Illumination control method and device and cooking equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses an illumination control method and device and cooking equipment. The illumination control method is applied to the cooking equipment, the cooking equipment comprises an inner container and an illumination device, a cooking cavity with an opening is formed in the inner container, the illumination device is arranged outside the inner container, at least one illumination device is arranged on the side wall of the cooking cavity, and the illumination device moves in the vertical direction of the cooking cavity. The illumination control method comprises the steps that after a baking tray is placed in a cooking cavity, an illumination device is started to determine the position of the baking tray in the cooking cavity; according to the position of the baking tray, the lighting device is controlled to move to the position above the position of the baking tray so as to control the lighting device to light the baking tray. The illumination position can be adjusted according to user needs, so that a user can observe cooking conditions of to-be-cooked articles at different positions conveniently, and the cooking experience of the user is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of kitchenware technology, and in particular to a lighting control method, device, and cooking equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Ovens, steam ovens, and other cooking equipment are usually equipped with dedicated lighting systems to help users observe the specific cooking status of ingredients—such as the degree of browning and the cooking progress. These lighting systems illuminate the ingredients inside the equipment, allowing users to clearly and intuitively grasp the cooking situation and adjust cooking parameters and control the cooking effect in a timely manner.

[0003] In existing technologies, the lighting systems of cooking equipment typically have their lights fixed in specific locations within the equipment, such as the sides and / or top of the inner pot, to provide illumination during the cooking process and facilitate user observation. However, this fixed single or dual-lighting method has significant locational limitations, failing to fully meet the user's need to observe the cooking process of the food from various angles, thus impacting the overall cooking experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a lighting control method, device, and cooking equipment to solve the problem that current cooking lighting has location limitations and cannot meet users' needs to observe the cooking status of ingredients from various angles.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a lighting control method is provided, which is applied to a cooking apparatus. The cooking apparatus includes an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber, and the lighting device is disposed outside the inner pot. At least one lighting device is disposed on the side wall of the cooking chamber, and the lighting device moves vertically along the cooking chamber. The lighting control method includes: After placing the baking tray inside the cooking chamber, turn on the lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray inside the cooking chamber; The lighting device is moved above the baking pan based on its position to illuminate the pan.

[0006] Optionally, the cooking chamber is provided with multiple layers of shelves arranged at intervals in the vertical direction for placing baking trays; Activating the lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray inside the cooking chamber includes: The lighting device is activated and moved vertically along the cooking chamber to check whether there is a baking tray on the shelf in turn; The location of the baking tray inside the cooking chamber is determined based on whether a baking tray is placed there.

[0007] Optionally, the cooking chamber is equipped with a lighting device; The lighting device is moved above the baking pan based on its position, including: If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two or more shelves in the cooking chamber, the control lighting device is moved sequentially above the position of the baking trays on each shelf.

[0008] Optionally, the cooking chamber is equipped with two lighting units; The lighting device is moved above the baking pan based on its position, including: If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, then control both lighting devices to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf; If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then control the two lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf, or control both lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on one shelf and simultaneously move above the position of the baking trays on the other shelf. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then control the two lighting devices to move above the positions of the baking trays on two of the shelves, or control the two lighting devices to move synchronously and sequentially above the positions of the baking trays on each shelf.

[0009] Optionally, the cooking chamber is equipped with multiple lighting fixtures; The lighting device is moved above the baking pan based on its position, including: If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, control at least one of the multiple lighting devices to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf; If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then control at least two of the multiple lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then control multiple lighting devices to move above the positions of the baking trays on the corresponding shelves.

[0010] Optionally, the lighting device can be moved above the baking pan based on its position, including: In response to input operations on the user interface of the cooking equipment, the desired lighting position of the input lighting device is determined based on the location of the baking pan, and the lighting device is moved above the location of the baking pan based on the lighting position.

[0011] Optionally, the desired lighting position for the input lighting device can be determined based on the location of the baking tray, including: If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on at least one shelf in the cooking chamber, then the lighting position to which the input lighting device needs to be moved is determined to be above the position of the baking trays on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber.

[0012] Optionally, the lighting control method also includes: Before placing a baking tray inside the cooking chamber, or after using the cooking chamber, control the lighting device to return to its initial state.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, a lighting control device is provided, which is applied to a cooking apparatus having a cooking chamber and at least one lighting device disposed thereon. The lighting control device includes: The position determination module is used to determine the location of the baking tray inside the cooking chamber by activating the lighting device after the baking tray is placed inside the cooking chamber. The lighting control module is used to control the lighting device to move above the baking pan based on the position of the baking pan, so as to illuminate the baking pan.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, a cooking apparatus is provided, comprising an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber, and the cooking chamber has multiple shelves arranged at intervals in a vertical direction for placing baking pans. At least one side wall of the cooking chamber has a lighting window, and at least one lighting device is disposed in the at least one lighting window. The lighting window extends in a vertical direction, and a position adjustment mechanism for the lighting device corresponding to the lighting window is used to drive the lighting lamp to move in a vertical direction. The cooking apparatus is capable of executing the lighting control method of any embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] The technical solution of this invention provides a lighting control method applied to a cooking device. The cooking device includes an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber, and the lighting device is located outside the inner pot. At least one lighting device is disposed on the side wall of the cooking chamber. The lighting device moves vertically along the cooking chamber. The lighting control method includes: after placing a baking pan in the cooking chamber, activating the lighting device to determine the position of the baking pan in the cooking chamber, so as to enable the user to adjust the lighting position according to their needs, so as to allow the user to observe the cooking status of the food at different positions; further, controlling the lighting device to move above the position of the baking pan according to the position of the baking pan, so as to control the lighting device to illuminate the baking pan, thereby solving the problem that the current cooking lighting has positional limitations and cannot meet the user's needs to observe the cooking status of the food from various angles, thus improving the user's cooking experience.

