Steam generator and cooking equipment

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of electric appliances, and particularly discloses a steam generator and cooking equipment, in the steam generator, a separator is arranged in a water tank so as to divide the interior of the water tank into a heating cavity and a detection cavity which are communicated with each other; the heating piece is arranged in the heating cavity, and the heating piece is used for heating water in the heating cavity to enable the water to generate steam; steam flows outwards through a steam channel of the water tank; the water level detection assembly is arranged in the water tank and used for detecting the water level in the detection cavity, and the communication hole is located below the water level. The steam generating efficiency is improved, and the cooking efficiency is guaranteed. The detection result is more accurate, and the use safety of the steam generator is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of electrical appliances, in particular to a steam generator and a cooking device. Background Art

[0002] With the development of technology, cooking devices such as steam ovens and steam convection ovens that can cook food with hot steam have become very popular kitchen appliances among consumers.

[0003] Since the cooking device uses high-temperature hot steam to cook food, the steam generator is a core component. When in use, the steam generator provides steam for the cooking device to complete the processing of food. In the process of steam generation, a heating pipe built-in or external to the water tank heats the water in the water tank. For a steam generator external to the water tank, after scale forms at the bottom of the water tank, there will be a problem of delayed heating; for a steam generator built-in the water tank, when the water level drops, the heating pipe will be exposed to the air, and the temperature of the heating pipe will rise too fast, easily causing serious accidents such as burning out and bursting of the heating pipe, and posing a threat to the safety of users.

[0004] In the prior art, a float switch is usually arranged in a water box communicated with the water tank to detect and control the water level to prevent dry burning. However, this detection method is easily interfered by the fluctuations generated after the water boils, and there is a problem of poor measurement accuracy. Summary of the Utility Model

[0005] The first object of the utility model is to provide a steam generator, which can avoid the problem of delayed heating, improve the accuracy of water level detection, avoid accidents such as burning out and even bursting of the heating element when the water level drops, and improve the safety of use of the steam generator.

[0006] The second object of the utility model is to provide a cooking device, which can avoid the problem of delayed heating, ensure the cooking efficiency, and contribute to improving the safety of use of the cooking device.

[0007] To achieve the above object, the utility model adopts the following technical solutions:

[0008] A steam generator, comprising:

[0009] A water tank;

[0010] A partition member, arranged in the water tank to divide the interior of the water tank into a mutually communicating heating chamber and a detection chamber;

[0011] A heating element, arranged in the heating chamber, the heating element heating the water in the heating chamber to generate steam; the steam flows outwards through the steam channel of the water tank;

[0012] A water level detection component is disposed in the water tank and is used to detect the water level in the detection chamber.

[0013] As an alternative technical solution of the steam generator, the steam generator further includes a baffle integrally formed with the partition member. The baffle is disposed between the heating chamber and the steam passage, and the baffle is configured such that when the steam flows from the heating chamber to the steam passage, it bypasses the baffle.

[0014] As an alternative technical solution of the steam generator, the baffle is formed on the top of the partition member.

[0015] As an alternative technical solution of the steam generator, the water tank is provided with a water inlet hole. The partition member is located on the extension line of the water inlet hole, and a part of the water inlet hole is communicated with the heating chamber, and the other part is communicated with the detection chamber.

[0016] As an alternative technical solution of the steam generator, the partition member is penetrated with an avoidance notch with an opening facing the direction of the water inlet hole, and the heating chamber and the detection chamber are communicated at the avoidance notch.

[0017] As an alternative technical solution of the steam generator, the partition member is provided with a communication hole communicating the heating chamber and the detection chamber; wherein,

[0018] The contour of the communication hole is a closed shape; or

[0019] The communication hole is lower than the lower limit water level in the detection chamber; or

[0020] The communication hole is located on at least one side of the extension line of the axis of the water inlet hole.

[0021] As an alternative technical solution of the steam generator, the water level detection component includes a liquid level sensor and a prism. At least a part of the side wall of the water tank outside the detection chamber is light-transmissive. The prism is disposed inside the water tank, and the liquid level sensor is disposed outside the water tank. The light emitted by the liquid level sensor is reflected back to the liquid level sensor by the prism or directly penetrates into the water.

