Cooking apparatus

By setting a movable or deformable second heating zone on the cooking device panel assembly, the problem of existing devices being incompatible with different cookware is solved, improving heating compatibility with both flat-bottomed and round-bottomed pans, expanding the applicable scenarios of the device and improving its practicality and reliability.

CN122305520APending Publication Date: 2026-06-30FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA ELECTRICAL HEATING APPLIANCES MFG CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA ELECTRICAL HEATING APPLIANCES MFG CO LTD
Filing Date
2024-12-30
Publication Date
2026-06-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing cooking equipment cannot be used with both flat-bottomed and round-bottomed pans, resulting in limited cookware choices and poor heating compatibility.

Method used

Design a cooking device with a panel assembly having a first heating area of ​​fixed shape and a second heating area that can be moved or deformed, so as to adapt to cooking utensils of different shapes by displacement or deformation, thereby improving compatibility.

Benefits of technology

This technology improves the heating compatibility of both flat-bottomed and round-bottomed pans, expands the applicable scenarios of the equipment, and enhances its practicality and heating reliability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The application provides a cooking equipment, and relates to the technical field of cooking equipment. The cooking equipment comprises a panel assembly, and the panel assembly is used for containing a cooking utensil; wherein the panel assembly comprises a first heating area and a second heating area, and the second heating area can move relative to the first heating area or the second heating area can be deformed. The application can realize the technical effects of optimizing the structure of the cooking equipment, widening the application scenarios of the cooking equipment, and improving the practicability and heating reliability of the cooking equipment.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cooking equipment technology, and more specifically, to a cooking device. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, the heating area on an induction cooker used to hold pots is divided into two categories according to its shape: one is a flat heating area suitable for heating flat-bottomed pans, and the other is a concave heating area suitable for heating round-bottomed pans.

[0003] However, these two heating zones can only be adapted to a single pot shape and cannot be adapted to both flat-bottomed and round-bottomed pots at the same time, resulting in technical defects in cooking equipment that limit the choice of cookware and have poor heating compatibility.

[0004] Therefore, overcoming the aforementioned technical deficiencies has become an urgent technical problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention proposes a cooking device.

[0007] In view of this, the cooking device provided by the present invention includes: a panel assembly for holding cooking utensils; wherein the panel assembly includes a first heating area and a second heating area, the second heating area being movable relative to the first heating area, or the second heating area being deformable.

[0008] In this technical solution, the cooking device includes a panel assembly, which forms the exposed surface of the cooking device, and the cooking utensils are placed on the panel assembly during use.

[0009] The panel assembly has a heating area. When a cooking appliance is placed in the heating area, it can be heated by the cooking device, thereby cooking the food inside the appliance at a high temperature.

[0010] Specifically, cooking equipment can heat cooking utensils through heat conduction. In this case, the heating area is at a high temperature during the cooking process, and heat can be transferred to the cooking utensils through contact or heat radiation to increase the temperature of the cooking utensils. The fit between the shape of the lower surface of the cooking utensils and the shape of the heating area will affect the heating effect of the cooking utensils. For example, a smaller contact area or a larger gap will reduce the heating effect.

[0011] Cooking equipment can also raise the temperature of cooking utensils through electromagnetic heating. In this case, the cooking equipment forms a heating electromagnetic field above the heating area through an electromagnetic coil. The degree of fit between the shape of the lower surface of the cooking utensil and the shape of the heating area will affect the degree of overlap between the cooking utensil and the heating electromagnetic field. For example, a large gap may cause the cooking utensil to deviate from the concentrated area of ​​the heating electromagnetic field, affecting the heating effect of the cooking utensil.

[0012] In this application, the panel assembly is provided with a first heating area and a second heating area. The shape and position of the first heating area are fixed, and the cooking appliance placed on the first heating area will not change the shape and position of the first heating area. The second heating area can move relative to the first heating area, or the second heating area can deform relative to the first heating area, and the second heating area can adapt to the cooking appliance placed on it through displacement or deformation.

[0013] For example, when a round-bottomed pot is placed above the second heating area, the second heating area can be displaced or deformed to sink downwards, forming a concave space with the first heating area. This allows the round-bottomed pot to be fitted onto the panel assembly, improving its positioning stability and enhancing its heating effect through the second heating area at the bottom and the first heating areas around it. Alternatively, when a concave-bottomed pot is placed above the second heating area, the second heating area can be displaced or deformed to rise upwards, forming a convex space with the first heating area. This allows the concave-bottomed pot to fit over the convex second heating area, improving its positioning stability and enhancing its heating effect through the first heating area at the bottom and the convex second heating area.

[0014] Therefore, by setting a second heating area that can be displaced or deformed relative to the first heating area, this application enables the panel assembly to adapt to various cooking utensils with different bottom shapes, improves the heating compatibility of the panel assembly with common flat-bottomed pans and round-bottomed pans, thereby solving the technical defects existing in the aforementioned prior art, and thus achieving the technical effects of optimizing the structure of cooking equipment, broadening the applicable scenarios of cooking equipment, and improving the practicality and heating reliability of cooking equipment.

[0015] In addition, the cooking device provided by the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0016] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the panel assembly includes: a first panel, the first panel including a through hole; a first heating component, disposed opposite to the first panel, the first heating component forming a first heating area on the first panel; a second panel, the second panel disposed opposite to the through hole; and a second heating component, disposed opposite to the second panel, the second heating component forming a second heating area on the second panel.

[0017] In this technical solution, the panel assembly includes a first panel, a first heating element, a second panel, and a second heating element.

[0018] The first panel is a flat plate, and the first heating element is installed below the first panel. The area on the first panel opposite to the first heating element is the first heating area. That is, the shape and size of the first heating element directly affect the shape and size of the first heating area. The first panel has a through hole that runs longitudinally through the first panel.

[0019] The second panel is disposed opposite to the through hole. When the second panel is close to the first panel or does not deform, the second panel at least blocks the through hole. Specifically, the second panel can be installed below the through hole, or the second panel can be embedded inside the through hole. When the second panel changes the relative position of the second heating area by displacement, the second panel and the first panel are separate structures. When the second panel changes the shape of the second heating area by deformation, the second panel is connected to the first panel. The second heating component is installed below the second panel, and the second heating component forms a second heating area on the second panel. The shape and size of the second heating area are related to the shape and size of the second panel.

[0020] During cooking, when a frying pan is placed on the panel assembly, if the bottom dimension of the frying pan is larger than the size of the through hole, the second panel will not shift or deform, and the frying pan will heat above the first panel. If the bottom dimension of the frying pan is smaller than the size of the through hole, the second panel will sink or deform under the weight of the frying pan.

[0021] When a round-bottomed pot is placed on the panel assembly, the central area of ​​the pot presses down on or deforms the second panel, causing it to fit into the through-hole. The through-hole then positions the pot to prevent it from tipping over. Simultaneously, with the pot embedded, the first heating element around its perimeter heats the side walls, enhancing the three-dimensional heating effect. Similarly, when a concave-bottomed pot is placed on the panel assembly, the second panel can deform upwards or upwards to conform to the concave bottom surface of the pot, improving its positioning stability and heating effect.

[0022] As can be seen, the above structure forms a ring-shaped first heating area on the panel assembly, and a second heating area at the center of the first heating area. Based on this, the displacement or deformation of the central second heating area can adapt to various cooking utensils with different bottom shapes, thereby achieving the technical effect of broadening the applicable scenarios of cooking equipment and improving the practicality and heating reliability of cooking equipment.

[0023] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the cooking device further includes: a housing, a first panel disposed on the housing; a lifting assembly disposed inside the housing, the lifting assembly connecting the housing and the second panel, the lifting assembly being used to drive the second panel to rise or fall; wherein the second panel includes a first position and at least one second position; when the second panel rises to the first position, the second panel covers the through hole; when the second panel falls to the second position, the second panel separates from the through hole.

[0024] In this technical solution, the cooking equipment also includes a housing and a lifting assembly. The housing is the main frame structure of the cooking equipment. The top of the housing has an opening. The lifting assembly, the first heating element, and the second heating element are all installed inside the housing. The housing can provide positioning, support, and protection for the lifting assembly, the first heating element, and the second heating element.

