A heating pad and method of use thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a heating pad and a use method thereof, and relates to the field of heating equipment.The heating pad comprises an operation area and a heating area; the operation area is fixedly connected with the heating area; the heating area comprises: a pad body made of flexible material, the pad body comprising oppositely arranged first and second surfaces; a plurality of support structures arranged on the second surface and extending away from the first surface; a heating wire fixing member installed on the second surface, the heating wire fixing member being provided with a containing groove; and a heating wire installed in the containing groove of the heating wire fixing member, and gaps are formed between the plurality of support structures to accommodate the heating wire. The heating pad can stably limit the heating wire in a predetermined position by arranging the heating wire fixing member, so that displacement, warping or local concentration of the heating wire during use is avoided, and the uniformity of heating distribution is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of heating equipment technology, specifically to a heating pad and its usage method. Background Technology

[0002] With the fast pace of life and the development of industries such as food delivery and centralized catering, heating pads have gradually gained widespread use. Heating pads are typically used to continuously keep food warm or reheat it to ensure its taste and temperature, and are widely used in catering services, hospital catering, school cafeterias, and home settings. Existing heating pads generally use electric heating to evenly heat the bottom of the plate, thus maintaining the food at a suitable temperature, and have advantages such as ease of use and high heating efficiency.

[0003] However, the heating element of existing heating pads typically consists of heating wires and a pad body. Current technologies often involve molding or injection molding the silicone pad body first, then laying the heating wires on the surface, and fixing the wires through bonding, adhesive coating, or secondary encapsulation. Due to the lack of a dedicated heating wire fixing structure, the heating wires rely mainly on surface adhesion and adhesive coating for positioning during installation, which is complex and prone to displacement, warping, or localized heat concentration during use due to stress or thermal expansion and contraction, leading to uneven heating distribution and affecting the overall heating effect. Furthermore, the insufficient bonding between the heating wires and the pad body and poor interface contact also reduce heat conduction efficiency. In addition, this type of structure is usually formed through post-assembly or encapsulation, resulting in poor overall integrity. During long-term use, problems such as delamination and peeling are likely to occur, leading to insufficient sealing performance. External moisture can easily seep in through gaps, causing corrosion or damage to the heating wires, thus affecting the safety and lifespan of the heating pad and failing to meet practical application requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to embodiments of the present invention, a heating pad and a method of using the same are provided. This addresses the problems raised in the background section.

[0005] In a first aspect of the invention, a heating pad is provided.

[0006] The heating pad includes an operating area and a heating area; the operating area is connected to the heating area. The operating area includes: First shell; A second housing is disposed opposite to the first housing, and the first housing and the second housing are connected to form a closed accommodating space; A circuit board, which is mounted within the accommodating space; An operation interface is disposed on the surface of the first housing. The heating zone includes: A cushion body made of a flexible material, the cushion body including a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other; Multiple support structures are disposed on the second surface and extend from the second surface in a direction away from the first surface; A heating wire fixing component is installed on the second surface, and the heating wire fixing component is provided with a receiving groove. A heating wire is installed in the receiving groove of the heating wire fixing member, and a gap is formed between the plurality of supporting structures to accommodate the heating wire fixing member.

[0007] Preferably, the pad encloses the heating wire fixing member; the heating wire fixing member is at least partially located between the first surface and the second surface.

[0008] Preferably, the heating wire is coiled in a serpentine shape.

[0009] Preferably, it further includes a support component for supporting the heating area; the support component includes: A base is disposed on the heating area; Two extension components, both of which are rotatably connected to the base; A fastening element, which is connected to the operating area; The two extension components, at their ends away from the base, can extend into the fastener and be detachably connected to it.

[0010] Preferably, the extension component includes: The first arm is rotatably connected to the base, and a receiving groove is provided inside the first arm; The second arm is slidably installed in the receiving groove. The second arm is provided with a lever and a mounting part, which is used to form a mounting connection with the fastening member.

[0011] Preferably, the support assembly further includes a reinforcing rod connected to the heating area, and the end of the reinforcing rod is magnetically connected to the end of the first support arm away from the base.

[0012] Preferably, the operation area further includes at least one touch-sensitive spring, one end of which is fixed to the circuit board, and the first housing completely isolates the touch-sensitive spring and the circuit board from the operation interface; the other end of the touch-sensitive spring abuts or contacts the inner wall of the first housing and corresponds to the operation interface; the end of the touch-sensitive spring near the first housing is in a planar spiral shape. The circuit board is connected to the heating area and is used to control the heating operation of the heating area.

[0013] Preferably, the touch-sensitive spring has a tactile reinforcement at one end near the operating interface.

