Lid assembly and cooking appliance having the same

Abstract

The application provides a cover assembly and a cooking utensil with the same, wherein the cover assembly is arranged on a pot body, and the cover assembly comprises a cover body having a center line extending in a front-rear direction, a locking mechanism movably arranged on the cover body, the locking mechanism having a transmission column, a transmission mechanism comprising a sliding plate, the sliding plate being capable of driving the locking mechanism to switch between a locking state and an unlocking state when the sliding plate moves, wherein the sliding plate is provided with a sliding groove, the transmission column is slidably arranged in the sliding groove, and the sliding plate is further provided with an avoiding groove in communication with the sliding groove; and a pushing mechanism arranged on the sliding plate and located at the avoiding groove, the pushing mechanism being capable of abutting against the transmission column to apply a pushing force to the transmission column towards the center line when the transmission column is located at a second end of the sliding groove. The technical scheme of the application effectively solves the problem of difficult opening operation of the cover body in the related art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of small household appliances, and more specifically, to a top cover assembly and a cooking appliance having the same. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, cooking appliances include a pot body and a lid. To ensure the lid can be stably attached to the pot body, a double locking structure is provided between the lid and the pot body. The first locking structure is a locking structure formed by the locking mechanism on the lid and the pot body inside the pot body through the locking teeth on the lid and the locking mechanism on the pot body; the second locking structure is a locking structure formed by the locking mechanism on the lid and the locking mechanism on the pot body.

[0003] The first locking mechanism requires rotating the handle on the lid to unlock, while the second locking mechanism requires pressing a button on the pot body. Therefore, when a user needs to open the lid, they must first rotate the handle and then press the button to unlock, which is rather complicated and results in a poor user experience.

[0004] In related technologies, Chinese utility model patent application number 202221673921.0 provides a cooking appliance that solves the problem of complicated operation when opening the lid. This patent includes a lid-opening button, a drive lever, a transmission lever, a transmission plate, and a clamping structure. By pressing the lid-opening button, the button applies force to the drive lever, causing the hook of the drive lever to separate from the lid's locking mechanism. The hook of the drive lever no longer restricts the transmission lever, allowing the transmission rod to move forward. The clamping structure then switches to the unlocked state, achieving dual unlocking with just the press of the lid-opening button, simplifying the user's operation.

[0005] However, the above-mentioned patented solution has the problem of difficulty in opening the cover during actual use. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The main objective of this invention is to provide a lid assembly and a cooking appliance having the same, so as to solve the problem of difficulty in opening the lid in related technologies.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a lid assembly is provided, which is disposed on a pot body. The lid assembly includes: a lid body having a center line extending in a front-rear direction therein; a locking mechanism movably disposed on the lid body and having a locked state for locking the pot body and an unlocked state for unlocking the pot body, the locking mechanism having a drive column; and a transmission mechanism including a sliding plate movably disposed in the front-rear direction of the lid body, the sliding plate being able to drive the locking mechanism to switch between the locked state and the unlocked state when it moves, wherein the sliding plate is provided with a groove, the groove being inclined relative to the center line, and the groove having a first... The distance between one end and the center line is less than the distance between the second end of the slide and the center line. The transmission column is slidably set in the slide. When the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the transmission column is at the first end of the slide. When the locking mechanism is in the unlocked state, the transmission column is at the second end of the slide. The slide plate is also provided with a clearance groove that communicates with the slide. The clearance groove is set at the first end of the slide and extends in a direction away from the center line. The pushing mechanism is set on the slide plate and located at the clearance groove. When the transmission column is at the second end of the slide, the pushing mechanism can cooperate with the transmission column to apply a pushing force towards the center line to the transmission column.

[0008] According to the technical solution of this invention, the lid assembly includes a lid body, a locking mechanism, a transmission mechanism, and a pushing mechanism. The locking mechanism has a locked state for locking the pot body and an unlocked state for unlocking the pot body. When the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the cooking appliance can perform pressure cooking. The transmission mechanism includes a movably disposed sliding plate with a groove on it. The groove is inclined relative to the center line, and the locking mechanism has a transmission column that slides along the groove. When the sliding plate moves, the engagement between the groove and the transmission column can drive the locking mechanism to switch between the locked and unlocked states. In the technical solution of this application, the sliding plate is also provided with a clearance groove communicating with the groove. The clearance groove is disposed at the first end of the groove near the center line and extends in a direction away from the center line. The lid assembly also includes a pushing mechanism disposed on the sliding plate and located at the clearance groove. When the transmission column is at the second end of the groove, the pushing mechanism can engage with the transmission column to apply a pushing force toward the center line to the transmission column. When the pot is depressurized, the pushing mechanism applies a pushing force towards the centerline to the drive column, ensuring that the drive column can only slide within the groove and does not enter the clearance groove. During pressure cooking, the pot is pressurized, and the locking mechanism is in the floating position. At this time, the locking mechanism deforms, causing the drive column to move away from the centerline. The drive column enters the clearance groove and drives the pushing mechanism, thus preventing the locking mechanism from deforming and causing the sliding plate to move. In related technologies, when the pot is pressurized, the deformation of the locking mechanism causes the sliding plate to move, making it difficult to open the lid. Since the technical solution of this application can effectively prevent the sliding plate from moving during pressurization, it can effectively solve the problem of difficult lid opening in related technologies.

