Cooking appliance

Abstract

The application discloses a cooking appliance, the heating device of which comprises a heating disc, a plurality of temperature adjusting members arranged between the heating disc and a cooking container, and a position adjusting mechanism connected to one or more of the temperature adjusting members and capable of moving the one or more temperature adjusting members relative to the heating disc between a first position and a second position. When the temperature adjusting members move between the first position and the second position, two adjacent temperature adjusting members form a variable interval in the circumferential direction and / or the radial direction of the heating disc, so that when the heating device is in operation, the inner surface of the cooking container forms at least a position-variable local temperature difference zone. According to the application, the movement of the temperature adjusting members is controlled during the cooking stage, so that the position of the local temperature difference zone changes between different areas of the cooking container, thereby adjusting the position and the area range of the local uneven heating in the cooking container according to different food materials or the quantity of the food materials.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of kitchen appliances, and more specifically to a cooking utensil. Background Technology

[0002] Existing cooking appliances such as IH rice cookers and induction cookers are equipped with a heatable cooking container and a coil for heating the container. Heating of the cooking container is generally uniform; however, uniform heating is not conducive to creating localized temperature differences on the inner surface of the container. Localized temperature differences are a fundamental factor in convection; the greater the localized temperature difference, the more intense the convection, and the more intense the turbulence, the more evenly the rice-water mixture is heated, and the more fully the rice grains absorb water. To address this, existing technologies include a magnetic field adjustment component near the cooking container or coil to locally alter the magnetic field distribution generated by the energized coil, causing the cooking container to be subjected to an unevenly distributed magnetic field, thereby creating localized temperature differences and generating convection. However, the fixed position of the magnetic field adjustment component results in a fixed location of the localized temperature difference zone, leading to variations in the overall cooking effect of the food.

[0003] Therefore, a cooking appliance is needed to at least partially solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The summary section introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This summary section is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0005] To at least partially address the above-mentioned problems, this application provides a cooking appliance comprising a cooking container and a heating device for heating the cooking container, the heating device comprising:

[0006] A heating plate, located below the cooking container, is used to heat the cooking container;

[0007] Multiple temperature adjustment components are disposed between the heating plate and the cooking container; and

[0008] A position adjustment mechanism is connected to one or more temperature adjustment components and drives one or more temperature adjustment components to move relative to the heating plate between a first position and a second position.

[0009] When the temperature adjustment member moves between the first position and the second position, two adjacent temperature adjustment members form a variable interval zone in the circumferential and / or radial direction of the heating plate, such that when the heating device is working, a local temperature difference zone with at least a variable position is formed on the inner surface of the cooking container.

[0010] According to this solution, during the cooking stage, the movement of one or more temperature adjustment components is controlled, causing the position of the local temperature difference zone to change between different areas on the cooking container. This allows for adjustment of the location and range of uneven heating within the cooking container based on different ingredients or quantities. Compared to fixed uneven heating, this solution improves the overall uneven convection and tumbling effect of the food within the container, effectively enhancing the consistency of the overall cooking results, such as the consistency of the food's texture, graininess, and gloss.

[0011] Optionally, the first position is a converged position and the second position is an unfolded position, wherein the plurality of temperature adjustment components are adjacent to each other in the converged position and form a gap area in the unfolded position.

[0012] According to this solution, multiple temperature adjustment components are brought together at the convergence position, which can adjust the temperature of a small area on the cooking container without producing localized uneven heating, such as by providing heat insulation or magnetic shielding to the small area; multiple temperature adjustment components are dispersed at the unfolded position, which can provide localized uneven heating to a larger area on the cooking container.

[0013] Optionally, as the plurality of temperature adjustment components move from the converged position to the unfolded position, the area of ​​the gap between the plurality of temperature adjustment components gradually increases.

[0014] According to this solution, controlling the movement of multiple temperature adjustment components during the cooking stage can gradually increase or decrease the area of ​​the temperature zone corresponding to the interval zone on the cooking container, thereby controlling the degree of local uneven heating to gradually increase or decrease, making the control process more precise.

[0015] Optionally, the plurality of temperature adjustment components are distributed circumferentially along the heating plate, the plurality of temperature adjustment components are spaced apart from each other circumferentially in the unfolded position, and the plurality of temperature adjustment components are pivotable about their respective pivot axes between the converged position and the unfolded position.

[0016] According to this scheme, the circumferential distribution of localized non-uniform convection / heating can effectively improve the overall localized non-uniform convection and tumbling effect of the food inside the container.

[0017] Optionally, the pivot axes of the plurality of temperature adjustment components are parallel to each other and all extend vertically. Therefore, by setting the pivot axes in the same way, the design is simple, and the identical arrangement of the pivot axes simplifies the structure.

[0018] When the multiple temperature-adjusting components are converged, they are located at the bottom center of the heating plate and form a clearance zone for the temperature-sensing device to pass through. Thus, the temperature-sensing device can pass through the multiple temperature-adjusting components to contact the cooking container.

[0019] The multiple temperature adjustment components are located further from the center of the heating plate in the extended position than in the converged position. Therefore, the multiple temperature adjustment components have radial or off-radial travel.

[0020] The pivoting directions of the multiple temperature adjustment components are consistent, and the pivoting actions of the multiple temperature adjustment components are performed simultaneously. According to this solution, multiple temperature adjustment components can be pivoted simultaneously to the same radial position from the center of the heating plate, thereby obtaining multiple interval zones with the same parameters such as position, area, and shape.

[0021] Optionally, the plurality of temperature adjustment components are distributed circumferentially along the heating plate, and when the plurality of temperature adjustment components are in a convergent position, the width of the plurality of temperature adjustment components in the circumferential direction gradually increases from the radial direction outward from the heating plate, so as to splice them into a ring structure.

[0022] According to this solution, the ring-shaped structure design makes the edges of adjacent temperature adjustment components more compact, eliminating local gaps. Therefore, when multiple temperature adjustment components are clustered together, the area within the cooking container corresponding to these components does not experience uneven heating.

[0023] Optionally, each of the temperature adjustment components is pivotable about its respective pivot axis via a respective guide structure during movement. The guide structure includes a guide hole and a guide shaft that is slidable within the guide hole. One of the guide hole and the guide shaft is located on the temperature adjustment component, and the other of the guide hole and the guide shaft is located on a fixed component.

[0024] According to this scheme, when the temperature adjustment component rotates with the movable ring, the guide shaft abuts against the wall of the guide hole and generates an actuating force that causes the temperature adjustment component to pivot, so that each temperature adjustment component can pivot smoothly.

[0025] Optionally, the fixing component is a heating plate, and the plurality of temperature adjusting components are movably connected to the heating plate along the circumferential direction via guide structures.

[0026] According to this solution, using the heating plate as a fixed component directly can reduce the number of parts on the device, simplify the structure and assembly process, and reduce production costs.

[0027] Alternatively, the position adjustment mechanism includes a fixing ring fixedly connected to the heating plate, the fixing component being the fixing ring, and a plurality of temperature adjustment components being movably connected to the fixing ring along the circumferential direction via guide structures.

[0028] According to this solution, a new retaining ring is added as a fixing component. The retaining ring is relatively easy to manufacture separately, and the positioning and assembly between the retaining ring and multiple temperature adjustment components are also easy to operate.

[0029] Optionally, the position adjustment mechanism includes a movable ring, and a plurality of temperature adjustment components are pivotally connected to the movable ring in the circumferential direction. The movable ring is rotatable relative to the heating plate about a rotation axis collinear with the center line of the heating plate, so as to drive the plurality of temperature adjustment components to pivot together.

[0030] According to this solution, the rotational motion of the movable ring occupies little space, which is beneficial to improving the space utilization of the heating device; and the simple structure makes the production and assembly of the position adjustment mechanism easier and the manufacturing cost lower.