[0014] Preferably, it also includes a conical touch-sensing spring, one end of which is connected to the circuit board and the other end of which abuts against the inner wall of the first housing. The diameter of the conical touch-sensing spring gradually increases at the end closest to the first housing, and the conical touch-sensing spring and the touch-sensing spring are connected in parallel. The first housing is provided with three limiting protrusions, which form a limiting space for the touch sensing spring, and the conical touch sensing spring is sleeved on the outside of the three limiting protrusions.

[0015] In a second aspect of the present invention, a method of using a heating pad is provided, comprising the following steps: The first step is to place the tableware or food to be heated on the heating area; The second step is to connect the heating pad to the power supply, so that the circuit board is in a power-on standby state. At this time, the operating area enters a working state that can respond to operations. The third step is that the user touches or presses the operation interface to make the touch sensing spring and / or cone-shaped touch sensing spring at the corresponding position receive the touch signal and transmit the signal to the circuit board. The circuit board recognizes and processes the signal and generates corresponding control commands. The fourth step involves the heating wires in the heating area being energized under the control of the circuit board, converting electrical energy into heat energy to heat or keep the tableware or food placed in the heating area warm.

[0016] One or more technical solutions provided in this application have at least the following technical effects or advantages: This invention provides a heating pad and its usage method. The heating pad, by incorporating a heating wire fixing component, stably confines the heating wire to a predetermined position, preventing displacement, warping, or localized concentration during use. This ensures uniform heating distribution and improves the stability and reliability of the heating process. Simultaneously, the heating wire fixing component covers and supports the heating wire, enhancing its bonding with the pad body and improving heat transfer efficiency. Furthermore, by placing the heating wire fixing component within a pad mold and connecting it to the pad body using molding or injection molding, the pad body encloses the heating wire fixing component, reducing post-processing steps and creating a continuous and dense overall structure. This avoids problems such as delamination and peeling that are common in traditional splicing or adhesive structures, significantly improving sealing performance and effectively preventing moisture infiltration that could adversely affect the heating wire. This, in turn, enhances the structural strength, safety, and service life of the heating pad.

[0017] It should be understood that the description in the Summary of the Invention is not intended to limit the key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to restrict the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and other features, advantages, and aspects of the various embodiments of the present invention will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements, wherein: Figure 1 A first-view perspective three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a heating pad according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is shown; Figure 2 A second-view perspective three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a heating pad according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is shown; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure at the operating area of ​​the heating pad according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the first housing of the heating pad according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is shown; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the connection structure between the circuit board and the touch-sensitive spring of the heating pad according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is shown. Figure 6 An exploded structural diagram of a heating pad according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is shown; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the first housing of the heating pad according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention is shown; Figure 8 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the heating pad according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, showing the state in which the touch-sensitive spring and the conical touch-sensitive spring are sleeved together; Figure 9 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the touch-sensing spring and touch-sensing reinforcement of the heating pad according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention is shown; Figure 10 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the heating wire fixing member of the heating pad according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is shown. Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 Enlarged view of point A in the middle; Figure 12 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the support assembly of the heating pad according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention in its stored state is shown. Figure 13 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the support assembly of the heating pad according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention is shown in its unfolded state. Figure 14A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the support assembly of the heating pad according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention is shown; Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the housing of the heating pad according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention is shown. Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the housing of a heating pad according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention is shown.

[0019] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1-Operating area, 11-First housing, 111-Protrusion, 12-Second housing, 13-Accommodation space, 14-Circuit board, 15-Operating interface, 16-Touch sensing spring, 17-Conical touch sensing spring, 19-Touch reinforcement, 2-Heating area, 21-Pad, 211-First surface, 212-Second surface, 22-Support structure, 23-Heating wire, 24-Heating wire fixing component, 3-Support assembly, 31-Base, 32-Extension assembly, 321-First arm, 3211-Accommodation slot, 322-Second arm, 3221-Pulley, 3222-Hanging part, 33-Fasting part, 331-Accommodation housing, 332-Hook, 3321-Guide slope, 3322-Trigger part, 333-Rotating shaft, 334-Torsion spring, 34-Reinforcing rod. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, 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. 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.

[0021] Furthermore, the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0022] Example 1 like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, the heating pad includes an operating area 1 and a heating area 2, which are fixedly connected to form an integrated structure. During use, the operating area 1 is used to control the heating pad, while the heating area 2 is used to heat or keep food warm. Users can adjust and control the operating status of the heating area 2 through the operating area 1, thereby achieving effective management of the heating process.