[0009] Furthermore, the pushing mechanism includes a pushing top and a resetting component. The pushing top can contact the drive column, and the resetting component applies a resetting force towards the centerline to the pushing top. By setting the pushing top and the resetting component, a pushing force can be effectively applied to the drive column, ensuring that the drive column remains within the slide groove when the pot body is in a pressure-free state. The above structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0010] Furthermore, the pusher is positioned above the clearance groove. When the locking mechanism is in the locked state and in the floating position, the pusher engages with the transmission column. This structure ensures that when the locking mechanism is in the lowered position, the transmission column will not interfere with the pusher as it slides within the groove.

[0011] Furthermore, the slide plate is also provided with an extension groove that communicates with the slide channel. The extension groove is located at the first end of the slide channel and extends towards the rear of the cover body. The clearance groove communicates with the extension groove. The above structure allows for a certain amount of relative movement between the slide plate and the transmission column after the locking mechanism is locked in place, thereby preventing the locking mechanism from colliding with the pot body.

[0012] Furthermore, the pushing mechanism also includes an extending protrusion located above the extending groove, and the extending protrusion has a pushing slope facing the drive column. The aforementioned extending protrusion can engage with the drive column after the drive column enters the extending groove, and the pushing slope allows the extending protrusion to move away from the centerline when the drive column engages with it.

[0013] Furthermore, the pushing mechanism also includes a guide section connected below the pushing head. The guide section has a guide ramp that forms part of the groove wall. The guide section facilitates the mounting of the pushing head onto the slide plate. The guide ramp forming part of the groove wall makes the pushing mechanism more compact and allows space for its movement.

[0014] Furthermore, the guide section has an installation space, and the reset component is located within the installation space. The placement of the reset component within the installation space of the guide section allows for a compact structure of the pushing mechanism, which is beneficial for the miniaturization of cooking appliances.

[0015] Furthermore, the pushing mechanism also includes a fixing member, which is connected to the slide plate and positioned above the guide section. The guide section is positioned between the slide plate and the fixing member. The fixing member prevents the pushing head from detaching from the slide plate by limiting the guide section.

[0016] Furthermore, when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked state and in the floating position, the push top engages with the stop of the transmission column. When the lid assembly is closed while hot, a large amount of steam inside the pot instantly generates pressure, causing the locking mechanism to move upwards to the floating position. At this time, the vertical gap between the locking mechanism and the pot body decreases. The push top restricts the movement of the transmission column, thereby restricting the movement of the locking mechanism and preventing it from moving in this state, which could lead to excessive friction between the locking mechanism and the pot body, or jamming due to contact between them.

[0017] Furthermore, the pusher is positioned above the slide groove, dividing the slide groove into a first and second segment located on either side of the pusher, and a third segment located below the pusher. The third segment connects the first and second segments. When the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the drive column is located within the first segment; when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked state, the drive column is located within the second segment. This pusher structure is simple. When the locking mechanism is in the locked and floating position, the drive column is located within the first segment. When the locking mechanism is in the unlocked and floating position, the pusher can confine the drive column within the second segment. When the locking mechanism is in the descending position, the drive column can move between the first and second segments using the third segment, thereby switching between the locked and unlocked states.

[0018] Furthermore, the top cover assembly also includes a pressure-bearing cover located below the locking mechanism. The pressure-bearing cover has a stop-open float, and the sliding plate has a stop-open plate. When the stop-open float rises, it restricts the movement of the stop-open plate. This structure, by placing the stop-open plate on the sliding plate, restricts the movement of the stop-open float when it rises, thereby restricting the movement of the sliding plate. This prevents the sliding plate from driving the locking mechanism via the transmission column, thus preventing the locking mechanism from opening when pressure exists inside the pot, ensuring safe operation. During the pressure cooking process, the locking mechanism is in the upward position. Pushing the top restricts the movement of the transmission column, thus preventing deformation of the locking mechanism. In this way, the locking mechanism will not cause the sliding plate to move due to deformation, preventing the sliding plate from moving and causing the stop-open plate to press against the stop-open float, thereby preventing air leakage inside the pot due to the stop-open float being pressed against.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, a cooking appliance is provided, comprising a pot body and a lid assembly disposed on the pot body, the lid assembly being the aforementioned lid assembly. The aforementioned lid assembly effectively prevents the sliding plate from moving when pressed, thereby effectively solving the problem of difficulty in opening the lid in related technologies. The cooking appliance having the aforementioned lid also solves the aforementioned problems. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0021] Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of a cooking appliance according to the present invention is shown;

[0022] Figure 2a It shows Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance with the lid assembly in the closed position and the latching mechanism in a double-locking position.

[0023] Figure 2b It shows Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance with the lid assembly in the closed position and the latching mechanism in the individually engaged position.

[0024] Figure 2c It shows Figure 1 A partial sectional view of a cooking appliance with the lid assembly in the closed position and the latching mechanism in the unlocked position.