[0022] As an alternative technical solution of the steam generator, the water level detection component includes a mounting plate made of a light-transmissive material. The liquid level sensor and the prism are respectively disposed on both sides of the mounting plate; the water tank is provided with a detection channel, and the mounting plate is sealingly connected to the water tank and blocks the detection channel.

[0023] As an optional technical solution for a steam generator, a water inlet hole is provided at the bottom of the water tank, and the steam generator includes a water quality detection tube and a turbidity sensor. The water quality detection tube is located below the water tank and is connected between the water inlet hole and an external water source. The turbidity sensor is fixed to the side wall of the water quality detection tube and detects the quality of the water in the water quality detection tube.

[0024] A cooking device comprises the steam generator described in any one of the above technical solutions.

[0025] The beneficial effects of the utility model are:

[0026] The steam generator provided by the utility model can directly contact water and heat it by placing a heating element inside a water tank, thereby avoiding the problem of scaling at the bottom of the water tank causing heating delay. By placing a partition in the water tank to divide the inside of the water tank into a heating chamber and a detection chamber that are interconnected, the water levels in the heating chamber and the detection chamber are the same. When the heating element heats the water in the heating chamber and generates steam after the water boils, the steam flows outward through the steam channel, and the fluctuations generated by the boiling water cannot reach the detection chamber, so that the water level in the detection chamber is not affected by the fluctuations generated after the water boils, and maintains a relatively stable state, avoiding the situation where the detected water level is too high or too low due to fluctuations, so that when the water level in the detection chamber is detected by the water level detection component, the detection result is more accurate, avoiding the heating element being exposed and causing burning or even pipe bursting accidents when the water level in the heating chamber is lower than the lower limit position, and avoiding the problem of overflowing the heating chamber and causing short circuit when the water level is higher than the upper limit position, thereby improving the safety of the steam generator.

[0027] The cooking device provided by the utility model has a steam generator in which a heating element is built into a water tank, which can avoid the problem of heating delay and ensure cooking efficiency; and can help improve the safety of use of the cooking device by accurately detecting the water level. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a steam generator in an embodiment of the utility model;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the explosion structure of the steam generator in the embodiment of the utility model;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional structure diagram of a steam generator in an embodiment of the utility model;

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the box and the partition in the embodiment of the utility model;

[0032] Figure 5It is a schematic structural diagram of the mounting plate and the prism from the first perspective in the embodiment of the present utility model;

[0033] Figure 6 It is a schematic structural diagram of the mounting plate and the prism from the second perspective in the embodiment of the present utility model.

[0034] In the figure:

[0035] 100, water tank; 101, box body; 102, cover body; 1021, steam outlet; 103, water separation member; 1031, steam inlet; 104, steam channel; 110, heating cavity; 120, detection cavity; 130, partition member; 131, communication hole; 132, avoidance notch; 133, blocking member; 140, water inlet hole; 150, detection channel; 160, positioning protrusion; 170, support foot;

[0036] 200, heating member;

[0037] 300, water level detection assembly; 310, liquid level sensor; 320, prism; 330, mounting plate; 331, bonding groove; 332, positioning hole; 333, fixing column;

[0038] 400, water quality detection tube; 410, turbidity sensor; 420, adapter; 430, connecting pipe. Specific embodiments

[0039] Next, the technical solutions of the present utility model will be described clearly and completely with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are some, but not all, of the embodiments of the present utility model. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present utility model without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0040] In the description of the present utility model, it should be noted that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. It is only for the convenience of describing the present utility model and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation to the present utility model. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance. Among them, the terms "first position" and "second position" are two different positions. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "over" and "on" the second feature includes the first feature being directly above and obliquely above the second feature, or merely indicating that the first feature has a higher horizontal height than the second feature. The first feature being "below", "under" and "beneath" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below and obliquely below the second feature, or merely indicating that the first feature has a lower horizontal height than the second feature.