[0016] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart of a lighting control method provided according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of a lighting control method provided according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a lighting control method provided according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a lighting control method provided according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a lighting control method provided according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a lighting control device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a lighting device provided according to an embodiment of the present invention; In the picture: 100. Inner liner; 101. Cooking chamber; 102. Lighting window; 200. Lighting device; 300. Control panel; 400. Shelf; 401. Placement slot; 500. Baking tray; 1. Fastener; 11. First fixing part; 12. Second fixing part; 13. Third fixing part; 14. Connecting part; 2. Position adjustment mechanism; 21. Driver; 22. Transmission assembly; 221. Lead screw; 222. Lead screw nut; 23. Mounting base; 24. Guide rod; 3. Lighting; 4. Position detection module; 5. Reset detection module. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0020] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0021] Figure 1 This invention provides a schematic flowchart of a lighting control method. This embodiment is applicable to situations where the lighting position is automatically adjusted based on the food to be cooked on the baking tray inside the cooking chamber. This lighting control method can be executed by a lighting control device, which can be implemented in hardware and / or software and can be configured within the cooking equipment. Figure 1 As shown, a lighting control method is applied to a cooking device, which includes an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber, and the lighting device is located outside the inner pot. At least one lighting device is disposed on the side wall of the cooking chamber, and the lighting device moves vertically along the cooking chamber. The lighting control method includes: S110. After placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, turn on the lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray in the cooking chamber.

[0022] Specifically, a baking tray is placed in the cooking chamber, that is, the food to be cooked is placed on the baking tray. The food to be cooked enters the cooking chamber with the baking tray. The food to be cooked can be placed directly in the baking tray, or it can be placed in the baking tray by relying on other cooking utensils that can be used in the cooking chamber. This embodiment does not impose any special restrictions on the way the food to be cooked is placed in the baking tray.

[0023] The cooking equipment can be, but is not limited to, ovens, steamers, or microwave ovens. The items to be cooked are placed on the baking tray inside the cooking chamber, but are not limited to roasted meats, snacks, buns, rice, etc. This embodiment does not impose any special restrictions on them.

[0024] As those skilled in the art will know, the cooking chamber is provided with multiple shelves arranged at intervals along the vertical direction. The shelves are used to place baking pans. It is understood that placing a baking pan in the cooking chamber means placing at least one baking pan in the cooking chamber, with each baking pan placed on a corresponding shelf.

[0025] Specifically, after placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is activated and moves vertically along the cooking chamber. The lighting device can be used to illuminate the items to be cooked on the baking tray. By moving the lighting device vertically along the cooking chamber, the baking trays placed on each shelf can be illuminated. The lighting effect can be achieved simply by moving the device to the position of the corresponding baking tray.

[0026] Based on the above, before the lighting device achieves the lighting effect, it can be used to determine whether there are baking trays on the shelf by activating the lighting device. That is, activating the lighting device can detect the position of the baking tray on the shelf and the specific number of baking trays placed in the cooking cavity. It can be seen that the lighting device can be equipped with modules such as infrared detection modules to determine whether there are baking trays on the shelf by existing detection methods.

[0027] For example, taking a cooking chamber with three shelves as an example, by activating the lighting device and moving it vertically along the cooking chamber, it can be determined that there is a baking pan in the cooking chamber, and the location of the baking pan can be detected by the lighting device, that is, the baking pan is placed on any one of the three shelves in the cooking chamber. It can also be determined that there are two baking pans in the cooking chamber, and the location of the baking pan can be detected by the lighting device, that is, the baking pan is placed on any two of the three shelves in the cooking chamber. It can also be determined that there are three baking pans in the cooking chamber, and the location of the baking pan can be detected by the lighting device, that is, the baking pan is placed on all three shelves in the cooking chamber.

[0028] S120. Control the lighting device to move above the baking pan according to the position of the baking pan, so as to control the lighting device to illuminate the baking pan.

[0029] In this embodiment, considering the number of lighting devices installed in the cooking cavity, different lighting needs for the baking pan can be met. There may be one, two or more lighting devices in the cooking cavity. This embodiment does not impose any special restrictions on the specific number of lighting devices in the cooking cavity.

[0030] In one embodiment, if a lighting device is provided in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is controlled to illuminate the baking pan according to the lighting requirements and the number of baking pans. Specifically: if there is one baking pan in the cooking chamber and the location of the baking pan is detected by the lighting device, that is, the baking pan is placed on any shelf in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is controlled to move above the location of the baking pan on the corresponding shelf; if there are two or more baking pans in the cooking chamber and the location of the baking pans is detected by the lighting device, that is, the baking pans are distributed on two or more shelves in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is controlled to move sequentially above the location of the baking pan on each shelf.