[0025] The first panel covers the opening at the top of the housing, obscuring the structure inside the opening. The second panel is connected to the housing via a lifting assembly, which can raise the second panel relative to the through-hole on the first panel and / or lower the second panel relative to the through-hole.

[0026] Specifically, the second panel includes a first position and at least one second position relative to the first panel. When the second panel is in the first position, it can cover the through hole, either by covering the through hole from below or by filling the through hole from the inside. At this time, the height difference between the second heating area and the first heating area is minimal, suitable for placing a frying pan. The first and second heating areas can evenly and fully heat the bottom wall of the frying pan.

[0027] The second position is located below the first position, and the second panel needs to be lowered to switch to the second position. When the second panel is in the second position, the cooking utensil can be inserted into the through hole and finally placed on the second panel. At this time, the height difference between the second heating area and the first heating area increases, which is suitable for placing a round-bottomed pot. The lower half of the round-bottomed pot can be inserted below the through hole, and the side wall of the round-bottomed pot is locked inside the through hole. At this time, the through hole can provide radial positioning for the round-bottomed pot, preventing the round-bottomed pot from being misaligned or even tipping over. At the same time, the second heating area below the round-bottomed pot can fully heat the lower half of the round-bottomed pot, and the first heating area around the round-bottomed pot can fully heat the side wall of the round-bottomed pot, thereby improving the heating effect of the cooking utensil on the round-bottomed pot.

[0028] Therefore, by setting up a first panel and a second panel that can be raised and lowered, the cooking equipment can be adapted to the heating needs of flat-bottomed pans and round-bottomed pans by changing the relative positions of the first heating area and the second heating area. This solves the technical defects of poor compatibility and unsatisfactory heating effect of single equipment for flat-bottomed pans and round-bottomed pans in related technologies. In this way, the technical effects of optimizing the structure of the cooking equipment, expanding the applicable scenarios of the cooking equipment, and improving the practicality and reliability of the cooking equipment are achieved.

[0029] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the lifting assembly includes: a bracket connected to the second panel and the second heating component; and an elastic mechanism connecting the housing and the bracket, the elastic mechanism being used to drive the second panel to reset to the first position via the bracket.

[0030] In this technical solution, the lifting assembly includes a bracket and an elastic mechanism. The second panel and the second heating component are mounted on the bracket, which can provide effective support for the second panel and the second heating component. The first end of the elastic mechanism is connected to the bracket, and the second end of the elastic mechanism is connected to the housing. After assembly, the elastic mechanism is located between the bottom wall of the bracket and the housing.

[0031] When heating a pan with a size larger than the through hole size, the weight of the pan is applied to the first panel, and the pan cannot exert pressure on the second panel. At this time, the second panel is held in the first position by the elastic support of the elastic mechanism. The second heating area is responsible for heating the central area of ​​the bottom wall of the pan, and the first heating area is responsible for heating the edge area of ​​the bottom wall of the pan.

[0032] When heating a pan smaller than the through-hole size, the pan's weight is applied to the second panel. The pan, through the pressure of the second panel, causes an elastic deformation in the elastic mechanism, lowering the second panel to a second position. At this point, the second heating area heats the bottom wall of the pan, while the first heating area heats the side walls. Correspondingly, after the pan is removed, the elastic mechanism releases its elastic stress, pushing the second panel back to the first position.

[0033] When heating the round-bottomed pot, the lower half of the pot, being smaller, can be inserted into the through-hole. The upper half of the pot, larger than the through-hole, causes the pot to become lodged inside. At this point, the second panel descends to its second position under the pressure of the inserted portion of the pot. The elastic mechanism then undergoes elastic deformation. The second heating area heats the lower half of the pot, while the first heating area on the periphery heats the upper half of the pot embedded in the through-hole. Correspondingly, after removing the pot, the elastic mechanism releases its elastic stress, pushing the second panel back to its first position.

[0034] It can be seen that by setting an elastic mechanism, the second panel can change its position according to the size and shape of the cooking utensils, and automatically return to the initial first position after the cooking utensils are removed. This eliminates the need to set an active drive mechanism for the second panel, thereby achieving the technical effect of reducing the structural complexity and cost of the cooking equipment while ensuring that the cooking equipment can adapt to the heating needs of various cooking utensils of different shapes.

[0035] Specifically, the elastic mechanism includes springs, sheet metal, rubber pads, hydraulic cylinders, etc. This technical solution does not impose a rigid limitation on the specific structural form of the elastic mechanism, as long as it meets the requirement of driving the second panel to reset.

[0036] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the bracket includes a guide hole, and the elastic mechanism includes: a guide post, which is connected to the housing and passes through the guide hole; and a spring, which is sleeved on the guide post, with the first end of the spring abutting against the bracket and the second end of the spring abutting against the housing.

[0037] In this technical solution, the elastic mechanism includes a guide post and a spring. Specifically, the bracket is provided with a guide hole, the size of which is adapted to the size of the guide post. The first end of the guide post is connected to the bottom wall of the housing, and the second end of the guide post passes through the guide hole. The spring is sleeved on the guide post, and the size of the spring is larger than the size of the guide hole. The first end of the spring abuts against the bottom wall of the housing, and the second end of the spring abuts against the lower surface of the bracket. When the second panel is pressed by a cooking appliance, the spring is compressed, and the second panel descends. After the cooking appliance is removed, the spring extends to lift the second panel back to the first position.

[0038] This lifting assembly has the advantages of low structural complexity and high reliability. It can reduce the failure rate and cost of cooking equipment while meeting the lifting requirements of the second panel, thereby enhancing the market competitiveness of the cooking equipment.

[0039] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the elastic mechanism includes: a bracket disposed between the bracket and the housing, the bracket being able to drive the bracket and the second panel to rise through an unfolding action, and the bracket being able to drive the bracket and the second panel to fall through a folding action; and a hydraulic component connecting the housing and the bracket, the hydraulic component being used to drive the bracket to perform the unfolding action.

[0040] In this technical solution, the elastic mechanism includes a support and a hydraulic component. A bracket, a second heating component, and a second panel are mounted on the support. The support can change its height through a folding action; for example, it can be formed by hinged two intersecting frames, with the height changing between the two frames through relative rotation. One end of the hydraulic component is connected to the housing, and the other end is connected to the support. The hydraulic component can move the support by extending or retracting. For example, the telescopic end of the hydraulic component can be connected to one of the frames. When the second panel needs to be lowered, the support folds, thus lowering the height of the second panel; when the second panel needs to be raised, the support unfolds, thus raising the height of the second panel.

[0041] Specifically, the model of the hydraulic components can be adjusted according to the size and material of the cooking utensils that the user may use.

[0042] This lifting component has the advantages of strong load capacity and high rigidity, and can provide long-term and effective support for cooking appliances. It is suitable for heating large-sized or heavy cooking appliances, thereby improving the structural stability of cooking equipment and reducing the failure rate of cooking appliances.

[0043] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the lifting assembly further includes: a first limiting component, which is connected to the housing and located on the side of the bracket away from the second panel. When the first limiting component abuts against the bracket, the second panel stops at a second position.

[0044] In this technical solution, the lifting assembly also includes a first limiting component. The first end of the first limiting component is connected to the bottom wall of the housing, and the second end of the first limiting component is opposite to the bracket at the top. As the bracket descends with the second panel, the distance between the bracket and the first limiting component gradually shortens until the bracket stops moving when it abuts against the second end of the first limiting component.

[0045] Therefore, by setting the first limiting component, the downward stroke of the second panel can be limited, which on the one hand avoids interference between the second panel and other structures inside the shell, and on the other hand prevents the cooking appliance from sinking into the through hole as a whole.

[0046] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the lifting assembly further includes: a second limiting component, which is connected to the bracket and located on the periphery of the bracket. When the second limiting component abuts against the first panel, the second panel stops at the first position and the second panel covers the through hole inside the through hole.

[0047] In this technical solution, the lifting assembly also includes a second limiting component, which is mounted on the bracket and located on the periphery of the bracket. During the process of the elastic mechanism driving the second panel to rise, the second limiting component rises synchronously with the bracket until it contacts the lower surface of the first panel. Upon contact with the first panel, the second panel can no longer rise and stops at the first position. At this point, the second panel is embedded inside the through hole, specifically, the upper surface of the second panel is flush with the upper surface of the first panel, thereby improving the integrity of the exposed surface of the panel assembly and reducing the abruptness of the second panel.