[0031] Optionally, the position adjustment mechanism includes a drive device, the top wall of the movable ring overlaps the top of the heating plate and is provided with a section of arc-shaped gear arranged circumferentially, and the output end of the drive device meshes with the teeth of the arc-shaped gear through the gear to drive the movable ring to rotate.

[0032] According to this solution, the gear structure has high transmission efficiency and more stable and precise control over the rotational motion of the moving ring, thereby enabling stable and precise pivoting of multiple temperature adjustment components; moreover, the structure is compact, occupies less space, and has a higher space utilization rate.

[0033] Optionally, the top wall of the movable ring is provided with a downwardly extending limiting rib, and the top of the heating plate is located radially inside the limiting rib and is engaged with the limiting rib through a concave-convex structure.

[0034] According to this design, the concave-convex structure can restrict the vertical movement of the movable ring but not its rotation; thus, the movable ring is rotatably connected to the heating plate.

[0035] Optionally, the driving device is a motor.

[0036] According to this solution, multiple temperature adjustment components can be pivoted to any desired angle as needed, and remain at that position for the desired period of time after pivoting to that angle, which can meet various requirements of different cooking stages.

[0037] Alternatively, the drive device includes a linkage assembly and a steering assembly, wherein the driving end of the linkage assembly moves under the gravity of the cooking container when it is placed, the driven end of the linkage assembly is provided with a rack, and the steering assembly meshes with the rack to convert linear motion into rotational motion.

[0038] According to this solution, when a cooking container is placed, its weight presses down on the driving end of the linkage assembly, causing the rack on the driven end of the linkage assembly to move up and down. The linear motion is then converted into rotational motion by a steering component, driving the movable ring to rotate. The linkage transmission structure is simple, easy to manufacture and maintain, and has low cost.

[0039] Optionally, the temperature adjustment component is a magnet or a magnetic shield, the heating plate is provided with a coil, and the temperature adjustment component is located above the coil.

[0040] According to this scheme, a magnet can concentrate some magnetic field lines in a magnetic field, thus forming a strong magnetic field region, while the area outside the magnet is a weak magnetic field region. A magnetic shield can block some magnetic field lines from passing through, thus forming a weak magnetic field region, while the area outside the shield is a strong magnetic field region. The portion of the cooking container within the strong magnetic field region generates a larger induced current, resulting in a higher temperature; the portion within the weak magnetic field region generates a smaller induced current or no induced current, resulting in a lower temperature.

[0041] Alternatively, the temperature adjustment component may be a heat-concentrating body or a heat-insulating body, the heating plate may be provided with an electric heating element, and the temperature adjustment component may be located above the electric heating element.

[0042] According to this design, the heat-concentrating element gathers heat from the heating plate, forming a strong heating zone, while the area outside the heat-concentrating element is a weak heating zone. The heat-insulating element blocks heat from the heating plate, also forming a weak heating zone, while the area outside the heat-concentrating element is a strong heating zone. The portion of the cooking container within the strong heating zone absorbs more heat, resulting in a higher temperature; the portion within the weak heating zone absorbs less heat or no heat, resulting in a lower temperature.

[0043] Optionally, the cooking appliance further includes a control device configured to control the movement of one or more of the temperature adjusting members between a converged position and an extended position via the position adjusting mechanism during the cooking phase.

[0044] According to this solution, the control device can change the position of the local temperature difference zone between different areas on the cooking container by controlling the movement of multiple temperature adjustment components during the cooking stage. This allows for adjustment of the position and range of uneven heating within the cooking container based on different ingredients or quantities. Compared to fixed uneven heating, this solution improves the overall uneven convection and tumbling effect of the food within the container, effectively enhancing the consistency of the overall cooking results, such as the consistency of the food's texture, grain size, and gloss.

[0045] Optionally, the cooking stage includes a boiling stage, wherein the control device is configured to hold the plurality of temperature adjusting components in the deployed position during the boiling stage.

[0046] According to this scheme, the temperature adjustment component is deployed during the boiling stage, allowing the ingredients and water to circulate and tumble fully within the container, promoting the uniform distribution of moisture and the gelatinization of starch within the ingredients.

[0047] Alternatively, the plurality of temperature adjusting components may have at least two deployed positions, and the control device may be configured to reciprocate between any two of the at least two deployed positions at a preset cycle during the boiling phase.

[0048] According to this solution, during the boiling stage, there are always local temperature difference zones in the cooking container with variable positions. While ensuring local uneven heating, the positions of local uneven heating are adjusted.

[0049] Optionally, the cooking stage includes a rice-simmering stage, during which the control device is configured to reciprocate between an extended position and a converged position at a preset cycle. The control device is also configured to return the multiple temperature-adjusting components to the converged position after cooking is complete.

[0050] According to this solution, the repeated opening and closing of the temperature adjustment component during the rice cooking stage helps the entire container to be heated evenly, avoiding localized yellowing or burning of ingredients. Even heat distribution facilitates precise temperature control, allowing the ingredients to deeply absorb water and further gelatinize the starch, while evaporating excess water to achieve the ideal taste of the food.

[0051] Optionally, the cooking stage includes a water absorption stage and a heat preservation stage, wherein when the temperature adjusting member is a magnetic shield or heat insulation body, the control device is configured to hold the plurality of temperature adjusting members in a converged position during the water absorption stage and / or the heat preservation stage. Alternatively, when the temperature adjusting member is a magnetizing body or a heat-concentrating body, the control device is configured to hold the plurality of temperature adjusting members in an extended position during the water absorption stage and / or the heat preservation stage.

[0052] According to this solution, during the water absorption stage, the temperature adjustment component, when acting as a magnetic shield or heat insulation body, is retracted to the center of the bottom; when acting as a magnet or heat-concentrating body, it extends away from the center of the bottom. This helps prevent the temperature of the bottom temperature measuring area from being significantly higher than the temperature of the contents of the cooking container, thus avoiding inaccurate temperature measurement. Precise temperature control helps ensure efficient water absorption by the food while preventing premature gelatinization of the outer starch layer. During the heat preservation stage, the temperature adjustment component, when acting as a magnetic shield or heat insulation body, is retracted to the center of the bottom; when acting as a magnet or heat-concentrating body, it extends away from the center of the bottom. This prevents localized yellowing / burning of the rice, maintaining optimal taste for a longer period. Attached Figure Description

[0053] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference and used to understand this application, illustrate embodiments of the application and their descriptions, thereby explaining the principles of the application.

[0054] In the attached image:

[0055] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the heating device and cooking container according to this application;

[0056] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the heating device shown;

[0057] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of section A;

[0058] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of section B;

[0059] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A top view of the moving ring and temperature regulating component, with the temperature regulating component in the convergent position;

[0060] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A bottom view of the moving ring and temperature adjustment component, with the temperature adjustment component in the converged position;

[0061] Figure 7 for Figure 5 Top view of the moving ring and temperature adjustment component, with the temperature adjustment component in the unfolded position;

[0062] Figure 8 for Figure 5 A bottom view of the moving ring and temperature adjustment component, with the temperature adjustment component in the unfolded position;

[0063] Figure 9 for Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of an example of the pot and heating device shown;

[0064] Figure 10 for Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of another example of the pot and heating device shown;

[0065] Figure 11 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the active ring in the middle;

[0066] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A three-dimensional view of the central activity ring;

[0067] Figure 13 for Figure 11 Top view of the central active ring;

[0068] Figure 14 for Figure 1 Top view of the temperature adjustment component;

[0069] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A three-dimensional view of the temperature adjustment component;

[0070] Figure 16 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the fixed ring in the middle;

[0071] Figure 17 for Figure 16 Top view of the fixed ring;

[0072] Figure 18 A partial schematic diagram of another example of a drive device according to this application;

[0073] Figure 19 for Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the commutation assembly of the drive unit shown.