[0031] It should be noted that if the baking trays are distributed on two shelves within the cooking chamber, the lighting device can be controlled to move sequentially from top to bottom above the corresponding baking tray position on the shelf, or sequentially from bottom to top above the corresponding baking tray position on the shelf. This embodiment does not impose any restrictions on the lighting sequence of the lighting device. Similarly, if the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves within the cooking chamber, the lighting device can be controlled to move sequentially from top to bottom above the corresponding baking tray position on the shelf, or sequentially from bottom to top above the corresponding baking tray position on the shelf. Furthermore, the lighting device can be controlled to move sequentially above the corresponding baking tray position on the shelf according to a set sequence. This embodiment does not impose any restrictions on the lighting sequence of the lighting device.

[0032] In another embodiment, if the cooking chamber is equipped with two lighting devices, the lighting devices are controlled to illuminate the baking trays according to the lighting requirements and the number of baking trays. Specifically, if a baking tray is placed in the cooking chamber and its location is detected by the lighting devices (i.e., the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber), then either lighting device is moved to the position above the baking tray on the corresponding shelf, thus using one lighting device to achieve the lighting effect on the baking tray. Alternatively, both lighting devices can be moved to the position above the baking tray on the shelf, using both lighting devices to simultaneously illuminate one baking tray, achieving a better lighting effect.

[0033] Similarly, it is known that the lighting devices can be activated independently or synchronously. If there are two baking trays in the cooking chamber, and the location of the baking trays is detected by the lighting devices (i.e., the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber), then the two lighting devices are controlled to move above the corresponding baking trays on the shelves, so as to illuminate both baking trays simultaneously. It is known that there are no restrictions on the specific location of the lighting devices on the shelves, and those skilled in the art can set the lighting devices to move to the corresponding positions according to their needs; or, both lighting devices can be controlled to move above the baking trays on one shelf and simultaneously move above the baking trays on the other shelf. That is to say, the lighting devices are controlled to illuminate the two baking trays in sequence, and there are no restrictions on the order in which the two baking trays are illuminated. At the same time, two lighting devices are used to illuminate one baking tray to achieve a better lighting effect for each baking tray.

[0034] Similarly, if there are three or more baking trays in the cooking chamber, and the location of the trays is detected by the lighting device (i.e., the trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber), then the number of lighting devices is less than the number of baking trays. Two lighting devices can be moved to above the positions of the baking trays on two shelves to illuminate them. After illuminating the trays on those two shelves, another lighting device can be moved to above the positions of the baking trays on other shelves to illuminate the remaining trays, thus ensuring that every baking tray in the cooking chamber is illuminated. Alternatively, for better lighting effects, and given the unequal number of lighting devices and baking trays, two lighting devices can be moved sequentially and synchronously above the positions of the baking trays on each shelf to illuminate each tray. It is clear that the order in which each baking tray is illuminated is not restricted.

[0035] In another embodiment, if the cooking chamber is equipped with multiple lighting devices, the lighting devices are controlled to illuminate the baking pan according to the lighting requirements and the number of baking pans. Specifically, if there is a baking pan in the cooking chamber and the location of the baking pan is detected by the lighting devices, i.e., the baking pan is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, then any one lighting device is controlled to move above the location of the baking pan on the corresponding shelf, i.e., one lighting device is used to achieve the lighting effect of the baking pan. Alternatively, two or more lighting devices are controlled to move above the location of the baking pan on the shelf, using two or more lighting devices to illuminate one baking pan at the same time to achieve a better lighting effect.

[0036] Similarly, if two baking trays are placed in the cooking chamber, and the location of the baking trays is detected by the lighting device, i.e., the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then at least two of the multiple lighting devices are controlled to move above the location of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf, so as to illuminate the two baking trays simultaneously. It can be seen that there are no restrictions on the specific lighting device moving to the shelf position, and those skilled in the art can set the lighting device to move to the corresponding position according to the needs.

[0037] Similarly, if there are three or more baking trays in the cooking chamber, and the location of the baking trays is detected by the lighting device, that is, the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then if the number of lighting devices is equal to the number of baking trays, multiple lighting devices can be controlled to move above the location of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf. If the number of lighting devices is not equal to the number of baking trays, the number of lighting devices can be flexibly adjusted based on the number of baking trays to achieve lighting for multiple baking trays.

[0038] Based on the above embodiments, after the lighting device is activated and the position of the baking pan inside the cooking cavity is determined, the position of the lighting device can be customized through the user interface on the cooking device. That is, the position of the lighting device can be customized and flexibly adjusted to achieve planned and demand-based lighting. Specifically, in response to the input operation of the user interface on the cooking device, the required lighting position of the input lighting device is determined according to the position of the baking pan, so as to control the lighting device to move above the position of the baking pan based on the lighting position.

[0039] It is known that, regardless of how the lighting position of the lighting device is adjusted according to the location of the baking pan, the lighting device can be moved above its location. Specifically, if it is determined that the baking pan is distributed on at least one shelf in the cooking chamber, then the lighting position to which the input lighting device needs to be moved is determined to be above the location of the baking pan on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber.

