Cooking appliances, control methods and storage media

Abstract

This invention discloses a cooking appliance, a control method, and a storage medium. The cooking appliance includes: a cavity with a cooking chamber; a steam generator for generating steam to be input into the cooking chamber; and a condensate treatment device at the bottom of the cavity for collecting condensate in the cooking chamber and heating it to form steam within the cooking chamber. The condensate treatment device at the bottom of the cavity effectively utilizes the condensate in the cooking chamber, thus addressing to some extent the problems of insufficient cooking time and excessive condensate after cooking.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of home appliance technology, and in particular to a cooking appliance, a control method, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, cooking appliances utilize steam to cook food. During operation, a steam generator produces steam, which is then introduced into the cooking chamber to cook the food. Condensation occurs within the cooking chamber during cooking; however, problems frequently arise during the use of these appliances, such as insufficient cooking time and excessive condensation after cooking. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides a cooking appliance, a control method, and a computer-readable storage medium to solve at least one of the aforementioned technical problems.

[0004] This invention provides a cooking appliance. The cooking appliance includes:

[0005] The cavity is provided with a cooking chamber;

[0006] A steam generator for generating steam to be input into the cooking cavity;

[0007] The bottom of the cavity is equipped with a condensate treatment device, which is used to collect condensate in the cooking cavity and heat the condensate to form steam in the cooking cavity.

[0008] The aforementioned cooking appliance has a condensate treatment device at the bottom of the cavity. The condensate treatment device is used to collect the condensate in the cooking cavity and heat the condensate to form steam in the cooking cavity. This can effectively utilize the condensate in the cooking cavity and solve, to some extent, the problems of insufficient cooking water supply and excessive condensate after cooking.

[0009] In some embodiments, the bottom plate of the cavity is provided with a collection tank for the condensate treatment device, the condensate treatment device including a heating element, the heating element being disposed on the side of the bottom plate of the cavity away from the cooking cavity and surrounding the outer surface of the bottom plate of the cavity away from the collection tank.

[0010] In some embodiments, the bottom plate of the cavity is inclined toward the collection trough.

[0011] In some embodiments, the collection groove is formed by molding on the bottom plate of the cavity.

[0012] In some embodiments, the cooking appliance includes a controller electrically connected to the steam generator and the condensate treatment device, the controller being used to:

[0013] Control the steam generator to start;

[0014] When the cooking time reaches the first set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at the first power.

[0015] In some implementations, the controller is used to:

[0016] When the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power.

[0017] In some implementations, the second power decreases as the cooking time increases.

[0018] In some embodiments, the steam generator operates for a longer period of time before the cooking time reaches the first set time than it operates for a longer period of time after the cooking time reaches the first set time.

[0019] In some implementations, the first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time.

[0020] This invention provides a control method for a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance comprising:

[0021] The cavity is provided with a cooking chamber;

[0022] A steam generator for generating steam to be input into the cooking cavity;

[0023] A condensate treatment device is used to collect condensate in the cooking cavity and heat the condensate to generate steam in the cooking cavity.

[0024] The control method includes:

[0025] Control the steam generator to start;

[0026] When the cooking time reaches the first set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at the first power.

[0027] In the above control method, by controlling the coordinated operation of the steam generator and the condensate treatment device, the condensate in the cooking cavity can be effectively utilized, which to a certain extent solves the problems of insufficient cooking water supply and excessive condensate after cooking.

[0028] In some embodiments, the control method includes:

[0029] When the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power.

[0030] In some implementations, the second power decreases as the cooking time increases.

[0031] In some embodiments, the steam generator operates for a longer period of time before the cooking time reaches the first set time than it operates for a longer period of time after the cooking time reaches the first set time.

[0032] In some implementations, the first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time.

[0033] This invention provides a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance comprising:

[0034] Processor, and;

[0035] A memory storing a computer program, which, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0036] The present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, wherein the computer program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method of any of the above embodiments.

[0037] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein:

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 This is another structural schematic diagram of the cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the modules of the cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0045] Cooking appliance 100, cavity 101, cooking chamber 102, steam generator 103, condensate treatment device 104, base plate 105, collection tank 106, heating element 107, controller 200, memory 21, processor 22. Detailed Implementation

[0046] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention can be practiced in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0047] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0049] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0051] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0052] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the embodiments of the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of the present invention.

