Cooking apparatus

Abstract

This invention provides a cooking device, comprising: a heating element, a knob assembly, and a linkage component. The number of heating elements and knob assemblies is at least two. Each knob assembly includes a knob and a rotating component. The knob is used to adjust the heating power of the heating element. The knob assembly has a free state and a linked state. In the free state, the knob can rotate relative to the rotating component. In the linked state, the knob can drive the rotating component to rotate. The linkage component is used to link at least two rotating components. When the cooking device has a maximum heating power, if the sum of the heating power of at least two heating elements is less than the maximum heating power, the setting of one knob changes while the settings of the other knobs remain unchanged. If the sum of the heating power of at least two heating elements equals the maximum heating power, the setting of one knob increases while the settings of the other knobs decrease. Users do not need to worry about overloading the cooking device when using the knob assembly, thus providing convenience for the user's cooking process.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202423323706.X, filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on December 31, 2024, entitled "Cooking Equipment", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to the field of cooking equipment technology, and more specifically, to a cooking device. Background Technology

[0003] When a cooking appliance has multiple cooking zones, a switch is required for each zone. When a user uses multiple cooking zones simultaneously, in order to prevent the total power of the multiple cooking zones from exceeding the maximum heating power set by the cooking appliance, the user needs to pay attention to the settings of other switches while adjusting the switch settings, which causes inconvenience to the user in using the cooking appliance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related technologies.

[0005] In view of this, the present invention proposes a cooking device, comprising: at least two heating components; at least two knob assemblies, each knob assembly including a knob and a rotating component, one knob being used to adjust the heating power of one heating component, the knob assembly having a free state and a linked state, wherein in the free state, the knob can rotate relative to the rotating component, and in the linked state, the knob can drive the rotating component to rotate; and a linkage component connected to the rotating component in the at least two knob assemblies, the linkage component being used to link the rotating component in the at least two knob assemblies; wherein, when the cooking device has a maximum heating power, if the sum of the heating power of the at least two heating components is less than the maximum heating power, and the setting of one knob changes while the settings of the other knobs remain unchanged; if the sum of the heating power of the at least two heating components is equal to the maximum heating power, and the setting of one knob increases while the settings of the other knobs decrease.

[0006] Users can rotate the knob assembly to change the knob's power level, allowing the corresponding cooking zone to heat at different power levels. Different knob assemblies can be linked together via a linkage mechanism, enabling synchronized power adjustments between adjacent knobs. When using at least two knob assemblies, adjusting the power level of one knob automatically adjusts the others. This eliminates the need to adjust multiple knobs sequentially when using multiple cooking zones simultaneously, providing greater convenience for users.

[0007] Users can rotate the knob to change its speed. When the knob is rotated and there is a linkage between it and the rotating component, the knob is in a linked state and can drive the rotating component to rotate. When there is no linkage between the knob and the rotating component, the knob is in a free state and will not drive the rotating component to rotate during rotation.

[0008] Cooking equipment typically has a maximum heating power. If a cooking equipment has multiple heating zones and the heating power of the heating elements in each zone is not limited, the sum of the heating power of all heating elements may exceed the maximum heating power. Alternatively, if the maximum allowed power for each heating element is set too low, the heating efficiency of each heating zone for the cooking components will be low. For example, if the maximum heating power of the cooking equipment is 2000W, and there are two heating zones, setting the maximum allowed power for each zone to 1000W limits the heating efficiency, resulting in longer waiting times for the user during the cooking process.

[0009] In this technical solution, at least two knob assemblies, including a first knob and a second knob, are used as an example for illustration. The heating components corresponding to the first knob and the second knob are the first heating component and the second heating component, respectively. When the setting of the first knob increases, the heating power of the corresponding heating component also increases. If the sum of the power of the first heating component and the second heating component does not reach the maximum heating power, the setting of the first knob will not change when the setting of the second knob increases. There are two possibilities: First, the first knob is in a free state, and it does not drive the rotating component to rotate. The rotating component does not drive the linkage component to move, thus the linkage component does not drive the other rotating component to rotate, and consequently, the second knob does not rotate. Second, the first knob is in a linked state. The first knob drives the rotating component to rotate, and the rotating component drives the linkage component to move. The linkage component can drive the other rotating component to rotate, but the second knob is in a free state. Therefore, even if the linkage component drives the other rotating component to rotate, since the second knob and the rotating component are not linked, the rotating component cannot drive the second knob to rotate, and thus the setting of the second knob will not change.

[0010] If the combined power of the first heating element and the second heating element reaches the maximum heating power, both the first knob and the second knob are in a linked state. If the setting of the first knob continues to increase, the linkage will drive another rotating element to rotate, and the other rotating element will drive the second knob to rotate, thereby reducing the setting of the second knob.

[0011] By using at least two knobs to achieve synchronized power settings, the system can automatically adjust the settings of some knobs when the cooking appliance is about to overload. This method prevents the combined power of at least two heating elements from exceeding the maximum heating power. Users do not need to worry about overloading the cooking appliance when using any of the knob components; they only need to adjust the heating element's setting according to their cooking needs. This provides convenience for the user's cooking process and enhances the user experience.

[0012] In addition, the cooking device according to the above-described technical solution provided by the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0013] In some technical solutions, optionally, when the knob is at its maximum setting, the heating element operates at its rated power, which is less than the maximum heating power.

[0014] As the knob's setting increases, the heating power of the heating element increases. When the knob's setting is increased to the maximum setting, the heating power of the heating element is the rated power, which is less than the maximum heating power of the cooking equipment.

[0015] For example, the maximum heating power of the cooking device is 2000W. When the knob is at its maximum setting, the heating power of the heating element is 1500W. If the knob in the at least two knob components is designated as the first knob and the second knob, and the heating power of the heating element corresponding to the second knob is 500W, the first knob gradually increases its setting. Even if the first knob increases to its maximum setting, the sum of the heating power of the heating elements corresponding to the first knob and the second knob does not exceed 2000W. Therefore, when the first knob reaches its maximum setting, the setting of the second knob will not be lowered.

[0016] If the knob is at its maximum setting, the rated power of the heating element is equal to the maximum heating power, which is 2000W. If the heating element corresponding to the second knob has a heating power of 500W, and the first knob is gradually increased in setting, when the first knob is increased to its maximum setting, the combined heating power of the heating elements corresponding to the first and second knobs will exceed 2000W. Therefore, the setting of the second knob needs to be reduced, which will cause the heating element corresponding to the second knob to stop, affecting the user's cooking process.

[0017] By adjusting the knob so that the rated power is less than the maximum heating power, the cooking process can be kept stable by preventing some heating components from shutting down.

[0018] In some technical solutions, optionally, the lowest setting of the knob is the first setting. In the first setting, the heating power of the heating component is 0W. When the linkage is activated by the rotating component in at least two knob assemblies, the setting of any knob is greater than the first setting.

[0019] When the heating power of at least two heating elements is equal to the maximum heating power, increasing the setting of one knob will decrease the setting of the other knobs. This setting linkage is achieved when at least two knobs are at a setting greater than the first setting. When one knob is at the first setting, the corresponding heating element is not operating, therefore no adjustment of that knob's setting is required, simplifying the linkage operation of at least two knobs.