[0040] Based on the above embodiments, before placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is in an initial state, that is, the lighting lamp in the lighting device is located at the top or bottom of the vertical direction of the lighting window. The initial state is consistent with the starting position of the lighting device. The initial state can be selected and set according to the preset settings of those skilled in the art. This embodiment does not impose any restrictions on it.

[0041] As those skilled in the art will know, after the cooking chamber has been used, the lighting control device is restored to its initial state.

[0042] The technical solution of this invention provides a lighting control method applied to a cooking device. The cooking device includes an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber, and the lighting device is located outside the inner pot. At least one lighting device is disposed on the side wall of the cooking chamber. The lighting device moves vertically along the cooking chamber. The lighting control method includes: after placing a baking pan inside the cooking chamber, activating the lighting device to determine the position of the baking pan inside the cooking chamber; and controlling the lighting device to move above the baking pan's position to illuminate it. This invention solves the problem of current cooking lighting having positional limitations, failing to meet the user's need to observe the cooking status of ingredients from various angles. It enables users to adjust the lighting position according to their needs, allowing them to observe the cooking status of items at different positions and improving the user's cooking experience.

[0043] Based on the same inventive concept Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a lighting control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Based on the previous embodiments, this embodiment adjusts the position of the lighting device according to the number of baking trays in the cooking chamber when a lighting device is provided, thereby controlling the lighting device to illuminate the baking trays. This provides an optional implementation method. Figure 2 As shown, the lighting control method includes: S210. After placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, turn on the lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray in the cooking chamber.

[0044] S221. If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is moved above the location of the baking tray to illuminate the baking tray.

[0045] In this embodiment, a shelf is provided inside the cooking chamber. The shelf has multiple layers of placement slots arranged at intervals along the vertical direction, and the baking pan is placed in the placement slots. Specifically, if a baking pan is placed inside the cooking chamber, and the position of the baking pan is detected by the lighting device, that is, the baking pan is placed on any shelf in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is controlled to move above the position of the baking pan on the corresponding shelf.

[0046] S222. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two or more shelves in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is controlled to move sequentially above the position of the baking trays on each shelf.

[0047] Specifically, if there are two or more baking trays in the cooking chamber, and the location of the baking trays is detected by the lighting device (i.e., the baking trays are distributed on two or more shelves in the cooking chamber), the lighting device can be controlled to move sequentially from top to bottom above the location of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf, or sequentially from bottom to top above the location of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf. It can be understood that the lighting device can be moved at set intervals to illuminate different baking trays, and the two or more baking trays can be illuminated in a cyclical manner to illuminate the items to be cooked on different layers of baking trays, thus meeting the user's need to observe the cooking process of the food.

[0048] S230. After use of the cooking chamber, control the lighting device to return to its initial state.

[0049] In the technical solution of this invention embodiment, at least one side wall of the cooking chamber is provided with a lighting window, one of which is equipped with a lighting device. The lighting window extends vertically, and the position adjustment mechanism of the lighting device corresponding to the lighting window is used to drive the lighting lamp to move vertically. Based on this, the position of the lighting device is adjusted according to the number of baking trays in the cooking chamber to control the lighting device to illuminate the baking trays, thereby achieving the best lighting effect and user experience, and improving the user's cooking experience.

[0050] Based on the same inventive concept Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a lighting control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Based on the previous embodiments, this embodiment adjusts the position of the lighting devices according to the number of baking trays in the cooking chamber when two lighting devices are configured there, thereby controlling the lighting devices to illuminate the baking trays. This provides an optional implementation method. Figure 3 As shown, the lighting control method includes: S310. After placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, turn on the lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray in the cooking chamber.

[0051] S321. If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, control both lighting devices to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf.

[0052] In one embodiment, at least one side wall of the cooking chamber is provided with a lighting window, one of which is equipped with two lighting devices. The lighting window extends vertically, and the position adjustment mechanism of the corresponding lighting device is used to drive the lighting device to move vertically. Specifically, if a baking tray is placed in the cooking chamber, and the position of the baking tray is detected by either lighting device (i.e., the baking tray is placed on any shelf in the cooking chamber), then either of the two lighting devices is controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf.

[0053] In another embodiment, if both the left and right walls of the inner liner are provided with lighting windows, and each of these two lighting windows is equipped with a lighting device, one lighting window is located near the opening of the cooking chamber, and the other lighting window is located away from the opening of the cooking chamber. Specifically, if a baking tray is placed in the cooking chamber, and the position of the baking tray is detected by the lighting device in the lighting window on the left wall or the lighting device in the lighting window on the right wall, i.e., the baking tray is placed on any shelf in the cooking chamber, then the lighting device in the lighting window on the left wall or the lighting device in the lighting window on the right wall is controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf.

[0054] S322. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then control the two lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf, or control both lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on one shelf and simultaneously move above the position of the baking trays on the other shelf.