[0074] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0075] 1. Cooking container 2. Heat-conducting layer

[0076] 3. Magnetic layer 4. Heating device

[0077] 5. Heating plate 6. Temperature adjustment component

[0078] 7 center hole 8 coil

[0079] 9. Position adjustment mechanism; 10. Moving ring

[0080] 11 Pivot shaft 12 Drive mechanism

[0081] 13 shaft hole 14 movable inner ring

[0082] 15. Active outer ring; 16. Connecting arm

[0083] 17 Top wall 18 Arc gear

[0084] 19 gears, 20 motors

[0085] 21 Limiting ribs 22 Concave-convex structure

[0086] 23 first convex part 24 second convex part

[0087] 25 Guide structure 26 Guide hole

[0088] 27 Guide shaft 28 First hole end

[0089] 29 Second hole end 30 Fixing ring

[0090] 31 Fastening hole 32 Connecting rod assembly

[0091] 33 Steering assembly 34 Rack

[0092] 35. Rack and pinion drive wheel; 36. First helical gear

[0093] 37 Second helical gear R1 interval area

[0094] R2 Escape Zone Detailed Implementation

[0095] The following description provides numerous specific details to offer a more thorough understanding of this application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this application can be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well-known in the art have not been described to avoid confusion with this application.

[0096] To fully understand this application, a detailed description will be provided below. It is obvious that the implementation of embodiments of this application is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art. Preferred embodiments of this application are described in detail below; however, other embodiments may also be available in addition to these detailed descriptions.

[0097] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0098] Ordinal numbers such as “first” and “second” used in this application are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as a specific order. Moreover, for example, the term “first component” does not imply the existence of a “second component”, and the term “second component” does not imply the existence of a “first component”.

[0099] It should be noted that the terms “up,” “down,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” and similar expressions used in this article are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be restrictive.

[0100] Exemplary embodiments according to this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application is thorough and complete, and that the concept of these exemplary embodiments is fully conveyed to those skilled in the art.

[0101] This application provides a cooking appliance, which includes a cooking container and a heating device for heating the cooking container. The cooking appliance can be, for example, an electric rice cooker, an electric stove equipped with a cooking container, a pressure cooker, or other electrically heated electric cooking appliances, in which case the heating device is an electric heating plate or other electric heating device. Alternatively, the cooking appliance can be, for example, an IH rice cooker, an induction cooker equipped with a cooking container, an IH pressure cooker, or other electromagnetically heated electromagnetic cooking appliances, in which case the cooking container includes a magnetic layer or contains magnetic material, and the heating device is an electromagnetic heating device such as a coil. In addition to the function of cooking rice, the cooking appliance can also have various functions such as cooking porridge.

[0102] For cooking appliances like rice cookers, the cooking vessel consists of a pot body and a lid. The cooking container is the inner pot, and the pot body has a cylindrical inner pot storage section. The inner pot can be fixed in the inner pot storage section, or it can be freely placed into or removed from the inner pot storage section for easy cleaning. The inner pot is usually made of metal and has a circular opening on its upper surface for holding the food to be heated, such as rice or soup. The pot body includes a heating device for heating the inner pot, such as an induction coil.

[0103] The lid has a shape that substantially corresponds to the pot body. The lid is cladably mounted on the pot body; specifically, it is pivotally connected to the pot body via a pivot axis and can freely pivot between a closed and open position relative to the pot body about the pivot axis, facilitating the closing and opening of the pot body. When the lid is closed on the pot body, it covers the inner pot, forming a cooking space between them. The lid typically also has a sealing ring, which can be made of, for example, rubber, and is positioned between the lid and the inner pot to seal the cooking space when the lid is closed.

[0104] For cooking appliances such as electric stoves or induction cookers, the cooking containers can be pots, cups, etc. The inner pot is independent of the electric stove or induction cooker, and the inner pot can be placed on the upper surface of the electric stove or induction cooker when in use.

[0105] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, this application provides a heating device 4 that can improve heat convection within a cooking container 1 during cooking. The heating device 4 includes a heating plate 5 and multiple temperature adjustment components 6. The heating plate 5 is located below the cooking container and is used to heat the cooking container 1. The multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are located between the heating plate 5 and the cooking container 1. For example, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are mounted on the upper side of the heating plate 5. The multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are used to adjust the heat distribution of the cooking container 1, so that high-temperature zones and low-temperature zones are generated on the inner surface of the cooking container 1. The heating device 4 also includes a temperature measuring device (not shown). A central hole 7 is provided in the center of the bottom of the heating plate 5. The temperature measuring device passes through the central hole 7 and can contact the bottom surface of the cooking container 1 to detect the temperature of the cooking container 1. Optionally, the temperature adjustment components 6 are made of sheet material.

[0106] The temperature adjustment component 6 can be adjusted in two ways. One method involves changing the distribution of the magnetic field strength from the heating device 4 to the cooking container 1, thereby adjusting the heat distribution within the cooking container 1. Referring to the illustrated example, the heating device 4 is an electromagnetic heating device, and the heating plate 5 has a coil 8, forming a coil 8. The temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetically focused body or magnetic shield, located above the coil 8. For example, in rice cookers, the coil 8 is typically wound around the lower side of the heating plate 5, thus the temperature adjustment component 6 is located above the coil 8. The cooking container 1 includes a heat-conducting layer 2 and a magnetically conductive layer 3 located outside the heat-conducting layer 2. It may also include inner / outer protective layers, a non-stick coating, etc. When the coil 8 operates, it generates an alternating magnetic field. The cooking container 1, under the influence of this alternating magnetic field, induces a current, thereby generating heat. A magnet can concentrate some magnetic field lines in a magnetic field, thus forming a strong magnetic field region, while the area outside the magnet is a weak magnetic field region. A magnetic shield can block some magnetic field lines from passing through, thus forming a weak magnetic field region, while the area outside the shield is a strong magnetic field region. The portion of cooking container 1 within the strong magnetic field region generates a larger induced current, resulting in a higher temperature; the portion within the weak magnetic field region generates a smaller induced current or no induced current, resulting in a lower temperature.

[0107] Another configuration involves a temperature adjustment component 6 that alters the heat transfer path from the heating device 4 to the cooking container 1, thereby adjusting the heat distribution within the cooking container 1. In this configuration, the heating device 4 is an electric heating device, and the heating plate 5 is equipped with an electric heating element, thus forming an electric heating plate. The temperature adjustment component 6 is a heat-concentrating body or a heat-insulating body, located above the electric heating element. The cooking container 1 typically includes one or two heat-conducting layers 2. The heat-concentrating body concentrates the heat from the heating plate 5, forming a strong heating zone, while the area outside the heat-concentrating body is a weak heating zone. The heat-insulating body blocks the heat from the heating plate 5, forming a weak heating zone, while the area outside the heat-concentrating body is a strong heating zone. The portion of the cooking container 1 within the strong heating zone absorbs more heat, resulting in a higher temperature; the portion of the cooking container 1 within the weak heating zone absorbs less heat or no heat, resulting in a lower temperature.

[0108] During cooking, the inner surface of the cooking container 1 has a first temperature zone corresponding to the temperature adjusting member 6 and a second temperature zone corresponding to the portion of the heating plate 5 not covered by the temperature adjusting member 6. When the temperature adjusting member 6 is a magnet or a heat-concentrating body, the first temperature zone is a high-temperature zone, and the second temperature zone is a low-temperature zone. When the temperature adjusting member 6 is a magnetic shield or a heat insulator, the first temperature zone is a low-temperature zone, and the second temperature zone is a high-temperature zone. The contents of the cooking container 1 are heated quickly and at a high temperature in the high-temperature zone, while the contents are heated slowly and at a low temperature in the low-temperature zone.