[0041] In the description of the present utility model, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and defined, the terms "installed", "connected" and "coupled" shall be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the communication inside two elements. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present utility model can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0042] The embodiments of the present utility model will be described in detail below. The examples of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals indicate the same or similar elements or elements with the same or similar functions from beginning to end. The embodiments described below by referring to the drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present utility model and should not be construed as a limitation to the present utility model.

[0043] This embodiment provides a cooking device, which includes a steam generator and a cooking cavity. The steam generator introduces steam into the cooking cavity to cook the food in the cooking cavity. By optimizing the structure of the steam generator, the problem of heating delay can be avoided, and the cooking efficiency can be guaranteed; by accurately detecting the water level, it helps to improve the use safety of the cooking device. Among them, the cooking device can be, but is not limited to, a steam box, a steam oven, a microwave steam oven, etc.

[0044] Reference Figures 1 to 6As shown in the figure, the working principle of the steam generator is to heat water to convert it into steam. If the water level is too high, it will cause the heating and temperature rise time to be prolonged, affecting normal operation, reducing the operating efficiency, and also causing excessive water to flow out of the steam generator, resulting in equipment short-circuit and serious accidents. If the water level is too low, the heating element 200 will be exposed to the air, and the temperature of the heating element 200 will rise too fast, easily causing serious accidents such as the burning out of the heating element 200 and pipe explosion. Therefore, it is necessary to accurately detect the water level to improve the safety of equipment use.

[0045] In this embodiment, the steam generator includes a water tank 100, a heating element 200, and a water level detection component 300. The interior of the water tank 100 is divided into a heating chamber 110 and a detection chamber 120 that communicate with each other by a partition 130; the heating element 200 heats the water in the heating chamber 110 to generate steam, and the water level detection component 300 detects the water level in the detection chamber 120. The water level fluctuation in the heating chamber 110 will not affect the detection chamber 120, so that the water level remains relatively stable, avoiding the situation where the detected water level is too high or too low due to fluctuations. Therefore, when the water level in the detection chamber 120 is detected by the water level detection component 300, the detection result is more accurate; it avoids the accident that the heating element 200 is exposed and burned or even the pipe explodes when the water level in the heating chamber 110 is lower than the lower limit position, and also avoids the problem of short-circuit caused by overflowing the heating chamber 110 when the water level is higher than the upper limit position, improving the safety of using the steam generator.

[0046] In some embodiments, the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 communicate at the first height of the water tank 100; the heating element 200 is arranged in the heating chamber 110, and the water in the heating chamber 110 generates steam and flows out through the steam channel 104 of the water tank 100; the water level detection component 300 is arranged on the water tank 100, and the lower limit position of the water level is at the second height of the water tank 100, and the first height is lower than the second height. By placing the heating element 200 inside the water tank 100, it can directly contact the water and heat it, avoiding the problem of scale formation at the bottom of the water tank 100 resulting in heating delay, improving the heating efficiency of the water, thereby improving the steam generation efficiency and ensuring the cooking efficiency. By arranging a heating chamber 110 and a detection chamber 120 inside the water tank 100, the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 communicate at the first height, and the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 form a communicating vessel structure. The water levels in the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 are the same. Since the lower limit position of the water level is at the second height and the first height is lower than the second height, generally, during operation, the water level is higher than the lower limit position. Therefore, the water levels in the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 during operation are higher than the first height, so as to ensure that the communication part between the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 is below the water surface.

[0047] In some embodiments, the partition 130 is provided with a communication hole 131 at the first height of the water tank 100, and the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 are communicated through the communication hole 131. Among them, the contour of the communication hole 131 is a closed shape, which reduces the influence on the structural strength of the partition 130. This setting facilitates the control of the shape, size and position of the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120. In other embodiments, two containers can be separately provided inside the water tank 100 to form the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 respectively. In this embodiment, an independent pipeline can be provided to communicate the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120.

[0048] A plurality of communication holes 131 are provided, and the plurality of communication holes 131 are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the partition 130. On the premise of ensuring the smooth flow of water between the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120, the size of each communication hole 131 is reduced; thereby reducing the fluctuation generated during the flow process, further ensuring the stability of the water surface height in the detection chamber 120, and ensuring the accuracy of the water level detection. Specifically, the length direction of the partition 130 is the front-rear direction. In some embodiments, the communication hole 131 is located on at least one side of the extension line of the axis of the water inlet hole 140. Exemplarily, a plurality of communication holes 131 are located on the front side of the water inlet hole 140, and a plurality of communication holes 131 are located on the rear side of the water inlet hole 140.