[0025] Figure 3a It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the lid assembly of a cooking appliance in a cold and pressureless state with the locking mechanism in the unlocked state;

[0026] Figure 3b It shows Figure 3a Enlarged view of point A on the top cover assembly;

[0027] Figure 3c It shows Figure 3a Top view of the top cover component;

[0028] Figure 3d It shows Figure 3c Enlarged view of point B on the top cover assembly;

[0029] Figure 3e It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in a cold and pressureless state with the locking mechanism in the unlocked state;

[0030] Figure 3f It shows Figure 3e Enlarged view of section C of the cooking utensil shown;

[0031] Figure 3g It shows Figure 3a A cross-sectional view of the upper cover component;

[0032] Figure 3h It shows Figure 3g Enlarged view of point D on the top cover assembly;

[0033] Figure 4a It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the lid assembly of a cooking appliance in a cold and pressureless state with the locking mechanism in the locked state;

[0034] Figure 4b It shows Figure 4a Enlarged view of point E on the top cover assembly;

[0035] Figure 4c It shows Figure 4a Top view of the top cover component;

[0036] Figure 4d It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance in a cold and pressureless state with the locking mechanism in the locked state;

[0037] Figure 5a It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a cooking appliance in a pressurized state with the locking mechanism in the locked state;

[0038] Figure 5b It shows Figure 5a Enlarged view of the cooking utensil at point F;

[0039] Figure 5c It shows Figure 5a A cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance at its first location;

[0040] Figure 5d It shows Figure 5a A cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance at the second position;

[0041] Figure 5e It shows Figure 5a A cross-sectional view of the cooking appliance at the third position;

[0042] Figure 6a It shows Figure 1 A 3D view of a cooking appliance in a heated state with the locking mechanism in the unlocked state;

[0043] Figure 6b It shows Figure 6a Enlarged view of the cooking utensil at point G;

[0044] Figure 6c It shows Figure 6a A cross-sectional view of a cooking utensil;

[0045] Figure 7a A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the cooperation between the sliding plate and the pushing mechanism of the upper cover assembly according to the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 7b It shows Figure 7aA top view of the sliding plate and the pushing mechanism working together;

[0047] Figure 7c It shows Figure 7b A cross-sectional view along the MM direction;

[0048] Figure 7d It shows Figure 7a A bottom view of the sliding plate and the pushing mechanism working together;

[0049] Figure 7e It shows Figure 7a A bottom-view 3D diagram showing the cooperation between the sliding plate and the pushing mechanism;

[0050] Figure 7f It shows Figure 7a A schematic diagram showing the exploded structure of the sliding plate and the pushing mechanism working together;

[0051] Figure 7g It shows Figure 7a A close-up view of the skateboard;

[0052] Figure 7h It shows Figure 7a A magnified view of the cooperation between the sliding plate and the pushing mechanism;

[0053] Figure 8a A perspective view of the pushing mechanism of the top cover assembly according to the present invention is shown;

[0054] Figure 8b It shows Figure 8a A three-dimensional view of the pushing mechanism from another angle.

[0055] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0056] 10. Pot body; 11. Inner pot; 111. Flared edge of the pot rim;

[0057] 20. Cover body; 21. Metal fixing plate; 22. Face cover;

[0058] 30. Locking mechanism; 31. Mounting plate; 311. Drive column; 32. Caliper;

[0059] 40. Buckling mechanism; 41. First hook; 42. Second hook; 44. First reset component; 45. Second reset component;

[0060] 50. Transmission mechanism; 51. Slide plate; 511. Stop plate; 52. Slide groove; 521. First groove section; 522. Second groove section; 523. Third groove section; 53. Clearance groove; 54. Extension groove; 55. Rotating component;

[0061] 60. Pushing mechanism; 61. Pushing top; 62. Reset component; 63. Guide part; 631. Guide slope; 632. Installation space; 64. Fixing component; 66. Extending protrusion; 661. Pushing slope; 662. Groove;

[0062] 70. Pressure cover; 71. Stop float;

[0063] 80. Lid opening button;

[0064] P, center line. Detailed Implementation

[0065] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0066] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0067] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0068] Regarding the cooking appliance provided in Chinese Utility Model Patent Application No. 202221673921.0, during use, when the clamp structure is in the locked position and pressure exists inside the pot, the lid assembly is prone to deformation, such as the middle of the lid assembly arching upwards. This deformation of the lid assembly causes the clamp structure to deform as well. When the clamp structure deforms, it drives the transmission plate to move. The movement of the transmission plate may cause the hook of the drive lever to separate from the clamping platform of the lid, which in turn causes the lid assembly to be driven upwards by the torsion spring at its rear. This causes the clamp structure to come into contact with the inner pot and generate friction, resulting in difficulty in moving the clamp structure. This difficulty in moving the clamp structure makes opening the lid difficult.

[0069] The technical solution of this application effectively solves the above-mentioned technical problems. The specific embodiments of the technical solution of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] like Figure 1 , Figures 2a to 2c , Figures 5a to 5e as well as Figures 7a to 7h As shown, in this embodiment, the upper cover assembly is placed on the pot body 10. The upper cover assembly includes: a cover body 20, a locking mechanism 30, a transmission mechanism 50, and a pushing mechanism 60.

[0071] The lid body 20 has a center line P extending in its front-rear direction; the locking mechanism 30 is movably mounted on the lid body 20 and has a locked state for locking the pot body 10 and an unlocked state for unlocking the pot body 10. The locking mechanism 30 has a transmission column 311; the transmission mechanism 50 includes a slide plate 51 movably mounted in the front-rear direction of the lid body 20. When the slide plate 51 moves, it can drive the locking mechanism 30 to switch between the locked state and the unlocked state. The slide plate 51 is provided with a groove 52, which is inclined relative to the center line P. The distance between the first end of the groove 52 and the center line P is smaller than the distance between the second end of the groove 52 and the center line P. The transmission column 311 is slidably disposed in the slide groove 52. When the locking mechanism 30 is in the locked state, the transmission column 311 is located at the first end of the slide groove 52. When the locking mechanism 30 is in the unlocked state, the transmission column 311 is located at the second end of the slide groove 52. The slide plate 51 is also provided with a relief groove 53 communicating with the slide groove 52. The relief groove 53 is located at the first end of the slide groove 52 and extends in a direction away from the center line P. The pushing mechanism 60 is disposed on the slide plate 51 and located at the relief groove 53. When the transmission column 311 is located at the second end of the slide groove 52, the pushing mechanism 60 can abut against the transmission column 311 to apply a pushing force toward the center line P to the transmission column 311.