[0053] Please see Figure 1 This invention provides a cooking appliance 100. The cooking appliance 100 includes a cavity 101 and a steam generator 103. The cavity 101 has a cooking chamber 102. The steam generator 103 generates steam that enters the cooking chamber 102. A condensate treatment device 104 is provided at the bottom of the cavity 101. The condensate treatment device 104 collects condensate in the cooking chamber 102 and heats the condensate to form steam within the cooking chamber 102.

[0054] The cooking appliance 100 described above has a condensate treatment device 104 at the bottom of the cavity 101. The condensate treatment device 104 is used to collect condensate in the cooking cavity 102 and heat the condensate to form steam in the cooking cavity 102. This can effectively utilize the condensate in the cooking cavity 102 and solve the problems of insufficient cooking water supply and excessive condensate after cooking to a certain extent.

[0055] Specifically, cooking appliances 100 may include, but are not limited to, steam ovens, steam ovens, microwave-steam-grill combos, microwave-steam ovens, etc.

[0056] The cavity 101 is a closed or semi-closed structural space. Optionally, the cavity 101 can be made of metal. The cavity 101 is provided with a cooking chamber 102, which can hold food. Steam during the cooking process can be introduced into the cooking chamber 102 from the steam generator 103 to directly act on the food, so that the food can be heated evenly.

[0057] The steam generator 103 can be used to generate high-temperature steam and introduce it into the cooking chamber 102 to provide the steam required for heating food. In one embodiment, the steam generator 103 includes a water source interface, a heating element, and a steam outlet. The steam generator 103 can be connected to a water tank containing water through the water source interface. The water in the water tank can be sent to the steam evaporator through the water source interface so that the heating element heats the water to form high-temperature steam, and the high-temperature steam can be sent into the cooking chamber 102 through the steam outlet.

[0058] During the cooking process, when high-temperature steam comes into contact with the cooler inner surface of the cooking cavity 102, the water molecules in the steam lose kinetic energy due to the reduction of heat, condense, and form small water droplets, i.e., condensate.

[0059] In related technologies, cooking appliances utilize steam to cook food. During operation, a steam generator produces steam, which is then introduced into the cooking chamber to cook the food. Condensation is generated within the cooking chamber during cooking; this condensation is collected or drained away. However, due to the limited capacity of the water tank, the appliance must stop operating when the tank is low on water, waiting for the user to refill it before resuming operation. This significantly impacts the appliance's cooking efficiency and user experience. Furthermore, the rate of condensation generation often exceeds the rate of water drainage or collection during cooking, leading to excessive condensation after cooking, which can easily overflow, affecting the appliance's normal operation and the user's cleaning experience.

[0060] In an embodiment of the present invention, a condensate treatment device 104 is provided at the bottom of the cavity 101. The condensate treatment device 104 is used to collect condensate in the cooking cavity 102 and heat the condensate to form steam in the cooking cavity 102, so that the condensate in the cooking cavity 102 can be used to form steam again in the cooking cavity 102.

[0061] Understandably, the condensate treatment device 104 is located at the bottom of the cavity 101 of the cooking appliance 100 to collect the condensate formed during the cooking process and heat it so that the condensate is vaporized into steam again, providing the steam required for heating the food. This cycle repeats, and the condensate is continuously heated and converted into steam, forming a closed-loop water circulation in the cooking cavity 102.

[0062] It is understandable that the condensate treatment device 104 can evaporate the condensate in the cooking cavity 102, forming a water circulation effect in the cooking cavity 102, thereby extending the cooking time and water utilization, and improving the utilization rate and user experience of the cooking appliance 100.

[0063] Understandably, the condensate treatment device 104 can effectively control the rate of condensate generation, reduce excessive condensate, and improve the stability and safety of the cooking appliance 100.

[0064] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 is provided with a collection tank 106 for a condensate treatment device 104. The condensate treatment device includes a heating tube 107, which is located on the side of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 away from the cooking cavity 102 and surrounds the outer surface of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 away from the collection tank 106.