[0049] To improve the convenience of assembly, in some embodiments, the partition 130 can be welded or inserted into the water tank 100. Of course, in other embodiments, the partition 130 can also be screwed into the water tank 100, as long as the stable connection of the partition 130 can be achieved, and the above connection methods are not used as limitations.

[0050] Combined Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the water tank 100 is provided with a water inlet hole 140. Along the axis direction of the water inlet hole 140, the projection of the partition 130 in the water tank 100 passes through the water inlet hole 140. A part of the water inlet hole 140 is communicated with the heating chamber 110, and another part of the water inlet hole 140 is communicated with the detection chamber 120. The setting of the water inlet hole 140 enables the automatic control of the water replenishment of the water tank 100. And because the projection of the partition 130 passes through the water inlet hole 140, the water entering from the water inlet hole 140 can enter the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120 at the same time. During the water replenishment process, it is beneficial to ensure the consistency of the water level rise in the heating chamber 110 and the detection chamber 120, so that the water level in the detection chamber 120 can accurately reflect the water level situation in the heating chamber 110.

[0051] The separator 130 is provided with an avoidance notch 132. The heating cavity 110 and the detection cavity 120 communicate with each other at the avoidance notch 132, and the avoidance notch 132 is located on the extension line of the axis of the water inlet hole 140. In other words, the heating cavity 110 and the detection cavity 120 communicate with each other at the avoidance notch 132. The setting of the avoidance notch 132 makes the water inlet process smoother, reduces the obstruction of the separator 130 to the water entering the water tank 100, and improves the smoothness of the water inlet.

[0052] In some embodiments, the water inlet hole 140 is arranged at the bottom of the water tank 100. This position setting makes the water inlet process a bottom-up flow, thereby avoiding splashing of water on the water surface during the flow process, keeping the water levels in the heating cavity 110 and the detection cavity 120 stable during the water inlet process, and being beneficial to improving the detection accuracy.

[0053] To prevent the water droplets generated after the water boils during the heating process from splashing and flowing out through the steam channel 104, in some embodiments, the steam generator further includes a baffle 133. The baffle 133 is arranged between the heating cavity 110 and the steam channel 104, and the baffle 133 is configured such that when the steam flows from the heating cavity 110 to the steam channel 104, it bypasses the baffle 133. In other words, the baffle 133 is arranged below the inlet of the steam channel 104, and in the up-down direction, the baffle 133 covers the inlet of the steam channel 104. The inlet of the steam channel 104 is the steam inlet 1031. Since the force received by the water droplets is the force generated by the explosion of the bubbles in the boiling water, the moving direction of the water droplets is single. After encountering the baffle 133 during the upward splashing process, the water droplets will adhere to the baffle 133 and finally drip back into the heating cavity 110, thereby preventing the water droplets from entering the steam channel 104; at the same time, since the baffle 133 is located below the inlet of the steam channel 104, that is, there is a certain gap between the baffle 133 and the inlet of the steam channel 104, the floating steam can bypass the baffle 133 and enter the steam channel 104, thereby reducing the influence of the water droplets on the steam and improving the steam dryness. Among them, the extending direction of the water inlet hole 140 is the up-down direction.

[0054] In some embodiments, the water level detection assembly 300 is arranged on the side of the detection cavity 120 away from the heating cavity 110. Combining with the above position setting of the baffle 133, the baffle 133 is located between the heating element 200 and the water level detection assembly 300, so as to block the heat radiation of the heating element 200 to the water level detection assembly 300, reduce the temperature rise value of the water level detection assembly 300, and improve the detection accuracy and service life of the water level detection assembly 300.

