Pulling steamer, method for operating a pulling steamer, and program product

Abstract

The present application relates to the field of household appliances, in particular to a pull-out steam oven, comprising a housing, a box arranged in the housing in a pull-out manner and comprising an inner cavity, the inner cavity being configured to accommodate food to be cooked and to accommodate a liquid medium for cooking, the food to be cooked being at least partially immersed in the liquid medium, a heating unit configured to heat the liquid medium, a first temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the liquid medium in the inner cavity, and a control unit configured to receive temperature data of the first temperature sensor and to control the heating unit based on the temperature data to cook the food to be cooked at least partially immersed in the liquid medium. The present application also relates to a method for operating a pull-out steam oven. By the present application, different functional modes can be realized in the pull-out steam oven, thereby improving the functional integration of the product, thus improving the user satisfaction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliances, and more specifically to a pull-out steam oven. Furthermore, this invention also relates to a method for operating the pull-out steam oven and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] As people's demands for quality of life gradually increase, drawer-type steam ovens, as an upgraded product of traditional steaming appliances such as steamers, are gradually entering people's lives.

[0003] Existing drawer-type steam ovens are equipped with pull-out drawers, and for example, a steam generator, such as a heating plate, is located at the bottom of the drawer to produce steam. The food to be steamed is contained in the drawer and cooked by the steam.

[0004] However, these drawer-type steam ovens typically only have a single steaming function and only meet steaming needs, failing to meet people's needs for other cooking functions such as frying or water bathing.

[0005] Therefore, there is still a need for further improvement on at least some of the above-mentioned problems, especially for improvements to pull-out steam ovens in the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a pull-out steam oven and a method for operating it. At least one embodiment of the technical solution of this invention not only overcomes the shortcomings of existing pull-out steam ovens but also enables flexible selection and switching of various cooking functions, thereby improving user satisfaction.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a pull-out steam oven is provided, the pull-out steam oven comprising:

[0008] case;

[0009] A box body arranged in the housing in a pull-out manner and including an inner cavity configured to contain food to be cooked and to contain a liquid medium for cooking, wherein the food to be cooked is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium;

[0010] A heating unit configured to heat the liquid medium;

[0011] A first temperature sensor, configured to detect the temperature of the liquid medium within the cavity; and

[0012] A control unit configured to receive temperature data from the first temperature sensor and control the heating unit based on the temperature data to cook food that is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

[0013] In this embodiment of the pull-out steam oven of the present invention, the liquid bath function of the pull-out steam oven can be realized using only a single temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the liquid medium, utilizing existing heating units and the oven's housing, such as a drawer. This allows for the expansion of the cooking functions of the pull-out steam oven using existing structural elements with minimal addition of structures or components, thereby improving the functional integration and user satisfaction of the pull-out steam oven. Furthermore, by expanding the cooking functions within the pull-out steam oven, simple and intelligent switching between these functions can be achieved. This also increases user acceptance of the product.

[0014] The extensions and improvements to the technical solution of the present invention can be understood from the following optional embodiments.

[0015] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steam oven according to the present invention, the first temperature sensor is detachably arranged in the inner cavity, wherein a connection interface for connecting to the first temperature sensor is constructed in the inner cavity. This allows for a particularly flexible and simple arrangement of the first temperature sensor. Furthermore, the detachable first temperature sensor also enables particularly simple switching of cooking functions.

[0016] Alternatively, the first temperature sensor is non-removably fixed within the cavity. This simplifies the arrangement of the first temperature sensor and improves the reliability of its connection within the cavity.

[0017] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the first temperature sensor includes a sensor body and a sensor probe located at one end of the sensor body, wherein the sensor probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium used for cooking. This embodiment has a simple structure and reliably ensures the temperature detection function of the first temperature sensor.

[0018] In one alternative embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the invention, the heating unit is configured as a heating plate and arranged at the bottom of the inner cavity. This results in a particularly simple and compact arrangement. Furthermore, this embodiment allows for heating different heating media using a single heating unit, thereby ensuring various cooking functions.

[0019] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the first temperature sensor is arranged on the rear sidewall of the inner cavity along the pull-out direction of the box body. This simplifies the interface arrangement of the first temperature sensor.

[0020] In one alternative embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the invention, the steamer further includes a shelf configured to be accommodated within the inner cavity and to hold food to be cooked. This embodiment allows for the provision of functional components adapted to additional cooking functions, facilitating the placement of food for cooking by the user in, for example, oil bath or water bath functions, while ensuring optimal cooking results.

[0021] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the rack includes a holding surface for holding food to be cooked, wherein at least the holding surface is provided with a mesh structure, and the liquid medium contacts the food to be cooked through the mesh structure when the rack is housed in the inner cavity and the inner cavity is filled with a liquid medium for cooking.