[0065] In the above embodiment, the heating element 107 is installed on the side of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 away from the cooking cavity 102, and surrounds the outer surface of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 away from the collection tank 106. This allows the heating element 107 to directly heat the collection tank 106, so that the condensate in the collection tank 106 can be quickly evaporated into steam through the heating element 107, and the steam required for heating the food can be provided again. This can effectively utilize the condensate in the cooking cavity 102, and to a certain extent solve the problems of insufficient cooking water supply and excessive condensate after cooking.

[0066] Specifically, the condensate treatment device 104 includes a collection tank 106 and a heating element 107. The collection tank 106 is located on the side of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 facing the cooking cavity 102, and can be directly used to receive condensate from the cooking cavity 102. The heating element 107 is located on the side of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 away from the cooking cavity 102, and surrounds the outer surface of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 away from the collection tank 106.

[0067] Understandably, the heating element 107 is an electric heating element made of resistive materials (such as nickel-chromium alloy or stainless steel) that can generate heat when energized.

[0068] In this embodiment of the invention, a collection groove 106 is formed on the inner surface of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 facing the cooking cavity 102. A heating element 107 is disposed on the side of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 away from the cooking cavity 102, surrounding and closely adhering to the outer surface of the bottom plate 105. When condensate is collected in the collection groove 106 and the heating element 107 starts operating, the heat generated by the heating element 107 can be conducted to the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101, and then to the condensate in the collection groove 106. The condensate then vaporizes into steam, which circulates within the cooking cavity 102.

[0069] In some embodiments, the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 is inclined toward the collection tank 106.

[0070] In the above embodiment, the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 is inclined towards the collection tank 106, allowing condensate to collect in the collection tank 106 more quickly under its own gravity, which is beneficial for condensate collection. The heating element 107 heats the condensate in the collection tank 106 to form steam, which to some extent solves the problems of insufficient cooking water supply and excessive condensate after cooking.

[0071] Specifically, the collection tank 106 can be located at the lowest point of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101. During cooking, condensate can flow naturally along the inner surface of the cooking cavity 102 to the collection tank 106.

[0072] Understandably, since the collection tank 106 is located at the lowest point of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101, the condensate will flow naturally along the inclined bottom plate 105 to the collection tank 106 during the cooking process, which can prevent the condensate from stagnating at the bottom of the cooking cavity 102 to a certain extent.

[0073] Optionally, a hydrophobic coating may be provided around the collection tank 106 or on the inner surface of the cooking cavity 102 to reduce the adhesion of condensate and allow it to flow into the collection tank 106 more quickly.

[0074] Optionally, a miniature drain valve is provided at the bottom of the collection tank 106, which can be used to drain the condensate in the collection tank 106 when steam is not needed, keeping the cooking cavity 102 dry and reducing the risk of scale buildup and internal corrosion of the cooking appliance 100 to some extent.

[0075] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 The collection trough 106 is formed by pressing on the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101.

[0076] In the above embodiments, the collection groove 106 is formed by pressing on the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101. The functionality of the bottom plate 105 can be improved by optimizing the structure of the bottom plate 105 of the cavity 101 without using additional materials, and the collection groove 106 is simple to manufacture.

[0077] Specifically, the pressing on the base plate 105 of the cavity 101 is achieved by machining or molding the base plate 105 to create a recessed or raised structure. This structure forms the collection tank 106, which is low-cost and simple to manufacture, ensuring that condensate can flow smoothly into the collection tank 106.

[0078] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 6 The cooking appliance 100 includes a controller 200, which is electrically connected to the steam generator 103 and the condensate treatment device 104. The controller 200 is used for:

[0079] Control the start-up of steam generator 103;

[0080] When the cooking time reaches the first set time, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to operate at the first power.

[0081] In the above embodiments, by controlling the coordinated operation of the steam generator 103 and the condensate treatment device 104, the condensate in the cooking chamber 102 can be effectively utilized, which to a certain extent solves the problems of insufficient cooking water supply and excessive condensate after cooking.

[0082] Specifically, cooking time refers to the duration of continuous operation of the cooking appliance 100 after it begins cooking.