[0055] Combined with Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, regarding the structural relationship between the partition member 133 and the separator 130, in some embodiments, the steam generator includes a separator 130 disposed inside the water tank 100 to divide the internal space of the water tank 100 into a heating chamber 110 and a detection chamber 120. The upper end of the separator 130 is bent to form a partition member 133. The setting of the above structure enables the partition member 133 and the separator 130 to be integrally formed, which helps to improve the firmness of the connection between the two; among them, the partition member 133 is formed on the top of the separator 130. In addition, during installation, only the partition member 133 needs to be fixed to the water tank 100, which improves the assembly efficiency.

[0056] Among them, in the front-rear direction, the length of the separator 130 is less than the length of the partition member 133. The separator 130 only needs to cover the inlet of the steam passage 104, while the partition member 133 needs to divide the internal space of the water tank 100, that is, the length of the separator 130 is adapted to the width of the water tank 100 in the front-rear direction; at the same time, the above length setting facilitates the folding of the separator 130 to form the partition member 133; furthermore, the small length of the partition member 133 can also save materials and reduce production costs.

[0057] In some embodiments, the water level detection assembly 300 includes a liquid level sensor 310 and a prism 320. At least part of the side wall of the water tank 100 outside the detection chamber 120 is light-transmitting. The prism 320 is disposed inside the water tank 100, and the liquid level sensor 310 is disposed outside the water tank 100. The light emitted by the liquid level sensor 310 is reflected back to the liquid level sensor 310 by the prism 320 or directly penetrates into the water. Exemplarily, the extending direction of the prism 320 is perpendicular to the water surface in the water tank 100, and the prism 320 includes at least two mirrors arranged at an angle. The light emitted by the liquid level sensor 310 is reflected back to the liquid level sensor 310 after passing through the two mirrors above the water surface or passes through the mirror below the water surface and penetrates into the water. This setting enables the infrared light emitted by the liquid level sensor 310 to irradiate into the water tank 100 through the prism 320. When there is water, the infrared light will refract into the water and give a low-level signal to the liquid level sensor 310. When there is no water in the detection chamber 120, it will refract back and give a high-level signal to the liquid level sensor 310, so as to accurately detect the water level in the detection chamber 120.

[0058] Regarding the specific installation method of the liquid level sensor 310, in this embodiment, the water tank 100 is provided with a detection channel 150. The water level detection assembly 300 includes a mounting plate 330. At least part of the mounting plate 330 is made of a light-transmitting material. The mounting plate 330 is hermetically installed on the outer side of the water tank 100 and seals the detection channel 150. The liquid level sensor 310 and the prism 320 are respectively fixed on the inner and outer sides of the mounting plate 330. This setting improves the installation efficiency of the liquid level sensor 310; at the same time, it reduces the production difficulty of the water tank 100 and the production cost. The mounting plate 330 forms part of the side wall of the water tank 100.

[0059] Combined with Figure 5 As shown, further, a ring-shaped bonding groove 331 is provided on the side of the mounting plate 330 facing the water tank 100. The bonding groove 331 is arranged around the outer periphery of the detection channel 150. Glue can be accommodated in the bonding groove 331 to bond the mounting plate 330 to the outer side of the water tank 100. This setting improves the installation efficiency of the mounting plate 330 and helps to achieve the seal between the mounting plate 330 and the water tank 100.

[0060] To improve the accuracy of the installation position of the mounting plate 330, in some embodiments, the water tank 100 is provided with positioning protrusions 160 on the outer periphery of the detection channel 150. The mounting plate 330 is provided with positioning holes 332. The positioning protrusions 160 can be inserted into the positioning holes 332 to ensure the accuracy of the relative position between the mounting plate 330 and the water tank 100, ensure that the mounting plate 330 can seal the detection channel 150, and avoid water leakage. There are two positioning holes 332 and two positioning protrusions 160 respectively. The two positioning protrusions 160 are respectively inserted into the corresponding two positioning holes 332.

[0061] To improve the connection stability between the prism 320 and the mounting plate 330, in some embodiments, the prism 320 and the mounting plate 330 are integrally formed and are both made of a light-transmitting material. It should be noted that the structure of the prism 320 is a triangular prism. The three surfaces between the three edges are respectively defined as the mounting surface, the first surface and the second surface. Among them, the mounting surface is attached to the mounting plate 330. The first surface and the second surface are both located in the detection cavity 120, and the first surface and the second surface are arranged at an angle to facilitate reflecting light. Preferably, the first surface and the second surface are perpendicular to each other.