[0109] For example, the material of the magnet can be known materials such as ferrite, ferrosilicon alloy, and iron-nickel alloy. The material of the magnetic shield can be known materials such as aluminum, ferromagnetic alloy, conductive plastic, and glass. The material of the heat-concentrating body can be known materials such as copper, carbon, and graphite. The material of the heat insulation body can be known materials such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), PFA (polyfluoroalkoxy), and ceramics.

[0110] In this embodiment, the temperature adjustment member 6 is configured to be positionally variable relative to the heating plate 5, thereby allowing the high-temperature and low-temperature zones on the cooking container 1 to be positioned variably. For example, one or more temperature adjustment members 6 may be movable relative to the heating plate 5 between a first position and a second position. Here, "multiple temperature adjustment members 6" may include two, three, etc., and means that all of the multiple temperature adjustment members 6 are movable, or that a portion of the multiple temperature adjustment members 6 are movable; thus, it can also be described as at least one temperature adjustment member 6 being movable. When the temperature adjustment member 6 is in at least the second position, two adjacent temperature adjustment members 6 are spaced apart circumferentially and / or radially in the heating plate 5 to form a gap region R1. Figure 7 and Figure 8The approximate locations of the inner boundary P1 and outer boundary P2 of the partition zone R1 are schematically shown using dashed lines. This arrangement allows for the formation of localized temperature difference zones on the inner surface of the cooking container 1 when the heating device 4 is operating.

[0111] The heating plate 5 is not covered by the temperature adjustment component 6 at the interval R1, therefore the area of ​​the cooking container 1 corresponding to the interval R1 is the second temperature zone. When the temperature adjustment component 6 is in at least the second position, the first and second temperature zones on the inner surface of the cooking container 1 are staggered in the circumferential or radial direction, and there is a significant temperature difference between the first and second temperature zones, thus forming a local temperature difference zone between the two zones, which can generate a significant temperature gradient. Utilizing the temperature gradient to generate localized uneven convection, the overall heat convection inside the container becomes faster and more intense, causing the food inside the container to tumble unevenly, resulting in more thorough boiling and tumbling, more even heating of the food, and better consistency in the cooking effect. In addition, when there are localized temperature difference zones at multiple locations on the inner surface of the cooking container 1, the food grains such as rice in contact with the inner surface of the cooking container 1 will undergo stress deformation and viscosity changes due to expansion caused by the temperature difference, giving the inner surface of the cooking container 1 non-stick properties, achieving a non-stick surface.

[0112] The position of the interval zone R1 formed by the temperature adjusting member 6 changes at least when it moves. Specifically, when the temperature adjusting member 6 moves between the first and second positions, two adjacent temperature adjusting members 6 form a variable interval zone R1 in the circumferential and / or radial direction of the heating plate 5, so that when the heating device 4 is working, a local temperature difference zone with at least a variable position is formed on the inner surface of the cooking container 1. The position of the interval zone R1 changes, and the position of the second temperature zone also changes accordingly, thereby affecting the position of the local temperature difference zone. Thus, by controlling the movement of the temperature adjusting member 6 during the cooking stage, the position of the local temperature difference zone changes between different areas on the cooking container 1, thereby adjusting the position and range of local uneven heating within the cooking container 1 according to different ingredients or the amount of ingredients. Compared to fixed local uneven heating, this solution can improve the overall local uneven convection and tumbling effect of the food within the container, effectively improving the consistency of the overall cooking effect of the food, such as the consistency of the cooked texture, particle size, and gloss.

[0113] An alternative example, as illustrated, is a first position of convergence and a second position of deployment. Multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are movable relative to the heating plate 5 between the convergence position and at least one deployment position. See also Figure 5 and Figure 6 When multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are in the convergent position, they are adjacent to each other, and can be spliced ​​into a regular or irregular structure. (See also...) Figure 7 and Figure 8When the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are in the unfolded position, they form a gap R1, specifically spaced apart from each other in the circumferential and / or radial direction of the heating plate 5. At this time, a gap R1 is formed between two adjacent temperature adjustment components 6. When the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are clustered together in the converged position, they can adjust the temperature of a smaller area on the cooking container 1 without producing localized uneven heating, for example, by insulating or magnetically shielding the smaller area. When the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are dispersed in the unfolded position, they can provide localized uneven heating to a larger area on the cooking container 1.

[0114] An alternative example is that both the first and second positions are deployed positions, with the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 forming a first interval area in the first position and a second interval area in the second position, the area of ​​the second interval area being larger than the area of ​​the first interval area. The deployment range of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 in the first position is small, enabling localized uneven heating of a smaller area on the cooking container 1; the deployment range of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 in the second position is large, enabling localized uneven heating of a larger area on the cooking container 1.

[0115] In some examples, in addition to the change in position, the area, shape, and other parameters of the interval zone R1 also change. Consequently, the area, shape, and other parameters of the second temperature zone also change accordingly, forming a localized temperature difference zone with variable area and shape on the inner surface of the cooking container 1. This allows adjustment of the location and range of uneven heating within the cooking container 1. In the illustrated example, the position, area, and shape of the interval zone R1 formed when the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 move change, thus creating a localized temperature difference zone with variable position, area, and shape on the inner surface of the cooking container 1.

[0116] Optionally, the number of unfolded positions is one, in which case the unfolded position is the limit position for the movement of the temperature adjustment component 6. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram shows multiple temperature adjustment components 6 in their extended limit positions. As the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 move between these extended and converged positions, the inner surface of the cooking container 1 can vary between creating localized temperature difference zones with variable positions and creating concentrated strong / weak heating zones.

[0117] Alternatively, there may be at least two unfolded positions, one of which is the limit position of movement, i.e., the maximum unfolded position. The remaining unfolded positions are between this limit position and the converged position, i.e., there is one or more unfolded positions between the maximum unfolded position and the converged position. In this case, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 can be moved between any two of the at least two unfolded positions, so that the cooking container 1 always has a variable local temperature difference zone, which ensures local uneven heating while adjusting the position of the local uneven heating. Of course, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 can also move between any one of the unfolded positions and the converged position. Generally, it is desirable for the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to move between the maximum unfolded position and the converged position / another unfolded position so that the local temperature difference zone can reach the limit position on the cooking container 1, specifically the position furthest from the bottom center.

[0118] It should be noted that "deployed position" refers to the position where the temperature adjustment component 6 is deployed and can remain in place for a period of time. The extreme position can be the position where the temperature adjustment component 6 can move to its maximum extent due to structural limitations, or it can be the position where the temperature adjustment component 6 is set to its maximum range of motion based on the type of cooking appliance and / or cooking needs.

[0119] As the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 move from the converged position to the deployed position, the area of ​​the interval zone R1 formed between the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 gradually increases. In this way, by controlling the movement of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 during the cooking stage, the area of ​​the second temperature zone on the cooking container 1 can be gradually increased or decreased, thereby controlling the degree of local uneven heating to gradually increase or decrease, making the control process more precise.

[0120] Taking the illustrated example, multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are distributed circumferentially along the heating plate 5, specifically in an array. When converged, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are adjacent to each other circumferentially, and when extended, they are spaced apart circumferentially. When extended, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 form two or more interval zones R1 distributed circumferentially, thereby creating two or more second temperature zones distributed circumferentially on the inner surface of the cooking container 1, resulting in circumferentially distributed localized uneven convection / heating. This circumferentially distributed localized uneven convection / heating effectively improves the overall localized uneven convection and tumbling effect of the food inside the container.

[0121] The converged position is located at the bottom center of the heating plate 5. Furthermore, in the converged position, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are concentrated at the bottom center of the heating plate 5, corresponding to the bottom center of the cooking container 1. In the unfolded position, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are further away from the center of the heating plate 5 than in the converged position. Therefore, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 have radial or off-radial travel. In the converged position, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 form a clearance zone R2 for the passage of a temperature measuring device. The temperature measuring device can pass through the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to contact the cooking container 1.