[0022] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the shelf includes at least one handle portion, through which a user can grip the shelf. This facilitates user operation.

[0023] In one alternative embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the invention, the shelf is made of a heat-resistant material, such as metal or plastic. This ensures that the shelf reliably provides its function in any cooking function or mode of the pull-out steamer without damage.

[0024] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the invention, the shelf is provided with a support for supporting the first temperature sensor. By providing reliable support for the first temperature sensor via the shelf, reliable detection by the first temperature sensor can be ensured, thereby ensuring precise control of the cooking process.

[0025] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, a maximum liquid level indicator and / or a minimum liquid level indicator are provided on the side wall of the inner cavity, wherein the maximum liquid level indicator is lower than the connection interface, and the minimum liquid level indicator is higher than the serving surface. This not only provides the user with intuitive and quantifiable liquid level indication, but also avoids the risk of electrical and communication connection failure of the first temperature sensor due to the liquid level exceeding the connection interface used for the sensor interface, and avoids the risk of poor cooking results or even cooking failure due to the liquid level being lower than the serving surface.

[0026] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steam oven according to the present invention, a vent is formed in the outer surface of the box body, which connects the inner cavity to the external environment of the pull-out steam oven, allowing steam in the inner cavity to be discharged to the external environment through the vent. The maximum liquid level indicator is located below the vent. This allows for ventilation of the box body depending on the cooking function or cooking mode, ensuring optimal cooking results. Furthermore, the position of the maximum liquid level indicator also ensures that liquid cooking medium in the box body does not leak into the environment through the vent, thereby improving the reliability of the cooking function.

[0027] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steam oven according to the invention, the pull-out steam oven further includes a second temperature sensor configured to detect the internal temperature of the cavity. This allows for reliable detection of the internal temperature using the second temperature sensor, thereby reliably ensuring, for example, the steaming function and additionally providing additional temperature data for other cooking modes, thus achieving more precise and intelligent control.

[0028] According to an optional embodiment of the pull-out steam oven of the present invention, the cooking modes of the pull-out steam oven include at least a steaming mode and a liquid bath mode, wherein in the steaming mode, the food to be cooked is heated by steam, and in the liquid bath mode, the food to be cooked is heated by the liquid medium. Thus, different cooking modes can be provided in the pull-out steam oven, and the possibility of switching between cooking modes can be made.

[0029] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, in the liquid bath mode, the control unit executes the liquid bath mode based on the temperature data from the first temperature sensor. This embodiment enables reliable detection of the liquid temperature using the first temperature sensor to ensure reliable execution of the liquid bath mode.

[0030] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, in the steaming mode, the control unit executes the steaming mode based on the temperature data of the second temperature sensor, wherein the first temperature sensor is deactivated or removed. Thus, different cooking modes can be switched simply by switching the temperature sensor, ensuring reliable execution of the cooking process.

[0031] Alternatively, in the steaming mode, the first temperature sensor is also configured to detect the temperature data of the food to be cooked, wherein the control unit executes the steaming mode based on the temperature data from the second temperature sensor and the temperature data from the first temperature sensor. This allows for reliable detection of the corresponding temperature data using both the first and second temperature sensors simultaneously, without the need to disable or, for example, manually remove the first temperature sensor. This simplifies user operation and also enables more precise control of the steaming mode based on this temperature data.

[0032] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the second temperature sensor is arranged in the side wall of the inner cavity. This simplifies the construction and arrangement of the second temperature sensor and reduces assembly costs.

[0033] In one alternative embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor may be constructed in the same or different ways. This allows for a simple, flexible, and low-cost configuration selection of the temperature sensors.

[0034] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steam oven according to the present invention, the second temperature sensor operates in coordination with and / or simultaneously with the first temperature sensor, depending on the cooking mode. This embodiment achieves coordinated operation between the first and second temperature sensors, thereby enabling reliable and precise control for different cooking modes.

[0035] Alternatively, the second temperature sensor operates independently of the first temperature sensor. This allows different temperature sensors to be activated for different modes, reducing operating costs and control complexity.

[0036] In one optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the liquid medium is water or oil. This enables both water bath cooking and frying cooking functions.

[0037] In an optional embodiment of the pull-out steamer according to the present invention, the pull-out steamer further includes a water supply unit configured to supply water to the inner cavity, the water being heated by the heating unit. Thus, reliable water supply control for different cooking processes can be achieved through the pull-out steamer's own water supply unit. Furthermore, users do not need, or at least do not need, frequent manual water replenishment of the pull-out steamer during cooking, simplifying user operation and further improving the user experience.

[0038] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for operating a pull-out steam oven according to one of the above embodiments is provided, the method comprising at least the following steps:

[0039] Step S1: Receive an input signal for the cooking mode used for the food to be cooked;

[0040] Step S2: Selectively receive temperature data corresponding to the cooking mode based on the input signal; and

[0041] Step S3: Output a control signal for executing the cooking mode based on the temperature data.