[0055] Building upon the above, one of the lighting windows is equipped with two lighting devices, and two baking trays are placed inside the cooking chamber. If the lighting devices are activated independently, they can be controlled to move sequentially above the corresponding baking trays on the respective shelves. If the lighting devices are activated simultaneously, they can be controlled to move simultaneously above the corresponding baking trays on the respective shelves, thus illuminating both baking trays at the same time. Alternatively, both lighting devices can be controlled to move above the baking trays on one shelf and simultaneously move above the baking trays on the other shelf, achieving better lighting for each baking tray.

[0056] If both the left and right walls of the inner liner are equipped with lighting windows, and each of these two lighting windows is equipped with a lighting device, and two baking trays are placed in the cooking cavity, the lighting devices on the left and right walls can be moved to the positions above the baking trays on the corresponding shelves, or the lighting devices on the left and right walls can be moved simultaneously to the positions above the baking trays on one shelf and simultaneously to the positions above the baking trays on the other shelf, thus achieving better lighting for each baking tray.

[0057] S323. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then control the two lighting devices to move above the positions of the baking trays on two of the shelves, or control the two lighting devices to move synchronously and sequentially above the positions of the baking trays on each shelf.

[0058] Building upon the above, one of the lighting windows is equipped with two lighting devices. These two devices can be controlled to move above the baking trays on two of the shelves, illuminating those trays. Then, one device can be moved to the position above the baking trays on other shelves to illuminate the remaining trays, ensuring that every tray in the cooking cavity is illuminated. Alternatively, the two lighting devices can be controlled to move sequentially and synchronously above the baking trays on each shelf, illuminating every single tray.

[0059] If both the left and right walls of the inner liner are equipped with lighting windows, and each of these two lighting windows is equipped with a lighting device, and two baking trays are placed in the cooking cavity, the lighting devices on the left and right walls can be controlled to move above the positions of the baking trays on two of the shelves. After illuminating the baking trays on two of the shelves, the lighting devices on either the left or right walls can be controlled to move above the positions of the baking trays on other shelves to illuminate the remaining baking trays. Alternatively, the lighting devices on the left and right walls can be controlled to move synchronously and sequentially above the positions of the baking trays on each shelf.

[0060] S330. After use of the cooking chamber, control the lighting device to return to its initial state.

[0061] In the technical solution of this invention embodiment, at least one side wall of the cooking chamber is provided with a lighting window, one of which is equipped with two lighting devices. Alternatively, both the left and right side walls of the inner liner are provided with lighting windows, and each of the two lighting windows is equipped with one lighting device. The lighting windows extend vertically, and the position adjustment mechanism of the lighting device corresponding to the lighting window is used to drive the lighting lamp to move vertically. Based on this, the position of the lighting device is adjusted according to the number of baking trays in the cooking chamber to control the lighting device to illuminate the baking trays, thereby achieving the best lighting effect and user experience, and improving the user's cooking experience.

[0062] Based on the same inventive concept Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a lighting control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Based on the above embodiments, this embodiment adjusts the positions of the lighting devices according to the number of baking trays in the cooking chamber when multiple lighting devices are configured there, thereby controlling the lighting devices to illuminate the baking trays. This provides an optional implementation method. Figure 4 As shown, the lighting control method includes: S410. After placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, turn on the lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray in the cooking chamber.

[0063] S421. If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, control at least one of the multiple lighting devices to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf.

[0064] In one embodiment, at least one side wall of the cooking chamber is provided with a lighting window, one of which is equipped with a plurality of lighting devices. The lighting window extends vertically, and the position adjustment mechanism of the lighting device corresponding to the lighting window is used to drive the lighting device to move vertically. Specifically, if a baking tray is placed in the cooking chamber, one of the plurality of lighting devices is controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf, or two or more lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf.

[0065] In another embodiment, if any one, two, or three of the left side wall, right side wall, rear side wall, top wall, or bottom wall of the inner liner are provided with lighting windows, and any one, two, or all of the lighting windows are equipped with lighting devices. Specifically, if a baking tray is placed in the cooking cavity, one of the aforementioned lighting devices can be moved to a position above the baking tray on the corresponding shelf, or two or more of the aforementioned lighting devices can be moved to a position above the baking tray on the shelf; this is not limited to this.

[0066] S422. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, control at least two of the multiple lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf.

[0067] In one embodiment, at least one side wall of the cooking chamber is provided with a lighting window, one of which is equipped with a plurality of lighting devices. The lighting window extends vertically, and the position adjustment mechanism of the lighting device corresponding to the lighting window is used to drive the lighting device to move vertically. Specifically, if two baking trays are placed in the cooking chamber, at least two of the plurality of lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf.

[0068] In another embodiment, if any one, two, or three of the left side wall, right side wall, rear side wall, top wall, or bottom wall of the inner liner are provided with lighting windows, and any one, two, or all of the lighting windows are equipped with lighting devices. Specifically, if two baking trays are placed in the cooking chamber, at least two of the aforementioned lighting devices are controlled to move above the positions of the baking trays on the corresponding shelves.

[0069] S423. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, control multiple lighting devices to move above the positions of the baking trays on the corresponding shelves.