[0048] Therefore, by setting a second limiting component, the upward stroke of the second panel can be limited, preventing the second panel from popping out of the through hole, thereby improving the structural reliability of the cooking equipment and reducing the failure rate of the cooking equipment.

[0049] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the lifting assembly further includes: a third limiting component, which is connected to the second panel and located on the periphery of the second panel. When the third limiting component abuts against the first panel, the second panel stops at a first position, and the second panel covers the through hole on the side of the first panel facing the housing.

[0050] In this technical solution, the lifting assembly also includes a third limiting component, which is installed on the second panel and surrounds the second panel. During the upward movement of the second panel driven by the elastic mechanism, the third limiting component rises synchronously with the second panel until it contacts the lower surface of the first panel. Upon contact with the first panel, the second panel can no longer rise and stops at a first position. At this point, the second panel is entirely below the through hole, thus blocking it. Specifically, there is a height difference between the upper surface of the second panel and the upper surface of the first panel, forming a groove on the exposed surface of the panel assembly. This groove indicates the location for placing cooking utensils, preventing users from misplacing them.

[0051] Therefore, by setting a third limiting component, the upward stroke of the second panel can be limited, preventing the second panel from popping out of the through hole, thereby improving the structural reliability of the cooking equipment and reducing the failure rate of the cooking equipment.

[0052] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the second panel is a flexible panel, which can conform to the cooking utensil through deformation.

[0053] In this technical solution, the second panel is made of a flexible material. In this case, the edge of the second panel is connected to the first panel, and after assembly, the second panel covers the through hole.

[0054] When using a flat-bottomed or round-bottomed pan with a size smaller than the through-hole size, the cooking utensil will exert pressure on the flexible second panel. Under pressure, the second panel is forced to deform, causing part of the cooking utensil to sink into the through-hole, thereby improving the positioning stability and heating effect of the cooking utensil.

[0055] Correspondingly, after the cooking utensils are removed, the second panel gradually returns to its initial shape to reduce the difference between the first heating area and the second heating area, making it easier to heat the pan subsequently.

[0056] By using a flexible material to prepare the second panel, the shape of the second heating area can be changed through deformation, allowing the second heating area to adapt to the bottom shape of the cooking appliance. This improves the heating compatibility of the cooking equipment with various cooking appliances of different shapes, thus solving the technical defects of insufficient heating compatibility and poor heating effect in related technologies.

[0057] Meanwhile, compared with the aforementioned scheme that drives the displacement of the second panel, the flexible panel has a lower structural complexity, which helps to reduce the structural complexity and production cost of cooking appliances, and can provide convenient conditions for the miniaturization and lightweight design of cooking equipment.

[0058] In some technical solutions of the present invention, specifically, the first heating component is connected to the first panel; the second heating component is connected to the second panel, and the first heating component is arranged around the second heating component.

[0059] In this technical solution, a first heating element is installed below a first panel, and a second heating element is installed below a second panel. When the second panel is in a first position, the first heating element surrounds the second heating element. When the second panel is lowered to a second position, there is a height difference between the first and second heating elements, thereby forming three-dimensional heating to improve the heating effect of small-sized flat-bottomed and round-bottomed pans.

[0060] Specifically, the first heating element and the second heating element can be an electric heating plate. After being powered on, the first heating element moves and the second heating element heats the cooking appliance through heat conduction.

[0061] The first heating element and the second heating element can also be coils. After being powered on, both the first heating element and the second heating element can generate a heating electromagnetic field to heat the cooking appliance.

[0062] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the cooking equipment specifically includes: an induction cooker, an integrated stove, or a tea table.

[0063] 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

[0064] 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:

[0065] Figure 1 An exploded view of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0066] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0067] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0068] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A partial enlarged view of the cooking device in region A in the illustrated embodiment;

[0069] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0070] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0071] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0072] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0073] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A partial enlarged view of the cooking device in region B in the illustrated embodiment;

[0074] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0075] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0076] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0077] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the structure of an elastic mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0078] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0079] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0080] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0081] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0082] Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0083] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0084] Figure 20 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0085] Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0086] Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0087] Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0088] Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0089] Figure 25 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0090] Figure 26 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0091] Figure 27 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0092] Figure 28 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cooking device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0093] in, Figures 1 to 28 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0094] 100 Cooking equipment, 1026 First adhesive, 1044 Second adhesive, 110 Panel assembly, 1102 First heating area, 1104 Second heating area, 112 First panel, 1122 Through hole, 114 First heating element, 116 Second panel, 118 Second heating element, 12 Sealing assembly, 120 Housing, 122 First seal, 124 Second seal, 125 Folding structure, 1252 First folding section, 1254 Second folding section, 130 Lifting assembly, 132 Bracket, 1322 Guide hole, 134 Spring Sexing mechanism, 1342 guide post, 1344 spring, 1346 bracket, 1348 hydraulic component, 136 first limiting component, 138 second limiting component, 139 third limiting component, 161 elastic element, 162 guide post, 1622 gasket, 1624 screw, 163 limiting post, 164 bracket, 1642 threaded through hole, 165 screw assembly, 1652 threaded rod, 1654 drive device, 166 rack, 167 gear, 168 solenoid valve assembly, 1682 solenoid valve, 1684 ejection structure, 200 cooking utensil. Detailed Implementation

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] The following reference Figures 1 to 28 A cooking apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention is described.

[0098] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, one embodiment of the present invention provides a cooking device 100, which includes a panel assembly 110 for holding a cooking utensil 200; wherein the panel assembly 110 includes a first heating area 1102 and a second heating area 1104, the second heating area 1104 being movable relative to the first heating area 1102, or the second heating area 1104 being deformable.

[0099] In this embodiment, the cooking device 100 includes a panel assembly 110, which forms the exposed surface of the cooking device 100, and the cooking utensil 200 is placed on the panel assembly 110 during use.

[0100] A heating area is formed on the panel assembly 110. When the cooking appliance 200 is placed in the heating area, the cooking device 100 heats the cooking appliance 200, thereby cooking the food inside the cooking appliance 200 at high temperature.

[0101] Specifically, the cooking device 100 can heat the cooking appliance 200 through heat conduction. In this case, the heating area is at a high temperature during the cooking process. Heat can be transferred to the cooking appliance 200 through contact or heat radiation to increase the temperature of the cooking appliance 200. The fit between the shape of the lower surface of the cooking appliance 200 and the shape of the heating area will affect the heating effect of the cooking appliance 200. For example, a smaller contact area or a larger gap will reduce the heating effect.

[0102] The cooking device 100 can also raise the temperature of the cooking utensil 200 by electromagnetic heating. In this case, the cooking device 100 forms a heating electromagnetic field above the heating area by an electromagnetic coil. The degree of fit between the shape of the lower surface of the cooking utensil 200 and the shape of the heating area will affect the degree of overlap between the cooking utensil 200 and the heating electromagnetic field. For example, a large gap may cause the cooking utensil 200 to deviate from the concentrated area of ​​the heating electromagnetic field, affecting the heating effect of the cooking utensil 200.

[0103] In this application, the panel assembly 110 is provided with a first heating area 1102 and a second heating area 1104. The shape and position of the first heating area 1102 are fixed, and the cooking appliance 200 placed on the first heating area 1102 will not change the shape and position of the first heating area 1102. The second heating area 1104 can move relative to the first heating area 1102, or the second heating area 1104 can deform relative to the first heating area 1102. The second heating area 1104 can adapt to the cooking appliance 200 placed on it through displacement or deformation.

[0104] For example, when a round-bottomed pot is placed above the second heating area 1104, the second heating area 1104 can be displaced or deformed to sink downwards, forming a concave space with the first heating area 1102. This allows the round-bottomed pot to be fitted onto the panel assembly 110, improving the positioning stability of the pot and enhancing its heating effect through the second heating area 1104 at the bottom and the first heating areas 1102 around it. Alternatively, when a concave-bottomed pot is placed above the second heating area 1104, the second heating area 1104 can be displaced or deformed to rise upwards, forming a convex space with the first heating area 1102. This allows the concave-bottomed pot to fit over the convex second heating area 1104, improving its positioning stability and enhancing its heating effect through the first heating area 1102 at the bottom and the convex second heating area 1104.