[0122] When the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetic shield or heat insulation body, gathering multiple temperature adjustment components 6 at the bottom center of the heating plate 5 can prevent the temperature of the bottom temperature measuring area of ​​the cooking container 1 from being too high compared to the temperature of the contents of the cooking container 1, making the temperature detected by the temperature measuring device closer to the actual temperature of the contents. This improves the accuracy of temperature measurement, and precise temperature control helps ensure the water absorption efficiency of the food while preventing premature gelatinization of the outer starch layer of the food. When the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnet or heat-concentrating body, multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are kept in the unfolded position; alternatively, multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are gathered at the bottom center of the heating plate 5 and kept a certain distance away from the temperature measuring device to avoid affecting the accuracy of temperature measurement.

[0123] The temperature adjustment component 6 can be elliptical, polygonal, or similar in shape. The illustration shows a fan-shaped or similar gradually widening shape for the temperature adjustment component 6. Specifically, when the temperature adjustment component 6 is in the convergent position, its circumferential width gradually increases radially outward from the heating plate 5 to form a gradually widening shape, allowing multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to be joined into a ring structure when in the convergent position. The edge of one gradually widening shape extends parallel to and adjacent to the edge of another adjacent gradually widening shape. The hollow area of ​​the ring structure serves as a clearance zone R2 for the temperature measuring device to pass through. With this ring structure design, the edges of adjacent temperature adjustment components 6 are more compact, eliminating localized gaps R1. Therefore, when multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are in the convergent position, the area within the cooking container 1 corresponding to the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 does not experience uneven heating. This is advantageous in examples where the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetic shield or heat insulation material, because the inner surface of the cooking container 1 is a weakly heated area in the region corresponding to the ring structure, and the temperature detected by the temperature measuring device is closer to the actual temperature of the contents, resulting in higher temperature measurement accuracy.

[0124] Optionally, as illustrated in the example, multiple temperature adjustment components 6 can pivot around their respective pivot axes between converged and deployed positions, and between the two deployed positions. Using pivoting to change the position of multiple temperature adjustment components 6 makes their movement easier to control, occupies less space, and improves the space utilization of the heating device 4. The projection of the movement trajectory of a single temperature adjustment component 6 onto the horizontal plane is arc-shaped, with the travel distance deviating from the radial direction. The pivot axes of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are parallel to each other and all extend vertically. Using the same method to set the pivot axes simplifies the design, and the arrangement of the pivot shafts 11 defining the pivot axes is identical, simplifying the structure. Alternatively, the pivot axes of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 can each be perpendicular to or inclined to the upper side of the heating plate 5; in this case, the pivot shafts 11 defining the pivot axes can each be perpendicular to or inclined to the upper side of the heating plate 5.

[0125] Multiple temperature adjustment components 6 pivot in the same direction, and their pivoting actions occur simultaneously. This allows multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to pivot simultaneously to the same radial position from the center of the heating plate 5, thus obtaining a spacing region R1 with identical position, area, and shape parameters. Furthermore, the mechanism for the simultaneous pivoting of multiple temperature adjustment components 6 is simple in structure, making assembly and manufacturing easier. Of course, if needed and / or desired, adjacent temperature adjustment components 6 can pivot in opposite directions, with one component pivoting radially inward from its convergence position and the other pivoting radially outward from its convergence position. In this case, the resulting spacing region R1 has a larger radial range. The pivoting configuration of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 can also be configured in other ways as needed.

[0126] Alternatively, the projection of the movement trajectory of a single temperature adjustment component 6 onto the horizontal plane is a straight line, in which case the movement stroke is radial. Multiple temperature adjustment components 6 simultaneously converge and expand in their respective radial directions.

[0127] To create a desired temperature gradient on the inner surface of the cooking container 1, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 need to meet spacing requirements when in their unfolded position. The multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are distributed in a first direction, which can be radial or circumferential. Specifically, when the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetic shield or heat insulation body, the temperature adjustment component 6 has a spacing s1 between two spaced-apart contour edges in the first direction (see...). Figure 8 and Figure 9 When the temperature regulating component 6 is a magnetic or thermal concentrator, there is a spacing s2 between two adjacent temperature regulating components 6 (see...). Figure 8 and Figure 10 Controlling the range of spacing s1 or spacing s2 controls the size of the low-temperature zone in the direction parallel to the second direction, so as to avoid the low-temperature zone being too small or too large, affecting the heat transferred to the center of the low-temperature zone.

[0128] Figure 9 The diagram schematically illustrates the heat transfer path when the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetic shield or a heat insulator. Taking a magnetic shield as an example, the cooking container 1 includes a heat-conducting layer 2 and a magnetically conductive layer 3 located outside the heat-conducting layer 2. When the inner pot 1 is heated, the magnetically conductive layer 3 does not generate heat in the first part corresponding to the temperature adjustment component 6, and has no temperature. The magnetically conductive layer 3 generates heat in the second part corresponding to the interval R1, having a high-temperature point T1. The heat in this second part can be transferred to the inner surface of the cooking container 1 via the heat-conducting layer 2, resulting in a high-temperature point T2 and a low-temperature point T3 on the inner surface of the cooking container 1. The high-temperature point T2 corresponds to the high-temperature point T1 in the thickness direction, and the low-temperature point T3 corresponds to the middle of the first part / temperature adjustment component 6 in the first direction. At this time, T1 > T2 > T3. After a temperature difference is generated on the inner surface of the container, heat flows from the high-temperature area to the low-temperature area, promoting the tumbling and convection of food inside the container, resulting in uniform cooking.

[0129] At this time, the temperature adjusting component 6 has a spacing s1 between the two contour edges spaced apart in the first direction. A test was conducted using an example pot liner 1 of this application, and the relationship between the temperature difference and the spacing s1 was obtained (see table below).

[0130] Table 1.

[0131]

[0132] Therefore, as the spacing s1 increases, the temperature difference between the high-temperature point T2 and the low-temperature point T3 also increases. If the spacing is too small, the temperature difference is too small, the rice's tumbling force is too weak, and the moisture content of the cooked rice is uneven. If the spacing is too large, the temperature difference is too large, the temperature in the low-temperature zone is too low, and the rice is prone to being undercooked in the low-temperature zone. At the same time, because the area of ​​the temperature difference zone decreases with the larger spacing, the tumbling will also be uneven. Therefore, the spacing s1 is set to 5mm to 85mm, for example, 5mm, 10mm, 20mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, 70mm, 85mm, etc.; preferably 10mm to 60mm.

[0133] Figure 10The diagram schematically illustrates the heat transfer path when the temperature regulating member 6 is a magnet or a heat-concentrating body. Taking a magnet as an example, when the inner pot 1 is heated, the magnetic layer 3 generates heat in the first part corresponding to the temperature regulating member 6, resulting in a high-temperature point T1. The magnetic layer 3 generates less heat in the second part corresponding to the interval R1. For ease of understanding, this paper considers the heat transfer in the first part. The heat in this first part can be transferred to the inner surface of the cooking container 1 via the heat-conducting layer 2, resulting in a high-temperature point T2 and a low-temperature point T3 on the inner surface of the cooking container 1. The high-temperature point T2 corresponds to the high-temperature point T1 in the thickness direction, and the low-temperature point T3 corresponds to the middle of the second part / interval R1 in the first direction. In this case, T1 > T2 > T3. Similar to the testing of the magnetic shield or heat insulation body described above, the spacing s2 can be set to 5mm to 85mm, preferably 10mm to 60mm.

[0134] It should be noted that, due to the shape of the temperature regulating component, the temperature regulating component / interval area includes an effective portion and an edge portion. The spacing of the effective portion can reach the aforementioned spacing range, while the spacing of the edge portion exceeds the aforementioned spacing range. The area of ​​the cooking container corresponding to the effective portion can be used to generate the desired local temperature difference.