[0020] In some technical solutions, optionally, when the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components is equal to the maximum heating power, the power increase of one heating component is less than or equal to the power decrease of the other heating components.

[0021] When the sum of the power of at least two heating elements equals the maximum heating power, increasing the setting of one knob causes the settings of the other knobs to decrease. For example, increasing the setting of one knob by one causes the settings of the other knobs to decrease by at least one. Alternatively, increasing the setting of one knob by one causes the settings of the other knobs to decrease by a total of two, in which case the sum of the heating power of at least two heating elements decreases.

[0022] By using the above methods, excessive heating power of at least two heating components can be avoided, thereby ensuring the safe operation of the cooking equipment.

[0023] In some technical solutions, the linkage may optionally include: a first linkage part; and a second linkage part, disposed at both ends of the first linkage part, the second linkage part being used to cooperate with the rotating part in linkage.

[0024] The linkage component includes a first linkage part and a second linkage part. The second linkage part is provided at both ends of the first linkage part. Each second linkage part is used to cooperate with a rotating component, so that the rotating component can be linked with the adjacent rotating component through the first linkage part and the second linkage part.

[0025] In some technical solutions, the width of the first linkage part may be greater than the width of the second linkage part.

[0026] The width of the first linkage part is greater than the width of the second linkage part. Therefore, along the length of the first linkage part, a portion of the first linkage part is opposite to the second linkage part, while the other portion is offset from it. That is, the other portion of the first linkage part does not have a corresponding second linkage part. Based on this, the knob assembly can be positioned opposite the other portion of the first linkage part, thus placing the knob assembly on one side along the length of the first linkage part. In the width direction of the knob assembly, the knob assembly does not extend beyond the first linkage part, or only a portion of the knob assembly extends beyond it. By placing the knob assembly along the length of the linkage, the space occupied by the knob assembly in the width direction of the first linkage part can be reduced, thereby reducing the overall width and volume of the switch assembly. This, in turn, helps to reduce the space occupied by the switch assembly within the cooking equipment, providing greater convenience for the user.

[0027] In some technical solutions, optionally, the knob includes: a gear switch having multiple switching positions; a rotating shaft connected to the gear switch, the rotating shaft being used to drive the gear switch to adjust the switching position, the radial section of the rotating shaft including an arc segment and a driving segment; and a knob body that is inserted into the rotating shaft, the arc segment being used to make the rotating shaft and the knob body rotate concentrically, and the driving segment being used to make the rotating shaft rotate synchronously with the knob body.

[0028] Users can rotate the knob body, which is connected to the rotating shaft. The rotating shaft can rotate synchronously with the knob body, and the rotating shaft can drive the gear switch to adjust the gear when rotating.

[0029] In the radial cross-section of the rotating shaft, at least two parts of the cross-section have different profiles. At least one part of the profile is arc-shaped, and the arc-shaped segment is concentrically positioned with the knob body, allowing the rotating shaft and the knob body to rotate concentrically. The other part of the profile in the cross-section serves as a driving segment. The driving segment can be a straight structure, which circumferentially limits the knob body, allowing the rotating shaft and the knob body to rotate synchronously. Of course, the driving segment can also be other shapes. For example, the driving segment can be an arc-shaped structure, but the curvature of the driving segment is smaller than that of the arc-shaped segment. Alternatively, the driving segment can also be a wave-shaped or other structure.

[0030] In some technical solutions, the rotating component may optionally include a gear, and the linkage component may include a rack, with the rack meshing with the gear.

[0031] In this design, the rotating component is a gear, and the linkage component is a rack. When the gear rotates, it can drive the rack to move, which in turn drives the gear in another knob assembly to rotate.

[0032] In some technical solutions, optionally, when the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components is less than the maximum heating power, the rack and other gears remain stationary when one gear is rotated; when the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components is equal to the maximum heating power, the rack moves relative to the gears when the knob is turned up.

[0033] When the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components is less than the maximum heating power, adjusting the setting of one knob does not require adjusting the settings of the other knobs. In this case, at least two knobs do not need to be linked, the rack will not move, and other gears will not rotate.

[0034] When the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components equals the maximum heating power, increasing the setting of one knob will cause the setting of the other knobs to decrease in order to prevent the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components from exceeding the maximum heating power. At this time, at least two knobs will be linked together, and the rack will drive the other gears to rotate.

[0035] In some technical solutions, optionally, the knobs in two adjacent knob assemblies are designated as a first knob and a second knob, and at least two heating assemblies include a first heating assembly and a second heating assembly. The settings of the first knob and the second knob are respectively associated with the heating power of the first heating assembly and the second heating assembly. When the first knob is in a set setting, the heating power of the first heating assembly is P1. When the first knob is in the maximum setting, the heating power of the first heating assembly is P0, and P2 = P0 - P1. When the first knob is in a set setting, the second knob is in a free state because the heating power of the second heating assembly is less than P2.

[0036] In at least two knob assemblies, each knob has a maximum setting, and the heating power of the heating element corresponding to the maximum setting is P0, where P0 is less than or equal to the maximum heating power W of the cooking device.

[0037] In two adjacent knob assemblies, when the first knob is in a certain setting, the heating power corresponding to the first knob is P1. The difference in heating power between the first knob's current setting and its maximum setting is P2, where P2 = P0 - P1. When the second knob is rotated, if the heating power corresponding to the second knob's current setting does not reach P2, the second knob will not drive the rotating component to rotate during rotation, and at this time, the second knob is in a free state.

[0038] In some technical solutions, optionally, P3 = W - P0 is set. When the heating power of the first heating element is less than or equal to P3, the setting of the first knob remains unchanged during the adjustment of the second knob's setting. W is the maximum heating power of the cooking device.

[0039] The maximum heating power of the cooking appliance is W, and the heating power corresponding to the maximum setting of the first knob is P0. The difference between W and P0 is P3. If the heating power corresponding to the first knob is less than or equal to P3, even if the second knob is running at its maximum setting, the sum of the heating powers corresponding to the first and second knobs will not exceed the maximum heating power W. During this process, the adjustment of the setting by the second knob will not be linked to the first knob, leaving the first knob in a free state.

[0040] In some technical solutions, optionally, when the heating power of the first heating component is greater than P3, the position of the first knob can change with the second knob as the switching position of the second knob increases.

[0041] If the heating power corresponding to the first knob is greater than P3, during the adjustment of the second knob, the sum of the heating power corresponding to the first knob and the second knob may exceed the maximum heating power. Therefore, when the sum of the power of the first knob and the second knob reaches the maximum heating power, and the second knob is further increased, the first knob needs to be turned down to reduce the level.