[0042] In this embodiment of the method of the present invention, by selecting or switching the cooking mode of the pull-out steam oven, temperature data from different temperature sensors can be received, thereby reliably controlling and executing the corresponding cooking mode. This enables different cooking functions of the pull-out steam oven.

[0043] In an optional embodiment of the method according to the invention, in step S2, the first temperature sensor and / or the second temperature sensor are selectively activated based on the input signal. In this embodiment, the corresponding temperature sensor is activated adaptively depending on the selection of the cooking mode, thereby enabling the realization of different cooking functions of the pull-out steam oven and their reliable switching or selection, and thus enabling the reliable output of corresponding temperature data and ensuring the execution of the corresponding cooking mode.

[0044] According to an optional embodiment of the method of the present invention, the cooking mode includes at least a steaming mode and a liquid bath mode, wherein step S2 further includes the following sub-steps:

[0045] Sub-step S21: Determine whether the input signal represents the steaming mode or the liquid bath mode;

[0046] Sub-step S22: If the input signal represents the liquid bath mode, then selectively receive temperature data from the first temperature sensor, wherein the first temperature sensor detects temperature data of the liquid medium used for cooking.

[0047] Sub-step S23: If the input signal represents the steaming mode, then selectively receive temperature data from the second temperature sensor, wherein the second temperature sensor detects the temperature of the inner cavity.

[0048] This implementation method enables particularly simple and intelligent selection of cooking modes and cooking control, thereby achieving a fully automated cooking process and further improving the user experience.

[0049] In an optional embodiment of the method according to the invention, in sub-step S23, temperature data from the first temperature sensor is additionally received, wherein the first temperature sensor is capable of detecting the temperature of the food to be cooked. This embodiment can also additionally utilize the representative food temperature data from the first temperature sensor to more precisely control the steaming process. Thus, compared to pull-out steam ovens in the prior art, control precision is improved and better cooking results are achieved.

[0050] In an optional embodiment of the method according to the invention, the liquid bath mode includes a water bath mode, wherein, in step S3, in the water bath mode or the steaming mode, the water supply unit is controlled to supply water to the inner cavity, and the heating unit is controlled to heat the water in the inner cavity. This simplifies the water supply operation and provides the user with an intelligent water supply solution that depends on the cooking mode.

[0051] In an optional embodiment of the method according to the invention, the liquid bath mode includes an oil bath mode, wherein, in the oil bath mode, the heating unit is controlled to heat the oil in the inner cavity. Heating of different liquid cooking media is achieved through the heating unit in the pull-out steamer, thereby reducing costs and simplifying the heating function.

[0052] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a computer program product, such as a computer-readable program carrier, is provided, the computer program product comprising or storing computer program instructions, which, when executed by a processor, at least assist in implementing the steps of a method for operating a pull-out steam oven.

[0053] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, drawings, and description of the figures. Features and combinations of features mentioned in the foregoing description, as well as features and combinations of features mentioned in the following description of the figures and / or shown only in the figures, can be used not only in the corresponding specified combinations, but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the following are also considered to be covered and disclosed by the invention: those not explicitly shown in the figures and not explicitly interpreted, but rather derived from and produced by combinations of separate features derived from the interpreted content. The following combinations of features are also considered to be disclosed: those that do not possess all the features of the originally drafted independent claims. Furthermore, the following combinations of features are considered to be disclosed, especially those exceeding or deviating from the feature combinations defined in the reference relationships of the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0054] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which will provide a better understanding of its principles, features, and advantages. The drawings include:

[0055] Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of the pull-out steamer of the present invention is shown, wherein the box of the pull-out steamer is in a closed state;

[0056] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A 3D schematic diagram of a pull-out steam oven, in which the oven body is in the open state;

[0057] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 A schematic top view of the box body of the pull-out steamer;

[0058] Figure 4 Show Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the pull-out steamer body;

[0059] Figure 5 Show Figure 4 A partial 3D schematic diagram of the box in the middle;

[0060] Figure 6 Show Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the box body of the pull-out steamer, in which the shelf is arranged inside the box body;

[0061] Figure 7 A perspective view of one embodiment of the shelf of the present invention is shown;

[0062] Figure 8 A perspective view showing another embodiment of the shelf of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 9 A schematic flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the method of the present invention for operating a pull-out steam oven; and

[0064] Figure 10 A schematic flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the method of the present invention for operating a pull-out steam oven is shown.