[0105] Therefore, by setting a second heating area 1104 that can be displaced or deformed relative to the first heating area 1102, this application enables the panel assembly 110 to adapt to various cooking utensils 200 with different bottom shapes, improves the heating compatibility of the panel assembly 110 with common flat-bottomed pans and round-bottomed pans, thereby solving the technical defects existing in the aforementioned prior art, and thus achieving the technical effect of optimizing the structure of the cooking equipment 100, broadening the applicable scenarios of the cooking equipment 100, and improving the practicality and heating reliability of the cooking equipment 100.

[0106] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the panel assembly 110 includes: a first panel 112, the first panel 112 including a through hole 1122; a first heating member 114, disposed opposite to the first panel 112, the first heating member 114 forming a first heating area 1102 on the first panel 112; a second panel 116, the second panel 116 disposed opposite to the through hole 1122; and a second heating member 118, disposed opposite to the second panel 116, the second heating member 118 forming a second heating area 1104 on the second panel 116.

[0107] In this embodiment, the panel assembly 110 includes a first panel 112, a first heating element 114, a second panel 116, and a second heating element 118.

[0108] The first panel 112 is a flat plate, and the first heating element 114 is installed below the first panel 112. The area on the first panel 112 opposite to the first heating element 114 is the first heating area 1102. That is, the shape and size of the first heating element 114 directly affect the shape and size of the first heating area 1102. The first panel 112 is provided with a through hole 1122, which extends longitudinally through the first panel 112.

[0109] The second panel 116 is disposed opposite to the through hole 1122. When the second panel 116 is close to the first panel 112 or when the second panel 116 does not deform, the second panel 116 at least blocks the through hole 1122. Specifically, the second panel 116 can be installed below the through hole 1122, or the second panel 116 can be embedded inside the through hole 1122. When the second panel 116 changes the relative position of the second heating area 1104 by displacement, the second panel 116 and the first panel 112 are separate structures. When the second panel 116 changes the shape of the second heating area 1104 by deformation, the second panel 116 is connected to the first panel 112. The second heating component 118 is installed below the second panel 116, and the second heating component 118 forms the second heating area 1104 on the second panel 116. The shape and size of the second heating area 1104 are related to the shape and size of the second panel 116.

[0110] During cooking, when a frying pan is placed on the panel assembly 110, if the bottom dimension of the frying pan is larger than the size of the through hole 1122, the second panel 116 will not shift or deform, and the frying pan will be heated above the first panel 112. If the bottom dimension of the frying pan is smaller than the size of the through hole 1122, the second panel 116 will sink or deform under the weight of the frying pan.

[0111] When a round-bottomed pot is placed on the panel assembly 110, the central area of ​​the pot presses down on or deforms the second panel 116, causing it to fit inside the through hole 1122. The through hole 1122 then positions the pot to prevent it from tipping over. Simultaneously, with the pot embedded, the first heating element 114 located around it heats the side walls, enhancing the three-dimensional heating effect. Similarly, when a concave-bottomed pot is placed on the panel assembly 110, the second panel 116 can deform upwards or upwards to conform to the concave bottom surface of the pot, improving its positioning stability and heating effect.

[0112] As can be seen, the above structure forms a ring-shaped first heating area 1102 and a second heating area 1104 at the center of the first heating area 1102 on the panel assembly 110. Based on this, the displacement or deformation of the central second heating area 1104 can adapt to various cooking utensils 200 with different bottom shapes, thereby achieving the technical effect of broadening the applicable scenarios of the cooking equipment 100 and improving the practicality and heating reliability of the cooking equipment 100.

[0113] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, the cooking device 100 specifically includes: a housing 120, with a first panel 112 disposed on the housing 120; a lifting assembly 130 disposed within the housing 120, the lifting assembly 130 connecting the housing 120 and the second panel 116, the lifting assembly 130 being used to drive the second panel 116 to rise or fall; wherein, the second panel 116 includes a first position and at least one second position; when the second panel 116 rises to the first position, the second panel 116 covers the through hole 1122; when the second panel 116 falls to the second position, the second panel 116 separates from the through hole 1122.

[0114] In this embodiment, the cooking device 100 also includes a housing 120 and a lifting assembly 130. The housing 120 is the main frame structure of the cooking device 100. The top of the housing 120 has an opening. The lifting assembly 130, the first heating element 114, and the second heating element 118 are all disposed inside the housing 120. The housing 120 can provide positioning, support, and protection for the lifting assembly 130, the first heating element 114, and the second heating element 118.

[0115] The first panel 112 covers the opening at the top of the housing 120, and the first panel 112 covers the structure inside the opening. The second panel 116 is connected to the housing 120 through a lifting assembly 130, which can raise the second panel 116 relative to the through hole 1122 on the first panel 112 and / or lower the second panel 116 relative to the through hole 1122.

[0116] Specifically, the second panel 116 includes a first position and at least one second position relative to the first panel 112. When the second panel 116 is in the first position, it can cover the through hole 1122, either by covering the through hole 1122 below it or by filling the through hole 1122 inside it. At this time, the height difference between the second heating area 1104 and the first heating area 1102 is minimal, which is suitable for placing a frying pan. The first heating area 1102 and the second heating area 1104 can evenly and fully heat the bottom wall of the frying pan.

[0117] The second position is located below the first position, and the second panel 116 needs to be lowered to switch to the second position. When the second panel 116 is in the second position, the cooking utensil 200 can be inserted into the through hole 1122 and finally placed on the second panel 116. At this time, the height difference between the second heating area 1104 and the first heating area 1102 increases, which is suitable for placing a round-bottomed pot. The lower half of the round-bottomed pot can be inserted below the through hole 1122, and the side wall of the round-bottomed pot is stuck inside the through hole 1122. At this time, the through hole 1122 can provide radial positioning for the round-bottomed pot, preventing the round-bottomed pot from being misaligned or even tipping over. At the same time, the second heating area 1104 below the round-bottomed pot can fully heat the lower half of the round-bottomed pot, and the first heating area 1102 around the round-bottomed pot can fully heat the side wall of the round-bottomed pot, thereby improving the heating effect of the cooking utensil 200 on the round-bottomed pot.

[0118] Therefore, by setting the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 which can be raised and lowered, the cooking device 100 can be adapted to the heating requirements of flat-bottomed pans and round-bottomed pans by changing the relative positions of the first heating area 1102 and the second heating area 1104. This solves the technical defects of poor compatibility and unsatisfactory heating effect of single devices for flat-bottomed pans and round-bottomed pans in related technologies. In this way, the technical effects of optimizing the structure of the cooking device 100, expanding the applicable scenarios of the cooking device 100, and improving the practicality and reliability of the cooking device 100 are achieved.

[0119] like Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the lifting assembly 130 includes: a bracket 132 connected to the second panel 116 and the second heating component 118; and an elastic mechanism 134 connecting the housing 120 and the bracket 132, wherein the elastic mechanism 134 is used to drive the second panel 116 to reset to the first position via the bracket 132.

[0120] In this embodiment, the lifting assembly 130 includes a bracket 132 and an elastic mechanism 134. The second panel 116 and the second heating component 118 are mounted on the bracket 132. The bracket 132 can provide effective support for the second panel 116 and the second heating component 118. The first end of the elastic mechanism 134 is connected to the bracket 132, and the second end of the elastic mechanism 134 is connected to the housing 120. After assembly, the elastic mechanism 134 is located between the bracket 132 and the bottom wall of the housing 120.

[0121] When heating a pan larger than the size of the through hole 1122, the weight of the pan is applied to the first panel 112, and the pan cannot exert pressure on the second panel 116. At this time, the second panel 116 is held in the first position by the elastic support of the elastic mechanism 134. The second heating area 1104 is responsible for heating the central area of ​​the bottom wall of the pan, and the first heating area 1102 is responsible for heating the edge area of ​​the bottom wall of the pan.

[0122] When heating a frying pan smaller than the through-hole 1122, the weight of the pan is applied to the second panel 116. The pan, through the pressure of the second panel 116 on the elastic mechanism 134, undergoes elastic deformation, causing the second panel 116 to descend to the second position. At this time, the second heating area 1104 is responsible for heating the bottom wall of the pan, and the first heating area 1102 is responsible for heating the side walls of the pan. Correspondingly, after the pan is removed, the elastic mechanism 134 releases the elastic stress, pushing the second panel 116 back to the first position.