[0042] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the switching assembly in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0045] Figure 2 An exploded view of the switching assembly in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the linkage component in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0047] Figure 4 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the knob assembly and linkage in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 5 A second schematic diagram of the structure of the knob assembly and linkage component in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0049] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the knob assembly, transmission component, and linkage component in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0050] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing the knob in position 0 in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0051] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the knob in position 1 in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0052] Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing the knob in position 2 in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing the knob in position 3 in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0054] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the rotating component in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0055] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the rotating shaft in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0056] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the gear switch in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0057] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first knob and the second knob in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0058] Figure 15 The diagram shows a schematic representation of the structure of the first heating component and the second heating component in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the base, limiting part, and connecting part in an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0060] Figure label:

[0061] 100 Switch assembly, 110 Knob assembly, 111 Knob, 1111 First knob, 1112 Second knob, 1113 Gear switch, 1114 Rotating shaft, 1115 Arc segment, 1116 Drive segment, 1117 Knob body, 1118 Output shaft, 1119 Plug hole, 1120 Reinforcing rib, 112 Protrusion, 113 Rotating component, 1131 Shaft hole, 114 Guide groove, 1141 First groove end, 1142 Second groove end, 115 Gear, 120 Linkage component, 121 First linkage part, 122 Second linkage part, 123 Rack, 124 Slide groove, 130 Transmission component, 140 Reinforcing part, 150 Base, 160 Limiting part, 170 Connecting part, 180 First knob assembly, 200 Heating assembly, 210 First heating assembly, 220 Second heating assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0062] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0063] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein, and therefore the scope of protection of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0064] The following reference Figures 1 to 16 A cooking apparatus provided according to some embodiments of the present invention is described.

[0065] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 15 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, a cooking device is provided, comprising: a heating element 200, a knob assembly 110, and a linkage member 120. The number of heating elements 200 and knob assemblies 110 is at least two. Each knob assembly 110 includes a knob 111 and a rotating member 113. One knob 111 is used to adjust the heating power of one heating element 200. The knob assembly 110 has a free state and a linked state. In the free state, the knob 111 can rotate relative to the rotating member 113. In the linked state, the knob 111 can drive the rotating member 113 to rotate. The linkage member 120 is connected to the rotating members 113 in at least two knob assemblies 110, and the linkage member 120 is used to actuate the rotating members 113 in at least two knob assemblies 110. When the cooking device has a maximum heating power, and the sum of the heating power of at least two heating elements 200 is less than the maximum heating power, if the setting of one knob 111 changes, the setting of the other knobs 111 remains unchanged. If the sum of the heating power of at least two heating elements 200 is equal to the maximum heating power, if the setting of one knob 111 increases, the setting of the other knobs 111 decreases.

[0066] Users can rotate the knob assembly 110 to change the power level of the knob 111, allowing the corresponding cooking zone to heat at different power levels. Different knob assemblies 110 can be linked together via the linkage 120, enabling the power levels of adjacent knobs 111 to be synchronized. When using at least two knob assemblies 110, adjusting the power level of one knob 111 will automatically adjust the power levels of the others. This eliminates the need to adjust multiple knobs 111 sequentially when using multiple cooking zones simultaneously, providing greater convenience for users.

[0067] The user can rotate knob 111 to change its gear position. When knob 111 is rotated and is engaged with rotating component 113, knob 111 is in an engaged state, driving rotating component 113 to rotate. When knob 111 is not engaged with rotating component 113, knob 111 is in a free state, and rotating knob 111 will not drive rotating component 113 to rotate.

[0068] Cooking equipment typically has a maximum heating power. If a cooking equipment has multiple heating zones, and the heating power of each heating element 200 corresponding to that zone is not limited, the sum of the heating power of all heating elements 200 may exceed the maximum heating power. Alternatively, if the maximum allowed operating power of each heating element 200 is set too low, the heating efficiency of each heating zone for the cooking components will be low. For example, if the maximum heating power of the cooking equipment is 2000W, and there are two heating zones, setting the maximum allowed operating power of each heating zone to 1000W limits the heating efficiency, resulting in longer waiting times for the user during the cooking process.

[0069] In this embodiment, at least two knob assemblies 110, including a first knob 1111 and a second knob 1112, are used as an example for illustration. The heating components 200 corresponding to the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 are the first heating component 210 and the second heating component 220, respectively. When the setting of the first knob 1111 increases, the heating power of the corresponding heating component 200 also increases. If the sum of the power of the first heating component 210 and the second heating component 220 does not reach the maximum heating power, the setting of the first knob 1111 increases, but the setting of the second knob 1112 does not change. At this time, there are two situations: First, the first knob 1111 is in a free state, and the first knob 1111 does not drive the rotating member 113 to rotate. The rotating member 113 does not drive the linkage member 120 to move, so the linkage member 120 does not drive the other rotating member 113 to rotate, and thus the second knob 1112 does not rotate. Second, when the first knob 1111 is in the linkage state, the first knob 1111 drives the rotating component 113 to rotate, the rotating component 113 drives the linkage component 120 to move, and the linkage component 120 can drive the other rotating component 113 to rotate. However, the second knob 1112 is in the free state. Therefore, even if the linkage component 120 drives the other rotating component 113 to rotate, since the second knob 1112 and the rotating component 113 are not linked, the rotating component 113 cannot drive the second knob 1112 to rotate, and thus the gear position of the second knob 1112 will not be changed.

[0070] If the sum of the power of the first heating component 210 and the second heating component 220 reaches the maximum heating power, both the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 are in a linked state. If the setting of the first knob 1111 continues to increase, the linkage 120 will drive another rotating component 113 to rotate, and the other rotating component 113 will drive the second knob 1112 to rotate, thereby reducing the setting of the second knob 1112.

[0071] By using at least two knobs 111 to achieve gear linkage, the gear settings of some knobs 111 can be automatically adjusted when the cooking equipment is about to overload. This method prevents the combined power of at least two heating elements 200 from exceeding the maximum heating power. Users do not need to worry about overloading the cooking equipment when using any knob element 110; they only need to adjust the gear settings of the heating elements 200 according to their cooking needs, providing convenience and improving the user experience.

[0072] In some embodiments, optionally, when the knob 111 is in the maximum position, the heating component 200 is at rated power, which is less than the maximum heating power.

[0073] As the knob 111 is turned up, the heating power of the heating element 200 will increase. When the knob 111 is turned up to the maximum setting, the heating power of the heating element 200 is the rated power, which is less than the maximum heating power of the cooking equipment.

[0074] For example, the maximum heating power of the cooking device is 2000W. When the knob 111 is at its maximum setting, the heating power of the heating component 200 is 1500W. If the knob 111 in at least two knob components 110 is designated as the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112, and the heating power of the heating component 200 corresponding to the second knob 1112 is 500W, the first knob 1111 gradually increases its setting. Even if the first knob 1111 increases to its maximum setting, the sum of the heating power of the heating components 200 corresponding to the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 does not exceed 2000W. Therefore, when the setting of the first knob 1111 reaches its maximum setting, the setting of the second knob 1112 will not be lowered.

[0075] If knob 111 is at its maximum setting, the rated power of heating element 200 is equal to the maximum heating power, i.e., the rated power is 2000W. When the heating power of heating element 200 corresponding to second knob 1112 is 500W, if the first knob 1111 is gradually increased to its maximum setting, the sum of the heating power of heating elements 200 corresponding to the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 will exceed 2000W. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the setting of the second knob 1112, which will cause the heating element 200 corresponding to the second knob 1112 to stop working, affecting the user's cooking process.

[0076] By adjusting the rated power of knob 111 to be less than the maximum heating power, the problem of partial heating component 200 shutting down during cooking is avoided, ensuring a stable cooking process.

