lateral) direction shown in the figure. Additionally, the cooking apparatus may have multiple outlets 21 arranged side-by-side, or at least one vertically extending divider may be provided in each outlet 21 to divide it into multiple sub-outlets. The multiple outlets 21 or the multiple dividers are preferably arranged evenly.

[0097] Preferably, the lateral extension dimension of the discharge section 2 is larger than the lateral extension dimension of the second housing 172. This provides a larger discharge port 21, thereby facilitating the discharge of the mixed gas MG.

[0098] Preferably, the discharge section 2 can be formed by the first housing 171. Therefore, both the mixing section 1 and the discharge section 2 can be implemented by a single first housing 171.

[0099] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the ventilation system 100 may include a cold air supply section 31 for supplying cold air CG from the outside to the cold air inlet 11. Preferably, a fan 311 for drawing cold air from the outside is provided in the cold air supply section 31. Therefore, the cold air supply section 31 includes the fan 311 and a cold air duct 312. Figure 5 In the diagram, only a portion of the cold air passage 312 is shown, which can be snapped onto the back side of the first housing 171.

[0100] Since the cool air supplied to the mixing section 1 by the fan 311 has a certain speed, the discharged mixed gas MG can be carried away from the front panel 300 by a certain distance, thereby preventing water vapor in the mixed gas MG from condensing on the surface of the front panel 300 and affecting the user experience. Preferably, the fan 311 can be a low-voltage DC fan. The controller of the cooking equipment can automatically adjust the duty cycle through software program according to the flow rate of hot air HG flowing out of the cooking chamber 200 during cooking, thereby meeting the fan speed requirements under different cooking conditions and achieving lower noise, providing a better user experience. The fan 311 can be connected to the controller of the cooking equipment by wired or wireless means, so that the start / stop and operating parameters of the fan 311 can be manually and / or automatically controlled by the controller.

[0101] Additionally or alternatively, the ventilation system 100 includes a hot air supply section 32 for supplying hot air (HG) from the cooking chamber 200 to the hot air inlet 12. Preferably, the hot air section 32 is implemented by a straight pipe connected to the cooking chamber 200. This shortens the hot air flow path from the cooking chamber 200 to the mixing section 1, allowing for a more compact overall device in the third direction D3 (front-to-back direction) and ensuring that the hot air (HG) in the cooking chamber 200 can smoothly enter the mixing section 1. More preferably, at least the bottom of the straight pipe slopes downward toward the cooking chamber 200. This allows any condensation that may occur due to partial cooling of the hot air in the straight pipe to flow back into the cooking chamber 200 under gravity.

[0102] In some embodiments according to this application, the cooking appliance includes a front panel 300 located at the front. The front panel 300 can serve as the exterior facade of the cooking appliance. Preferably, at least the mixing section 1 of the ventilation system 100 can be located between the cooking chamber 200 and the front panel 300. For example, the mixing section 1, the cold air supply section 31, and the hot air supply section 32 of the ventilation system 100 are all located between the cooking chamber 200 and the front panel 300. Additionally or alternatively, the front panel 300 has a top recess 310, and the exhaust port 21 is positioned in the top recess 310 in an outwardly open manner. In this way, the front panel 300 can be used to cover all parts of the ventilation system 100 except for the exhaust port 21, improving aesthetics without affecting gas exhaust; it also allows the ventilation system 100 to be integrated into the front panel 300 and installed as a whole in the cooking appliance, especially a drawer-type cooking appliance. Preferably, the lateral extension dimension of the exhaust section 2 occupies most of the entire lateral extension dimension of the front panel 300.

[0103] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the front panel 300 may also have a mounting assembly 320 for connecting the ventilation system 100 to the front panel 300, thereby facilitating the integration of the ventilation system into the front panel. Here, the mounting assembly 320 may include one or more sub-components. Exemplarily, the first housing 171 and / or the second housing 172 may be secured to the mounting assembly 320 by screws or other connecting members, and the mounting assembly 320 may in turn be securely connected to the front panel 300 by adhesive or other means.