[0083] In this embodiment of the invention, when the cooking appliance 100 starts cooking, the controller 200 controls the steam generator 103 to start, and the generated high-temperature steam is input into the cooking chamber 102 of the cooking appliance 100 to heat the food.

[0084] When the cooking time of the cooking appliance 100 reaches the first set time, some of the condensate in the cooking cavity 102 is collected in the collection tank 106. The controller 200 can control the condensate treatment device 104 to work at the first power, that is, control the heating tube 107 to heat the condensate in the collection tank 106, so that it is vaporized again into steam to heat the cooking ingredients.

[0085] For example, the first power can be greater than or equal to 600 watts (W). In some examples, the first power can be equal to 600W, 610W, 620W, 630W, 640W, 650W, 660W, 670W, 680W, 690W, 700W, 710W, or other values ​​greater than or equal to 600W.

[0086] In some implementations, the controller 200 is used to:

[0087] When the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power.

[0088] In the above embodiments, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power. This can improve the efficiency of heat energy utilization to a certain extent, reduce heat energy waste, and improve energy utilization rate.

[0089] Specifically, during the cooking process, the heating requirements of ingredients typically change over time. Once the second set cooking time has been reached, the ingredients have completed most of the heating process, and continuing to operate at a higher power at this point would result in some energy waste.

[0090] In this embodiment of the invention, when the cooking appliance 100 starts cooking, the controller 200 controls the steam generator 103 to start, and the generated high-temperature steam is input into the cooking chamber 102 of the cooking appliance 100 to heat the food.

[0091] When the cooking time of the cooking appliance 100 reaches the first set time, some of the condensate in the cooking cavity 102 is collected into the collection tank 106. The condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to work at the first power, that is, the heating tube 107 is controlled to heat the condensate in the collection tank 106, so that it is vaporized again into steam to heat the cooking ingredients.

[0092] When the cooking time of the cooking appliance 100 reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to work at the second power, which is less than the first power. That is, the heating element 107 is controlled to heat the condensate in the collection tank 106 at a lower second power, so that it is vaporized again into steam to heat the cooking ingredients.

[0093] It is understandable that the second set duration is longer than the first set duration. That is, during the cooking process, the condensate treatment device 104 first heats the condensate in the collection tank 106 with a larger first power, and then heats the condensate in the collection tank 106 with a smaller second power.

[0094] In some implementations, the second power decreases as cooking time increases.

[0095] In the above embodiments, the second power decreases as the cooking time increases, which can improve the efficiency of heat energy utilization, reduce heat energy waste, and improve energy utilization rate to a certain extent.

[0096] During cooking, the heating requirements of ingredients typically change over time. Once the second set cooking time has been reached, the ingredients have completed most of the heating process, and continuing to operate at a higher power at this point would result in some energy waste.

[0097] Specifically, during the cooking process, when the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to work at the second power. The second power decreases as the cooking time increases, that is, the magnitude of the second power is negatively correlated with the cooking time.

[0098] Understandably, when the total cooking time is reached, the second power is reduced to 0W, at which point the cooking appliance 100 completes cooking. The total cooking time refers to the continuous working time of the cooking appliance 100 from the start of cooking to the completion of cooking. Optionally, the total cooking time can be determined based on the type and quantity of ingredients and the required cooking task, or it can be set by the user or determined by the degree of cooking.

[0099] In some embodiments, the steam generator 103 operates for a longer period of time before the cooking time reaches the first set time than it operates for a longer period of time after the cooking time reaches the first set time.

[0100] In the above embodiments, the working time of the steam generator 103 before the cooking time reaches the first set time is greater than the working time after the cooking time reaches the first set time, which can effectively reduce energy consumption and avoid energy waste to a certain extent.

[0101] Specifically, the working time of the steam generator 103 before the cooking time reaches the first set time is the first working time, and the working time after the cooking time reaches the first set time is the second working time, and the first working time is longer than the second working time.

[0102] In one embodiment, the steam generator 103 can be heated by either pulse heating or intermittent heating. Pulse heating refers to a heating process performed in intermittent pulses, that is, rapid heating for a period of time, followed by a pause, and then resuming heating, which is repeated. Intermittent heating refers to the steam generator 103 heating within a certain time interval, then stopping heating and maintaining it for a certain period of time, and then resuming heating.