[0077] In some embodiments, optionally, the minimum setting of knob 111 is the first setting. At the first setting, the heating power of heating component 200 is 0W. When linkage 120 is linked to the rotating component 113 in at least two knob assemblies 110, the setting of any knob 111 is greater than the first setting.

[0078] When the heating power of at least two heating elements 200 is equal to the maximum heating power, the setting of one knob 111 increases, while the settings of the other knobs 111 decrease. This setting linkage is achieved when the settings of at least two knobs 111 are both greater than the first setting. When one knob 111 is in the first setting, the heating element 200 corresponding to that knob 111 is not in operation, therefore no adjustment of that knob's setting is required, simplifying the linkage operation of at least two knobs 111.

[0079] In some embodiments, optionally, when the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components 200 is equal to the maximum heating power, the power increase of one heating component 200 is less than or equal to the power decrease of the other heating components 200.

[0080] When the sum of the power of at least two heating elements 200 equals the maximum heating power, the setting of one knob 111 increases while the settings of the other knobs 111 decrease. When the setting of one knob 111 increases by one level, the settings of the other knobs 111 decrease by at least one level. For example, if the setting of one knob 111 increases by one level, the settings of the other knobs 111 decrease by a total of one level, and the sum of the heating power of the at least two heating elements 200 remains unchanged. Alternatively, if the setting of one knob 111 increases by one level, the settings of the other knobs 111 decrease by a total of two levels, and the sum of the heating power of the at least two heating elements 200 decreases.

[0081] By using the above methods, the heating power of at least two heating elements 200 can be avoided from being too high, thereby ensuring the safe operation of the cooking equipment.

[0082] The cooking appliance also includes a switch assembly 100, which comprises a base 150, a knob assembly 110, and a linkage 120. The base 150 has a limiting portion 160. At least two knob assemblies 110 are provided on the base 150. The linkage 120 connects two adjacent knob assemblies 110, and the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 are interconnected via the linkage 120. The linkage 120 is movable relative to the base 150. The at least two knob assemblies 110 include a first knob assembly 180, which faces a first direction (…). Figure 4 The arrow at H3 could also point to... Figure 4 When the first knob assembly 180 is rotated in the opposite direction of the arrow at H3, the first knob assembly 180 increases the gear. When the first knob assembly 180 reaches the maximum gear, the limiting part 160 limits the linkage member 120 so that the linkage member 120 restricts the first knob assembly 180 from rotating in the first direction.

[0083] At least one of the two knob assemblies 110 is designated as the first knob assembly 180. When the first knob assembly 180 is rotated in a first direction, the range of the first knob assembly 180 increases. The first direction can be clockwise or counterclockwise. When the first knob assembly 180 is rotated to the maximum range, the limiting part 160 on the base 150 limits the linkage member 120. The limiting part 160 restricts the movement of the linkage member 120 relative to the base 150. Since there is a linkage relationship between the first knob assembly 180 and the linkage member 120, when the linkage member 120 can no longer move, the first knob assembly 180 can no longer rotate in the first direction.

[0084] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 16 As shown, the knob assembly 110 is limited by the linkage 120, so there is no need to set a limiting structure between the knob assembly 110 and the base 150. The linkage 120 can realize both linkage function and limiting function. With multiple functions at the same time, the linkage 120 can simplify the structure of the switch assembly 100 and reduce the processing difficulty of the switch assembly 100.

[0085] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the linkage 120 is provided with a groove 124, and the limiting part 160 extends into the groove 124. Along the length direction of the groove 124 ( Figure 1(The arrow at H4 points to) When the limiting part 160 abuts against the end of the slide groove 124, the limiting part 160 restricts the movement of the linkage 120 relative to the base 150.

[0086] A groove 124 is provided on the linkage 120. When the linkage 120 moves relative to the base 150, the position of the limiting part 160 in the groove 124 will also change. In this solution, the groove 124 can be extended along the length direction of the linkage 120.

[0087] During the movement of the linkage 120, if the end of the slide 124 abuts against the limiting part 160, the limiting part 160 will restrict the linkage 120 from continuing to move, thereby limiting the linkage 120.

[0088] When a linkage 120 is provided between two adjacent knob assemblies 110, the limiting part 160 abuts against one end of the slide groove 124, which can restrict one of the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 from continuing to rotate in the direction of increasing the gear. The limiting part 160 abuts against the other end of the slide, which can restrict the other knob assembly 110 in the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 from continuing to rotate in the direction of increasing the gear.

[0089] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the limiting portion 160 is used to limit the linkage 120 so that the linkage 120 can move along the second direction ( Figure 1 The arrow at H4 points to the direction of the back-and-forth movement.

[0090] During the movement of the limiting member relative to the base 150, the limiting part 160 guides the linkage member 120, ensuring that the linkage member 120 can only reciprocate along the second direction, thus guaranteeing the stability of the limiting member during movement. Under the guidance of the limiting part 160, the limiting member is less prone to deviation during movement, thereby enabling the linkage member 120 to stably cooperate with the knob assembly 110.

[0091] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the number of limiting portions 160 is at least two, and at least two limiting portions 160 are along the moving direction of the linkage 120 ( Figure 1 The arrow at H4 points to the interval distribution.

[0092] By increasing the number of limiting parts 160, at least two limiting parts 160 can simultaneously guide the linkage 120, which helps to improve the guiding accuracy of the linkage 120.

[0093] When there are at least two limiting parts 160, the two outermost limiting parts 160 can be used to limit the maximum position of two adjacent knob assemblies 110 respectively, which can shorten the travel of the linkage 120.

[0094] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, the switch assembly 100 may optionally include a connecting portion 170, which is adjacent to two adjacent limiting portions 160.

[0095] A connecting part 170 is provided between two adjacent limiting parts 160. The connecting part 170 is used to connect the two adjacent limiting parts 160. Under the connection of the connecting part 170, even if the limiting part 160 is subjected to the force applied by the linkage member 120, the position of the limiting part 160 is not easy to shift, thereby ensuring that the limiting part 160 can stably guide the linkage member 120.

[0096] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the linkage 120 includes: a first linkage part 121 and a second linkage part 122, the second linkage part 122 being disposed at both ends of the first linkage part 121, and the second linkage part 122 being used to cooperate with the rotating part 113 in linkage.

[0097] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the width of the first linkage 121 ( Figure 3 The arrow at H1 points to the direction indicating the width of the first linkage part 121 and the second linkage part 122, which is greater than the width of the second linkage part 122.

[0098] The linkage 120 includes a first linkage part 121 and a second linkage part 122. The second linkage part 122 is provided at both ends of the first linkage part 121. One second linkage part 122 is used to cooperate with a rotating part 113, so that the rotating part 113 is linked with the adjacent rotating part 113 through the first linkage part 121 and the second linkage part 122.