[0072] Applying the technical solution of this embodiment, the lid assembly includes a lid body 20, a locking mechanism 30, a transmission mechanism 50, and a pushing mechanism 60. The locking mechanism 30 has a locked state for locking the pot body 10 and an unlocked state for unlocking the pot body. When the locking mechanism 30 is in the locked state, the cooking appliance can perform pressure cooking. The transmission mechanism 50 includes a movably disposed slide plate 51, on which a slide groove 52 is provided. The slide groove 52 is inclined relative to the center line P. The locking mechanism 30 has a transmission column 311 that slides along the slide groove 52. When the slide plate 51 moves, the cooperation between the slide groove 52 and the transmission column 311 can drive the locking mechanism 30 to switch between the locked state and the unlocked state. In the technical solution of this embodiment, the slide plate 51 is also provided with a clearance groove 53 that communicates with the slide groove 52. The clearance groove 53 is disposed at the first end of the slide groove 52 near the center line P and extends in a direction away from the center line P. The lid assembly also includes a pushing mechanism 60 disposed on the sliding plate 51 and located in the clearance groove 53. When the drive column 311 is at the second end of the sliding groove 52, the pushing mechanism 60 can engage with the drive column 311 to apply a pushing force toward the centerline P. When the pot is in a depressurized state, the pushing mechanism 60 applies a pushing force toward the centerline P to the drive column 311, so that the drive column 311 can only slide within the sliding groove 52 and will not enter the clearance groove 53. During pressure cooking, the pot 10 is under pressure, and the locking mechanism 30 is in the floating position. At this time, the locking mechanism 30 will deform, causing the drive column 311 to move away from the centerline P. The drive column 311 will enter the clearance groove 53 and drive the pushing mechanism 60 to move. This prevents the locking mechanism 30 from deforming and causing the sliding plate 51 to move. In related technologies, when the pot is under pressure, the deformation of the locking mechanism can cause the sliding plate to move, making it difficult to open the lid. Since the technical solution of this embodiment can effectively prevent the slide from moving when it is pressed up, it can effectively solve the problem of difficulty in opening the cover in related technologies.

[0073] like Figures 7a to 7g As shown, in this embodiment, the pushing mechanism 60 includes a pushing top 61 and a resetting member 62. The pushing top 61 can contact the transmission column 311, and the resetting member 62 applies a resetting force to the pushing top 61 toward the centerline P. By setting the pushing top 61 and the resetting member 62, a pushing force can be effectively applied to the transmission column 311, ensuring that the transmission column 311 can be held in the slide groove 52 when the pot body 10 is in a pressure-free state. The above structure is simple and easy to implement. The resetting member 62 is a spring, and the spring applies an elastic force to the pushing top 61. When the pushing top 61 is subjected to an elastic force greater than that of the spring, it will move laterally outward.

[0074] like Figure 7g and Figure 7hAs shown, in this embodiment, the push top 61 is located above the clearance groove 53. When the locking mechanism 30 is in the locked state and in the floating position, the push top 61 and the transmission column 311 abut against each other. This structure ensures that when the locking mechanism 30 is in the lowered position, the transmission column 311 will not interfere with the push top 61 when sliding within the slide groove 52. Figure 7h In the diagram, the dashed line indicates the boundary between the clearance groove 53 and the slide groove 52. This dashed line is merely an auxiliary line for ease of understanding and is not a structural line.

[0075] like Figure 6b As shown, in this embodiment, when the locking mechanism 30 is in the locked state and in the floating position, the push top 61 engages with the transmission column 311. When the lid assembly is closed in a hot state, a large amount of water vapor inside the inner pot 11 will instantly generate pressure, causing the pressure-bearing lid 70 to move upwards along with the locking mechanism 30 to the floating position. At this time, the vertical gap between the clamp 32 and the pot opening flange 111 decreases. The top of the transmission column 311 protrudes upwards from the push top 61. The push top 61 can restrict the movement of the transmission column 311. Figure 6b In this configuration, the top 61 can only move away from the center line P, but cannot move closer to it, thus restricting the movement of the locking mechanism 30. At this time, there is a gap between the clamp 32 and the pot rim flange 111, and the clamp 32 and the pot rim flange 111 will not contact each other. This structure prevents the locking mechanism 30 from moving in this state, avoiding excessive friction between the locking mechanism 30 and the pot body, or jamming due to contact between the two.

[0076] Once the pressure inside the pot is depressurized, the pressure-bearing cover 70 and the clamp 32 move downwards under the action of gravity or a spring installed on the cover body. When the vertical distance L6 between the transmission column 311 and the push top is greater than 0 (e.g., Figure 3h As shown, the transmission column 311 can move within the slide groove 52 to achieve the closing of the cover.