[0103] In pulse heating mode, the heating element of steam generator 103 releases a high amount of heat in a short period of time, quickly heating the water to a steam state. Then, the heating element pauses heating, waits for a certain period of time, and then starts heating again, repeating this process.

[0104] In intermittent heating mode, the steam generator 103 periodically activates the heating element, maintaining heating for a certain period of time to evaporate water and generate steam. After heating, the heating element pauses heating for a period of time to allow it to rest and cool, preventing overheating or excessive operation.

[0105] Whether in pulse heating mode or intermittent heating mode, the working time of steam generator 103 can refer to the duration of steam generator 103 being powered on or the duration of heating by heating element.

[0106] After the cooking time reaches the first set time, the condensate treatment device 104 operates to generate steam in the cooking chamber 102. At this time, the second working time of the steam generator 103 can be reduced to reduce energy consumption.

[0107] In this embodiment of the invention, the first operating time of the steam generator 103 is greater than the second operating time, that is, the heating time of the heating element before the cooking time reaches the first set time is greater than the heating time after the cooking time reaches the first set time. It can be understood that before the cooking time reaches the first set time, the steam generator 103 is the source of steam in the cooking cavity 102; after the cooking time reaches the first set time, the steam generator 103 and the condensate treatment device 104 are the sources of steam in the cooking cavity 102. Therefore, the second operating time is shorter, which can reduce the energy consumption of the steam generator 103 to a certain extent, thereby reducing the overall energy consumption of the cooking appliance 100.

[0108] In some implementations, the first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time.

[0109] In the above embodiments, the first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time, which can ensure that the steam generator 103 provides enough steam input to the cooking chamber 102 in the initial stage of cooking, thereby making full use of condensate and solving the problems of insufficient cooking water supply time and excessive condensate after cooking to a certain extent.

[0110] Specifically, the total cooking time refers to the continuous working time of the cooking appliance 100 from the start of cooking to the completion of cooking. Optionally, the total cooking time can be determined based on the type and quantity of ingredients and the required cooking task, or it can be set by the user or determined by the degree of cooking.

[0111] In one example, if the total cooking time is 100 minutes, then the first set time can be greater than or equal to 40 minutes and less than or equal to 60 minutes.

[0112] In an optional implementation, the second set time is 70% to 80% of the total cooking time.

[0113] In the above embodiments, the second set time is 70% to 80% of the total cooking time, which to a certain extent ensures that the condensate treatment device 104 can provide more steam for heating the food, thereby improving the cooking effect and user experience.

[0114] Specifically, the total cooking time refers to the continuous working time of the cooking appliance 100 from the start of cooking to the completion of cooking. Optionally, the total cooking time can be determined based on the type and quantity of ingredients and the required cooking task, or it can be set by the user or determined by the degree of cooking.

[0115] In one example, if the total cooking time is 100 minutes, then the second set time can be greater than or equal to 70 minutes and less than or equal to 80 minutes.

[0116] Please see Figure 4 This invention provides a control method for a cooking appliance 100. The cooking appliance 100 includes a cavity 101, a steam generator 103, and a condensate treatment device 104. The cavity 101 has a cooking cavity 102. The steam generator 103 generates steam that enters the cooking cavity 102. The condensate treatment device 104 collects condensate in the cooking cavity 102 and heats the condensate to form steam within the cooking cavity 102.

[0117] Control methods include:

[0118] Step S01: Control the steam generator 103 to start;

[0119] Step S03: When the cooking time reaches the first set time, control the condensate treatment device 104 to operate at the first power.

[0120] In the above control method, by controlling the coordinated operation of the steam generator 103 and the condensate treatment device 104, the condensate in the cooking chamber 102 can be effectively utilized, which to a certain extent solves the problems of insufficient cooking water supply duration and excessive condensate after cooking.

[0121] Specifically, cooking time refers to the continuous working time of the cooking appliance 100 after it starts cooking. The cooking appliance 100 may include, but is not limited to, steam ovens, steam ovens, microwave-steam-oven combos, and microwave-steam ovens.