[0023] Specifically, the operating area 1 includes a first housing 11 and a second housing 12. The second housing 12 is disposed opposite to the first housing 11, and the two are connected to form a relatively enclosed accommodating space 13. This accommodating space 13 serves to house and protect the internal electrical components, effectively preventing adverse effects from external dust, moisture, or mechanical impacts on the internal structure, thereby improving the overall structural stability and safety. Simultaneously, the cooperative connection between the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 enhances the overall structural strength of the operating area 1, ensuring its structural integrity during long-term use or transportation.

[0024] The circuit board 14 is installed within the accommodating space 13 and is used to receive control signals from the operating interface 15 and adjust the working state of the heating area 2. During actual operation, the circuit board 14 can control the power supply, heating power, or heating time of the heating area 2 according to the user's operating instructions, thereby achieving precise adjustment of the heating process and ensuring that the heating pad maintains a good heating effect in different usage scenarios.

[0025] The user interface 15 is located on the surface of the first housing 11, allowing users to directly perform touch or press operations. By placing the user interface 15 on the outer surface of the first housing 11, users can complete control operations without touching internal electrical components, thereby improving ease of use and safety. Simultaneously, the user interface 15 and the internal circuit board 14 communicate signals through structural cooperation, enabling accurate recognition and conversion of user operations into corresponding control commands.

[0026] The heating zone 2 includes a pad 21, multiple support structures 22, and heating wires 23. The pad 21, as the main structure of the heating zone 2, has a layered structure with a predetermined thickness, including a first surface 211 and a second surface 212 arranged opposite each other, forming a stable solid structure that provides basic mechanical support and a heat conduction channel for the heating zone. The first surface 211, as the working surface that directly contacts the tableware or object to be heated during use, has a smooth and continuous surface that helps increase the contact area, allowing heat to be transferred more evenly to the object being heated. The second surface 212 serves as the supporting foundation for the functional structure, used to arrange the heating wires 23 and related structures, spatially separating the heating element from the supporting surface, thus structurally creating a clear heat flow path.

[0027] Multiple support structures 22 are disposed on the second surface 212 and extend in a direction away from the first surface 211. While ensuring the overall structural strength, the support structures 22 form multiple spaced areas, allowing the heating wires 23 to be stably arranged within them. This arrangement not only helps limit the positional displacement of the heating wires 23 during use, preventing displacement due to external forces or thermal deformation, but also creates a gap between the pad 21 and the external support surface, thereby reducing the downward conduction path of heat and minimizing heat loss. Simultaneously, the gaps between the multiple support structures 22 provide space for the heating wires 23, allowing them to maintain a relatively independent and orderly distribution in space, which helps improve the thermal uniformity of the overall heating area.

[0028] The heating wire 23 is mounted on the second surface 212 via a heating wire fixing member 24. The heating wire fixing member 24 has a receiving groove that matches the heating wire 23, and the heating wire 23 is embedded in the receiving groove, thereby limiting and fixing the heating wire 23. This receiving method constrains the heating wire 23 in both its length and lateral positions, effectively preventing bending, warping, or localized concentration of heat during use, thus ensuring the stability and consistency of its heating process. Simultaneously, through the covering effect of the receiving groove, a relatively tight contact interface is formed between the heating wire 23 and the surrounding structure, which is conducive to the effective transfer of heat from the heating wire 23 to the pad 21, improving heat conduction efficiency.

[0029] The heating wire 23 is mounted on the second surface 212, and gaps are formed between the plurality of support structures 22. When energized, the heating wire 23 can convert electrical energy into heat energy and conduct the generated heat to the interior of the pad 21, and then from the pad 21 to the first surface 211, thereby heating or keeping the food placed on it warm.

[0030] During the manufacturing process, the heating wire fixing component 24 is pre-placed in the mold, followed by compression molding or injection molding. This allows the pad 21 to directly wrap around the heating wire fixing component 24 during molding, forming a unified structure. This molding method embeds the heating wire fixing component 24 into or tightly bonds it to the pad 21, avoiding the interface discontinuity problems associated with traditional post-bonding or secondary encapsulation methods. Because the material can fully fill around the heating wire fixing component 24 during compression molding or injection molding, a continuous and dense structure is formed at the interface, significantly improving the overall sealing and bonding strength. This not only reduces manufacturing steps and improves production efficiency but also lowers the risk of structural failure caused by interface detachment or delamination.