[0070] In one embodiment, at least one side wall of the cooking chamber is provided with a lighting window, one of which is equipped with multiple lighting devices. The lighting window extends vertically, and the position adjustment mechanism of the lighting device corresponding to the lighting window is used to drive the lighting device to move vertically. Specifically, if three or more baking trays are placed in the cooking chamber, the multiple lighting devices can be controlled to move above the positions of the baking trays on the corresponding shelves.

[0071] In another embodiment, if any one, two, or three of the left side wall, right side wall, rear side wall, top wall, or bottom wall of the inner liner are provided with lighting windows, and any one, two, or all of the lighting windows are equipped with lighting devices. Specifically, if three or more baking trays are placed in the cooking chamber, the aforementioned multiple lighting devices can be controlled to move above the positions of the baking trays on the corresponding shelves.

[0072] S430. After use of the cooking chamber, control the lighting device to return to its initial state.

[0073] In the technical solution of this invention, at least one side wall of the cooking chamber is provided with a lighting window, and one lighting window is equipped with multiple lighting devices. Alternatively, any one, two, or three of the left side wall, right side wall, rear side wall, top wall, or bottom wall of the inner liner are provided with lighting windows, and any one, two, or all of the lighting windows are equipped with lighting devices. Based on this, the position of the lighting devices is adjusted according to the number of baking trays in the cooking chamber to control the lighting devices to illuminate the baking trays, thereby achieving the best lighting effect and user experience, and improving the user's cooking experience.

[0074] Based on the same inventive concept Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a lighting control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Based on the above embodiments, this embodiment adjusts the position of the lighting device according to the input operations of the user interface on the cooking equipment, taking into account the number of baking pans in the cooking cavity, to control the lighting device to illuminate the baking pans, providing an optional implementation method. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the lighting control method includes: S510. After placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, turn on the lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray in the cooking chamber.

[0075] S520, in response to an input operation on the user interface of the cooking device, determines the desired lighting position of the input lighting device based on the position of the baking pan, and controls the lighting device to move above the position of the baking pan based on the lighting position.

[0076] The cooking equipment also includes a control system, which includes a control panel. The control panel is installed on the top front side of the cooking equipment and has buttons. The lighting position can also be manually controlled by the buttons. The input operations of the user interface on the cooking equipment can be clicking the screen or pressing the buttons, etc. This embodiment does not impose any special restrictions on them.

[0077] Specifically, in response to the input operation of the user interface on the cooking equipment, the desired lighting position of the lighting device can be determined based on the location of the baking pan.

[0078] Furthermore, after determining the lighting position to which the input lighting device needs to be moved, if it is determined that the baking tray is distributed on at least one shelf in the cooking chamber, then the lighting position to which the input lighting device needs to be moved is determined to be above the position of the baking tray on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber.

[0079] The technical solution of this invention involves placing a baking tray in the cooking chamber and then activating a lighting device to determine the location of the baking tray within the cooking chamber. In response to input operations from the user interface on the cooking device, the required lighting position for the lighting device is determined based on the location of the baking tray. This allows the lighting device to be moved above the location of the baking tray, enabling the user to adjust the lighting position according to their needs. This allows the user to observe the cooking process of items in different locations, thus enhancing the user's cooking experience.

[0080] Based on the same inventive concept Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a lighting control device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The lighting control device is applied to a cooking appliance, which includes an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber, and the lighting device is located outside the inner pot. At least one lighting device is disposed on the side wall of the cooking chamber, and the lighting device moves vertically along the cooking chamber. Figure 6 As shown, the lighting control device includes: The position determination module 610 is used to determine the position of the baking tray inside the cooking chamber by activating the lighting device after the baking tray is placed inside the cooking chamber. The lighting control module 620 is used to control the lighting device to move above the baking pan based on the position of the baking pan, so as to control the lighting device to illuminate the baking pan.

[0081] Optionally, the cooking chamber is provided with multiple layers of shelves arranged at intervals in the vertical direction for placing baking trays; Activating the lighting device to pinpoint the location of the baking tray within the cooking chamber is specifically used for: The lighting device is activated and moved vertically along the cooking chamber to check whether there is a baking tray on the shelf in turn; The location of the baking tray inside the cooking chamber is determined based on whether a baking tray is placed there.

[0082] Optionally, the cooking chamber is equipped with a lighting device; The lighting device is moved above the baking pan based on its position, specifically for: If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two or more shelves in the cooking chamber, the control lighting device is moved sequentially above the position of the baking trays on each shelf.

[0083] Optionally, the cooking chamber is equipped with two lighting units; The lighting device is moved above the baking pan based on its position, specifically for: If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, then control both lighting devices to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf; If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then control the two lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf, or control both lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on one shelf and simultaneously move above the position of the baking trays on the other shelf. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then control the two lighting devices to move above the positions of the baking trays on two of the shelves, or control the two lighting devices to move synchronously and sequentially above the positions of the baking trays on each shelf.

[0084] Optionally, the cooking chamber is equipped with multiple lighting fixtures; The lighting device is moved above the baking pan based on its position, specifically for: If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, control at least one of the multiple lighting devices to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf; If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then control at least two of the multiple lighting devices to move above the position of the baking trays on the corresponding shelf. If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then control multiple lighting devices to move above the positions of the baking trays on the corresponding shelves.