[0104] This allows for an advantageous front panel integrated ventilation system, maximizing the space of the rear cooking chamber 200, thus perfectly achieving a "small product size but large cooking space" advantageous structure in the cooking equipment.

[0105] Embodiments of this application also relate to a cooking appliance that may include any of the ventilation systems 100 according to this application. The cooking appliance is particularly a drawer-type cooking appliance.

[0106] Specifically, the cooking appliance may include a drawer having an outer housing 510 and an inner housing 520. The inner housing 520 is disposed within the outer housing 510 and configured to move back and forth relative to the outer housing 510, thus enabling the drawer to be pulled out and pushed back. For example, the inner housing 520 may be mounted to the inner wall of the outer housing 510 via connecting members such as slide rails. The connecting members such as slide rails may be arranged on the left and right sides or the bottom surface of the inner housing 520. The inner housing 520 may form a cooking chamber 200 inside. Preferably, the cooking chamber 200 may be implemented by a cooking box that can be taken out and placed in the receiving space of the inner housing 520, or the cooking chamber 200 may have a removable basket built in, which can be taken out and placed in the vertical direction, thereby facilitating the user to take out and place ingredients before and after cooking.

[0107] Preferably, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the drawer may have a lid 400 that allows the cooking chamber 200 to be opened or closed. For example, the lid 400 may be pivotally connected to the inner housing 520. The lid 400 preferably closes the cooking chamber 200 in an airtight manner. This prevents hot air (HG) from leaking from the cooking chamber 200 during cooking. Optionally, the inner housing 520 may be provided with a locking mechanism for locking the lid 400 in the closed position.

[0108] When cooking is required, the inner casing 520 can be moved outward (i.e., along the third direction D3) relative to the outer casing 510 to a fully open position. In this fully open position, the lid 400 can be opened to allow the user to place the ingredients needed for cooking into the cooking chamber 200. Afterward, the user closes the lid 400 and then moves the inner casing 520 inward (i.e., forward along the third direction D3) relative to the outer casing 510 to a fully closed position. In this fully closed position, the front panel 300 can be fitted against the outer casing 510 to allow cooking.

[0109] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, the inner housing 520 may include a front-opening receiving space in which the cold air supply section 31 and the hot air supply section 32 of the ventilation system 100 may be placed, and the front panel 300 of the cooking appliance, particularly the mounting assembly 320 of the front panel 300, closes the front of the receiving space. That is, the opening of the receiving space is open to the front to allow the front panel 300, with the integrated ventilation system 100, to be received rearward into the receiving space. Thus, all parts of the ventilation system 100 except for the exhaust port 21 can be received within the front of the inner housing 520 and concealed by the front panel 300, thereby improving aesthetics.

[0110] In some alternative embodiments according to this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the front of the cooking chamber 200 is adjacent to the ventilation system 100, while the rear of the cooking chamber 200 may have an inlet 210 for steaming. In this way, steam can flow from the rear to the front of the cooking chamber 200 throughout the entire cooking chamber 200, effectively acting on the food. Alternatively, the steam inlet 210 for steaming can also be located at the bottom of the cooking chamber 200, thereby utilizing the upward flow of steam to effectively act on the food within the cooking chamber 200.

[0111] In some embodiments, the cooking device according to this application can be a steam oven capable of steaming, an oven capable of independently performing baking, or a steam-bake combination device integrating both steaming and baking functions. Therefore, in some embodiments, the cooking device may have at least one drawer, in which steaming or baking can be performed independently, thereby allowing simultaneous steaming and baking of ingredients in different drawers. Furthermore, since the outer casing 510 of the drawer can have flat upper and lower surfaces, in the case of multiple drawers in the cooking device, the drawers can be arranged side-by-side vertically, horizontally, and / or front-to-back, and each drawer is configured to independently perform steaming and / or baking, thus realizing an integrated drawer-type steam-bake combination device. Additionally, the drawers can be combined and installed with cavity cooking devices currently on the market, providing modular design advantages and offering flexibility and high adaptability.