[0122] The cavity 101 is a closed or semi-closed structural space. Optionally, the cavity 101 can be made of metal. The cavity 101 is provided with a cooking chamber 102, which can hold food. Steam during the cooking process can be introduced into the cooking chamber 102 from the steam generator 103 to directly act on the food, so that the food can be heated evenly.

[0123] The steam generator 103 can be used to generate high-temperature steam and introduce it into the cooking chamber 102 to provide the steam required for heating food. In one embodiment, the steam generator 103 includes a water source interface, a heating element, and a steam outlet. The steam generator 103 can be connected to a water tank containing water through the water source interface. The water in the water tank can be sent to the steam evaporator through the water source interface so that the heating element heats the water to form high-temperature steam, and the high-temperature steam can be sent into the cooking chamber 102 through the steam outlet.

[0124] During the cooking process, when high-temperature steam comes into contact with the cooler inner surface of the cooking cavity 102, the water molecules in the steam lose kinetic energy due to the reduction of heat, condense, and form small water droplets, i.e., condensate.

[0125] In related technologies, cooking appliances utilize steam to cook food. During operation, a steam generator produces steam, which is then introduced into the cooking chamber to cook the food. Condensation is generated within the cooking chamber during cooking; this condensation is collected or drained away. However, due to the limited capacity of the water tank, the appliance must stop operating when the tank is low on water, waiting for the user to refill it before resuming operation. This significantly impacts the appliance's cooking efficiency and user experience. Furthermore, the rate of condensation generation often exceeds the rate of water drainage or collection during cooking, leading to excessive condensation after cooking, which can easily overflow, affecting the appliance's normal operation and the user's cleaning experience.

[0126] In this embodiment of the invention, when the cooking appliance 100 starts cooking, the controller 200 controls the steam generator 103 to start, and the generated high-temperature steam is input into the cooking chamber 102 of the cooking appliance 100 to heat the food.

[0127] When the cooking time of the cooking appliance 100 reaches the first set time, some of the condensate in the cooking cavity 102 is collected into the condensate treatment device 104. The controller 200 can control the condensate treatment device 104 to work at the first power, that is, control the condensate treatment device 104 to heat the collected condensate, so that it is vaporized again into steam to heat the cooking ingredients.

[0128] For example, the first power can be greater than or equal to 600 watts (W). In some examples, the first power can be equal to 600W, 610W, 620W, 630W, 640W, 650W, 660W, 670W, 680W, 690W, 700W, 710W, or other values ​​greater than or equal to 600W.

[0129] In this embodiment of the invention, a condensate treatment device 104 is located at the bottom of the cavity 101. During the cooking process, the condensate generated in the cavity 101 can be directly collected by the condensate treatment device 104 and heated into steam, thereby forming a closed-loop water circulation within the cooking cavity 102.

[0130] In an optional embodiment, the condensate treatment device 104 can be located anywhere on the cooking appliance 100. The condensate treatment device 104 can collect condensate in the cooking cavity 102 and heat the condensate to generate steam in the cooking cavity 102.

[0131] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 5 The control methods include:

[0132] In step S05, when the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power.

[0133] In the above embodiments, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power. This can improve the efficiency of heat energy utilization to a certain extent, reduce heat energy waste, and improve energy utilization rate.

[0134] Specifically, cooking time refers to the duration of continuous operation of the cooking appliance 100 after it begins cooking.

[0135] During cooking, the heating requirements of ingredients typically change over time. Once the second set cooking time has been reached, the ingredients have completed most of the heating process, and continuing to operate at a higher power at this point would result in some energy waste.

[0136] In this embodiment of the invention, when the cooking appliance 100 starts cooking, the controller 200 controls the steam generator 103 to start, and the generated high-temperature steam is input into the cooking chamber 102 of the cooking appliance 100 to heat the food.

[0137] When the cooking time of the cooking appliance 100 reaches the first set time, some of the condensate in the cooking cavity 102 is collected into the collection tank 106. The condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to work at the first power, that is, the heating tube 107 is controlled to heat the condensate in the collection tank 106, so that it is vaporized again into steam to heat the cooking ingredients.

[0138] When the cooking time of the cooking appliance 100 reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to work at the second power, which is less than the first power. That is, the heating element 107 is controlled to heat the condensate in the collection tank 106 at a lower second power, so that it is vaporized again into steam to heat the cooking ingredients.