[0099] The width of the first linkage part 121 is greater than the width of the second linkage part 122. Therefore, in the length direction of the first linkage part 121, a portion of the first linkage part 121 is opposite to the second linkage part 122, while the other portion of the first linkage part 121 is misaligned with the second linkage part 122. That is, the other portion of the first linkage part 121 does not have a corresponding second linkage part 122. Based on this, the knob assembly 110 can be opposite to the other portion of the first linkage part 121, thus placing the knob assembly 110 on one side of the length direction of the first linkage part 121. In the width direction of the knob assembly 110, the knob assembly 110 does not extend beyond the first linkage part 121, or only a portion of the knob assembly 110 extends beyond the first linkage part 121. By placing the knob assembly 110 in the length direction of the linkage member 120, the space occupied by the knob assembly 110 in the width direction of the first linkage part 121 can be reduced, thereby reducing the overall width and volume of the switch assembly. This, in turn, helps to reduce the space occupied by the switch assembly in the cooking equipment, providing convenience for users in using the cooking equipment.

[0100] In this embodiment, in the length direction of the first linkage part 121 ( Figure 3 The arrow at H2 points to the length direction of the first linkage part 121. A part of the first linkage part 121 is disposed opposite to the second linkage part 122, and another part of the first linkage part 121 is disposed opposite to the knob assembly 110.

[0101] Combination Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, along the width direction of the first linkage portion 121, the second linkage portion 122 is located on the side of the first linkage portion 121, and the second linkage portions 122 disposed at both ends of the first linkage portion 121 are located on the same side or different sides of the first linkage portion 121.

[0102] The second linkage part 122 is disposed at the end of the first linkage part 121, and the second linkage part 122 is disposed on the side of the first linkage part 121 along the width direction, thereby providing more clearance space for the knob assembly 110.

[0103] In this case, all the knob assemblies 110 can be arranged along the length of the first linkage portion 121, so that the knob assemblies 110 do not protrude from the first linkage portion 121 along the width of the first linkage portion 121. Alternatively, most of the knob assemblies 110 can be arranged along the length of the first linkage portion 121, and a small portion of the knob assemblies 110 can protrude from the first linkage portion 121 along the width of the first linkage portion 121.

[0104] In the width direction of the first linkage part 121, two adjacent knob assemblies 110 can be disposed on the first side of the first linkage part 121, or one of the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 can be disposed on the first side of the first linkage part 121 and the other can be disposed on the second side of the first linkage part 121.

[0105] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, two second linkage portions 122 disposed at both ends of the first linkage portion 121 are located on different sides of the first linkage portion 121, and the knob assembly 110 has multiple switch positions along the first direction ( Figure 4 The arrow at H3 could also point to... Figure 4 When any knob assembly 110 is rotated (in the opposite direction of the arrow at H3), the switch position of the knob assembly 110 increases.

[0106] When a user rotates one knob assembly 110, the knob assembly 110 will drive the linkage 120 to move during the rotation, so that the linkage 120 drives the other knob assembly 110 to rotate.

[0107] The second linkage part 122 has a mating surface for engaging with the knob assembly 110. When the two second linkage parts 122 are located on different sides of the first linkage part 121 along its width, the mating surfaces of the two second linkage parts 122 face opposite directions. When one knob assembly 110 is rotated clockwise, the other knob assembly 110 will rotate counterclockwise under the influence of the linkage member 120. Furthermore, in this design, when different knob assemblies 110 are rotated in the same direction, the switching position of each knob assembly 110 increases. Therefore, when one of two adjacent knob assemblies 110 rotates clockwise (increasing the position), the other knob assembly 110 rotates counterclockwise (decreasing the position), thereby achieving the function of one adjacent knob assembly 110 increasing the position while the other decreases it, preventing the cooking equipment from operating at excessive power.

[0108] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, two second linkage parts 122 disposed at both ends of the first linkage part 121 are located on the same side of the first linkage part 121, and the knob assembly 110 has multiple switch positions. When two adjacent knob assemblies 110 are rotated along the first direction, the switch position of one knob assembly 110 increases and the switch position of the other knob assembly 110 decreases.

[0109] The second linkage part 122 has a mating surface for engaging with the knob assembly 110. When two second linkage parts 122 are located on the same side of the first linkage part 121 along its width, the mating surfaces of the two second linkage parts 122 face the same direction. When one knob assembly 110 is rotated clockwise, the other knob assembly 110 will also rotate clockwise under the influence of the linkage member 120. Furthermore, in this design, when two adjacent knob assemblies 110 are rotated in the same direction, the gear of one knob assembly 110 increases, and the gear of the other knob assembly 110 decreases. Therefore, when one of two adjacent knob assemblies 110 rotates clockwise (gear increases), the other knob assembly 110 also rotates clockwise (gear decreases), thereby achieving the function of one adjacent knob assembly 110 increasing the gear while the other decreases, preventing the cooking equipment from operating at excessive power.

[0110] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the two second linkage portions 122 disposed at both ends of the first linkage portion 121 are located on the same side of the first linkage portion 121. The switch assembly 100 also includes a transmission member 130. In two adjacent knob assemblies 110, one of the knob assemblies 110 is linked to the second linkage portion 122 through the transmission member 130, so that the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 can rotate in opposite directions. The knob assembly 110 has multiple switch positions. When any knob assembly 110 is rotated in the first direction, the switch position of the knob assembly 110 increases.

[0111] The second linkage part 122 has a mating surface for engaging with the knob assembly 110. When two second linkage parts 122 are located on the same side of the first linkage part 121 along its width direction, the mating surfaces of the two second linkage parts 122 face the same direction.

[0112] Without the transmission component 130, the two knob assemblies 110 rotate in the same direction under the drive of the linkage component 120. In this design, one of the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 is engaged with the linkage component 120 via the transmission component 130. When one knob assembly 110 is rotated clockwise, the linkage component 120 moves relative to the knob assembly 110, and the knob assembly 110 drives the other knob assembly 110 to rotate via the transmission component 130. The transmission component 130 can change the direction of transmission, causing the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 to rotate in opposite directions. Furthermore, in this design, when different knob assemblies 110 are rotated in the same direction, the switching position of any knob assembly 110 increases. Therefore, when one of the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 is rotated clockwise (the gear increases), the other knob assembly 110 also rotates clockwise (the gear decreases), thereby realizing the function of one of the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 increasing the gear and the other decreasing the gear, thus avoiding the problem of excessive operating power of the cooking equipment.

[0113] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the switch assembly 100 may optionally include a reinforcing part 140, which is disposed on the second linkage part 122 and is located on the side of the second linkage part 122 opposite to the knob assembly 110.

[0114] Because the width of the second linkage part 122 is smaller than the width of the first linkage part 121, the structural strength of the second linkage part 122 is less than that of the first linkage part 121. In this design, a reinforcing part 140 is provided on the second linkage part 122. The reinforcing part 140 is used to improve the structural strength of the second linkage part 122, preventing the second linkage part 122 from moving away from the knob assembly 111 due to force, and ensuring that the second linkage part 122 can stably cooperate with the knob assembly 110. The reinforcing part 140 is located on the side of the second linkage part 122 opposite to the knob assembly 110, thereby preventing the reinforcing part 140 from interfering with the cooperation position of the second linkage part 122 and the knob assembly 110.

[0115] The reinforcing part 140 can be made of the same material as the linkage part 120. The reinforcing part 140 is integrally formed directly on the second linkage part 122, and the reinforcing part 140 increases the local thickness of the second linkage part 122.

[0116] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the angle between one side of the first linkage 121 and the second linkage 122 in the length direction is α, where α > 90°.