[0031] Furthermore, the pad 21 adopts a one-piece molded structure, eliminating obvious splicing interfaces or delamination within it, thus maintaining high structural stability during long-term heating and cooling cycles. Compared to traditional spliced ​​structures, this one-piece structure exhibits stronger integrity during thermal expansion and contraction, reducing the likelihood of localized stress concentration and thus lowering the probability of cracking and delamination. Simultaneously, due to its continuous and dense overall structure, it provides better barrier properties against external moisture, effectively preventing moisture from seeping into the area where the heating wire 23 is located through structural gaps, avoiding adverse effects on the heating wire 23, and improving the safety and reliability of the device. During molding or injection molding, the pad 21 material enters the receiving groove of the heating wire fixing member 24, covering the heating wire 23 and further limiting and fixing the heating wire 23 to the heating wire fixing member 24. Simultaneously, the pad 21 material tightly bonds with the outer surface of the heating wire fixing member 24 during filling, allowing the heating wire fixing member 24 to be fully embedded within the pad 21, thus forming a stable bonding structure between the two. By using this molding or injection molding method, the heating wire 23 is not only structurally limited by the heating wire fixing part 24, but also can achieve a closer fit with the pad 21 through the covering effect of the pad material 21, effectively reducing the interface gap, improving the continuity and efficiency of heat transfer, and enhancing the stability and sealing performance of the overall structure.

[0032] In actual use, after heat is generated by the heating wire 23, it is first transferred to the second surface 212 of the pad 21 through the heating wire fixing member 24, then conducted along the thickness direction of the pad 21 to the first surface 211, and finally transferred to the tableware or object to be heated that is in contact with the first surface 211. Due to the structural separation of the first surface 211 and the second surface 212, the heat conduction direction has a certain guiding effect, which can concentrate the output to the working surface, thereby reducing the ineffective loss in the direction away from the first surface 211. The gap structure formed by the support structure 22 further reduces the conduction of heat to the environment below, which helps to improve the overall heating efficiency and realize the effective utilization of heat.

[0033] In this embodiment, the heating wire fixing member 24 is at least partially located between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212. This arrangement brings the heating wire 23 closer to the first surface 211 in the thickness direction of the pad 21, thereby shortening the heat conduction path between the heating wire 23 and the first surface 211. Since heat attenuates during transmission, this shortened distance helps reduce heat loss during conduction within the pad, allowing the heat generated by the heating wire 23 to be transferred to the first surface 211 more quickly and efficiently, thus improving the heating efficiency and response speed for tableware or objects to be heated.

[0034] Meanwhile, the heating wire fixing member 24 is embedded inside the pad 21, forming a tighter bond between them. During molding or injection molding, the pad material covers the heating wire fixing member 24, creating a continuous transition interface between them, thereby improving the overall structural integrity. This embedded structure effectively limits the displacement or deformation of the heating wire 23 during use, reducing the risk of structural loosening caused by external forces or repeated thermal cycling, and further enhancing the structural stability and long-term reliability of the heating area 2.

[0035] Furthermore, by arranging the heating wire 23 close to the first surface 211, while ensuring structural strength, it helps to concentrate the heat transfer to the first surface 211 side and reduce the ineffective loss to the second surface 212.

[0036] In this embodiment, the heating wire 23 is coiled in a serpentine pattern on the second surface 212. This serpentine arrangement allows the heating wire 23 to have a longer path per unit area, effectively increasing the contact area between it and the pad 21. During the heating process, this structure helps to distribute heat more evenly within the pad 21, avoiding localized overheating or underheating, thereby improving the overall heating effect and stability.

[0037] In this embodiment, the support structure 22 gradually decreases in size along the direction away from the second surface 212. This tapered design allows the support structure 22 to have a larger connection area at the end near the pad 21, enhancing the connection stability with the pad 21, while the area decreases at the end away from the pad 21, thereby reducing the contact area with the external support surface and minimizing heat loss through the support structure 22, thus improving overall thermal efficiency.

[0038] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 forms a handle 18. By directly forming the handle 18 on the housing structure, the operating area 1 has a lifting function without adding additional components, making it convenient for users to move or transfer the heating pad, improving the overall ease of use. At the same time, the integrated structure also helps to improve the strength and durability of the handle 18.

[0039] In this embodiment, the heating area 2 further includes an identification area 213 disposed on the first surface 211. By providing the identification area 213 on the first surface 211, the usage status or safety warnings of the heating area can be indicated, such as indicating high-temperature areas or information to prevent burns, thereby serving as a warning to the user during use, reducing the risk of burns caused by accidental contact with high-temperature surfaces, and improving the safety of product use.

[0040] Example 2 like Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the operation area 1 also includes at least one touch-sensitive spring 16 disposed within the accommodating space 13. One end of the spring is fixed to the circuit board 14, and the other end abuts or contacts the inner wall of the first housing 11, corresponding to the operation interface 15. With this structure, when a user presses or touches the operation interface 15, the touch-sensitive spring 16 at its corresponding position receives a touch signal transmitted by the operation interface 15. This touch signal is conducted to the touch-sensitive spring 16 through local force or electrical signal changes on the operation interface 15. As a sensing component, the touch-sensitive spring 16 forms an electrical signal coupling relationship with the circuit board 14. When a touch occurs, the electrical state of the touch-sensitive spring 16 (such as a contact state or a capacitance state) changes, thereby forming a recognizable signal change on the circuit board 14. The circuit board 14 detects and processes this signal change and converts it into a corresponding control command, thereby controlling the working state of the heating area 2, such as starting heating, stopping heating, or adjusting the heating intensity.