[0112] Unlike baking, steaming requires the use of hot steam. To achieve steaming, the cooking equipment may include a water tank 600 and a steam generator (not shown). The steam generator uses water from the water tank 600 to produce steam. The steam generator is in operative fluid communication with the water tank 600 and / or the aforementioned inlet 210 to selectively introduce the generated steam into the cooking chamber 200 through the inlet 210, thereby supplying steam into the cooking chamber 200 for cooking, particularly steaming. Exemplarily, a valve element may be provided between the steam generator and the aforementioned inlet 210 of the cooking chamber 200, and / or between the water tank 600 and the steam generator. By controlling the opening and closing of the corresponding valve element, steam can be introduced into the cooking chamber 200 as needed. Furthermore, the automatic opening and closing of the valve element and the automatic operation of the steam generator can be controlled by the controller of the cooking equipment according to the operating program. When baking is required, the operation of the steam generator and valve components may be unnecessary, but not limited to this. In some cases, a certain amount of steam may be introduced during baking to increase the humidity within the cooking chamber 200.

[0113] Preferably, the water storage box 600 can be arranged at the front of the cooking equipment, particularly between the ventilation system 100 and the cooking chamber 200, which facilitates the user in filling the water storage box 600 with water. Preferably, the inner casing 520 can have an upwardly opening first longitudinal cavity 521 from which the water storage box 600 can be removed and returned. Thus, the user can remove the water storage box 600 from the first longitudinal cavity 521, fill it with water, and then return it to the first longitudinal cavity 521. Additionally or alternatively, the steam generator can be arranged at the rear or below the cooking chamber 200, preferably at the rear. This avoids occupying the limited space between the front panel 300 and the cooking chamber 200 and shortens the path distance for the generated steam to enter the cooking chamber 200.

[0114] To enable user control, the cooking device may further include a UI module 700, which has a user interface for receiving relevant control commands from the user. Thus, the user can input control commands related to cooking and / or view relevant cooking parameters (e.g., temperature, humidity, cooking progress) through the UI module 700. Preferably, the UI module 700 can also be arranged between the ventilation system 100 and the cooking chamber 200. Preferably, the inner housing 520 can have an upwardly opening second longitudinal cavity 522, in which the UI module 700 can be received with the user interface facing upwards. Thus, when the inner housing 520 is pulled out, the user can observe and / or operate the user interface downwards. Here, the user interface can be implemented as an electronic touchscreen, and the UI module 700 can be fixedly received in the second longitudinal cavity 522.

[0115] Preferably, the first longitudinal cavity 521 and the second longitudinal cavity 522 can be arranged side by side on both sides of the hot air section 32 of the ventilation system 100 along the second direction D2, i.e., the transverse direction. More preferably, in the third direction D3, i.e., the front-rear direction, the dimensions of the hot air section 32, the first longitudinal cavity 521, and the second longitudinal cavity 522 are adapted to each other. Thus, the space occupied by the hot air section 32 along the third direction D3 can be used to arrange the water storage box 600 and the UI module 700, thereby providing a compact structure along this direction to allow the rear cooking chamber 200 to have a larger capacity.

[0116] In some cases, the first longitudinal cavity 521 and the second longitudinal cavity 522 may be in communication with the aforementioned accommodating space for the ventilation system 100, i.e., only through the frame structure at the front of the inner housing 520, the front of which opens outward to form the accommodating space, and the upper part of the frame having two square openings that respectively define the first longitudinal cavity 521 and the second longitudinal cavity 522. Alternatively, the first longitudinal cavity 521 and / or the second longitudinal cavity 522 may not be in communication with the aforementioned accommodating space, i.e., they may be separated by corresponding inner walls.

[0117] The heater of the cooking equipment can be placed in any suitable location.

[0118] This article, with specific embodiments, provides an innovative front panel integrated ventilation system that utilizes dual channels of cold and hot air to cool the heat generated during cooking and discharge it at an appropriate temperature, achieving a user-friendly and environmentally friendly emission method. Simultaneously, this article, with specific embodiments, also describes an innovative drawer-type cooking appliance that offers numerous advantages, including easy installation, aesthetic appeal, high integration, large cooking chamber capacity, powerful functionality, flexible application, and independent steaming / baking functions. It has a wide installation range, is suitable for kitchens of various sizes, and can be aesthetically perfectly matched with mainstream cooking products on the market (such as ovens, steam ovens, or steam-oven combos).