[0065] List of reference numerals

[0066] 1 Pull-out steam oven

[0067] 2. Shell

[0068] 3 boxes

[0069] 4 heating units

[0070] 5 First temperature sensor

[0071] 6 Control Unit

[0072] 7. Cover

[0073] 8 User Interface

[0074] 9 Water supply units

[0075] 10 Data Interface

[0076] 11 Shelves

[0077] 12 Ventilation openings

[0078] 13 Water outlet

[0079] 14 Cooling Unit

[0080] 15 Guiding Units

[0081] 16 Second Temperature Sensor

[0082] 31. Inner cavity

[0083] 32 Outer surface

[0084] 51 Sensor Body

[0085] 52 Sensor Probe

[0086] 91 pump

[0087] 92 Delivery pipe

[0088] 93 Water Tank

[0089] 111 Serving Noodles

[0090] 112 Grid Structure

[0091] 113 Handle

[0092] 114 Support section

[0093] 311 Connection Interface

[0094] 312 Maximum liquid level indicator

[0095] 100 methods

[0096] XYZ coordinate system Detailed Implementation

[0097] To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial technical effects of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and several exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention.

[0098] To better understand the pull-out steam oven and the method for operating it, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the directional terms used in the description refer to the conventional use of the pull-out steam oven for ease of description and should not be construed as absolute limitations on the corresponding features.

[0099] Below, in conjunction with Figures 1 to 8 An embodiment of the pull-out steamer 1 of the present invention is described.

[0100] Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of the pull-out steamer 1 of the present invention is shown, wherein the box body 3 of the pull-out steamer 1 is in a closed state. Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a pull-out steam oven 1, wherein the box body 3 of the pull-out steam oven 1 is in the open state. Figure 3 Show Figure 1 A schematic top view of the box body 3 of the pull-out steamer 1. Figure 4 Show Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the box body 3 of the pull-out steamer 1. Figure 5 Show Figure 4 A partial three-dimensional schematic diagram of box 3 in the diagram. Figure 6 Show Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the box body 3 of the pull-out steamer 1, wherein the shelf 11 is arranged in the box body 3. Figure 7 A perspective view of one embodiment of the shelf 11 of the present invention is shown, and Figure 8 A perspective view of another embodiment of the shelf 11 of the present invention is shown.

[0101] The pull-out steam oven 1 can also be a drawer-type steam oven and is exemplaryly constructed as a built-in steam oven, which can be embedded into a cabinet and form an integral structure with the cabinet, thereby achieving a one-piece appearance for the pull-out steam oven 1. Of course, a freestanding steam oven can also be considered, which can be flexibly arranged in the kitchen or other areas.

[0102] Furthermore, for clarity, respectively in Figures 1 to 8 The diagram also shows an XYZ coordinate system, where the X direction represents the direction of the pull-out steamer 1 facing the user and also represents the pull-out direction of the pull-out steamer 1, the Y direction represents the horizontal direction of the pull-out steamer 1, and the Z direction represents the vertical direction of the pull-out steamer 1.

[0103] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, according to this embodiment, the pull-out steam oven 1 includes a shell 2, a box 3, a heating unit 4, and a lid 7. The box 3 is exemplarily constructed as a drawer and is arranged within the shell 2 in a pull-out direction X by means of a guide unit 15, such as a guide rail. An inner cavity 31 is constructed within the box 3 for containing food to be cooked and a liquid medium for cooking, the food being at least partially immersed in the liquid medium. The lid 7 is movable, for example, rotatably arranged on the box 3 and is used to open or close the inner cavity 31. Thus, it is possible to ensure that no cooking medium flows out of the inner cavity 31 during cooking and to ensure temperature control during the cooking process.

[0104] Furthermore, the pull-out steamer 1 also includes a heating unit 4. This heating unit 4 is capable of heating the liquid medium. Exemplarily, the heating unit 4 is constructed as a heating plate and arranged at the bottom of the inner cavity 31. This not only simplifies the construction and arrangement of the heating unit 4, but also reliably ensures the heating of the liquid medium contained in the inner cavity 31.

[0105] See also Figure 2 and Figure 4 According to this embodiment, the pull-out steamer 1 further includes a first temperature sensor 5 and a second temperature sensor 16. The first temperature sensor 5 is used to detect the temperature of the liquid medium inside the inner cavity 31. The second temperature sensor 16 is used to detect the temperature inside the inner cavity 31.

[0106] The pull-out steam oven 1 also includes a control unit 6 (such as in...) Figure 4 (Shown only schematically). The control unit 6 is exemplarily configured as a controller and is used to receive temperature data from the first temperature sensor 5 and / or the second temperature sensor 16 and to control the heating unit 4 based on this temperature data.

[0107] According to this embodiment, the pull-out steam oven 1 includes not only a steaming mode but also a liquid bath mode. In the steaming mode, the food to be cooked is heated by steam as in the prior art to achieve the cooking process. In the liquid bath mode, the food to be cooked is heated by a liquid medium.