[0077] Figures 3a to 3h It shows Figure 1The figures show a perspective view, a top view, and a cross-sectional view of the lid assembly of a cooking appliance in a cold and pressureless state with the locking mechanism in the unlocked state. As can be seen from the figures, in the cold and pressureless state, with the locking mechanism in the unlocked state, the drive column 311 is in the lowered position, and the pushing mechanism 60 is located above the drive column 311, without restricting the movement of the drive column 311 within the slide groove 52. The slide groove 52 is gradually inclined inward (closer to the center line P of the lid body 20) in the front-rear direction. Since the pushing mechanism 60 does not restrict the movement of the drive column 311 within the slide groove 52, when the sliding plate 51 slides forward, it drives the drive column 311 to move inward (closer to the center line P of the lid body 20) within the slide groove 52, causing the locking mechanism 30 to switch from the unlocked state to the locked state.

[0078] Figures 4a to 4d The figures show a perspective view, a top view, and a sectional view of the lid assembly of the cooking appliance in a cold and pressureless state with the locking mechanism in the locked state. As can be seen from the figures, in the cold and pressureless state, with the locking mechanism 30 in the locked state, the drive column 311 is in the lowered position, the pushing mechanism 60 is located above the drive column 311, and the pushing mechanism 60 does not restrict the movement of the drive column 311 within the slide groove 52.

[0079] like Figure 3f As shown, the minimum clearance between the flange of the caliper 32 and the flange of the pot opening 111 is L1 when the caliper is cold and pressureless. Figure 4d As shown, the longitudinal distance between the flange of the caliper 32 and the flange of the pot opening 111 in the cold and pressureless states is L2.

[0080] like Figure 3g and Figure 3h As shown, when the locking mechanism 30 is in the lowered position, there is a vertical gap L6 between the transmission column 311 and the pusher head 61. Where 0 < L6 < L2. This gap L6 ensures smoother movement of the transmission column 311 within the slide groove 52, preventing interference or friction between the transmission column 311 and the pusher head 61. Figure 3d As shown, the distance between the transmission column 311 and the push top is L7, and L1-L7>0.

[0081] like Figure 1As shown, the locking mechanism 30 includes a mounting plate 31 and a clamp 32 mounted on the mounting plate 31, with a transmission column 311 mounted on the mounting plate 31. This structure ensures effective locking of the locking mechanism 30 and improves safety. The cover body 20 has a guide groove extending in its left-right direction, and the transmission column 311 passes through this guide groove. This guides the locking mechanism 30, allowing it to move along a preset trajectory, such as the left-right direction of the cover body 20, making the locking and unlocking process smoother. The movement of the locking mechanism 30 along the preset trajectory also requires the cooperation of other mechanisms. Specifically, the cover assembly also includes operating components, such as a cover handle or cover button 80. These operating components can move the transmission column 311 via the slide plate 51, thereby controlling the locking mechanism 30 to move between the locked and unlocked states. The slide plate 51 has a groove 52 that mates with the transmission column 311. The cooperation between the sliding groove 52 and the transmission column 311, as well as the cooperation between the guide groove and the transmission column 311, together enable the locking mechanism 30 to move along a preset trajectory. For details on the guiding and movement process of the locking mechanism, please refer to the relevant description in CN117322757A. In this embodiment, the pot body 10 includes an outer shell and an inner pot 11 disposed within the outer shell. The inner pot 11 is provided with a pot opening flange 111, and the clamp 32 engages below the pot opening flange 111 to achieve locking between the two.

[0082] like Figures 5a to 5e As shown, when the cooking appliance is in operation, after the pressure inside the cooking cavity is increased, the locking mechanism 30 moves upward under the action of the pressure cover 70, causing the caliper 32 to engage with the flange 111 of the pot opening, and the top of the transmission column 311 protrudes upward beyond the push top 61. In this way, the push top 61 prevents the caliper 32 from opening outward. Specifically, when the caliper 32 opens, the transmission column 311 pushes the push top 61 and enters the clearance groove 53, thus preventing the sliding plate 51 from being moved when the caliper 32 deforms. In this state, since the transmission column 311 has entered the clearance groove 53, if the user performs an opening operation on the cooking appliance, such as pressing the opening button 80, the transmission column 311 cannot move within the sliding groove 52, and the caliper 32 cannot open, achieving the function of preventing the lid from opening under pressure, thus enhancing safety.

[0083] Once the pressure inside the cooking cavity has been released, the caliper 32 resets, and the drive column 311 also resets into the slide groove 52 and is in the lowered position. When it is necessary to open the lid, the drive column 311 can move within the slide groove 52, causing the locking mechanism 30 to switch from the locked state to the unlocked state, thus opening the lid.

[0084] like Figure 7g and Figure 7hAs shown, in this embodiment, the slide plate 51 is also provided with an extension groove 54 communicating with the slide groove 52. The extension groove 54 is located at the first end of the slide groove 52 and extends towards the rear of the cover body 20. The clearance groove 53 communicates with the extension groove 54. The above structure allows for a certain relative movement between the slide plate 51 and the transmission column 311 after the locking mechanism 30 is locked in place, thereby preventing the locking mechanism 30 from colliding with the pot body 10. Due to manufacturing errors, the slide plate 51 may not have moved into place after the locking mechanism 30 is locked in place. If the extension groove 54 is not provided, the slide plate 51 will continue to pull the transmission column 311, causing the locking mechanism 30 to collide with the pot body 10, resulting in damage to the pot body 10. With the extension groove 54 provided, a certain relative movement between the slide plate 51 and the transmission column 311 is allowed after the locking mechanism 30 is locked in place, thereby preventing the locking mechanism 30 from colliding with the pot body 10.