[0117] The first linkage 121 has an angle between its side and the second linkage 122 along its length, and the angle is obtuse. When the second linkage 122 is subjected to force, the obtuse angle structure distributes the force on the first linkage 121 and the second linkage 122 at the connection position to a wider area, reducing the risk of the second linkage 122 bending relative to the first linkage 121 and ensuring that the second linkage 122 can stably cooperate with the knob assembly 110.

[0118] For example, α is 100°, 110° or 120°.

[0119] In some embodiments, the knob 111 is optionally provided with a protrusion 112, and the rotating member 113 is provided with a guide groove 114. The protrusion 112 is inserted into the guide groove 114 and can slide in the guide groove 114. In the free state, the knob 111 can rotate relative to the rotating member 113. In the linked state, the knob 111 can drive the rotating member 113 to rotate through the protrusion 112. The rotating members 113 in two adjacent knob assemblies 110 are linked through the linkage member 120.

[0120] Users can rotate knob 111 to change the settings of knob assembly 110, allowing the corresponding cooking zone to heat at different power levels. Knob 111 has a protrusion 112 that inserts into a guide groove 114 on rotating component 113. When the protrusion 112 and the inner wall of the guide groove 114 are in linkage, knob 111 is in a linked state, driving rotating component 113 to rotate. When the protrusion 112 and the inner wall of the guide groove 114 are not in linkage, knob 111 is in a free state, and during rotation, knob 111 will not drive rotating component 113 to rotate.

[0121] When the user rotates the knob 111, when the inner wall of the protrusion 112 and the guide groove 114 are linked, the knob 111 can drive the rotating part 113 to rotate. The rotating part 113 cooperates with the linkage part 120, thereby driving the rotating part 113 of another knob assembly 110 to rotate. When the rotating part 113 in the other knob assembly 110 is linked with the knob 111, the gear linkage of the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 is realized.

[0122] In two adjacent knob assemblies 110, if the rotating element 113 and the knob 111 in one of the knob assemblies 110 do not move together, the two adjacent knob assemblies 110 will not move together. Therefore, the cooperative design of the protrusion 112 and the guide groove 114 enables the switch assembly 100 to have different functions of moving together and freely adjusting the gear, thereby improving the functionality of the switch assembly 100.

[0123] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 7 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, the guide groove 114 optionally includes a first groove end 1141 and a second groove end 1142. In the linked state, the protrusion 112 contacts the first groove end 1141 or the second groove end 1142. In the free state, the protrusion 112 separates from the first groove end 1141 and the second groove end 1142.

[0124] During the rotation of knob 111, protrusion 112 can slide in guide groove 114. When protrusion 112 does not contact the two ends of guide groove 114, protrusion 112 will not push rotating member 113. Therefore, knob 111 can rotate relative to rotating member 113. At this time, rotating member 113 will not rotate with knob 111.

[0125] When the protrusion 112 contacts the end of the guide groove 114, if the knob 111 continues to rotate, the protrusion 112 will push the end of the guide groove 114, thereby allowing the rotating member 113 to rotate with the knob 111. The rotating member 113 in one knob assembly 110 can be linked to the rotating members 113 in other knob assemblies 110. When the protrusion 112 in other knob assemblies 110 contacts the end of the guide groove 114, the positions of the two knob assemblies 110 will be linked.

[0126] Of course, in other embodiments, a protruding structure can also be provided in the guide groove 114. The protruding structure is used to cooperate with the protruding part 112. That is, the protruding part 112 does not need to contact the end of the guide groove 114. When the protruding part 112 contacts the protruding structure, the protruding part 112 can push the rotating member 113.

[0127] In some embodiments, optionally, the central angle between the first groove end 1141 and the second groove end 1142 is α1, and the central angle of the knob 111 rotating from the minimum position to the maximum position is α2, where α1 > α2.

[0128] The central angles corresponding to the two ends of the guide groove 114 are α1 and the circle formed by the maximum gear difference of the knob 111 is α2, since α1 > α2.

[0129] For cooking appliances with at least two knob assemblies 110, there are typically at least two heating elements 200, with one knob assembly 110 controlling one heating element 200. To prevent the sum of the heating power of the at least two heating elements 200 from exceeding the maximum heating power of the cooking appliance, the at least two knob assemblies 110 need to be linked. When turning one knob 111 causes the sum of the operating power of the at least two heating elements 200 to approach the maximum heating power, it is necessary to reduce the setting of the other knobs 111, thereby reducing the heating power of the other heating elements 200.

[0130] During the process of the user rotating knob 111 to decrease the gear, the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components 200 will not exceed the maximum heating power. Therefore, when decreasing the gear of one knob 111, it is not necessary to link with other knobs 111. In this solution, α1 is limited to α2. During the process of decreasing the gear of knob 111, knob 111 rotates relative to rotating component 113. Even if knob 111 is rotated from the maximum gear to the minimum gear, knob 111 will not push rotating component 113.

[0131] In other embodiments, α1 can also be set to α2.

[0132] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 7 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the rotating member 113 is provided with a shaft hole 1131, the shaft hole 1131 is connected to the guide groove 114, and the knob 111 is inserted into the shaft hole 1131.

[0133] The rotating part 113 has a shaft hole 1131, and the knob 111 can be inserted into the shaft hole 1131. The protrusion 112 is provided on the knob 111. Therefore, by connecting the shaft hole 1131 with the guide groove 114, the protrusion 112 can extend out of the shaft hole 1131, so that the protrusion 112 can cooperate with the guide groove 114.

[0134] In some embodiments, optionally, the knob 111 includes: a position switch 1113, a rotating shaft 1114, and a knob body 1117. The position switch 1113 has multiple switching positions, and the rotating shaft 1114 is connected to the position switch 1113. The rotating shaft 1114 is used to drive the position switch 1113 to adjust the switching position. In the radial direction of the rotating shaft 1114 ( Figure 12 In the cross-section (pointing to the arrow at point R), the cross-section of the rotating shaft 1114 includes an arc-shaped segment 1115 and a driving segment 1116. The knob body 1117 is inserted into the rotating shaft 1114. The arc-shaped segment 1115 is used to make the rotating shaft 1114 and the knob body 1117 rotate concentrically, and the driving segment 1116 is used to make the rotating shaft 1114 rotate synchronously with the knob body 1117.

[0135] The user can rotate the knob body 1117. The knob body 1117 is connected to the rotating shaft 1114, and the rotating shaft 1114 can rotate synchronously with the knob body 1117. When the rotating shaft 1114 rotates, it can drive the gear switch 1113 to adjust the gear.

[0136] In the radial section of the rotating shaft 1114, at least two parts of the section have different profiles. At least one part of the profile is arc-shaped, and the arc-shaped segment 1115 is concentrically arranged with the knob body 1117, allowing the rotating shaft 1114 and the knob body 1117 to rotate concentrically. The other part of the profile serves as the driving segment 1116. The driving segment 1116 can be a straight structure, which circumferentially limits the knob body 1117, allowing the rotating shaft 1114 and the knob body 1117 to rotate synchronously. Of course, the driving segment 1116 can also be other shapes. For example, the driving segment 1116 can be an arc-shaped structure, but the curvature of the driving segment 1116 is smaller than that of the arc-shaped segment 1115. Alternatively, the driving segment 1116 can also be a wave-shaped or other structure.