[0108] Therefore, in steaming mode, the second temperature sensor 16 detects the steam temperature in the inner cavity 31, and the control unit 6 controls the steam generation in the inner cavity 31 based on the steam temperature to cook the food to be cooked in the steam environment. In liquid bath mode, the first temperature sensor 5 detects the temperature of the liquid medium, and the control unit 6 controls the heating unit 4 to heat the liquid medium based on the temperature of the liquid medium to cook the food to be cooked, which is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the liquid bath mode includes a water bath mode and an oil bath mode. Accordingly, the liquid medium can be oil, especially edible oil, or water.

[0110] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the pull-out steam oven 1 also includes a water supply unit 9 for supplying water to the inner cavity 31. The water is heated by the heating unit 4. In water bath mode, the water supplied by the water supply unit 9 is heated to cook the food to be cooked, which is at least partially submerged in the water. In steaming mode, the water is heated to a gaseous state by the heating unit 4 and steam is used to cook the food to be cooked contained in the inner cavity 31.

[0111] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the water supply unit 9 includes a pump 91, a delivery pipe 92, and a water tank 93. The user can manually add water to the water tank 93 before cooking. Alternatively, the water tank 93 can be connected to an external water source and automatically replenished based on the liquid level in the tank; therefore, the water supply unit 9 also includes a corresponding valve device (not shown), such as a solenoid valve. The delivery pipe 92 is fluidly connected to the pump 91 and the water tank 93. Based on a control signal from the control unit 6, the pump 91 is controlled to pump water from the water tank 93 through the delivery pipe 92 from the outlet 13 into the inner cavity 31.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the pump 91 can be integrated into the water tank 93, thereby achieving a more compact construction of the water supply unit 9.

[0113] In addition, the pull-out steam oven 1 also includes a cooling unit 14, which is exemplarily configured as a cooling fan. The cooling unit 14 is used to cool the inner cavity 31.

[0114] like Figure 4 As shown, the water supply unit 9 is exemplarily arranged on the front end of the housing 3 along the X direction. A user interface 8, such as a touch screen, is also provided next to the water supply unit 9. The user can select the corresponding cooking mode and input the corresponding parameters or instructions through the user interface 8.

[0115] Furthermore, a ventilation opening 12 is constructed in the outer surface 32 of the box body 3. The ventilation opening 12 selectively connects the inner cavity 31 with the external environment of the pull-out steamer 1, so that the gaseous medium, such as steam, in the inner cavity 31 can be discharged to the external environment through the ventilation opening 12.

[0116] exist Figure 4 The diagram also schematically shows a data interface 10, which is located at the rear end of the housing 3 along the pull-out direction X. The control unit 6 can communicate with the data interface 10 and control the operation of the pull-out steamer 1 based on the data signals transmitted via the data interface 10.

[0117] like Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, a maximum liquid level indicator 312 is provided on the side wall of the inner cavity 31, for example, on the rear side wall of the inner cavity 31 along the pull-out direction X of the box body 3, which indicates the maximum permissible liquid level height in the inner cavity 31.

[0118] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first temperature sensor 5 is detachably arranged on the rear side wall of the inner cavity 31 along the pull-out direction X of the housing 3. Correspondingly, a connection interface 311 for connecting to the first temperature sensor 5 is arranged on the rear side wall. This connection interface 311 is positioned above the maximum liquid level indicator 312, that is, higher than the maximum liquid level indicator 312 along the Z direction, thereby preventing liquid medium from entering the connection interface 311. In addition, the vent opening 12 is also higher than the maximum liquid level indicator 312 along the Z direction, thereby preventing liquid medium from flowing out into the external environment through the vent opening 12.

[0119] In this invention, "detachable" should be understood as separating two components from each other in a non-destructive manner.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the first temperature sensor 5 includes a sensor body 51 and a sensor probe 52 located at one end of the sensor body 51. Exemplarily, the sensor probe 52 is movable relative to the sensor body 51, for example, bending or rotating, and is at least partially immersed in a liquid medium for cooking, for detecting the temperature of the liquid medium.

[0121] The second temperature sensor 16 can be arranged in the side wall of the inner cavity 31 and in Figure 4 In the embodiments described herein, it is exemplarily integrated into the vent opening 12. This reduces the installation space requirement and improves the space utilization of the inner cavity 31.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the first temperature sensor 5 and the second temperature sensor 16 are constructed differently. Depending on the cooking mode, the second temperature sensor 16 and the first temperature sensor 5 can operate collaboratively and / or simultaneously. Of course, the second temperature sensor 16 can also operate independently of the first temperature sensor 5.

[0123] In liquid bath mode, the user can connect the first temperature sensor 5 to the connection interface 311. Thus, in liquid bath mode, the first temperature sensor 5 can detect the temperature of the liquid medium, and the control unit 6 executes the corresponding cooking process based on the temperature data from the first temperature sensor 5. In steaming mode, the user can remove the first temperature sensor 5 from the connection interface 311 or disable the first temperature sensor 5, and the second temperature sensor 16 can detect the steam temperature in the inner cavity 31, and the control unit 6 executes the corresponding cooking process based on the temperature data from the second temperature sensor 16.