[0085] like Figure 8a and Figure 8b As shown, the pushing mechanism 60 also includes an extending protrusion 66, located above the extending groove 54. The extending protrusion 66 has a pushing inclined surface 661 facing the transmission column 311. The extending protrusion 66 can engage with the transmission column 311 after it enters the extending groove 54. The pushing inclined surface 661 allows the extending protrusion 66 to move away from the centerline P when the transmission column 311 abuts against it. A groove 662 is provided on the pushing inclined surface 661. The groove 662 is used to avoid the transmission column 311.

[0086] like Figure 8a and Figure 8b As shown, the pushing mechanism 60 also includes a guide portion 63, which is connected below the pushing head 61. The guide portion 63 has a guide slope 631, which forms part of the groove wall of the sliding groove 52. The guide portion 63 facilitates the mounting of the pushing head 61 onto the sliding plate 51. The guide portion 63 has a guide slope 631 forming part of the groove wall of the sliding groove 52, making the structure of the pushing mechanism 60 more compact and allowing space for its movement. The sliding plate 51 and the guide slope 631 of the guide portion 63 form a movable guide groove for the transmission column 311 on the caliper 32. Figure 7b As shown, since the guide portion 63 is connected to the pusher top 61, limiting the stroke of the guide portion 63 is equivalent to limiting the stroke of the pusher top 61. In this embodiment, the pusher top 61 and the guide portion 63 are integrally formed.

[0087] like Figure 8a and Figure 8bAs shown, the guide portion 63 is provided with an installation space 632, and the reset member 62 is disposed within the installation space 632. The placement of the reset member 62 within the installation space 632 of the guide portion 63 allows for a compact structure of the pushing mechanism 60, which is beneficial for miniaturization of the cooking appliance. The guide portion 63 can simultaneously assemble and limit the stroke of the pushing top 61 and install the reset member 62, thereby simplifying the structure.

[0088] like Figure 7b and Figure 7f As shown, the pushing mechanism 60 also includes a fixing member 64, which is connected to the slide plate 51 and disposed above the guide portion 63. The guide portion 63 is positioned between the slide plate 51 and the fixing member 64. The fixing member 64 can prevent the pushing head 61 from detaching from the slide plate 51 by limiting the guide portion 63. The fixing member 64 is a fixing plate, and both ends of the fixing plate can be connected to the slide plate 51 by fasteners. The fixing plate can stop the guide portion 63. The fixing plate has a protrusion protruding towards the center line P, which can stop the reset member 62. Correspondingly, the pushing head 61 is provided with a recess corresponding to the protrusion, thereby ensuring the distance between the two and ensuring that space is provided for the movement of the pushing head 61.

[0089] like Figure 7d As shown, in this embodiment, the push top 61 is located above the slide groove 52, dividing the slide groove 52 into a first groove segment 521 and a second groove segment 522 located on both sides of the push top 61, and a third groove segment 523 located below the push top. The third groove segment 523 connects the first groove segment 521 and the second groove segment 522. When the locking mechanism 30 is in the locked state, the transmission column 311 is located in the first groove segment 521; when the locking mechanism 30 is in the unlocked state, the transmission column 311 is located in the second groove segment 522. The push top structure is simple. When the locking mechanism 30 is in the locked state and in the floating position, the push top can limit the transmission column 311 in the first groove segment 521; when the locking mechanism 30 is in the unlocked state and in the floating position, the push top can limit the transmission column 311 in the second groove segment 522. When the locking mechanism 30 is in the lowered position, the transmission column 311 can move between the first groove 521 and the second groove 522 using the third groove 523, thereby switching between the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0090] like Figure 5eAs shown, the upper cover assembly also includes a pressure-bearing cover 70 disposed below the locking mechanism 30. The pressure-bearing cover 70 is equipped with a stop-opening float 71, and the sliding plate 51 is equipped with a stop-opening plate 511. When the stop-opening float 71 floats upward, it can restrict the movement of the stop-opening plate 511. This structure, by placing the stop-opening plate 511 on the sliding plate 51, restricts the movement of the stop-opening plate 511 when the stop-opening float 71 floats upward, thereby restricting the movement of the sliding plate 51. This prevents the sliding plate 51 from driving the locking mechanism 30 to move via the transmission column 311, thus preventing the locking mechanism 30 from opening when pressure exists within the pot body 10, ensuring safe use. During the pressure cooking process described above, the locking mechanism 30 is in the floating position, and pushing the top 61 can restrict the movement of the transmission column 311, thereby preventing deformation of the locking mechanism 30. In this way, the locking mechanism 30 will not cause the slide plate 51 to move due to deformation, thus preventing the slide plate 51 from moving and causing the stop plate 511 to hit the stop float 71. This will prevent the stop float 71 from being hit, which could lead to air leakage inside the inner pot 11 and cause the cooking appliance to be unable to pressurize.

[0091] like Figure 1 As shown, the cover body 20 is a liner, and the upper cover assembly also includes a metal fixing plate 21 disposed below the liner. The mounting plate 31 of the locking mechanism 30 is movably disposed on the metal fixing plate 21. The metal fixing plate 21 is buoyantly mounted below the liner via a connector, and a positioning structure is provided between the middle of the metal fixing plate 21 and the middle of the liner. The upper cover assembly also includes a faceplate 22 disposed above the liner. The metal fixing plate 21 can increase the strength of the liner.