[0139] It is understandable that the second set duration is longer than the first set duration. That is, during the cooking process, the condensate treatment device 104 first heats the condensate in the collection tank 106 with a larger first power, and then heats the condensate in the collection tank 106 with a smaller second power.

[0140] In some implementations, the second power decreases as cooking time increases.

[0141] In the above embodiments, the second power decreases as the cooking time increases, which can improve the efficiency of heat energy utilization, reduce heat energy waste, and improve energy utilization rate to a certain extent.

[0142] During cooking, the heating requirements of ingredients typically change over time. Once the second set cooking time has been reached, the ingredients have completed most of the heating process, and continuing to operate at a higher power at this point would result in some energy waste.

[0143] Specifically, during the cooking process, when the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device 104 is controlled to work at the second power. The second power decreases as the cooking time increases, that is, the magnitude of the second power is negatively correlated with the cooking time.

[0144] Understandably, when the total cooking time is reached, the second power is reduced to 0W, at which point the cooking appliance 100 completes cooking. The total cooking time refers to the continuous working time of the cooking appliance 100 from the start of cooking to the completion of cooking. Optionally, the total cooking time can be determined based on the type and quantity of ingredients and the required cooking task, or it can be set by the user or determined by the degree of cooking.

[0145] In some embodiments, the steam generator 103 operates for a longer period of time before the cooking time reaches the first set time than it operates for a longer period of time after the cooking time reaches the first set time.

[0146] In the above embodiments, the working time of the steam generator 103 before the cooking time reaches the first set time is greater than the working time after the cooking time reaches the first set time, which can effectively reduce energy consumption and avoid energy waste to a certain extent.

[0147] Specifically, the working time of the steam generator 103 before the cooking time reaches the first set time is the first working time, and the working time after the cooking time reaches the first set time is the second working time, and the first working time is longer than the second working time.

[0148] In one embodiment, the steam generator 103 can be heated by either pulse heating or intermittent heating. Pulse heating refers to a heating process performed in intermittent pulses, that is, rapid heating for a period of time, followed by a pause, and then resuming heating, which is repeated. Intermittent heating refers to the steam generator 103 heating within a certain time interval, then stopping heating and maintaining it for a certain period of time, and then resuming heating.

[0149] In pulse heating mode, the heating element of steam generator 103 releases a high amount of heat in a short period of time, quickly heating the water to a steam state. Then, the heating element pauses heating, waits for a certain period of time, and then starts heating again, repeating this process.

[0150] In intermittent heating mode, the steam generator 103 periodically activates the heating element, maintaining heating for a certain period of time to evaporate water and generate steam. After heating, the heating element pauses heating for a period of time to allow it to rest and cool, preventing overheating or excessive operation.

[0151] Whether in pulse heating mode or intermittent heating mode, the working time of steam generator 103 can refer to the duration of steam generator 103 being powered on or the duration of heating by heating element.

[0152] After the cooking time reaches the first set time, the condensate treatment device 104 operates to generate steam in the cooking chamber 102. At this time, the second working time of the steam generator 103 can be reduced to reduce energy consumption.

[0153] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first working time of the steam generator 103 is greater than the second working time, that is, the heating time of the heating element before the cooking time reaches the first set time is greater than the heating time after the cooking time reaches the first set time.

[0154] Understandably, before the cooking time reaches the first set time, the steam generator 103 is the source of steam in the cooking cavity 102. After the cooking time reaches the first set time, the steam generator 103 and the condensate treatment device 104 are the sources of steam in the cooking cavity 102. Therefore, the second working time is shorter, which can reduce the energy consumption of the steam generator 103 to a certain extent, thereby reducing the overall energy consumption of the cooking appliance 100.

[0155] In some implementations, the first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time.

[0156] In the above embodiments, the first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time, which can ensure that the steam generator 103 provides enough steam input to the cooking chamber 102 in the initial stage of cooking, thereby making full use of condensate and solving the problems of insufficient cooking water supply duration and excessive condensate after cooking to a certain extent.

[0157] Specifically, the total cooking time refers to the continuous working time of the cooking appliance 100 from the start of cooking to the completion of cooking. Optionally, the total cooking time can be determined based on the type and quantity of ingredients and the required cooking task, or it can be set by the user or determined by the degree of cooking.