[0041] The above method enables the signal transmission process between user operation and heating control. This structure utilizes a touch-sensitive spring 16 for tactile response, eliminating the need for significant mechanical displacement or deformation to trigger the signal, thereby improving the sensitivity and stability of operation.

[0042] Furthermore, the end of the touch-sensitive spring 16 near the first housing 11 has a planar spiral structure. This planar spiral structure can form a relatively large contact area within a limited space, increasing the range of action between the touch-sensitive spring 16 and the inner wall of the first housing 11, as well as between the touch-sensitive spring 16 and the corresponding area of ​​the operating interface 15. When the user touches or presses the operating interface 15, this structure helps to more fully receive and transmit touch signals, thereby improving the stability of signal sensing.

[0043] Meanwhile, due to the increased contact area, the touch signal is more evenly distributed on the touch sensing spring 16, which can effectively reduce local poor contact or signal fluctuations, thereby improving the overall operating sensitivity and response accuracy, and enabling the operating interface 15 to be effectively recognized even under light touch conditions.

[0044] The circuit board 14 is connected to the heating area 2. During actual operation, after receiving a control signal from the operation interface 15, the circuit board 14 controls the heating operation of the heating area 2, causing the heating area 2 to heat according to preset operating parameters. Through the above structural cooperation, a stable and reliable control relationship is formed between the operation area 1 and the heating area 2, which not only enables precise control of the heating process but also effectively improves the safety and reliability of the overall structure.

[0045] The first housing 11 is a one-piece molded structure, which provides it with good structural integrity and strength, thereby reducing the risk of loosening caused by splicing gaps. Based on this one-piece molded structure, the first housing 11 can be stably connected to the second housing 12, forming a relatively enclosed accommodating space 13 together. The touch-sensitive spring 16 is completely disposed inside the accommodating space 13 formed by the first housing 11 and the second housing 12, and will not be exposed to the external environment during normal use and transportation. Structurally, this avoids the touch-sensitive spring 16 being exposed, thereby effectively reducing the risk of electric shock caused by exposed internal structures.

[0046] In this embodiment, a tactile reinforcement 19 is provided at one end of the touch-sensitive spring 16 near the operation interface 15. The touch-sensitive spring 16 has a planar spiral structure, which can undergo elastic deformation when subjected to external touch pressure, and realizes the sensing and transmission of touch signals through its own structural characteristics. By providing the tactile reinforcement 19 at the end near the operation interface 15, the mechanical response at that end is more concentrated when subjected to force, so that when the user touches the operation interface 15, the external force can be transmitted to the touch-sensitive spring 16 more effectively, improving the response capability to small displacements or pressure changes.

[0047] Furthermore, the addition of the haptic reinforcement 19 alters the force distribution at the end of the touch-sensitive spring 16, concentrating the force originally dispersed by the planar helical structure in a localized area. This makes it easier for the touch-sensitive spring 16 to produce a perceptible deformation response when subjected to touch pressure. Compared to a case where the top of the touch-sensitive spring 16 is merely a planar helical structure, this structure reduces deformation loss in the initial stage of touch control, allowing externally input forces to act more directly on the spring structure and improving signal conversion efficiency during the touch process.

[0048] Furthermore, during touch operation, a clearer contact relationship is formed between the haptic reinforcement 19 and the operating interface 15, which helps improve the consistency and stability of touch control and makes the force path more controllable during each trigger, thereby reducing sensing errors caused by insufficient contact or force dispersion. Through the above structural design, not only is the sensitivity of the touch sensing spring 16 to touch actions improved, but the stability of touch feedback is also enhanced to a certain extent, making the overall touch performance more reliable.

[0049] To go further, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the operation area 1 further includes a conical touch-sensitive spring 17 based on the original structure. One end of the conical touch-sensitive spring 17 is connected to the circuit board 14, and the other end abuts against the inner wall of the first housing 11, thereby forming an additional tactile conduction path between the circuit board 14 and the first housing 11. When the user touches or presses the operation interface 15, in addition to the touch-sensitive spring 16 participating in signal sensing, the conical touch-sensitive spring 17 can also synchronously participate in signal transmission, enabling the circuit board 14 to receive a more stable trigger signal, thereby improving the reliability of the overall control response.