[0124] Alternatively, in steaming mode, the user does not need to remove or disable the first temperature sensor 5. Instead, the first temperature sensor 5 is also used to detect the temperature data of the food to be cooked. For example, the user can bring the sensor probe 52 of the first temperature sensor 5 into contact with the food, such as by inserting it into the food. During steaming, the control unit 6 executes the corresponding cooking process based on the temperature data from the second temperature sensor 16 and the temperature data from the first temperature sensor 5. This further improves the accuracy of cooking control and the cooking effect, thereby enhancing the user experience and satisfaction.

[0125] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the pull-out steamer 1 also includes a shelf 11. The shelf 11 can be accommodated in the inner cavity 31 and is used to hold food to be cooked.

[0126] In this embodiment, the shelf 11 includes a holding surface 111 for holding food to be cooked. A mesh structure 112 is constructed in the holding surface 111. Therefore, when the shelf 11 is housed in the inner cavity 31 and the inner cavity 31 is filled with a liquid medium for cooking, the liquid medium contacts the food to be cooked through the mesh structure 112, thereby allowing the food to be cooked to have more sufficient contact with the liquid medium and be heated by it. Exemplarily, the shelf 11 is made of a heat-resistant material, such as metal or plastic.

[0127] According to one embodiment, a minimum liquid level indicator (not shown in detail) is also provided on the side wall of the inner cavity 31. The minimum liquid level indicator indicates the minimum permissible liquid level height, and when the shelf 11 is accommodated in the inner cavity 31, the minimum liquid level indicator is higher than the holding surface 111, thereby ensuring that the liquid medium is at least partially in contact with and heats the food to be cooked.

[0128] The shelf 11 includes at least one handle 113, through which a user can grip the shelf 11. Exemplarily, the handle 113 is integrally formed with the shelf 11. Alternatively, the handle 113 may be separately constructed on the shelf 11 and made of a material with low thermal conductivity, such as plastic, thereby preventing the user from burning their hands when removing the shelf 11 after the cooking process.

[0129] exist Figure 7 In one embodiment, the shelf 11 has a handle 113 at each of two opposite ends, which are opposite to each other and are constructed identically.

[0130] In another embodiment, such as Figure 8As shown, the shelf 11 is provided with a support portion 114 for supporting the first temperature sensor 5. This support portion 114 exemplarily has a profile adapted to the sensor body 51 of the sensor 5 and keeps the sensor body 51 horizontal when the sensor 5 is arranged on the connection interface 311. Thus, additional support for the first temperature sensor 5 is achieved, and reliable operation of the first temperature sensor 5 is ensured.

[0131] In addition, the pull-out steam oven 1 may also include a drainage device or a collection device (not shown) for liquid medium, which drains or collects the liquid medium from the inner cavity 31 after cooking, thereby avoiding the residue of liquid medium in the inner cavity 31.

[0132] Next, combined Figure 9 and Figure 10 And also refer to Figures 1 to 8 An exemplary embodiment of a method 100 for operating a pull-out steam oven 1 is described.

[0133] Figure 9 A schematic flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method 100 for operating a pull-out steamer 1 according to the present invention is shown. According to this embodiment, method 100 exemplarily includes steps S1 to S3.

[0134] In step S1, the control unit 6 receives an input signal for the cooking mode of the food to be cooked. Here, the cooking modes include at least a steaming mode and a liquid bath mode, with the liquid bath mode exemplarily including an oil bath mode and a water bath mode. The user can select the appropriate cooking mode via the user interface 8, such as a touchscreen, and place the food to be cooked, for example, pre-prepared according to a cooking recipe, into the inner cavity 31 of the housing 3. For example, the food to be cooked can be placed on the shelf 11 and then placed together into the inner cavity 31. The lid 7 is then closed, and the housing 3 is pushed into the shell 2.

[0135] Then, in step S2, the control unit 6 selectively receives temperature data corresponding to the cooking mode based on the input signal. In this embodiment, in step S2, the control unit 6 selectively activates the first temperature sensor 5 and / or the second temperature sensor 16 based on the input signal.

[0136] In step S3, the control unit 6 outputs a control signal for executing the cooking mode based on the temperature data. For example, the control unit 6 controls the heating unit 4 accordingly and adjusts the heating power of the heating unit 4 accordingly based on the temperature data to execute the cooking process.

[0137] After the cooking process is complete, the user can remove the cooked food.

[0138] Figure 10A schematic flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the method 100 for operating a pull-out steamer 1 according to the present invention is shown.

[0139] and Figure 9 Similarly, in method 100, in step S1, the control unit 6 receives an input signal for the cooking mode of the food to be cooked.

[0140] Then in step S2, the control unit 6 selectively receives temperature data corresponding to the cooking mode based on the input signal.