[0135] The heating device 4 also includes a position adjustment mechanism 9. The position adjustment mechanism 9 is connected to one or more temperature adjustment components 6 and drives one or more temperature adjustment components 6 to move relative to the heating plate 5 between a first position and a second position. In the illustrated example, the position adjustment mechanism 9 is connected to the heating plate 5 and to multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to drive them to move together. The heating device 4 itself is equipped with the position adjustment mechanism 9, allowing it to be assembled into the cooking appliance along with the heating plate 5, rather than having a separate mechanism within the cooking appliance to operate the multiple temperature adjustment components 6. This design provides a high degree of independent control over the heating device 4; furthermore, this single mechanism enables multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to move simultaneously, resulting in a simple and efficient control process and a simple overall structure for the heating device 4.

[0136] like Figures 2 to 8As shown, the position adjustment mechanism 9 includes a movable ring 10 for pivoting multiple temperature adjustment components 6 and a drive device 12 for driving the movable ring 10 to rotate. The drive device 12 is located radially outside the heating plate 5, and the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are pivotally connected to the movable ring 10 circumferentially. The movable ring 10 is rotatable relative to the heating plate 5 about a rotation axis collinear with the center line of the heating plate 5, thereby driving the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to pivot together. The multiple temperature adjustment components 6 pivot while rotating with the movable ring 10. Multiple temperature adjustment components 6 can pivot simultaneously with a single movable ring 10, and the pivot angle is the same at all times. The rotational movement of the movable ring 10 occupies little space, which is beneficial for improving the space utilization of the heating device 4; moreover, the structure is simple, making the production, manufacturing, and assembly of the position adjustment mechanism 9 easier and the manufacturing cost lower.

[0137] The movable ring 10 is located above the plurality of temperature regulating components 6, and thus the movable ring 10 is made of a material that does not affect the function of the temperature regulating components 6. For example... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the lower surface of the movable ring 10 is provided with multiple pivot shafts 11, and each temperature adjustment member 6 is provided with a shaft hole 13. Each pivot shaft 11 defines a pivot axis and passes through the shaft hole 13 of a temperature adjustment member 6. The temperature adjustment member 6 pivots relative to the movable ring 10 about its respective pivot shaft 11. The pivot shaft 11 extends vertically; alternatively, the pivot shaft 11 may also be perpendicular or inclined to the lower surface of the movable ring 10. The shaft hole 13 is provided at the end corner of the temperature adjustment member 6, so that the pivot shaft 11 / pivot axis of the temperature adjustment member 6 is at its own end corner, resulting in a larger pivot radius of the temperature adjustment member 6, and the extreme position of the temperature adjustment member 6 can be further away from the center line of the heating plate 5. In this way, the area on the cooking container 1 corresponding to the temperature adjustment member 6 at the extreme position can be further away from the center line of the cooking container 1, which is beneficial for more widespread uneven heating.

[0138] For example, the movable ring 10 includes a movable inner ring 14, a movable outer ring 15 located radially outside the movable inner ring 14, and a connecting arm 16 connecting the movable inner ring 14 and the movable outer ring 15. Figure 13 As shown, the inner movable ring 14 and the outer movable ring 15 are concentric rings, optionally with their centers on the center line of the heating plate 5. The connecting arms 16 are spaced apart circumferentially, specifically arranged in a ring array. The number of connecting arms 16 is generally greater than or equal to three. Thus, the movable ring 10 has a hollow structure, with most of the temperature adjustment component 6 exposed through the hollow opening in both the converged and extended positions, to minimize the impact of the movable ring 10 on the function of the temperature adjustment component 6.

[0139] The width of the movable inner ring 14 is set to meet the requirements of structural strength and the pivoting of the temperature adjustment components 6, without being too wide. The width of the movable outer ring 15 is set to meet the requirements of connection with the heating plate 5, without being too wide. If needed and / or desired, the movable outer ring 15 can be replaced by multiple circumferentially spaced arc segments, each arc segment being connected to the movable inner ring 14 via at least one connecting arm 16. Optionally, the movable ring 10 is made of sheet material. The lower surface of the movable inner ring 14 contacts the upper surface of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to limit the upward movement of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6, ensuring smoother pivoting movement of the temperature adjustment components 6.

[0140] Optionally, see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The transmission structure between the drive unit 12 and the movable ring 10 can be a gear structure. Specifically, the movable ring 10 has a horizontally extending top wall 17, which can overlap the top of the heating plate 5, i.e., be supported on the top of the heating plate 5. The top wall 17 of the movable ring 10 is provided with a circumferentially arranged arc-shaped gear 18 (see...). Figure 12 and Figure 13 The output end of the drive unit 12 meshes with the arc-shaped gear 18 of the movable ring 10 via gear 19 (see...). Figure 3 The gear structure has high transmission efficiency and provides more stable and precise control over the rotation of the movable ring 10, thereby enabling stable and precise pivoting of multiple temperature adjustment components 6; moreover, it has a compact structure, occupies less space, and has a higher space utilization rate.

[0141] An example of a drive unit 12 is a motor 20. A gear 19 is fitted onto the output shaft of the motor 20 to mesh with an arc-shaped gear 18 of the movable ring 10. This allows multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to be pivoted at any desired angle as needed and to remain at that position for a desired period of time, satisfying various requirements at different cooking stages. The motor 20 is capable of forward and reverse rotation, thus causing the movable ring 10 to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise.

[0142] A concave-convex structure 22 is provided between the movable ring 10 and the heating plate 5. The concave-convex structure 22 can restrict the vertical movement of the movable ring 10 but does not restrict the rotation of the movable ring 10. Specifically, as shown in... Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the top wall 17 of the movable ring 10 is provided with a downwardly extending limiting rib 21. The top end of the heating plate 5 is located radially inside the limiting rib 21 and is engaged with the limiting rib 21 through a concave-convex structure 22. Exemplarily, the limiting rib 21 has a first protrusion 23 that protrudes radially inward, and the top end of the heating plate 5 has a second protrusion 24 that protrudes radially outward. The first protrusion 23 is engaged with the upper side of the second protrusion 24 to restrict the limiting rib 21 from moving upward relative to the heating plate 5. Alternatively, the first protrusion 23 can be replaced by a groove, that is, the limiting rib 21 has a radially outward recessed groove, and the protrusion of the heating plate 5 is engaged in the groove. Conversely, the second protrusion 24 can also be replaced by a groove. The top wall 17 of the movable ring 10 is annular, and the limiting rib 21 can be a multi-segment arc-shaped rib distributed circumferentially, or an annular rib; the top wall 17 and the limiting rib 21 constitute the movable outer ring 15.

[0143] To enable the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to pivot, a structure is also required that drives the temperature adjustment components 6 to pivot as the movable ring 10 rotates. Each temperature adjustment component 6, during movement, and more specifically, as the movable ring 10 rotates, is pivotable about its respective pivot axis via its respective guide structure 25. The guide structure 25 includes a guide hole 26 and a guide shaft 27 slidable within the guide hole 26. One of the guide hole 26 and the guide shaft 27 is located on the temperature adjustment component 6, and the other is located on a fixed component. The fixed component does not rotate with the movable ring 10 and does not pivot with the temperature adjustment components 6. As the temperature adjustment component 6 rotates with the movable ring 10, the guide shaft 27 abuts against the wall of the guide hole 26 and generates an actuating force that causes the temperature adjustment component 6 to pivot smoothly.