[0092] According to another aspect of the present invention, a cooking appliance is provided, comprising a pot body and a lid assembly disposed on the pot body, the lid assembly being the aforementioned lid assembly. The aforementioned lid assembly effectively prevents the sliding plate from moving when pressed, thereby effectively solving the problem of difficulty in opening the lid in related technologies. The cooking appliance having the aforementioned lid also solves the aforementioned problems.

[0093] The following will combine Figure 1 and Figures 2a to 2c The process of closing and opening the lid of the cooking appliance in this embodiment will be described.

[0094] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooking appliance also includes a locking mechanism 40, which includes a first hook 41 and a second hook 42. The first hook 41 is rotatably mounted and has an individual rotation state and a linked rotation state; the second hook 42 is rotatably mounted and is disposed inside the first hook 41. When the first hook 41 is in the linked rotation state, the first hook 41 can drive the second hook 42 to rotate together.

[0095] The latching mechanism 40 is mounted on the pot body 10 and cooperates with the latching platform of the lid body 20 and the rotating component 55 of the transmission mechanism 50 to achieve double locking and unlocking between the pot body 10 and the lid assembly. Specifically, when the first hook 41 and the second hook 42 are stationary, the second hook 42 is engaged with the latching platform, and the first hook 41 abuts against the rotating component 55 and pulls the sliding plate 51 to keep the locking mechanism 30 in the locked state. At this time, the lid assembly and the pot body 10 are double locked, and the cooking appliance can perform pressure cooking in this state. During the process from double locking to unlocking, the first hook 41 drives the rotating component 55 to rotate, or the rotating component 55 drives the first hook 41 to rotate. At this time, the second hook 42 remains engaged with the latching platform. Then, the first hook 41 continues to rotate, and the first hook 41 drives the second hook 42 to move together, and the latching mechanism 40 switches to the unlocking state. When the latching mechanism 40 is in the unlocked state, the second hook 42 separates from the latching platform, and the locking mechanism 30 is in the unlocked state, unlocking the lid assembly and the pot body 10. At this time, the lid assembly switches from the closed state to the open state. In the prior art, for the scheme in which the latching assembly, the latching platform, and the locking mechanism work together simultaneously, the lid assembly moves upward during the movement of the locking mechanism. This makes the locking mechanism susceptible to interference from other structures during the unlocking process, resulting in difficult operation and an unsmooth opening of the lid. During the process from double locking to unlocking, when the first hook 41 drives the rotating component 55 to rotate, or when the rotating component 55 drives the first hook 41 to rotate, the second hook 42 remains engaged with the latching platform. At this time, the position of the lid assembly relative to the pot body 10 remains unchanged. The rotating component 55 continues to rotate, causing the locking mechanism 30 to switch from the locked state to the unlocked state. In this way, the locking mechanism 30 will not interfere with other structures inside the lid assembly during movement, improving the smoothness of movement and making the lid assembly open or close more smoothly. Therefore, the technical solution of this embodiment can solve the problems of laborious opening operation and unsmooth opening in related technologies.

[0096] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooking appliance also includes a first reset member 44 disposed between the pot body 10 and the first hook 41, and a second reset member 45 disposed between the pot body 10 and the second hook 42. The first reset member 44 enables the first hook 41 to remain in a vertical position, and the second reset member 45 enables the second hook 42 to remain in a vertical position. When the lid assembly is in the closed position, the first hook 41 abuts against the rotating member 55 under the elastic force of the first reset member 44, and the second hook 42 is engaged with the locking platform under the elastic force of the second reset member 45. Both the first reset member 44 and the second reset member 45 are torsion springs. In this embodiment, the cooking appliance also includes a third reset member (not shown in the figure), which is a tension spring. The third reset member applies an elastic force to the sliding plate 51, causing the sliding plate 51 to move backward, thereby keeping the locking mechanism 30 in the unlocked position.

[0097] The process of closing the lid of the cooking appliance in this embodiment is as follows:

[0098] Phase 1: As Figure 2c As shown, the inclined surface of the lower surface of the locking platform at the front of the cover body 20 causes the first hook 41 to move, and at the same time drives the second hook 42 to move. At this time, the caliper 32 is in the fully open state, the transmission column 311 is in the initial position, and the first distance between the caliper 32 and the pot opening flange 111 is the L3 design gap, which is not shown in the figure.

[0099] Phase Two: As Figure 2b As shown, when the lid body 20 reaches the set position, the second hook 42 is reset and latched onto the latching plane of the latching plate under the action of the second reset member 45, so that the pot body 10 and the upper cover assembly are latched together, ensuring that the upper cover assembly will not pop open or shake. At this time, the first hook 41 does not touch the rotating member 55, the slide plate 51 does not move, the middle part of the rotating member 55 is hinged to the lid body 20, and the top of the rotating member 55 is movably connected to the slide plate 51, such as hinged. The caliper 32 is in the fully open state, and the transmission column 311 is in the initial position.

[0100] Furthermore, the first hook 41 is fastened to the fastening plane of the caliper, the first hook 41 touches the rotating part 55, and at the same time drives the slide plate 51 to move, forcing the caliper 32 to move, and the transmission column 311 moves to the second position;

[0101] When the transmission column 311 moves from the initial position to the second position, there is still a distance between the caliper 32 and the pot flange 111 to avoid contact between the caliper 32 and the pot flange 111. The second distance between the two is L4, which is not shown in the figure. L4 < L3.