[0141] According to this embodiment, step S2 further includes sub-steps S21 to S23. In sub-step S21, it is determined whether the input signal represents a steaming mode or a liquid bath mode. In sub-step S22, if the input signal represents a liquid bath mode, temperature data from the first temperature sensor 5 is selectively received, wherein the first temperature sensor 5 detects the temperature data of the liquid medium used for cooking.

[0142] In other words, if the user wishes to perform liquid bath cooking, and the first temperature sensor 5 is detachable, the user exemplarily connects the first temperature sensor 5 to the connection interface 311, and the control unit 6 selectively activates the first temperature sensor 5 based on the liquid bath mode and controls the heating unit 4 to heat the liquid medium based on the temperature data from the first temperature sensor 5, thereby controlling the cooking process. In liquid bath mode, the second temperature sensor 16 is either inactive or deactivated.

[0143] In sub-step S23, if the input signal represents a steaming mode, temperature data from the second temperature sensor 16 is selectively received, wherein the second temperature sensor 16 detects the temperature of the inner cavity 31.

[0144] In other words, if the user wishes to perform steaming cooking, the control unit 6 selectively activates the second temperature sensor 16 based on the steaming mode and controls the heating unit 4 to generate steam based on the temperature data from the second temperature sensor 16, thereby controlling the cooking process. In steaming mode, the first temperature sensor 5 is not working or is disabled, or if the first temperature sensor 5 is constructed to be detachable, the user can directly remove the first temperature sensor 5 from the inner cavity 31.

[0145] In another embodiment, in sub-step S23, temperature data from the first temperature sensor 5 is additionally received. The first temperature sensor 5 is capable of detecting the temperature of the food to be cooked.

[0146] In other words, in this embodiment, when the input signal represents the steaming mode, the control unit 6 simultaneously activates the first temperature sensor 5 and the second temperature sensor 16. Instead of deactivating the first temperature sensor 5, the first temperature sensor 5 can be used to detect the temperature of the food to be cooked while the second temperature sensor 16 detects the temperature of the cavity 31. Therefore, the control unit 6 comprehensively considers the temperature data from the first temperature sensor 5 and the second temperature sensor 16 and controls the heating unit 4 to generate steam based on this temperature data, thereby controlling the cooking process more precisely. This improves cooking quality and thus enhances the user experience.

[0147] According to one embodiment, in step S3, in water bath mode, the water supply unit 9 is controlled to supply water to the inner cavity 31, and the heating unit 4 is controlled to heat the water in the inner cavity 31 to heat the food submerged in the water. Alternatively, the user can manually add water to the inner cavity 31 before cooking begins, without using or fully utilizing the water supplied by the water supply unit 9. In steaming mode, the water supply unit 9 is controlled to supply water to the inner cavity 31, and the heating unit 4 is controlled to heat the water in the inner cavity 31 to generate steam. Similarly, in oil bath mode, the heating unit 4 is controlled to heat the oil in the inner cavity 31. Here, the user needs to manually add oil to the inner cavity 31 before cooking begins. After cooking is complete, the oil can be drained or collected using the drain or collection device of the pull-out steamer 1.

[0148] The present invention also protects a computer program product, such as a computer-readable program carrier, which contains or stores computer program instructions that, when executed by a processor, at least assist in implementing the steps of the method 100 for operating the pull-out steamer 1.

[0149] Although specific embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, even when only a single embodiment is described with respect to a particular feature. The feature examples provided in this disclosure are intended to be illustrative and not limiting, unless otherwise stated. In practice, multiple features may be combined with each other as needed and where technically feasible. Various substitutions, changes, and modifications are also conceived without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A pull-out steamer (1), characterized in that, The pull-out steamer (1) includes: Shell (2); A box (3) is arranged in the housing (2) in a pull-out manner and includes an inner cavity (31) configured to contain food to be cooked and to contain a liquid medium for cooking, wherein the food to be cooked is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium; A heating unit (4) configured to heat the liquid medium; A first temperature sensor (5), configured to detect the temperature of the liquid medium within the cavity (31); and A control unit (6) is configured to receive temperature data from the first temperature sensor (5) and control the heating unit (4) based on the temperature data to cook food that is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

2. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first temperature sensor (5) is detachably arranged in the inner cavity (31), wherein a connection interface (311) for connecting to the first temperature sensor (5) is constructed in the inner cavity (31); or The first temperature sensor (5) is fixed in the inner cavity (31) without being detached.

3. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first temperature sensor (5) includes a sensor body (51) and a sensor probe (52) located at one end of the sensor body (51), wherein the sensor probe (52) is at least partially immersed in a liquid medium for cooking.

4. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The heating unit (4) is configured as a heating plate and is arranged at the bottom of the inner cavity (31); and / or The first temperature sensor (5) is arranged on the rear side wall of the inner cavity (31) along the pull-out direction (X) of the box body (3).