[0050] Furthermore, the diameter of the conical touch-sensitive spring 17 gradually increases at the end near the first housing 11, giving it a larger coverage area on the side near the operating interface 15. In actual operation, this larger end diameter helps to expand the sensing area, allowing touch signals to be effectively captured over a wider range, thereby improving the sensitivity of the operating interface. Simultaneously, this gradient structure also allows the conical touch-sensitive spring 17 to better match the surrounding structure in terms of spatial arrangement, improving the overall layout's rationality.

[0051] The conical touch-sensing spring 17 is sleeved outside the touch-sensing spring 16 and is arranged in parallel with the touch-sensing spring 16. This parallel structure allows the two sensing elements to work collaboratively in the same position. When one touch-sensing spring experiences instability during partial contact or signal transmission, the other touch-sensing spring can still provide an effective signal path, thus forming a redundant design. This improves the reliability and stability of operation signal acquisition and reduces the risk of functional abnormalities due to the failure of a single structure.

[0052] Furthermore, at least three limiting protrusions 111 are provided on the inner wall of the first housing 11, forming a limiting space between the multiple limiting protrusions 111. The end of the touch-sensing spring 16 near the first housing 11 is located within the limiting space, and the inner ring of the conical touch-sensing spring 17 contacts the limiting protrusions 111. Through the above-mentioned limiting structure, the positions of the touch-sensing spring 16 and the conical touch-sensing spring 17 within the accommodating space 13 are limited, effectively preventing displacement or shifting during long-term use or transportation, thereby ensuring that they are always in the position corresponding to the operating interface 15. This limiting effect not only helps maintain the accuracy of the sensing position but also improves the overall stability of the touch-sensing spring structure, further enhancing the reliability of the operating area 1.

[0053] Example 3 like Figures 12 to 16 As shown, this embodiment differs from Embodiment 1 in that it further includes a support component 3, which supports the heating area 2. The support component 3 allows the heating area 2 to not only be placed on a flat surface during use, but also to form a stable support structure under specific conditions, thus facilitating overall handling and transportation, and improving the flexibility and convenience of use.

[0054] Specifically, the support assembly 3 includes a base 31, two extension assemblies 32, and a fastening member 33. The base 31 is disposed on the heating area 2 and serves as the basic connecting component of the support assembly 3, forming a stable connection with the heating area 2 and providing an installation base for the extension assemblies 32. The two extension assemblies 32 are rotatably connected to the base 31. This rotatable connection allows the extension assemblies 32 to switch between different angles relative to the base 31, thus enabling transitions between a retracted and extended state. When not in use, the extension assemblies 32 can be folded up near the base 31 to reduce the overall volume; when support or transportation is required, the extension assemblies 32 can rotate around their connection with the base 31 to a predetermined position to form a support structure.

[0055] The fastening member 33 is connected to the operating area 1, serving as a connecting component that cooperates with the extension assembly 32. In the unfolded state, the ends of the two extension assemblies 32 away from the base 31 can extend into the fastening member 33 and be detachably connected to it, thereby forming a stable connection between the support assembly 3 and the operating area 1. Through this connection method, the base 31, the extension assembly 32, and the operating area 1 form a mutually supporting overall structure, effectively supporting the heating area 2 and enhancing the stability of the overall structure.

[0056] Furthermore, the extension component 32 includes a first arm 321 and a second arm 322. The first arm 321 is rotatably connected to the base 31 and has an internal receiving groove 3211 for accommodating the second arm 322. The second arm 322 is slidably mounted within the receiving groove 3211. Through this sliding engagement, the second arm 322 can extend or retract relative to the first arm 321, thereby adjusting the length of the extension component 32. When needed, the second arm 322 can be extended from the receiving groove 3211 by pulling the lever 3221 on the second arm 322, thus increasing the effective length of the extension component 32. When not in use, the second arm 322 can be pushed back into the receiving groove 3211 for storage.

[0057] The second support arm 322 is provided with a mounting part 3222, which is used to form a mounting connection with the fastening member 33. When the second support arm 322 extends to a predetermined position, the mounting part 3222 at its end can cooperate with the fastening member 33, thereby realizing quick connection and disassembly. After the connection is completed, a stable support relationship is formed between the extension component 32 and the operating area 1, so that the base 31, the first support arm 321 and the operating area 1 together constitute the load-bearing frame structure for the heating area 2.