[0158] In one example, if the total cooking time is 100 minutes, then the first set time can be greater than or equal to 40 minutes and less than or equal to 60 minutes.

[0159] In an optional implementation, the second set time is 70% to 80% of the total cooking time.

[0160] In the above embodiments, the second set time is 70% to 80% of the total cooking time, which to a certain extent ensures that the condensate treatment device 104 can provide more steam for heating the food, thereby improving the cooking effect and user experience.

[0161] Specifically, the total cooking time refers to the continuous working time of the cooking appliance 100 from the start of cooking to the completion of cooking. Optionally, the total cooking time can be determined based on the type and quantity of ingredients and the required cooking task, or it can be set by the user or determined by the degree of cooking.

[0162] In one example, if the total cooking time is 100 minutes, then the second set time can be greater than or equal to 70 minutes and less than or equal to 80 minutes.

[0163] Please see Figure 6 A cooking appliance 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a processor 22 and a memory 21. The memory 21 stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by the processor 22, it implements the steps of the control method of any of the above embodiments.

[0164] Specifically, the cooking appliance 100 includes a controller 200, which includes a processor and a memory. The memory 21 stores a computer program, and when the computer program is executed by the processor 22, it implements the steps of the control method of any of the above embodiments.

[0165] The present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor 22, implements the steps of the control method of any of the above embodiments.

[0166] In some implementations, when the computer program is executed by the processor 22, the control method includes:

[0167] Step S01: Control the steam generator 103 to start;

[0168] Step S03: When the cooking time reaches the first set time, control the condensate treatment device 104 to operate at the first power.

[0169] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0170] Any process or method description in the flowchart or otherwise herein can be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code comprising one or more steps for implementing a particular logical function or process, and the scope of the preferred embodiments of the invention includes additional implementations in which functions may be performed not in the order shown or discussed, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order depending on the functions involved, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which embodiments of the invention pertain.

[0171] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, combinations, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cooking appliance, characterized in that, include: The cavity is provided with a cooking chamber; A steam generator for generating steam to be input into the cooking cavity; The bottom of the cavity is equipped with a condensate treatment device, which is used to collect condensate in the cooking cavity and heat the condensate to form steam in the cooking cavity.

2. The cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom plate of the cavity is provided with a collection tank for the condensate treatment device. The condensate treatment device includes a heating element, which is located on the side of the bottom plate of the cavity away from the cooking cavity and surrounds the outer surface of the bottom plate of the cavity away from the collection tank.

3. The cooking appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottom plate of the cavity is inclined toward the collection tank.

4. The cooking appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that, The collection groove is formed by pressing on the bottom plate of the cavity.

5. The cooking appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes a controller, which is electrically connected to the steam generator and the condensate treatment device. The controller is used for: Control the steam generator to start; When the cooking time reaches the first set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at the first power.

6. The cooking appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that, The controller is used for: When the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power.

7. The cooking appliance according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second power decreases as the cooking time increases.

8. The cooking appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that, The steam generator operates for a longer period of time before the cooking time reaches the first set time than it operates for a longer period of time after the cooking time reaches the first set time.

9. The cooking appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time.

10. A method for controlling a cooking appliance, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes: The cavity is provided with a cooking chamber; A steam generator for generating steam to be input into the cooking cavity; A condensate treatment device is used to collect condensate in the cooking cavity and heat the condensate to generate steam in the cooking cavity. The control method includes: Control the steam generator to start; When the cooking time reaches the first set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at the first power.

11. The control method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The control method includes: When the cooking time reaches the second set time, the condensate treatment device is controlled to operate at a second power, which is less than the first power.

12. The control method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The second power decreases as the cooking time increases.

13. The control method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The steam generator operates for a longer period of time before the cooking time reaches the first set time than it operates for a longer period of time after the cooking time reaches the first set time.

14. The control method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first set time is 40% to 60% of the total cooking time.

15. A cooking appliance, characterized in that, include: Processor, and; A memory storing a computer program, which, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method according to any one of claims 10-14.

16. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the control method according to any one of claims 10-14.

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