[0119] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, nor should they be construed as implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Features specified as "first" or "second" may expressly or implicitly indicate that at least one of those features is included.

[0120] It should also be understood that in this document, terms such as "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "front," "back," "left," and "right," which indicate orientation or positional relationship, are used to describe the positional relationship of the corresponding components with reference to the accompanying drawings, based on the orientation of the cooking equipment during actual use. They are only for the convenience of describing this specification and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the corresponding components have a specific orientation, or are constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0121] Furthermore, in the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

Claims

1. A ventilation system (100) for a cooking apparatus, the cooking apparatus comprising a cooking chamber (200), characterized in that, The ventilation system (100) includes a mixing section (1) and an exhaust section (2) in fluid communication with the mixing section (1). The mixing section (1) has a cold air inlet (11) and a hot air inlet (12). The exhaust section (2) has an exhaust outlet (21). Cold air (CG) from the outside and hot air (HG) from the cooking chamber (200) enter the mixing section (1) through the cold air inlet (11) and the hot air inlet (12), respectively. The resulting mixed gas (MG) is discharged to the outside of the cooking equipment through the exhaust outlet (21). In a first direction (D1) extending from the mixing section (1) toward the exhaust section (2), the cold air inlet (11) is closer to the exhaust outlet (21) than the hot air inlet (12).

2. The ventilation system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mixing section (1) has a lateral extension dimension that gradually increases toward the discharge section (2) in a second direction (D2) perpendicular to the first direction (D1); and / or The cold air inlet (11) extends along a second direction (D2) perpendicular to the first direction (D1). Preferably, the cold air inlet (11) has a strip shape, more preferably an inverted trapezoidal strip shape. Preferably, the lateral extension dimension of the strip shape in the second direction (D2) accounts for a large portion of the lateral extension dimension of the mixing section (1); and / or The hot gas inlet (12) has a generally circular shape; and / or The mixed section (1) has a roughly inverted triangular longitudinal cross section.

3. The ventilation system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The mixing section (1) is provided with at least one first guide (13) extending between the hot gas inlet (12) and the cold gas inlet (11), preferably a plurality of first guides (13) arranged radially, for distributing hot gas (HG) from the hot gas inlet (12) to different flow directions toward the cold gas inlet (11).

4. The ventilation system (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The distal ends (131) of the plurality of first guide portions (13) relative to the hot air inlet (12) extend to different positions along the second direction (D2) of the cold air inlet (11). Preferably, the outermost guide of the plurality of first guides (13) extends to the two lateral ends of the cold air inlet (11).

5. The ventilation system (100) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The mixing section (1) is further provided with at least one second guide section (14) extending between the hot air inlet (12) and the cold air inlet (11), preferably a plurality of second guide sections (14) arranged radially, the second guide sections (14) being staggered from the first guide sections (13) for subdividing the hot air (HG) and guiding the subdivided hot air (HG) flow, preferably, each of the plurality of second guide sections (14) and each of the plurality of first guide sections (13) are arranged alternately to each other; and / or A third guide (15) is also provided within the mixing section (1). Along the first direction (D1), the third guide (15) is arranged in front of the first guide (13) to deflect the mixed gas (MG) and / or the hot gas (12) in the edge region of the mixing section (1) toward the outlet (21); and / or The mixing section (1) is further provided with a fourth guide section (16), which extends from the hot air inlet (12) to the proximal end (132) of the first guide section (13) relative to the hot air inlet (12) and is generally trumpet-shaped. Preferably, along the third direction (D3) of the mixing section (1) perpendicular to the first direction (D1) and the second direction (D2), the portion of the first guide section (13) other than the connecting area protrudes from the fourth guide section (16).