[0058] In actual use, the two extension components 32 are first rotated and unfolded around their connection with the base 31, making them basically perpendicular to the base 31. Then, by pulling the second arm 322, it extends out of the receiving groove 3211 of the first arm 321, and the hanging part 3222 is further connected to the fastener 33. After the connection is completed, a stable frame structure is formed between the support component 3 and the operating area 1, thereby supporting the heating area 2. At this time, the user can lift the entire heated plate through this frame structure to realize the transfer of the heated plate. During the transfer, the heating area 2 can be kept relatively stable, avoiding deformation or shaking caused by directly lifting the flexible structure, thereby improving the reliability and convenience during use.

[0059] In this embodiment, the fastening member 33 includes a receiving housing 331, a hook 332, a rotating shaft 333, and a torsion spring 334. The receiving housing 331 is fixedly connected to the operating area 1, providing installation space and a movement limiting environment for the hook 332. The rotating shaft 333 passes through the hook 332 and is rotatably connected to it, while also being fixedly connected to the receiving housing 331, allowing the hook 332 to rotate relative to the receiving housing 331 around the rotating shaft 333. The torsion spring 334 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 333 and provides a continuous torsional force to the hook 332, causing the hook 332 to tend to maintain a predetermined initial position when no external force is applied, thus possessing the ability to automatically reset.

[0060] Furthermore, the hook 332 is provided with a guide slope 3321, and the mounting part 3222 preferentially contacts the guide slope 3321 during insertion. In actual connection, when the mounting part 3222 of the extension assembly 32 extends into the receiving housing 331, its end first contacts the guide slope 3321 and slides along the guide slope 3321 under external force, thereby driving the hook 332 to rotate around the pivot 333, causing the torsion spring 334 to undergo torsional deformation. When the mounting part 3222 passes the guide slope 3321, under the restoring force of the torsion spring 334, the hook 332 returns to its original position and limits the mounting part 3222, thus achieving automatic mounting connection. This structural design enables a convenient and reliable connection between the extension assembly 32 and the operating area 1, while allowing locking without additional operation, improving ease of use.

[0061] The hook 332 is also provided with a trigger part 3322. The housing 331 has a first notch for the trigger part 3322 to extend out and a second notch for the hook 332 to extend out, with the first notch corresponding to the second notch. This structure allows the user to directly apply external force to the trigger part 3322 through the first notch, thereby causing the hook 332 to rotate around the pivot 333. When it is necessary to disengage, the user moves the trigger part 3322, causing the hook 332 to rotate against the torsional force of the torsion spring 334, thus releasing its limiting effect on the mounting part 3222. At this time, the extension component 32 can disengage from the fastener 33, achieving quick disassembly. This structure ensures a stable connection while also facilitating disassembly.

[0062] In the aforementioned connection state, a stable connection is formed between the extension component 32 and the operating area 1, so that the base 31, the first support arm 321, and the operating area 1 constitute a supporting frame structure for the heating area 2, thereby supporting the heating area 2. The user can lift the entire heated plate through this frame structure to achieve the transfer of the heated plate. During the transfer process, the shape stability of the heating area 2 can be effectively maintained, avoiding deformation due to uneven stress on the flexible structure.

[0063] When finished using the device and needing to be stored, the hook 332 releases the restriction on the mounting part 3222 by triggering the trigger part 3322. Then, the extension component 32 is removed from the fastener 33, and the second arm 322 retracts into the receiving groove 3211 of the first arm 321. The extension component 32 is then rotated around its connection with the base 31 and folded up to the vicinity of the base 31, thus achieving complete storage of the support component 3. After storage, the heating area 2 can be further folded or rolled up to reduce the overall volume for easy storage and carrying.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support assembly 3 also includes a reinforcing rod 34, which is connected to the heating area 2, and its end is magnetically connected to the end of the first support arm 321 away from the base 31. The reinforcing rod 34 allows it to form an additional connection with the first support arm 321 when the support assembly 3 is in the unfolded state, thereby providing further structural support for the heating area 2. Since the mat 21 is made of flexible material, it may sag or deform to some extent when carrying tableware or during transport. The reinforcing rod 34, through its magnetic connection with the first support arm 321, forms an auxiliary support path, effectively improving the support effect on the mat 21 and enhancing the overall structural stability and reliability.

[0065] Example 4 This embodiment provides a method for using a heating pad, applicable to any of the heating pads described in the above embodiments, including the following steps: The first step is to place the heating pad on a flat and stable support surface, and place the tableware or food to be heated on heating area 2 to put it in the heating position, thus providing the basic conditions for subsequent heating.

[0066] The second step is to connect the heating pad to the power supply, so that the circuit board 14 is in a power-on standby state. At this time, the operation area 1 enters a working state that can respond to operations.

[0067] Third, the user touches or presses the operation interface 15 to make the touch sensing spring 16 and / or the conical touch sensing spring 17 at the corresponding position receive the touch signal and transmit the signal to the circuit board 14. The circuit board 14 identifies and processes the signal and generates corresponding control commands.