[0085] Optionally, the lighting device can be moved above the baking pan based on its position, specifically for: In response to input operations on the user interface of the cooking equipment, the desired lighting position of the input lighting device is determined based on the location of the baking pan, and the lighting device is moved above the location of the baking pan based on the lighting position.

[0086] Optionally, the desired lighting position for the input lighting device can be determined based on the location of the baking tray, specifically for: If it is determined that the baking trays are distributed on at least one shelf in the cooking chamber, then the lighting position to which the input lighting device needs to be moved is determined to be above the position of the baking trays on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber.

[0087] Optionally, the lighting control device may also include: The initial state restoration module is used to restore the lighting device to its initial state before placing a baking tray in the cooking chamber, or after the cooking chamber has been used.

[0088] The lighting control device provided in the embodiments of the present invention can execute the lighting control method provided in any embodiment of the present invention, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects for executing the lighting control method.

[0089] Based on the same inventive concept Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking device provided in an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the cooking device includes an inner pot 100 and a lighting device 200. The inner pot 100 has an open cooking chamber 101, and the cooking chamber has multiple shelves 400 arranged vertically at intervals for placing baking pans 500. At least one side wall of the inner pot 100 has a lighting window 102, and at least one lighting device 200 is disposed in the at least one lighting window 102. The cooking device is capable of executing the lighting control method of any embodiment of the present invention. During cooking, the light emitted by the lighting device 200 passes through the lighting window 102 to illuminate the food to be cooked in the cooking chamber 101, making it easier for the user to observe the condition of the food.

[0090] For ease of description, the cooking equipment is set to its normal placement state, with its top defined as up, its bottom as down, the direction of the opening of its cooking chamber 101 defined as front, and the side opposite to the opening defined as back. When the user faces the opening of the cooking chamber 101, the user's left side is defined as left, and the user's right side is defined as right.

[0091] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the lighting device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. See also: Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the lighting device 200 includes a fixing member 1, a position adjustment mechanism 2, and a lighting lamp 3. The fixing member 1 is spaced apart from the lighting window 102. The position adjustment mechanism 2 is installed on the fixing member 1. The lighting lamp 3 is connected to the output end of the position adjustment mechanism 2 and is located on the side of the fixing member 1 adjacent to the lighting window 102. The position adjustment mechanism 2 is used to drive the lighting lamp 3 to move, and the light emitted by the lighting lamp 3 can pass through the lighting window 102 to illuminate the cooking chamber 101.

[0092] Continue as Figure 8 As shown, the position adjustment mechanism 2 includes a driver 21, a transmission assembly 22, and a mounting base 23. The driver 21 is mounted on the fixing member 1. The driver 21 can drive the mounting base 23 to move along a first direction (i.e., the vertical direction) through the transmission assembly 22. The lighting lamp 3 is mounted on the mounting base 23. Further, the transmission assembly 22 includes a lead screw 221 and a lead screw nut 222. The lead screw 221 extends vertically and is rotatably mounted on the fixing member 1. The lead screw nut 222 is threadedly connected to the lead screw 221 and is used to fix the mounting base 23. The driver 21 can drive the lead screw 221 to rotate, so that the lead screw nut 222 moves along the lead screw 221. In other embodiments, the transmission assembly 22 may also include a gear and a rack. The gear and rack can also achieve linear movement of the mounting base 23. Of course, the transmission assembly 22 may also be a transmission assembly 22 that converts rotational motion into linear motion, which is not limited here.

[0093] Furthermore, the position adjustment mechanism 2 also includes guide rods 24, which are fixed to the fixing member 1 and spaced parallel to the lead screw 221. The lead screw nut 222 has a guide hole that slides with the guide rod 24 to ensure that the lead screw nut 222 can stably rise and fall in the vertical direction, improving the stability of the movement of the mounting base 23, and thus improving the stability of the lighting lamp 3 and the position detection module 4. For example, there are two guide rods 24, and the lead screw 221 is located between the two guide rods 24, which can ensure the balance on both sides of the lead screw nut 222 and further improve the stability of the movement of the lead screw nut 222.

[0094] To facilitate the installation of the position adjustment mechanism 2, the fixing component 1 includes a first fixing part 11, a second fixing part 12, a third fixing part 13, and a connecting part 14. The first fixing part 11, the third fixing part 13, and the second fixing part 12 are sequentially fixed to the connecting part 14 at intervals. The driver 21 is mounted on the first fixing part 11. The first end of the lead screw 221 is rotatably mounted on the second fixing part 12, and the second end of the lead screw 221 is rotatably mounted on the third fixing part 13 and is connected to the output end of the driver 21. This configuration, with the lead screw 221 mounted on the second fixing part 12 and the third fixing part 13, and the driver 21 mounted on the first fixing part 11, facilitates the installation of both the lead screw 221 and the driver 21, improves the installation stability of the lead screw 221, and ensures the stable operation of the transmission assembly 22. For example, the driver 21 can be a servo motor, and the housing of the servo motor is fixed to the first fixing part 11 by bolts.