[0137] In this embodiment, a D-shaped structure is used to limit the movement between the rotating shaft 1114 and the knob body 1117, ensuring that the knob body 1117 and the rotating shaft 1114 do not slip.

[0138] The gear switch 1113 in this embodiment works on the same principle as the gear switch 1113 in related technologies, and will not be described again here.

[0139] Combination Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the gear switch 1113 is provided with an output shaft 1118, the rotating shaft 1114 is provided with a plug hole 1119, the output shaft 1118 is plugged into the plug hole 1119, the plug hole 1119 is provided with a reinforcing rib 1120, and the reinforcing rib 1120 extends along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 1114.

[0140] A insertion hole 1119 is provided on the rotating shaft 1114, extending axially along the rotating shaft 1114. An output shaft 1118 is provided on the gear switch 1113, and the output shaft 1118 is inserted into the insertion hole 1119. The rotating shaft 1114 drives the output shaft 1118 to rotate synchronously, thereby adjusting the gear position of the gear switch 1113. Since the rotating shaft 1114 has a hole, its structural strength will be reduced. In this design, a reinforcing rib 1120 is provided in the insertion hole. The reinforcing rib 1120 is used to enhance the structural strength of the rotating shaft 1114, prevent deformation of the rotating shaft 1114, and ensure stable cooperation between the rotating shaft 1114, the knob body 1117, and the output shaft 1118.

[0141] In other embodiments, the reinforcing ribs 1120 may also be distributed in other ways, for example, in a cross pattern on the inner wall of the insertion hole 1119.

[0142] like Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, along the circumference of the pivot 1114, the first side of the protrusion 112 ( Figure 7 The position indicated at point a) is used to push the rotating part 113, the second side of the protrusion 112 ( Figure 7 There is an angle between the position indicated at point b and the first side of the protrusion 112.

[0143] The first side of the protrusion 112 is used to push the rotating member 113, that is, the first side of the protrusion 112 can abut against one end of the guide groove 114, thereby pushing the inner wall of the guide groove 114. Exemplarily, the first side of the protrusion 112 extends radially along the rotating shaft 1114. Since there is an included angle between the first side and the second side of the protrusion 112, the second side of the protrusion 112 does not extend radially along the rotating shaft 1114. In this case, the head of the protrusion 112 is narrower and the bottom of the protrusion 112 is wider, which is beneficial to increase the contact area between the protrusion 112 and the rotating shaft 1114, thereby improving the connection stability between the protrusion 112 and the rotating shaft 1114.

[0144] In some embodiments, the rotating member 113 may optionally include a gear 115, and the linkage member 120 may include a rack 123, which meshes with the gear 115.

[0145] In this design, the rotating component 113 is a gear 115, and the linkage component 120 is a rack 123. When the gear 115 rotates, the gear 115 can drive the rack 123 to move, so that the rack 123 can drive the gear 115 in another knob assembly 110 to rotate.

[0146] Of course, in other embodiments, the linkage 120 can be set as a chain and the rotating part 113 as a sprocket.

[0147] In some embodiments, optionally, when the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components 200 is less than the maximum heating power, the rack 123 and other gears 115 remain stationary when one gear 115 is rotated. When the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components 200 is equal to the maximum heating power, the rack 123 moves relative to the gears 115 when the setting of a knob 111 is increased.

[0148] When the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components 200 is less than the maximum heating power, when adjusting the setting of one knob 111, it is not necessary to adjust the setting of the other knobs 111. At this time, at least two knobs 111 do not need to be linked, the rack 123 will not move, and the other gears 115 will not rotate.

[0149] When the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components 200 equals the maximum heating power, the setting of one knob 111 is increased. In order to prevent the sum of the heating power of at least two heating components 200 from exceeding the maximum heating power, the settings of the other knobs 111 need to be decreased. At this time, at least two knobs 111 are linked together, and the rack 123 drives the other gears 115 to rotate.

[0150] like Figure 15 As shown, in some embodiments, the cooking device optionally includes at least two heating elements 200 (in other embodiments, the heating elements 200 are not limited to...). Figure 15 (As shown in the diagram), the on / off position of a knob assembly 110 is associated with the operating power of a heating element 200. The cooking appliance has a maximum heating power W, and the sum of the operating powers of at least two heating elements 200 is less than or equal to the maximum heating power W.

[0151] Cooking equipment typically has a maximum heating power. If a cooking equipment has multiple heating zones, and the heating power of each heating element 200 corresponding to that zone is not limited, the sum of the heating power of all heating elements 200 may exceed the maximum heating power. Alternatively, if the maximum allowed operating power of each heating element 200 is set too low, the heating efficiency of each heating zone for the cooking components will be low. For example, if the maximum heating power of the cooking equipment is 2000W, and there are two heating zones, setting the maximum allowed operating power of each heating zone to 1000W limits the heating efficiency, resulting in longer waiting times for the user during the cooking process.

[0152] In this embodiment, when the setting of one of the knob components 110 is increased, the heating power of the corresponding heating component 200 also increases. If the sum of the power of at least two heating components 200 does not reach the maximum heating power, then the two adjacent knob components 110 will not have a setting linkage, and the setting change of one knob component 110 will not affect the setting change of other knob components 110. If the sum of the power of at least two heating components 200 reaches the maximum heating power, and the setting of one knob component 110 continues to increase, the sum of the power of at least two heating components 200 will exceed the maximum heating power. To avoid the above situation, it is necessary to lower the setting of other knob components 110, thereby reducing the heating power of other heating components 200.

[0153] By using at least two knob components 110 to achieve gear linkage, the gear settings of some knob components 110 can be automatically adjusted when the cooking equipment is about to be overloaded. This method prevents the combined power of at least two heating components 200 from exceeding the maximum heating power. Users do not need to worry about overloading the cooking equipment when using any knob component 110; they only need to adjust the gear settings of the heating components 200 according to their cooking needs, providing convenience for the user's cooking process and improving the user experience of the cooking equipment.

[0154] The heating element 200 can be a heating tube or a heating wire.

[0155] In related technologies, for cooking devices with separate cooking zones, the maximum power of the left and right cooking zones is limited to 1000W (a total power exceeding 2000W will damage the circuit). This embodiment uses a linkage mechanical knob 111 structure, breaking the traditional limitation that the maximum power of the left and right knobs is only 1000W.

[0156] like Figure 14 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the knobs 111 in two adjacent knob assemblies 110 are designated as a first knob 1111 and a second knob 1112, respectively. At least two heating assemblies 200 include a first heating assembly 210 and a second heating assembly 220. The settings of the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 are respectively associated with the heating power of the first heating assembly 210 and the second heating assembly 220. When the first knob 1111 is in its set setting, the heating power of the first heating assembly 210 is P1. When the first knob 1111 is in its maximum setting, the heating power of the first heating assembly 210 is P0, and P2 = P0 - P1. When the first knob 1111 is in its set setting, since the heating power of the second heating assembly 220 is less than P2, the second knob 1112 is in a free state.

[0157] In at least two knob assemblies 110, each knob 111 has a maximum setting, and the heating power of the heating assembly 200 corresponding to the maximum setting is P0, where P0 is less than or equal to the maximum heating power W of the cooking device.