[0144] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the guide hole 26 is arc-shaped and has a first end 28 and a second end 29. The distance from the first end 28 to the pivot axis is less than the distance from the second end 29 to the pivot axis. In the example where the guide hole 26 is provided on the temperature adjustment member 6, when the temperature adjustment member 6 is in the converged position, the second end 29 of the guide hole 26 is closer to the center line of the heating plate 5 than the first end 28, and the first end 28 is offset from the radial line where the second end 29 is located towards the pivot axis. In other words, the first end 28 is located between the pivot axis and the radial line where the second end 29 is located. The guide hole 26 structurally defines the extreme position of the pivot of the temperature adjustment member 6. When the guide shaft 27 moves relative to the first end 28 of the guide hole 26, the converged position of the temperature adjustment member 6 is defined. When the guide shaft 27 moves relative to the second end 29 of the guide hole 26, the maximum unfolded position or the extreme unfolded position of the temperature adjustment member 6 is defined.

[0145] An alternative example is that the position adjustment mechanism 9 further includes a retaining ring 30. The retaining ring 30 is located below the temperature adjustment member 6 and is fixedly connected to the heating plate 5, for example, by fasteners such as screws, snap-fit ​​structures, or welding. The retaining ring 30 is the fixing component, and multiple temperature adjustment members 6 are movably connected to the retaining ring 30 circumferentially via guide structures 25. In the illustrated example, as... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, multiple guide shafts 27 are circumferentially distributed on the upper side of the retaining ring 30. The guide shafts 27 extend vertically; alternatively, the guide shafts 27 may also be perpendicular or inclined to the upper side of the retaining ring 30. The retaining ring 30 is provided with multiple fastening holes 31 for fasteners to pass through. (See also: [link to previous section]) Figure 2 The fixed ring 30 and the movable inner ring 14 are vertically aligned, thus positioning multiple temperature adjustment components 6 between the fixed ring 30 and the movable inner ring 14. Optionally, the fixed ring 30 is made of a sheet material. The upper surface of the fixed ring 30 contacts the lower surfaces of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to restrict downward movement of the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 and ensure smoother pivoting movement of the temperature adjustment components 6. Optionally, the center of the fixed ring 30 is located on the center line of the heating plate 5.

[0146] An alternative example is a heating plate 5 as the fixed component, with multiple temperature adjustment components 6 movably connected to the heating plate 5 circumferentially via guide structures 25. For example, multiple guide shafts 27 are distributed circumferentially on the upper side of the heating plate 5.

[0147] For cooking appliances such as rice cookers, the upper side of the heating plate 5 is concave, and the bottom of the cooking container 1 is located in the concave cavity formed by the concave surface. The movable ring 10, the fixed ring 30, and the temperature adjustment component 6 are each constructed into a concave shape that matches the concave surface.

[0148] Figure 18 and Figure 19 An alternative example of the drive unit 12 is schematically shown, comprising a linkage assembly 32 and a steering assembly 33. The driving end of the linkage assembly 32 moves under the weight of the cooking container 1 when it is placed, and the driven end of the linkage assembly 32 is provided with a rack 34. When the cooking container 1 is placed, the weight of the cooking container 1 presses down on the driving end of the linkage assembly 32, causing the rack 34 at the driven end of the linkage assembly 32 to move up and down. The steering assembly 33 meshes with the rack 34 and is used to convert linear motion into rotational motion. The steering assembly 33 includes a rack drive wheel 35, a first helical gear 36, a second helical gear 37, and the aforementioned gear 19. The rack drive wheel 35 meshes with the rack 34, the first helical gear 36 is coaxially arranged with the rack drive wheel 35, and the second helical gear 37 is arranged perpendicularly to the first helical gear 36 and their teeth mesh. The gear 19 is provided at the output end of the steering assembly 33 so as to mesh with the arc-shaped gear 18 of the movable ring 10.

[0149] The shape, quantity, installation method, and driving method of the temperature adjustment component 6 are not unique. Similar spiral interval distribution, dotted dispersion distribution, ring interval distribution, and fan-shaped interval distribution can all achieve the purpose of uneven heating.

[0150] The cooking appliance also includes a control device. The control device is configured to control the movement of one or more temperature-adjusting components 6 between a first position and a second position via the position adjustment mechanism during the cooking phase. The control device is also configured to control the movement / pivot of multiple temperature-adjusting components 6 between a converged position and at least one extended position during the cooking phase. The converged position is generally the initial position. Specifically, the control device is electrically connected to and configured to send signals to the drive device 12 to control the action of the drive device 12, thereby controlling the movement / pivot of multiple temperature-adjusting components 6 via the movable ring 10. Exemplarily, in the case of cooking rice / mixed grain rice, the cooking phase generally includes a water absorption phase, a boiling phase, a simmering phase, and a heat-keeping phase. In the simmering phase and the phases preceding it, the contents include ingredients and liquid; in the heat-keeping phase, the contents include ingredients or food.

[0151] The control process of temperature adjustment component 6, based on the internal temperature and different cooking stages, is as follows:

[0152] The first stage is the water absorption stage, during which the temperature of the contents is generally maintained between 40℃ and 60℃. At this stage, the heating device 4 is set to low-power heating. When the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetic shield or heat insulation body, the control device is configured to keep multiple temperature adjustment components 6 in a converged position during the water absorption stage, i.e., it does not activate the multiple temperature adjustment components 6. When the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetizing or heat-gathering body, the control device is configured to move / pivot multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to an extended position during the water absorption stage and maintain that extended position. This extended position is generally at or near the limit of the extended position. Because the temperature measuring device is generally located in the center of the heating plate 5 and is in close contact with the cooking container 1, the temperature adjustment component 6, when it is a magnetic shield or heat insulation body, is retracted to the bottom center, and when it is a magnetizing or heat-gathering body, it extends away from the bottom center. This helps to avoid the temperature of the bottom measuring area being too high compared to the temperature of the contents of the cooking container 1, causing inaccurate temperature measurement. Precise temperature control helps to ensure the water absorption efficiency of the food and prevents premature gelatinization of the outer starch layer of the food.

[0153] The second stage is the boiling stage, where the temperature of the contents must reach approximately 100°C. The heating device 4 is set to high-power heating mode, causing the mixture of ingredients and water to reach boiling point within a short time. The control device is configured to maintain multiple temperature adjustment components 6 in the deployed position during the boiling stage. This deployed position is typically at or near its maximum. Simultaneously, the temperature adjustment components 6 are deployed, allowing the ingredients and water to circulate and tumble within the container, promoting uniform distribution of moisture and gelatinization of starch. Alternatively, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 may have at least two deployed positions, and the control device is configured to reciprocate / pivot between any two of these positions at a preset cycle during the boiling stage. Typically, this reciprocating movement occurs between the maximum and minimum deployed positions. Thus, the cooking container 1 always has a variable local temperature difference zone, ensuring uneven heating while adjusting the position of this uneven heating.

[0154] The third stage is the simmering stage, where the temperature of the contents is between 98℃ and 100℃. The power of the heating device 4 is reduced compared to the boiling stage, and it is set to a medium-power heating state. The control device is configured to move multiple temperature adjustment components 6 back and forth between the expanded position and the converged position at a preset cycle during the simmering stage. At this time, the expanded position is generally at or close to the limit of expansion. At this time, the water volume in the container is reduced, and the convection effect is also greatly reduced. Therefore, the repeated opening and closing of the bottom temperature adjustment components 6 helps to ensure that the entire container is heated evenly, avoiding local yellowing or scorching of the food. Even heat distribution is conducive to precise temperature control, allowing the food to deeply absorb water and further gelatinize the starch, while evaporating excess water to achieve the ideal taste of the food.

[0155] The fourth stage is the heat preservation stage, where the temperature of the contents is typically between 60℃ and 80℃. The power of the heating device 4 is further reduced. When the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetic shield or heat insulator, the control device is configured to keep multiple temperature adjustment components 6 in a converged position during the heat preservation stage. When the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetizing or heat-concentrating element, the control device is configured to move / pivot multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to an extended position and maintain that position during the heat preservation stage. This extended position is generally at or near the limit of the extended position. This maintains the food temperature without causing spoilage, discoloration, or damage to the texture. Simultaneously, when the temperature adjustment component 6 is a magnetic shield or heat insulator, it is retracted to the center of the bottom; when it is a magnetizing or heat-concentrating element, it is extended away from the center of the bottom. This prevents localized yellowing / burning of the rice and ensures optimal texture is maintained for a longer period.