[0068] Fourth, under the control of circuit board 14, heating wire 23 in heating area 2 is powered on to convert electrical energy into heat energy, thereby heating or keeping warm the tableware or food placed on heating area 2.

[0069] Fifth, during the heating process, the user can adjust or turn off the heating state by touching or pressing the operation interface 15 again according to actual needs, so that the circuit board 14 controls the heating wire 23 to change the working state, thereby realizing the control of the heating process.

[0070] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A heating pad, characterized in that, include: Operating area (1) and heating area (2); The operating area (1) is connected to the heating area (2); The operating area (1) includes: First shell (11); The second housing (12) is disposed opposite to the first housing (11), and the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) are connected to form a closed accommodating space (13). Circuit board (14), said circuit board (14) is installed in said accommodating space (13); The operation interface (15) is disposed on the surface of the first housing (11); The heating zone (2) includes: The pad (21) is made of a flexible material and includes a first surface (211) and a second surface (212) disposed opposite to each other. Multiple support structures (22) are disposed on the second surface (212) and extend from the second surface (212) in a direction away from the first surface (211); A heating wire fixing member (24) is installed on the second surface (212), and a receiving groove is provided on the heating wire fixing member (24); A heating wire (23) is installed in the receiving groove of the heating wire fixing member (24), and a gap is formed between the plurality of support structures (22) to accommodate the heating wire fixing member (24).

2. The heating pad according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pad (21) encloses the heating wire fastener (24); the heating wire fastener (24) is at least partially located between the first surface (211) and the second surface (212).

3. The heating pad according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heating wire (23) is coiled in a serpentine shape.

4. The heating pad according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a support component (3) for supporting the heating area (2); The support component (3) includes: A base (31) is disposed on the heating area (2); Two extension components (32) are rotatably connected to the base (31); Fastener (33), which is connected to the operating area (1); Among them, the ends of the two extension components (32) away from the base (31) can extend into the fastener (33) and be detachably connected with the fastener (33).

5. The heating pad according to claim 4, characterized in that, The extension component (32) includes: The first arm (321) is rotatably connected to the base (31), and a receiving groove (3211) is provided in the first arm (321). The second arm (322) is slidably installed in the receiving groove (3211). The second arm (322) is provided with a lever (3221) and a mounting part (3222). The mounting part (3222) is used to form a mounting connection with the fastening member (33).

6. The heating pad according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support assembly (3) also includes a reinforcing rod (34), which is connected to the heating area (2), and the end of the reinforcing rod (34) is magnetically connected to the end of the first arm (321) away from the base (31).

7. The heating pad according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating area (1) also includes at least one touch-sensitive spring (16), one end of which is fixed to the circuit board (14). The first housing (11) completely isolates the touch-sensitive spring (16) and the circuit board (14) from the operating interface (15). The other end of the touch-sensitive spring (16) abuts or contacts the inner wall of the first housing (11) and corresponds to the operating interface (15). The end of the touch-sensitive spring (16) near the first housing (11) is in a planar spiral shape. The circuit board (14) is connected to the heating area (2) and is used to control the heating operation of the heating area (2).

8. The heating pad according to claim 7, characterized in that, The touch-sensitive spring (16) has a touch-sensitive reinforcement (19) at one end near the operation interface (15).

9. The heating pad according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a conical touch-sensing spring (17), one end of which is connected to the circuit board (14), and the other end abuts against the inner wall of the first housing (11). The diameter of the conical touch-sensing spring (17) gradually increases at the end near the first housing (11), and the conical touch-sensing spring (17) and the touch-sensing spring (16) are connected in parallel. The first housing (11) is provided with three limiting protrusions (111), and the three limiting protrusions (111) form a limiting space for the touch sensing spring (16), and the conical touch sensing spring (17) is sleeved on the outside of the three limiting protrusions (111).

10. A method of using a heating pad, characterized in that... Including the heating pad according to any one of claims 1 to 9, Includes the following steps: First, place the tableware or food to be heated on the heating area (2); The second step is to connect the heating pad to the power supply so that the circuit board (14) is in the power-on standby state. At this time, the operation area (1) enters the working state that can respond to operations. The third step is that the user touches or presses the operation interface (15) to make the touch sensing spring (16) and / or the conical touch sensing spring (17) at the corresponding position receive the touch signal and transmit the signal to the circuit board (14). The circuit board (14) identifies and processes the signal and generates corresponding control commands. In the fourth step, under the control of the circuit board (14), the heating wire (23) in the heating area (2) is powered on and converts electrical energy into heat energy, thereby heating or keeping warm the tableware or food placed on the heating area (2).

Images