[0123] When the round-bottomed pot is heated, the lower half of the pot is smaller and can be inserted into the through hole 1122. The upper half of the pot is larger than the through hole 1122, causing the pot to be stuck inside the hole. At this time, the second panel 116 descends to the second position under the pressure of the inserted portion of the pot. The elastic mechanism 134 undergoes elastic deformation. The second heating area 1104 is responsible for heating the lower half of the pot, and the peripheral first heating area 1102 is responsible for heating the upper half of the pot embedded in the through hole 1122. Correspondingly, after the pot is removed, the elastic mechanism 134 releases elastic stress to push the second panel 116 back to the first position.

[0124] Therefore, by setting the elastic mechanism 134, the second panel 116 can change its position according to the size and shape of the cooking appliance 200, and automatically return to the initial first position after the cooking appliance 200 is removed. This eliminates the need to set an active drive mechanism for the second panel 116. Thus, while ensuring that the cooking device 100 can adapt to the heating requirements of various cooking appliances 200 with different shapes, the technical effect of reducing the structural complexity and cost of the cooking device 100 is achieved.

[0125] Specifically, the elastic mechanism 134 includes a spring 1344, a sheet, a rubber pad, a hydraulic cylinder, etc. In this embodiment, the specific structural form of the elastic mechanism 134 is not rigidly limited, as long as it meets the requirement of driving the second panel 116 to reset.

[0126] like Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the bracket 132 includes a guide hole 1322, and the elastic mechanism 134 includes: a guide post 1342, which is connected to the housing 120 and passes through the guide hole 1322; and a spring 1344, which is sleeved on the guide post 1342, with the first end of the spring 1344 abutting against the bracket 132 and the second end of the spring 1344 abutting against the housing 120.

[0127] In this embodiment, the elastic mechanism 134 includes a guide post 1342 and a spring 1344. Specifically, the bracket 132 is provided with a guide hole 1322, the size of which is adapted to the size of the guide post 1342. The first end of the guide post 1342 is connected to the bottom wall of the housing 120, and the second end of the guide post 1342 passes through the guide hole 1322. The spring 1344 is sleeved on the guide post 1342. The size of the spring 1344 is larger than the size of the guide hole 1322. The first end of the spring 1344 abuts against the bottom wall of the housing 120, and the second end of the spring 1344 abuts against the lower surface of the bracket 132. When the second panel 116 is pressed by the cooking appliance 200, the spring 1344 is compressed, and the second panel 116 descends. After the cooking appliance 200 is removed, the spring 1344 extends to lift the second panel 116 to a first position.

[0128] The lifting assembly 130 has the advantages of low structural complexity and high reliability. It can reduce the failure rate and cost of the cooking equipment 100 while meeting the lifting requirements of the second panel 116, thereby enhancing the market competitiveness of the cooking equipment 100.

[0129] like Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the elastic mechanism 134 includes: a first support 1346, disposed between the bracket 132 and the housing 120, the first support 1346 being able to drive the bracket 132 and the second panel 116 to rise through an unfolding action, and the first support 1346 being able to drive the bracket 132 and the second panel 116 to fall through a folding action; and a hydraulic component 1348, connecting the housing 120 and the first support 1346, the hydraulic component 1348 being used to drive the first support 1346 to perform an unfolding action.

[0130] In this embodiment, the elastic mechanism 134 includes a first support 1346 and a hydraulic component 1348. A bracket 132, a second heating component 118, and a second panel 116 are mounted on the first support 1346. The first support 1346 can change its height through a folding action. For example, the first support 1346 can be formed by hinged two intersecting frames, with the height changing between the two frames through relative rotation. One end of the hydraulic component 1348 is connected to the housing 120, and the other end is connected to the first support 1346. The hydraulic component 1348 can drive the first support 1346 to move through an extension or retraction action. For example, the telescopic end of the hydraulic component 1348 can be connected to one of the frames. When it is necessary to lower the second panel 116, the first support 1346 is driven to perform a folding action, thereby lowering the height of the second panel 116. When it is necessary to raise the second panel 116, the first support 1346 is driven to perform an unfolding action, thereby raising the height of the second panel 116.

[0131] Specifically, the model of hydraulic component 1348 can be adjusted according to the size and material of the cooking utensil 200 that the user may use.

[0132] The lifting assembly 130 has the advantages of strong load capacity and high rigidity, and can provide long-term and effective support for the cooking appliance 200. It is suitable for heating large-sized or heavy cooking appliances 200, thereby improving the structural stability of the cooking equipment 100 and reducing the failure rate of the cooking appliance 200.

[0133] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, the lifting assembly 130 specifically includes: a first limiting member 136, which is connected to the housing 120 and located on the side of the bracket 132 away from the second panel 116. When the first limiting member 136 abuts against the bracket 132, the second panel 116 stops at the second position.

[0134] In this embodiment, the lifting assembly 130 further includes a first limiting component 136. The first end of the first limiting component 136 is connected to the bottom wall of the housing 120, and the second end of the first limiting component 136 is opposite to the bracket 132 at the top. As the bracket 132 descends with the second panel 116, the distance between the bracket 132 and the first limiting component 136 gradually shortens until the bracket 132 stops moving when it abuts against the second end of the first limiting component 136.

[0135] Therefore, by setting the first limiting component 136, the downward stroke of the second panel 116 can be limited. On the one hand, this avoids interference between the second panel 116 and other structures inside the housing 120, and on the other hand, it prevents the cooking appliance 200 from sinking into the through hole 1122.

[0136] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the lifting assembly 130 further includes: a second limiting component 138, which is connected to the bracket 132 and located on the periphery of the bracket 132. When the second limiting component 138 abuts against the first panel 112, the second panel 116 stops at the first position, and the second panel 116 covers the through hole 1122 inside the through hole 1122.

[0137] In this embodiment, the lifting assembly 130 further includes a second limiting component 138, which is mounted on the bracket 132 and located on the periphery of the bracket 132. During the process of the elastic mechanism 134 driving the second panel 116 to rise, the second limiting component 138 rises synchronously with the bracket 132 until it contacts the lower surface of the first panel 112. When the second limiting component 138 contacts the first panel 112, the second panel 116 cannot continue to rise and stops at the first position. At this time, the second panel 116 is embedded inside the through hole 1122, specifically, the upper surface of the second panel 116 is flush with the upper surface of the first panel 112, thereby improving the integrity of the exposed surface of the panel assembly 110 and reducing the abruptness of the second panel 116.

[0138] Therefore, by setting the second limiting component 138, the upward stroke of the second panel 116 can be limited, preventing the second panel 116 from popping out of the through hole 1122, thereby improving the structural reliability of the cooking device 100 and reducing the failure rate of the cooking device 100.

[0139] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the lifting assembly 130 further includes: a third limiting component 139, which is connected to the second panel 116 and located on the periphery of the second panel 116. When the third limiting component 139 abuts against the first panel 112, the second panel 116 stops at a first position, and the second panel 116 covers the through hole 1122 on the side of the first panel 112 facing the housing 120.

[0140] In this embodiment, the lifting assembly 130 further includes a third limiting component 139, which is mounted on the second panel 116. The second limiting component 138 surrounds the second panel 116. During the process of the elastic mechanism 134 driving the second panel 116 to rise, the third limiting component 139 rises synchronously with the second panel 116 until it contacts the lower surface of the first panel 112. When the third limiting component 139 contacts the first panel 112, the second panel 116 can no longer rise and stops at the first position. At this time, the second panel 116 is located below the through hole 1122, thus blocking the through hole 1122. Specifically, there is a height difference between the upper surface of the second panel 116 and the upper surface of the first panel 112, forming a groove on the exposed surface of the panel assembly 110. This groove can indicate the position for placing the cooking utensil 200, preventing the user from misplacing the cooking utensil 200.

[0141] Therefore, by setting the third limiting component 139, the upward stroke of the second panel 116 can be limited, preventing the second panel 116 from popping out of the through hole 1122, thereby improving the structural reliability of the cooking device 100 and reducing the failure rate of the cooking device 100.