[0095] Based on the above, please continue to refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the cooking equipment also includes a control system, which is communicatively connected to the position adjustment mechanism 2 and is used to control the position adjustment mechanism 2 to drive the lighting lamp 3 to the desired position for automated control. Furthermore, the control system also includes a control panel 300, which is mounted on the top front side of the cooking equipment. The control panel 300 has buttons, allowing for manual control of the lighting position. For example, the lighting lamp 3 in the lighting device 200 corresponding to the left wall and the lighting lamp 3 in the lighting device 200 corresponding to the right wall can be at the same height or at different heights.

[0096] In some embodiments, the lighting device 200 further includes a position detection module 4, which is communicatively connected to the position adjustment mechanism 2 and the control system. The position detection module 4 is used to detect the layer number of the baking pan 500 in the cooking chamber 101. The position adjustment mechanism 2 can drive the lighting lamp 3 to move above the layer number of the baking pan 500 according to the detection result of the position detection module 4.

[0097] In some embodiments, continue as follows Figure 8 As shown, the lighting device 200 also includes a reset detection module 5, which is communicatively connected to the control system. The reset detection module 5 is installed on the second fixing part 12 or the third fixing part 13, and is used to detect whether the mounting base 23 has been reset. Specifically, the initial position is set with the mounting base 23 at the top of the cooking chamber 101. The reset detection module 5 needs to be installed on the fixing part located at the top and is used to detect whether the mounting base 23 has moved to the top, so that when cooking is started, the position detection module 4 located on the mounting base 23 can directly perform position detection.

[0098] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution of this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0099] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A lighting control method, characterized in that, The lighting control method is applied to a cooking device, which includes an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber, and the lighting device is located outside the inner pot. At least one lighting device is disposed on the side wall of the cooking chamber, and the lighting device moves vertically along the cooking chamber. The lighting control method includes: After placing the baking tray in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is activated to determine the location of the baking tray inside the cooking chamber; The lighting device is moved to a position above the baking pan based on its location, so as to illuminate the baking pan.

2. The lighting control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking chamber is provided with multiple shelves arranged at intervals along the vertical direction, which are used to place baking trays; Activating the lighting device to determine the location of the baking pan inside the cooking chamber includes: The lighting device is activated and moved vertically along the cooking chamber to sequentially determine whether the baking tray is placed on the shelf; The location of the baking tray inside the cooking cavity is determined based on whether the baking tray is placed there.

3. The lighting control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking chamber is equipped with a lighting device; Controlling the lighting device to move above the baking pan based on its location includes: If it is determined that the baking tray is distributed on two or more shelves in the cooking chamber, the lighting device is controlled to move sequentially above the position of the baking tray on each shelf.

4. The lighting control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking chamber is equipped with two lighting devices; Controlling the lighting device to move above the baking pan based on its location includes: If it is determined that the baking tray is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, then both of the lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the shelf; If it is determined that the baking tray is distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then the two lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf, or the two lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on one shelf and simultaneously move above the position of the baking tray on the other shelf. If it is determined that the baking tray is distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then the two lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on two of the shelves, or the two lighting devices are controlled to move synchronously and sequentially above the position of the baking tray on each shelf.

5. The lighting control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking chamber is equipped with multiple lighting devices; Controlling the lighting device to move above the baking pan based on its location includes: If it is determined that the baking pan is placed on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber, then at least one of the plurality of lighting devices is controlled to move above the position of the baking pan on the shelf; If it is determined that the baking tray is distributed on two shelves in the cooking chamber, then at least two of the multiple lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf. If it is determined that the baking tray is distributed on three or more shelves in the cooking chamber, then the multiple lighting devices are controlled to move above the position of the baking tray on the corresponding shelf.

6. The lighting control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Controlling the lighting device to move above the baking pan based on its location includes: In response to an input operation on the user interface of the cooking device, the desired lighting position of the lighting device is determined based on the location of the baking pan, and the lighting device is controlled to move above the location of the baking pan based on the lighting position.

7. The lighting control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Determining the required lighting position of the input lighting device based on the location of the baking pan includes: If it is determined that the baking tray is distributed on at least one shelf in the cooking chamber, then the lighting position to which the input lighting device needs to be moved is determined to be above the position of the baking tray on one of the shelves in the cooking chamber.

8. The lighting control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lighting control method further includes: Before placing the baking pan in the cooking chamber, or after using the cooking chamber, control the lighting device to return to its initial state.

9. A lighting control device, characterized in that, The lighting control device is applied to a cooking appliance having a cooking chamber, the cooking chamber being equipped with at least one lighting device, and the lighting control device comprising: The position determination module is used to activate the lighting device to determine the position of the baking pan inside the cooking chamber after the baking pan is placed inside the cooking chamber. The lighting control module is used to control the lighting device to move above the baking pan based on the location of the baking pan, so as to control the lighting device to illuminate the baking pan.

10. A cooking device, characterized in that, The cooking device includes an inner pot and a lighting device. The inner pot has an open cooking chamber. The cooking chamber has multiple shelves arranged at intervals along the vertical direction for placing baking trays. At least one side wall of the cooking chamber has a lighting window. At least one lighting window is equipped with at least one lighting device. The lighting window extends vertically, and the position adjustment mechanism of the lighting device corresponding to the lighting window is used to drive the lighting lamp to move vertically. The cooking device is capable of performing the lighting control method according to any one of claims 1-8.

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