[0102] Phase Three: As Figure 2a As shown, the first hook 41 contacts the bottom end of the rotating part 55, causing it to rotate and forcing the slide plate 51 to slide forward, so that the caliper 32 locks the pot opening flange 111, and the transmission column 311 is in the third position; the force F of the first reset part 44 is greater than the force f of the third reset part.

[0103] The process of opening the lid of the cooking appliance in this embodiment is as follows:

[0104] Phase 1: As Figure 2a As shown, the transmission column 311 is in the third position, and the caliper 32 is located below the flange 111 of the pot opening;

[0105] Phase Two: As Figure 2bAs shown, pushing the unlock and lid opening button 80 causes the first hook 41 to move, and at the same time the third reset component pulls the slide plate 51 to move the caliper 32. When the transmission column 311 moves to the second position, the first hook 41 contacts the second hook 42, and the second hook 42 is still engaged on the engagement plane. At this time, the caliper 32 is completely disengaged from the pot opening flange 111.

[0106] Phase Three: As Figure 2c As shown, the first hook 41 drives the second hook 42 to move, causing the second hook 42 to disengage from the fastening plane, and the upper cover assembly opens, completing the opening of the cover.

[0107] The cooking appliance in this application is a pressure cooker, but it can also be a rice cooker, slow cooker, frying machine, food processor, or other appliances with other functions.

[0108] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0109] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0110] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0111] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A lid assembly, disposed on a pot body (10), characterized in that, The upper cover assembly includes: The cover body (20) has a centerline (P) extending in its front-rear direction; The locking mechanism (30) is movably disposed on the lid body (20) and has a locked state for locking the pot body (10) and an unlocked state for unlocking the pot body (10). The locking mechanism (30) has a transmission column (311). The transmission mechanism (50) includes a sliding plate (51) movably disposed along the front-rear direction of the cover body (20). When the sliding plate (51) moves, it can drive the locking mechanism (30) to switch between the locked state and the unlocked state. The sliding plate (51) is provided with a groove (52), which is inclined relative to the center line (P). The distance between the first end of the groove (52) and the center line (P) is less than the distance between the second end of the groove (52) and the center line (P). The column (311) is slidably disposed in the slide groove (52). When the locking mechanism (30) is in the locked state, the transmission column (311) is located at the first end of the slide groove (52). When the locking mechanism (30) is in the unlocked state, the transmission column (311) is located at the second end of the slide groove (52). The slide plate (51) is also provided with a clearance groove (53) communicating with the slide groove (52). The clearance groove (53) is located at the first end of the slide groove (52) and extends in a direction away from the center line (P). The pushing mechanism (60) is disposed on the slide plate (51) and located at the clearance groove (53). When the transmission column (311) is at the second end of the slide groove (52), the pushing mechanism (60) can engage with the transmission column (311) to apply a pushing force toward the center line (P) to the transmission column (311).

2. The upper cover assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pushing mechanism (60) includes a pushing top (61) and a resetting member (62), the pushing top (61) being able to contact the transmission column (311), and the resetting member (62) applying a resetting force toward the center line (P) to the pushing top (61).

3. The upper cover assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The push top (61) is located above the clearance groove (53). When the locking mechanism (30) is in the locked state and the locking mechanism (30) is in the floating position, the push top (61) abuts against the transmission column (311).

4. The upper cover assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The slide plate (51) is also provided with an extension groove (54) that communicates with the slide groove (52). The extension groove (54) is located at the first end of the slide groove (52) and extends toward the rear of the cover body (20). The clearance groove (53) communicates with the extension groove (54).

5. The upper cover assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The pushing mechanism (60) further includes an extension protrusion (66) located above the extension groove (54) and having a pushing ramp (661) facing the drive column (311).

6. The upper cover assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pushing mechanism (60) further includes a guide (63) connected below the pushing head (61), the guide (63) having a guide slope (631) that forms part of the groove wall of the slide (52).

7. The upper cover assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The guide portion (63) is provided with an installation space (632), and the reset member (62) is disposed within the installation space (632).

8. The upper cover assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The pushing mechanism (60) also includes a fixing member (64), which is connected to the slide plate (51) and disposed above the guide portion (63). The guide portion (63) is positioned between the slide plate (51) and the fixing member (64).

9. The upper cover assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the locking mechanism (30) is in the unlocked state and the locking mechanism (30) is in the floating position, the push top (61) and the transmission column (311) stop each other.

10. The cover assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The push top (61) is also located above the slide (52). The push top (61) divides the slide (52) into a first groove segment (521) and a second groove segment (522) located on both sides of the push top (61) and a third groove segment (523) located below the push top (61). The third groove segment (523) connects the first groove segment (521) and the second groove segment (522). When the locking mechanism (30) is in the locked state, the transmission column (311) is located in the first groove (521). When the locking mechanism (30) is in the unlocked state, the transmission column (311) is located in the second groove (522).

11. The cover assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The upper cover assembly also includes a pressure cover (70) disposed below the locking mechanism (30), the pressure cover (70) is provided with a stop float (71), the slide plate (51) is provided with a stop plate (511), and the stop float (71) can restrict the movement of the stop plate (511) when it floats up.

12. A cooking appliance, comprising a pot body (10) and a lid assembly disposed on the pot body (10), characterized in that, The cover assembly is the cover assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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