[0142] In some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the second panel 116 is a flexible panel, which can conform to the cooking utensil 200 by deformation.

[0143] In this embodiment, the second panel 116 is made of a flexible material. In this case, the edge of the second panel 116 is connected to the first panel 112, and after assembly, the second panel 116 covers the through hole 1122.

[0144] When using a flat-bottomed or round-bottomed pan with a size smaller than the through hole 1122, the cooking utensil 200 will exert pressure on the flexible second panel 116. Under pressure, the second panel 116 is forced to deform, so that part of the cooking utensil 200 sinks into the through hole 1122, thereby improving the positioning stability and heating effect of the cooking utensil 200.

[0145] Correspondingly, after the cooking utensil 200 is removed, the second panel 116 gradually returns to its initial shape to reduce the difference between the first heating area 1102 and the second heating area 1104, which facilitates subsequent heating of the frying pan.

[0146] The second panel 116 is made of a flexible material, so that the second panel 116 can change the shape of the second heating area 1104 by deformation, so that the second heating area 1104 can adapt to the bottom shape of the cooking appliance 200, thereby improving the heating compatibility of the cooking device 100 with various cooking appliances 200 of different shapes, and solving the technical defects of insufficient heating compatibility and poor heating effect in related technologies.

[0147] Meanwhile, compared with the aforementioned scheme that drives the second panel 116 to move, the flexible panel has a lower structural complexity, which helps to reduce the structural complexity and production cost of the cooking appliance 200, and can provide convenient conditions for the miniaturization and lightweight design of the cooking device 100.

[0148] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, specifically, the first heating element 114 is connected to the first panel 112; the second heating element 118 is connected to the second panel 116, and the first heating element 114 is arranged around the second heating element 118.

[0149] In this embodiment, a first heating element 114 is installed below a first panel 112, and a second heating element 118 is installed below a second panel 116. When the second panel 116 is in a first position, the first heating element 114 surrounds the second heating element 118. When the second panel 116 is lowered to a second position, there is a height difference between the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118, thereby forming three-dimensional heating to improve the heating effect of small-sized flat-bottomed pans and round-bottomed pans.

[0150] Specifically, the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 can be electric heating plates. After being powered on, the first heating element 114 moves the second heating element 118 to heat the cooking appliance 200 through heat conduction.

[0151] The first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 can also be coils. After being powered on, both the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 can generate a heating electromagnetic field for heating the cooking appliance 200.

[0152] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cooking device 100 specifically includes: an induction cooker, an integrated stove, or a tea table.

[0153] In some embodiments of the present invention, a cooking appliance 100 is provided, including a panel assembly 110 and a sealing assembly 12. The panel assembly 110 is used to hold a cooking utensil 200, such as... Figure 22 and Figure 23As shown, the panel assembly 110 includes a first heating element 114 and a second heating element 118, one of which is operable relative to the other. A sealing assembly 12 is disposed on the first heating element 114 and / or the second heating element 118 to seal the gap between the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 when one of them is operable.

[0154] The cooking device 100 provided by this invention, by dividing the panel assembly 110 into a first heating element 114 and a second heating element 118 that can move relative to each other, can effectively adapt to cooking utensils 200 of different shapes. Whether it is a flat-bottomed pan or a curved pan, the heating area can be adjusted according to its bottom contour, which greatly improves the cookware compatibility of the cooking device 100 and broadens its application range. Secondly, by setting a sealing component 12 in the first heating element 114 and / or the second heating element 118, the gap between the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 can be sealed when one of them is in operation. This solves the gap problem that may be caused by the relative movement of the heating areas, avoids the risk of debris or liquid falling into the gap and affecting the normal operation of the cooking device 100, ensures the stability and safety of the cooking device 100, and also helps to maintain the cleanliness and aesthetics of the area around the heating area, reduces the difficulty and workload of cleaning and maintenance, extends the service life of the cooking device 100, and optimizes the user experience and improves the reliability and practicality of the product.

[0155] like Figure 22 , Figure 23 , Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, in some embodiments, the cooking device 100 may optionally include a lifting assembly 130 disposed within the housing 120 and connected to the first panel 112 and / or the second panel 116, for driving one of the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 to move.

[0156] In these embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 can be used to drive one of the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 to move, allowing the panel to be flexibly adjusted according to the shape and size of different cookware. Whether dealing with flat-bottomed pans or curved pans, the panel can quickly and accurately reach its optimal fit, thus ensuring good heating performance and cookware compatibility. Specifically, the lifting assembly 130 can be housed within the housing 120 and connected to the first panel 112 and / or the second panel 116, thereby driving the first panel 112 or the second panel 116 to move.

[0157] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the lifting assembly 130 includes: an elastic member 161 disposed in the housing 120, one end of the elastic member 161 being connected to the second panel 116, the second panel 116 being able to compress the elastic member 161, and the elastic member 161 being able to drive the second panel 116 to the reset state.

[0158] In these embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 can be configured as an elastic element 161. The elastic element 161 is used to adjust the relative position between the first panel 112 and the second panel 116, allowing the cooking device 100 to adapt to different types of cookware. Specifically, the elastic element 161 can be disposed within the housing 120, with one end connected to the second panel 116. When using a curved cookware, the curved cookware can be placed on the second panel 116. Because the elastic element 161 is compressible, the curved cookware can compress the elastic element 161, causing the cooking device 100 to form a groove structure that fits the curved cookware, thereby improving the cooking effect. Furthermore, when cooking is finished and the curved cookware is removed from the second panel 116, the elastic element 161 allows the second panel 116 to return to its initial position, i.e., the position where the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 are flush.

[0159] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 may optionally include: a guide post 1342 disposed within the housing 120, and an elastic element 161 mounted on the guide post 1342; and a limiting post 163 disposed within the housing 120 for limiting the movement of the second panel 116.

[0160] In these embodiments, to further improve the stability of the elastic element 161's drive, a guide post 1342 can be provided inside the housing 120, and the elastic element 161 can be mounted on the guide post 1342. The guide post 1342 guides the deformation of the elastic element 161, thereby improving the stability of the elastic element 161's drive. When the second panel 116 moves to adapt to different cookware, the elastic element 161 can absorb some of the impact force, reducing hard collisions between components, thereby reducing wear and noise generation and extending the service life of each component. At the same time, the reset capability of the elastic element 161 helps the second panel 116 quickly return to its initial state or preset balance position after completing the cookware adaptation action, ensuring the stability and repeatability of the cooking device 100. In addition, a limiting post 163 can be provided inside the housing 120 to limit the movement of the second panel 116, preventing the second panel 116 from moving excessively and deviating from its normal working track or interfering with other components inside the housing 120, further enhancing the safety and reliability of the cooking device 100's operation.

[0161] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 may optionally include a washer 1622 and a screw 1624, which are disposed at the end of the guide post 1342 for limiting the travel of the second panel 116.

[0162] In some embodiments, the elastic element 161 may optionally include a spring, polyurethane, etc.

[0163] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the lifting assembly 130 includes: a second bracket 164, which is disposed inside the housing 120 and fixedly connected to the second panel 116, and the second bracket 164 is provided with a threaded through hole 1642; and a screw assembly 165, which is disposed inside the housing 120 and is used to cooperate with the threaded through hole 1642.

[0164] In these embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 can also be configured to be driven by a screw assembly 165. Specifically, a second bracket 164 can be provided inside the housing 120, and the second bracket 164 can be fixedly connected to the second panel 116. Then, a threaded through hole 1642 is provided on the second bracket 164. In this way, the screw assembly 165 provided inside the housing 120 can cooperate with the threaded through hole 1642 to drive the second panel 116 to move. It can be understood that when the screw assembly 165 rotates, it will cooperate with the threaded through hole 1642, thereby driving the second bracket 164 and the second panel 116 to move. By driving the second panel 116 to move through the screw assembly 165, precise control of the displacement of the second panel 116 can be achieved. The displacement of the second panel 116 can be adjusted by a small amount, thereby ensuring the high adaptability of the cooking equipment 100 to cookware of different shapes and greatly improving cookware compatibility. Meanwhile, the threaded drive has good self-locking characteristics. Once adjusted to the appropriate position, the second bracket 164 and the second panel 116 can be stably maintained in the current position without external force driving the screw to reverse. This effectively prevents the panel position from shifting due to external factors such as vibration and shaking, and ensures the stability and reliability of the heating process.