5. The pull-out steamer (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The pull-out steamer (1) also includes a shelf (11) configured to be housed in the inner cavity (31) and to hold food to be cooked.

6. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The shelf (11) includes a holding surface (111) for holding food to be cooked, wherein at least in the holding surface (111) a mesh structure (112) is constructed, and when the shelf (11) is housed in the inner cavity (31) and the inner cavity (31) is filled with a liquid medium for cooking, the liquid medium contacts the food to be cooked through the mesh structure (112); and / or The shelf (11) includes at least one handle (113) through which a user can grip the shelf (11); and / or The shelf (11) is made of a heat-resistant material, such as metal or plastic; and / or The shelf (11) is provided with a support (114) for supporting the first temperature sensor (5).

7. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, A maximum liquid level indicator (312) and / or a minimum liquid level indicator are provided on the side wall of the inner cavity (31), wherein the maximum liquid level indicator (312) is lower than the connection interface (311) and the minimum liquid level indicator is higher than the holding surface (111).

8. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, A ventilation opening (12) is constructed in the outer surface (32) of the box body (3). The ventilation opening (12) can connect the inner cavity (31) with the external environment of the pull-out steamer (1), so that the steam in the inner cavity (31) can be discharged to the external environment through the ventilation opening (12). The maximum liquid level indicator (312) is lower than the ventilation opening (12).

9. The pull-out steamer (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The pull-out steamer (1) also includes a second temperature sensor (16) configured to detect the internal temperature of the inner cavity (31).

10. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cooking modes of the pull-out steam oven (1) include at least a steaming mode and a liquid bath mode, wherein in the steaming mode, the food to be cooked is heated by steam, and in the liquid bath mode, the food to be cooked is heated by the liquid medium.

11. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, In the liquid bath mode, the control unit (6) executes the liquid bath mode based on the temperature data from the first temperature sensor (5); and / or In the steaming mode, the control unit (6) executes the steaming mode based on the temperature data from the second temperature sensor (16), wherein the first temperature sensor (5) is deactivated or removed; or In the steaming mode, the first temperature sensor (5) is also configured to detect the temperature data of the food to be cooked, wherein the control unit (6) executes the steaming mode based on the temperature data of the second temperature sensor (16) and the temperature data of the first temperature sensor (5).

12. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The second temperature sensor (16) is disposed in the side wall of the inner cavity (31); and / or The first temperature sensor (5) may be constructed in the same or different manner as the second temperature sensor (16); and / or Depending on the cooking mode, the second temperature sensor (16) may operate in conjunction with and / or simultaneously with the first temperature sensor (5); or the second temperature sensor (16) may operate independently of the first temperature sensor (5).

13. The pull-out steamer (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The liquid medium is water or oil.

14. The pull-out steamer (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The pull-out steamer (1) also includes a water supply unit (9) configured to supply water to the inner cavity (31), the water being heated by the heating unit (4).

15. A method (100) for operating a pull-out steamer (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The method (100) includes at least the following steps: Step S1: Receive an input signal for the cooking mode used for the food to be cooked; Step S2: Selectively receive temperature data corresponding to the cooking mode based on the input signal; and Step S3: Output a control signal for executing the cooking mode based on the temperature data.

16. The method (100) according to claim 15, characterized in that, In step S2, the first temperature sensor (5) and / or the second temperature sensor (16) are selectively activated based on the input signal.

17. The method (100) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The cooking mode includes at least a steaming mode and a liquid bath mode, wherein step S2 further includes the following sub-steps: Sub-step S21: Determine whether the input signal represents the steaming mode or the liquid bath mode; Sub-step S22: If the input signal represents the liquid bath mode, then selectively receive temperature data from the first temperature sensor (5), wherein the first temperature sensor (5) detects temperature data of the liquid medium used for cooking; Sub-step S23: If the input signal represents the steaming mode, then selectively receive temperature data from the second temperature sensor (16), wherein the second temperature sensor (16) detects the temperature of the inner cavity (31).

18. The method (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that, In sub-step S23, temperature data from the first temperature sensor (5) is additionally received, wherein the first temperature sensor (5) is capable of detecting the temperature of the food to be cooked.

19. The method (100) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The liquid bath mode includes a water bath mode, wherein, in step S3, in the water bath mode or in the steaming mode, the water supply unit (9) is controlled to supply water to the inner cavity (31), and the heating unit (4) is controlled to heat the water in the inner cavity (31); and / or The liquid bath mode includes an oil bath mode, wherein, in the oil bath mode, the heating unit (4) is controlled to heat the oil in the inner cavity (31).

20. A computer program product, such as a computer-readable program carrier, the computer program product comprising or storing computer program instructions, which, when executed by a processor, at least assist in implementing the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 19.

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