6. The ventilation system (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The mixing section (1) is enclosed in the middle by a first shell (171) and a second shell (172), which are assembled together by the first shell (171) and the second shell (172) being hermetically fastened together. Preferably, both the cold air inlet (11) and the hot air inlet (12) are arranged in the first housing (171). More preferably, the first guide portion (13), the third guide portion (15) and the fourth guide portion (16) are all arranged on the first housing (171), and the second guide portion (14) is arranged on the second housing (172).

7. The ventilation system (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The height of the first housing (171) in the first direction (D1) is greater than that of the second housing (172), such that the outlet (21) is located above the second housing (172) in the assembled state; and / or The lateral extension dimension of the discharge section (2) is greater than the lateral extension dimension of the mixing section (1); and / or The discharge section (2) is formed by the first housing (171).

8. The ventilation system (100) according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The ventilation system (100) includes: A cold air supply section (31) for supplying cold air (CG) from the outside to the cold air inlet (11), preferably, is provided in the cold air supply section (31) for drawing cold air from the outside; and / or For supplying hot air (HG) from the cooking chamber (200) to the hot air inlet (12) hot air supply section (32), preferably, the hot air section (32) is implemented by a straight pipe connected to the cooking chamber (200), and more preferably, at least the bottom of the straight pipe is inclined downward toward the cooking chamber (200).

9. The ventilation system (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cooking device includes a front panel (300) located at the front. Wherein, at least the mixing section (1) of the ventilation system (100) is located between the cooking chamber (200) and the front panel (300); and / or The front panel (300) has a top recess (310), and the outlet (21) is positioned in the top recess (310) in a manner that opens outwards; and / or The front panel (300) also has a mounting assembly (320) for connecting the ventilation system (100) to the front panel (300).

10. A cooking appliance, particularly a drawer-type cooking appliance, comprising a ventilation system (100) according to any one of claims 1-9.

11. The cooking apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes at least one drawer having an outer housing (510) and an inner housing (520) configured to move in and out of the outer housing (510) by relative movement, the cooking chamber (200) being located within the inner housing (520). The inner housing (520) includes a front-opening accommodating space in which the cold air supply section (31) and hot air supply section (32) of the ventilation system (100) are placed, and the front panel (300) of the cooking appliance, and in particular the mounting assembly (320) of the front panel (300), closes the front of the accommodating space.

12. The cooking apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The drawer has a lid (400) that can open or close the cooking chamber (200), the lid (400) closing the cooking chamber (200) in an airtight manner; and / or The cooking chamber (200) has an inlet (210) for steam inlet for steaming treatment at its rear and / or bottom; and / or The cooking equipment is a steaming device, a baking device, or a steam-baking combination device; and / or The cooking appliance includes multiple drawers arranged side by side, each of which is configured to independently perform steaming and / or baking processes.

13. The cooking apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, The cooking apparatus further includes a water reservoir (600) and a steam generator, the steam generator being operatively fluidly connected to the water reservoir (600) and / or the inlet (210) for supplying steam into the cooking chamber (200); and / or The cooking device also includes a UI module (700) having a user interface for receiving relevant control commands from the user.

14. The cooking apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that, The water storage box (600) is disposed between the ventilation system (100) and the cooking chamber (200). Preferably, the inner casing (520) has an upwardly opening first longitudinal cavity (521), and the water storage box (600) is configured to be removable and repositionable from the first longitudinal cavity (521); and / or The steam generator is located behind or below the cooking chamber (200).

15. The cooking apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that, The UI module (700) is also arranged between the ventilation system (100) and the cooking chamber (200). Preferably, the inner housing (520) has an upwardly opening second longitudinal cavity (522), and the UI module (700) is preferably received in the second longitudinal cavity (522) with the user interface facing upward. Preferably, the first longitudinal cavity (521) and the second longitudinal cavity (522) are arranged side by side along the second direction (D2) on both sides of the hot air section (32) of the ventilation system (100). More preferably, the dimensions of the hot air section (32), the first longitudinal cavity (521) and the second longitudinal cavity (522) are adapted to each other in the third direction (D3).

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