[0156] The control device is configured to reset multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to their converged positions after cooking is complete.

[0157] According to another aspect of this application, a cooking method is provided, the cooking method being implemented by the cooking appliance described above. This includes controlling the movement / pivot of a plurality of temperature regulating members 6 between a converged position and at least one extended position during the cooking phase. Specifically, the cooking method includes the following steps:

[0158] S1: During the water absorption phase, multiple temperature regulating components 6 are held in a converged position, wherein the temperature regulating components 6 are magnetic shields or heat insulators. Alternatively, during the water absorption phase, multiple temperature regulating components 6 are moved / pivoted to an extended position and held in that extended position, wherein the temperature regulating components 6 are magnetizing or heat-concentrating bodies.

[0159] S2: During the boiling phase, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are held in the deployed position. Alternatively, during the boiling phase, the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are reciprocated / pivoted between any two of the at least two deployed positions at a preset cycle.

[0160] S3: During the rice cooking stage, multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are moved back and forth between the unfolded position and the converged position at a preset cycle.

[0161] S4: During the heat preservation stage, multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are held in a converged position, wherein the temperature adjustment components 6 are magnetic shields or heat insulators. Alternatively, during the heat preservation stage, multiple temperature adjustment components 6 are moved / pivoted to an extended position and held in that extended position, wherein the temperature adjustment components 6 are magnetic or heat-concentrating bodies.

[0162] S5: After cooking is complete, reset the multiple temperature adjustment components 6 to the converged position.

[0163] The order of steps in this embodiment can be adjusted, combined, or omitted as needed. The processes described in all the preferred embodiments above are merely examples. Unless adverse effects occur, various processing operations can be performed in a different order than described above. The order of steps in the above process can also be added, combined, or omitted as needed.

[0164] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Features described in one embodiment may be applied, alone or in combination with other features, to another embodiment, unless that feature is not applicable in that other embodiment or is otherwise stated.

[0165] This application has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are only for illustrative purposes. This application is not limited to the above embodiments. Many variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this application, and all such variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

Claims

1. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes a cooking container and a heating device for heating the cooking container, the heating device comprising: A heating plate, located below the cooking container, is used to heat the cooking container; Multiple temperature adjustment components are disposed between the heating plate and the cooking container; and A position adjustment mechanism is connected to one or more temperature adjustment components and drives one or more temperature adjustment components to move relative to the heating plate between a first position and a second position. When the temperature adjustment member moves between the first position and the second position, two adjacent temperature adjustment members form a variable interval zone in the circumferential and / or radial direction of the heating plate, such that when the heating device is working, a local temperature difference zone with at least a variable position is formed on the inner surface of the cooking container.

2. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first position is the convergence position, and the second position is the unfolded position. The multiple temperature adjustment components are adjacent to each other in the convergence position and form a gap area in the unfolded position.

3. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, As the multiple temperature adjustment components move from the converged position to the unfolded position, the area of ​​the interval zone formed between the multiple temperature adjustment components gradually increases.

4. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of temperature adjustment components are distributed circumferentially along the heating plate, and are spaced apart from each other circumferentially in the unfolded position. The plurality of temperature adjustment components are pivotable about their respective pivot axes between the converged position and the unfolded position.

5. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The pivot axes of the plurality of temperature adjustment components are parallel to each other and all extend vertically; and / or When the plurality of temperature adjustment components are in the converged position, they are located at the bottom center of the heating plate and form a clearance area for the temperature measuring device to pass through; and / or The plurality of temperature adjustment components are further from the center of the heating plate in the deployed position than in the converged position; and / or The pivoting directions of the multiple temperature adjustment components are consistent, and the pivoting actions of the multiple temperature adjustment components are performed simultaneously.

6. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multiple temperature adjustment components are distributed circumferentially along the heating plate. When the multiple temperature adjustment components are in a convergent position, the width of the multiple temperature adjustment components in the circumferential direction gradually increases from the radial direction outward from the heating plate, so as to splice them into a ring structure.

7. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Each of the temperature adjustment components is pivotable about its own pivot axis via a respective guide structure during movement. The guide structure includes a guide hole and a guide shaft that is slidable within the guide hole. One of the guide hole and the guide shaft is located on the temperature adjustment component, and the other of the guide hole and the guide shaft is located on a fixed component.

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 7, characterized in that, The fixed component is a heating plate, and the plurality of temperature adjusting components are movably connected to the heating plate along the circumferential direction via guide structures; or The position adjustment mechanism includes a fixing ring, which is fixedly connected to the heating plate. The fixing component is the fixing ring, and a plurality of temperature adjustment components are movably connected to the fixing ring along the circumferential direction through guide structures.

9. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The position adjustment mechanism includes a movable ring, and a plurality of temperature adjustment components are pivotally connected to the movable ring in the circumferential direction. The movable ring is rotatable relative to the heating plate about a rotation axis collinear with the center line of the heating plate, so as to drive the plurality of temperature adjustment components to pivot together.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 9, characterized in that, The position adjustment mechanism also includes a drive device. The top wall of the movable ring overlaps the top of the heating plate and is provided with an arc-shaped gear arranged circumferentially. The output end of the drive device meshes with the teeth of the arc-shaped gear through the gear to drive the movable ring to rotate.

11. The cooking utensil according to claim 10, characterized in that, The top wall of the movable ring is provided with a downwardly extending limiting rib, and the top of the heating plate is located on the radial inner side of the limiting rib and is engaged with the limiting rib through a concave-convex structure.

12. The cooking utensil according to claim 10, characterized in that, The driving device is a motor; or The drive device includes a linkage assembly and a steering assembly. The driving end of the linkage assembly moves under the gravity of the cooking container when it is placed. The driven end of the linkage assembly is provided with a rack. The steering assembly meshes with the rack and is used to convert linear motion into rotational motion.

13. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The temperature adjustment component is a magnetic material or a magnetic shield, the heating plate is equipped with a coil, and the temperature adjustment component is located above the coil; or The temperature adjustment component is a heat-concentrating body or a heat-insulating body, the heating plate is equipped with an electric heating element, and the temperature adjustment component is located on the upper side of the electric heating element.

14. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes a control device configured to control one or more of the temperature adjustment components to move between a converged position and an extended position via the position adjustment mechanism during the cooking phase.

15. The cooking utensil according to claim 14, characterized in that, The cooking stage includes a boiling stage. The control device is configured to hold the plurality of temperature adjusting components in the deployed position during the boiling phase, or The plurality of temperature adjusting components have at least two deployed positions, and the control device is configured to reciprocate between any two of the at least two deployed positions at a preset cycle during the boiling phase.

16. The cooking utensil according to claim 14, characterized in that, The cooking stage includes a rice-simmering stage, and the control device is configured to move the plurality of temperature-adjusting components back and forth between an expanded position and a converged position at a preset cycle during the rice-simmering stage. And / or The control device is configured to reset the plurality of temperature adjustment components to their converged positions after cooking is complete.

17. The cooking utensil according to claim 14, characterized in that, The cooking stage includes a water absorption stage and a heat preservation stage. Wherein, when the temperature adjusting component is a magnetic shield or a heat insulation body, the control device is configured to keep multiple temperature adjusting components in a converged position during the water absorption stage and / or the heat preservation stage; or When the temperature adjustment component is a magnet or a heat-concentrating body, the control device is configured to keep the plurality of the temperature adjustment components in the deployed position during the water absorption phase and / or the heat preservation phase.

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