[0165] In some embodiments, the screw assembly 165 may optionally include: a threaded rod 1652 disposed within the housing 120, one end of which is used to engage with a threaded through hole 1642; and a drive device 1654 disposed within the housing 120 and connected to the other end of the threaded rod 1652 for driving the threaded rod 1652 to rotate.

[0166] In these embodiments, the screw assembly 165 can be configured as a threaded rod 1652 plus a drive device 1654. Specifically, both the threaded rod 1652 and the drive device 1654 are housed within the housing 120. One end of the threaded rod 1652 engages with the threaded through hole 1642, and the other end is connected to the drive device 1654, thereby enabling the threaded rod 1652 to rotate via the drive device 1654. By controlling the rotation of the threaded rod 1652 through the drive device 1654, the rotation angle, speed, and direction of the threaded rod 1652 can be precisely controlled, thereby enabling precise adjustment of the positions of the second bracket 164 and the second panel 116. Simultaneously, the drive device 1654 automates or semi-automates the entire adjustment process. Users do not need to manually perform complex mechanical adjustments; they only need to operate the drive device 1654 (e.g., via buttons, knobs, or an intelligent control system) to easily complete the panel adaptation, significantly improving user convenience and comfort.

[0167] In some embodiments, the drive device 1654 may optionally be a motor.

[0168] In some embodiments, the threaded rod 1652 may optionally be a lead screw.

[0169] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the lifting assembly 130 includes: a rack 166 disposed within the housing 120 and connected to the second panel 116, with the rack 166 extending along the moving direction of the second panel 116; and a gear 167 disposed within the housing 120 and used to cooperate with the rack 166 to drive the second panel 116 to move.

[0170] In these embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 can be configured as a rack 166 and a gear 167. Specifically, both the rack 166 and the gear 167 can be housed within the housing 120. The rack 166 is then connected to the second panel 116 and extends along its direction of movement, with the gear 167 engaging with it. This rack and pinion transmission method efficiently converts the rotational motion of the gear 167 into the linear motion of the rack 166, thereby precisely driving the movement of the second panel 116. By controlling the rotational direction, angle, and speed of the gear 167, the displacement, direction of movement, and speed of the second panel 116 can be precisely controlled, achieving precise adaptation to cookware of different shapes and effectively improving the cookware compatibility of the cooking equipment 100. Moreover, the rack and pinion transmission has high transmission efficiency, enabling panel adjustment to be completed in a short time, reducing user waiting time and improving cooking efficiency. Simultaneously, this transmission method has a relatively compact structure, occupying less space within the housing 120, which is beneficial for optimizing the internal structure of the cooking equipment 100, making the overall design more concise and aesthetically pleasing. In addition, the meshing characteristics between gear 167 and rack 166 can provide a certain positioning accuracy and stability. After the panel is moved into place, it can effectively resist certain external force interference, avoid unnecessary displacement of the panel position, and ensure the reliability and stability of the heating process, thereby bringing users a better and more convenient user experience.

[0171] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, the lifting assembly 130 includes a solenoid valve assembly 168, which is disposed inside the housing 120 and connected to the second panel 116 for driving the second panel 116 to move.

[0172] In these embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 can be configured as a solenoid valve assembly 168. Specifically, the solenoid valve assembly 168 can be housed within the housing 120 and connected to the second panel 116, thereby driving the second panel 116 to move. The solenoid valve 1682 features a fast response speed; once it receives a corresponding control signal, it can quickly drive the second panel 116 to act. This allows the cooking device 100 to quickly adjust the panel position when switching between different cookware, greatly shortening preparation time and improving user convenience and immediacy. Secondly, the solenoid valve 1682 has high control precision, accurately controlling the moving distance and direction of the second panel 116 according to preset parameters. This ensures that the panel can accurately match cookware of different shapes and sizes, effectively enhancing the cookware compatibility of the cooking device 100 and ensuring good heating effects regardless of whether a flat-bottomed pan or a curved pan is used.

[0173] In some embodiments, the solenoid valve assembly 168 may optionally include a solenoid valve 1682 and an ejector structure 1684, the ejector structure 1684 being connected to the second panel 116, and the solenoid valve 1682 being used to drive the ejector structure 1684 to move.

[0174] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 may optionally include a hydraulic cylinder assembly disposed within the housing 120 and connected to the second panel 116 for driving the second panel 116 to move.

[0175] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 130 may optionally include a cylinder assembly disposed within the housing 120 and connected to the second panel 116 for driving the second panel 116 to move.

[0176] In some embodiments, the sealing assembly 12 optionally includes: a first seal 122 disposed on the first heating element 114 and at least partially located between the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 and extending into the housing 120; and a second seal 124 disposed on the second heating element 118, wherein the second seal 124 slides in contact with the first seal 122 when one of the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 is activated.

[0177] In these embodiments, the sealing assembly 12 includes a first seal 122 and a second seal 124. The first seal 122 is at least partially located between the two heating zones and extends into the housing 120. The second seal 124 cooperates with it, and when one of the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118 is activated, the two elements slide into contact. This arrangement effectively seals the gap between the first heating element 114 and the second heating element 118. On the one hand, it can prevent dust, oil, moisture, and other impurities from entering the interior of the cooking equipment 100, avoiding damage such as corrosion and short circuits to key components such as internal circuits and electromagnetic coils. This extends the service life of the cooking equipment 100, reduces the frequency of malfunctions and repairs caused by impurities, and ensures the long-term stable operation of the cooking equipment 100. On the other hand, the structure of this sealing assembly 12 is relatively simple and easy to install and maintain. While ensuring sealing performance, it does not increase excessive production costs or complex installation processes, which is conducive to the large-scale production and application of the product.

[0178] In some embodiments, the cooking device 100 may optionally include a control device connected to the lifting assembly 130 for controlling the lifting assembly 130 to perform actions.

[0179] In this embodiment, the control device enables precise control of the lifting component 130's movement. Depending on the type of cookware placed, such as a flat-bottomed pan or a curved pan, the device can intelligently send corresponding control commands to the lifting component 130, driving it to accurately adjust the positional relationship between the first panel 112 and the second panel 116. This ensures that the panels can quickly and accurately adapt to the cookware, greatly improving the cookware compatibility of the cooking device 100 and allowing users to easily meet different cooking needs without cumbersome manual operations.

[0180] In some embodiments, the cooking appliance 100 may optionally include a sensor connected to a control device for detecting the size of the cooking utensil 200 placed on the panel assembly 110.

[0181] In this embodiment, by connecting sensors to the control device, the size of the cooking appliance 200 placed on the panel assembly 110 can be accurately detected. This allows the control device to intelligently control the lifting assembly 130 to perform corresponding actions based on the obtained accurate size information. For example, when a large flat-bottomed pan is placed on the panel, the control device will drive the lifting assembly 130 to adjust the panel position so that it better fits the bottom of the pan, ensuring that the magnetic lines of force can effectively penetrate the pan for uniform heating. The same precise fit is achieved for smaller, curved pans, greatly improving the compatibility of the cooking device 100 with different sizes and types of pans and optimizing the heating effect.

[0182] According to an embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention, a cooking appliance 100 is provided, comprising a housing 120, a panel assembly 110, a first heating element 114, a second heating element 118, and a sealing assembly 12. The housing 120 has an opening, and the panel assembly 110 is disposed at the opening for placing a cooking utensil 200. The panel assembly 110 includes a first panel 112 and a second panel 116. The first heating element 114 is disposed within the housing 120 and is disposed corresponding to the first panel 112. The second heating element 118 is disposed within the housing 120 and is disposed corresponding to the second panel 116. The two opposite ends of the sealing assembly 12 are respectively connected to the first panel 112 and the second panel 116.

[0183] The cooking device 100 provided by this invention has a sealing component 12 connecting the first panel 112 and the second panel 116. When gaps or displacements may occur in the panel component 110 due to various reasons, it can effectively prevent liquid from flowing into the housing 120 from the panel gaps. This avoids safety accidents such as short circuits and leakage caused by liquid contacting internal electrical components, greatly improves the safety and reliability of the cooking device 100, extends the service life of the device, and also reduces maintenance costs and usage risks caused by safety issues, providing users with a more convenient and safe cooking experience.