[0158] In two adjacent knob assemblies 110, when the first knob 1111 is in a certain setting, the heating power corresponding to the first knob 1111 is P1. The difference in heating power between the current setting and the maximum setting of the first knob 1111 is P2, where P2 = P0 - P1. When the second knob 1112 is rotated, if the heating power corresponding to the setting of the second knob 1112 does not reach P2, the second knob 1112 will not drive the rotating component 113 to rotate during rotation, and at this time the second knob 1112 is in a free state.

[0159] The control process of the cooking equipment is as follows: After the first knob 1111 increases the power, it is determined whether the sum of the power of the first heating element 210 and the second heating element 220 is about to exceed 2000W. If it exceeds 2000W, the second knob 1112 decreases the power. If it does not exceed 2000W, it operates normally.

[0160] For example, the knob 111 in this embodiment has four positions. Each 45° rotation of the knob 111 increases or decreases the position by one. The four positions are 0W (…). Figure 7 (as shown in the image), 500W ( Figure 8 (as shown in the image), 1000W ( Figure 9 (as shown in the image) and 1500W ( Figure 10 (The state shown in the figure). Of course, in other embodiments, the knob 111 is not limited to 4 positions, and the states of the positions are not limited to... Figures 7 to 10 The state shown.

[0161] Instructions for use:

[0162] The starting position of the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 is 0.

[0163] Second, adjust the gear. If the sum of the power of at least two heating elements 200 is less than or equal to 1500W, and one knob 111 increases or decreases the gear by one level, the other knob 111 will not rotate.

[0164] Third, the sum of the power of at least two heating components 200 is equal to 2000W, and the two knob components 110 and the linkage 120 are in a critical state.

[0165] Fourth, the sum of the power of at least two heating components 200 is equal to 2000W. One knob 111 increases the gear, and the linkage 120 drives the other knob 111 to decrease the gear.

[0166] The left and right knobs are linked. When the operating side increases the power (total power is about to exceed 2000W), the passive side will decrease the power (ensuring that the adjusted power is ≤2000W). In this case, the mechanical model has more power options, and the total power does not exceed 2000W, ensuring the safety of home appliances.

[0167] The shift space structure (the operating side downshifts while the passive side remains in the same gear) allows for a neutral space in the linkage of knob 111. When the operating side downshifts, the passive side remains undisturbed, which helps optimize the user experience and ensures that the gear can be freely shifted when the total power is less than or equal to 2000W.

[0168] In some embodiments, optionally, P3 = W - P0 is set. When the heating power of the first heating component 210 is less than or equal to P3, the position of the first knob 1111 remains unchanged during the adjustment of the position of the second knob 1112, where W is the maximum heating power of the cooking device.

[0169] The maximum heating power of the cooking equipment is W, and the heating power corresponding to the maximum setting of knob 111 is P0. The difference between W and P0 is P3. If the heating power corresponding to the first knob 1111 is less than or equal to P3, even if the second knob 1112 is running at its maximum setting, the sum of the heating powers corresponding to the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 will not exceed the maximum heating power W. During this process, the adjustment of the setting by the second knob 1112 will not be linked to the first knob 1111, leaving the first knob 1111 in a free state.

[0170] In some embodiments, optionally, when the heating power of the first heating component 210 is greater than P3, the position of the first knob 1111 can change with the second knob 1112 as the switching position of the second knob 1112 increases.

[0171] If the heating power corresponding to the first knob 1111 is greater than P3, during the adjustment of the gear by the second knob 1112, the sum of the heating power corresponding to the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 may exceed the maximum heating power. Therefore, when the sum of the power of the first knob 1111 and the second knob 1112 reaches the maximum heating power, and the gear of the second knob 1112 continues to increase, it is necessary to reduce the gear by linking the first knob 1111.

[0172] For example, the cooking equipment in the above embodiments can be a partitioned hot pot, a partitioned multi-functional pot, a breakfast machine, an air fryer with upper and lower heat sources, a dual heat pipe, or other similar equipment.

[0173] In this invention, the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0174] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0175] 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 cooking apparatus, characterized by, include: At least two heating elements; At least two knob assemblies, each knob assembly including a knob and a rotating element, one of the knobs being used to adjust the heating power of one of the heating components, the knob assembly having a free state and an interlocked state, in the free state the knob being able to rotate relative to the rotating element, and in the interlocked state the knob being able to drive the rotating element to rotate; A linkage component, connected to a rotating component in at least two of the knob assemblies, the linkage component being used to actuate the rotating components in at least two of the knob assemblies; Wherein, the cooking device has a maximum heating power. When the sum of the heating power of at least two of the heating components is less than the maximum heating power, the setting of one of the knobs changes while the settings of the other knobs remain unchanged. When the sum of the heating power of at least two of the heating components is equal to the maximum heating power, the setting of one of the knobs increases while the settings of the other knobs decrease.

2. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the knob is at its maximum setting, the heating element operates at its rated power, which is less than the maximum heating power.

3. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lowest setting of the knob is the first setting. At the first setting, the heating power of the heating component is 0W. When the linkage is activated by at least two rotating components in the knob assembly, the setting of any one of the knobs is greater than the first setting.

4. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, When the sum of the heating power of at least two of the heating components is equal to the maximum heating power, the increase in power of one of the heating components is less than or equal to the decrease in power of the other heating components.

5. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The linkage component includes: First Joint Operations Unit; The second linkage is located at both ends of the first linkage and is used to cooperate with the rotating component.

6. The cooking apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The width of the first linkage part is greater than the width of the second linkage part.

7. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The knob includes: A gear switch having multiple gear positions; A rotating shaft is connected to the gear switch. The rotating shaft is used to drive the gear switch to adjust the switch position. In the radial section of the rotating shaft, the cross-section of the rotating shaft includes an arc segment and a driving segment. The knob body is inserted into the rotating shaft. The arc-shaped segment is used to make the rotating shaft and the knob body rotate concentrically. The driving segment is used to make the rotating shaft rotate synchronously with the knob body.

8. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The rotating component includes a gear, and the linkage component includes a rack, which meshes with the gear.

9. The cooking apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, If the sum of the heating power of at least two of the heating components is less than the maximum heating power, the rack and other gears remain stationary when one of the gears is rotated; When the sum of the heating power of at least two of the heating components is equal to the maximum heating power, the rack moves relative to the gear when the knob is turned up one level.

10. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The knobs in two adjacent knob assemblies are designated as a first knob and a second knob, and at least two heating assemblies include a first heating assembly and a second heating assembly. The settings of the first knob and the second knob are respectively associated with the heating power of the first heating assembly and the second heating assembly. When the first knob is in the set position, the heating power of the first heating component is P1; when the first knob is in the maximum position, the heating power of the first heating component is P0; P2 = P0 - P1. When the first knob is in the set position, the second knob is in a free state because the heating power of the second heating component is less than P2.

11. The cooking apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, When P3 = W - P0, and the heating power of the first heating component is less than or equal to P3, the position of the first knob remains unchanged during the adjustment of the second knob's position, where W is the maximum heating power of the cooking device.

12. The cooking apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the heating power of the first heating component is greater than P3, as the switch position of the second knob increases, the position of the first knob can change accordingly.

Images