[0184] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the sealing component 12 is a flexible component, which is disposed inside the housing 120.

[0185] In these embodiments, the sealing component 12 can be configured as a flexible element located within the housing 120. This flexible element can effectively adapt to minor displacements and deformations that may occur in the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 under different usage scenarios, such as changes in panel position due to temperature variations or impacts from placing cookware. Due to its flexibility, it can maintain a tight fit with the panel, ensuring the stability and reliability of the waterproofing effect and effectively preventing liquid penetration into the housing 120, greatly reducing the possibility of short circuits and other safety hazards caused by liquid intrusion. Simultaneously, the flexible element's placement within the housing 120 does not obstruct the normal lifting and lowering of the panel assembly 110, ensuring the smooth operation of the cooking device 100's automatic adaptation function to different cookware. This allows the entire cooking device 100 to achieve excellent waterproofing performance without compromising its core heating and cookware compatibility advantages, further enhancing the overall performance of the product and providing users with a safer and more efficient cooking experience.

[0186] In some embodiments, the sealing component 12 may be an elastic element disposed within the housing 120.

[0187] In these embodiments, by setting the sealing component 12 as an elastic element, it can not only play a good sealing role between the first panel 112 and the second panel 116, effectively preventing liquid leakage, but also, when the panels are relatively displaced or vibrated due to various factors, the elastic element can buffer and compensate through its own elastic deformation, always maintaining a tight connection state, and ensuring the reliability and stability of waterproofing.

[0188] In some embodiments, the sealing component 12 may optionally be a high-temperature resistant silicone part.

[0189] In some embodiments, optionally, one of the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 is operable relative to the other.

[0190] In these embodiments, one of the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 can be configured to move relative to the other, thereby enhancing the compatibility of the cooking device 100 with different types of cookware. For example, when a frying pan is placed, the relative movement between the panels allows the heating area to perfectly fit the bottom of the pan, ensuring efficient and even heating. For curved cookware, the panels can also be adjusted accordingly to allow magnetic lines of force to better penetrate the pan wall, improving the heating effect.

[0191] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 26 , Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown, when the second panel 116 is in the first position, a portion of the sealing assembly 12 forms a folded structure 125. The folded structure 125 includes a first folded segment 1252 and a second folded segment 1254, with a gap between the first folded segment 1252 and the second folded segment 1254. Figure 27 (The position indicated by 'a' in the text) The gap between the first fold segment 1252 and the second fold segment 1254 is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm.

[0192] In these embodiments, when the second panel 116 is in the first position, a portion of the sealing assembly 12 forms a folded structure 125. The folded structure 125 includes a first folded segment 1252 and a second folded segment 1254, with a gap between the first folded segment 1252 and the second folded segment 1254. This gap is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm. This arrangement effectively addresses gap changes caused by variations in the relative position of the second panel 116 and the first panel 112. It helps alleviate stress concentration issues caused by panel movement on the sealing assembly 12, ensuring that the sealing assembly 12 does not affect panel movement during the folding process.

[0193] In some embodiments, the cooking device 100 may optionally include a limiting member disposed on the second panel 116 and located within the housing 120, opposite to the folding structure 125, for limiting the folding structure 125.

[0194] In these embodiments, a limiting member may also be provided inside the housing 120 to limit the folding structure 125 and prevent the folding structure 125 from interfering with other components inside the housing 120.

[0195] In some embodiments, the cooking device 100 may optionally include: a first adhesive 1026 disposed on the first panel 112 and located between the sealing assembly 12 and the first panel 112; and a second adhesive 1044 disposed on the second panel 116 and located between the sealing assembly 12 and the second panel 116.

[0196] In these embodiments, a first adhesive 1026 and a second adhesive 1044 can be respectively applied to the first panel 112 and the second panel 116. The sealing component 12 is then bonded to the first panel 112 and the second panel 116 using these adhesives. This bonding method not only fills any tiny gaps that may exist between the panels and the sealing component 12, further enhancing the sealing effect, but also firmly fixes the sealing component 12 to the corresponding panels, preventing it from loosening or shifting due to frequent external pulling, vibration, or other factors during use.

[0197] In some embodiments, optionally, along the direction from the first panel 112 to the second panel 116, the length of the first adhesive 1026 ( Figure 27 The position indicated by c is greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 15 mm.

[0198] In these embodiments, the length of the first adhesive 1026 along the direction from the first panel 112 to the second panel 116 is greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 15 mm. This arrangement effectively ensures that the sealing assembly 12 is tightly and securely connected to the first panel 112, preventing the sealing assembly 12 from easily detaching from or shifting from the first panel 112.

[0199] In some embodiments, optionally, along the direction from the first panel 112 to the second panel 116, the length of the second adhesive 1044 ( Figure 27 The position indicated by b) is greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 15 mm.

[0200] In these embodiments, the length of the second adhesive 1044 along the direction from the first panel 112 to the second panel 116 is greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 15 mm. This arrangement effectively ensures that the sealing assembly 12 is tightly and securely connected to the second panel 116, preventing the sealing assembly 12 from easily detaching from or shifting from the second panel 116.

[0201] It should be clarified that in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, the term "plural" refers to two or more. Unless otherwise explicitly defined, the terms "upper," "lower," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description process, not to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have the described specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, these descriptions should not be construed as limiting the invention. The terms "connection," "installation," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection between multiple objects, a detachable connection between multiple objects, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection between multiple objects or an indirect connection between multiple objects through an intermediate medium. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention can be understood based on the specific circumstances of the above data.

[0202] In the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, 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 invention. In the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, 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.

[0203] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present 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 device, characterized in that, include: A panel assembly for holding cooking utensils; The panel assembly includes a first heating area and a second heating area, wherein the second heating area is movable relative to the first heating area, or the second heating area is deformable.

2. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The panel assembly includes: A first panel, the first panel including a through hole; A first heating element is disposed opposite to the first panel, and the first heating element forms the first heating area on the first panel; The second panel is disposed opposite to the through hole; The second heating element is disposed opposite to the second panel, and the second heating element forms the second heating area on the second panel.

3. The cooking apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A housing, wherein the first panel is disposed on the housing; A lifting assembly is disposed inside the housing, the lifting assembly is connected to the housing and the second panel, and the lifting assembly is used to drive the second panel to rise or fall. The second panel includes a first position and at least one second position; When the second panel rises to the first position, the second panel covers the through hole; When the second panel descends to the second position, the second panel separates from the through hole.

4. The cooking apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The lifting assembly includes: The bracket is connected to the second panel and the second heating element; An elastic mechanism connects the housing and the bracket, and the elastic mechanism is used to drive the second panel back to the first position via the bracket.

5. The cooking apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The bracket includes a guide hole, and the elastic mechanism includes: A guide post is connected to the housing and passes through the guide hole; A spring is sleeved on the guide post, with its first end abutting against the bracket and its second end abutting against the housing.

6. The cooking apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The elastic mechanism includes: A bracket is disposed between the bracket and the housing. The bracket can lift the bracket and the second panel by unfolding, and can also lower the bracket and the second panel by folding. A hydraulic component connects the housing and the support, and the hydraulic component is used to drive the support to perform the deployment action.

7. The cooking apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lifting assembly also includes: A first limiting component is connected to the housing and is located on the side of the bracket away from the second panel. When the first limiting component abuts against the bracket, the second panel stops at the second position.

8. The cooking apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lifting assembly also includes: The second limiting component is connected to the bracket and located on the periphery of the bracket. When the second limiting component abuts against the first panel, the second panel stops at the first position and covers the through hole.

9. The cooking apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lifting assembly also includes: The third limiting component is connected to the second panel and is located on the periphery of the second panel. When the third limiting component abuts against the first panel, the second panel stops at the first position, and the second panel covers the through hole on the side of the first panel facing the housing.

10. The cooking apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second panel is a flexible panel, which can conform to the cooking appliance through deformation.

11. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that, The first heating element is connected to the first panel; The second heating element is connected to the second panel, and the first heating element is arranged around the second heating element.

12. The cooking apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The cooking equipment includes: an induction cooker, an integrated stove, or a tea table.