[0062] Combined with Figure 6 As shown, to facilitate the installation of the liquid level sensor 310, a fixing post 333 is provided on one side of the mounting plate 330. A fixing screw hole is provided on the fixing post 333. The fixing screw passes through the fixing hole of the liquid level sensor 310 and is screwed into the fixing screw hole. The above setting provides a position guide for the installation of the liquid level sensor 310, thus ensuring the installation and detection accuracy.

[0063] It is worth noting that the liquid level sensor 310 is a photoelectric switch. Compared with a float switch, a photoelectric switch has the advantages of small size, easy installation, low power consumption, and is not prone to problems such as stuck and failure. The application of the liquid level sensor 310 can send a signal to the controller of the steam generator when the water level in the water tank 100 drops to a certain level. After receiving the signal, the controller will trigger corresponding actions, such as automatic water replenishment, warning sound, or stop heating, etc., to improve the degree of automation, and can also remind users to conduct timely maintenance.

[0064] In some embodiments, a water inlet hole 140 is provided at the bottom of the water tank 100, and the steam generator includes a water quality detection tube 400 and a turbidity sensor 410. The water quality detection tube 400 is located below the water tank 100 and is connected between the water inlet hole 140 and an external water source. The turbidity sensor 410 is fixed to the side wall of the water quality detection tube 400 and detects the quality of water in the water quality detection tube 400. Impurities generated in the water will flow downward, so that the water quality in the water tank 100 and the water quality detection tube 400 are roughly the same. Detecting the water quality in the water quality detection tube 400 can reflect the water quality in the water tank 100. The water quality detection tube 400 is located below the water tank 100, which makes it convenient to detect the water quality in the water quality detection tube 400. At the same time, it also avoids setting a detection position in the water tank 100, which is conducive to ensuring the volume of the water tank 100.

[0065] When the turbidity sensor 410 is working, when there is less scale inside the water quality detection tube 400, when the infrared light emitted by the transmitting end of the turbidity sensor 410 passes through the water in the water quality detection tube 400, the receiving end of the turbidity sensor 410 converts the intensity of the transmitted light into the corresponding current magnitude, and the magnitude of the current received by the receiving end can calculate the degree of water pollution. Specifically, the more light that passes through, the larger the current, indicating that the water quality is better; the less light that passes through, the smaller the current, indicating that the water quality is relatively turbid.

[0066] In order to improve the uniformity of the water quality in the water quality detection tube 400, in some embodiments, the water quality detection tube 400 is arranged horizontally. The turbidity sensor 410 is arranged in the middle of the water quality detection tube 400. Since impurities mainly move by gravity, the horizontally arranged water quality detection tube 400 makes the impurities move at a low speed, and the water quality in each part of the water quality detection tube 400 is relatively consistent, which is conducive to accurately reflecting the water quality in the heating chamber 110.

[0067] To facilitate the connection of the water quality detection tube 400 between the water tank 100 and an external water source, the steam generator further includes an adapter 420. One end of the water quality detection tube 400 communicates with the water inlet hole 140 through the adapter 420, and the other end of the water quality detection tube 400 communicates with the external water source through the adapter 420. Wherein, a connecting pipe 430 is provided at the bottom of the water tank 100. The outlet of the connecting pipe 430 communicates with the water inlet hole 140, and the inlet of the connecting pipe 430 communicates with the outlet of the water quality detection tube 400 through the adapter 420. This setting improves the connection efficiency of the water quality detection tube 400; at the same time, it helps the water quality detection tube 400 to adapt to various different usage environments. Wherein, the connecting pipe 430 is a bent pipe, and the included angle between the axes of its inlet and outlet is a right angle. The setting of the connecting pipe 430 helps to ensure that the water quality detection tube 400 is placed horizontally.

[0068] In some embodiments, the diameter of the water quality detection tube 400 is greater than the diameter of the connecting pipe 430. The adapter 420 includes a first adapter pipe and a second adapter pipe that are connected and communicate with each other. The first adapter pipe communicates with the connecting pipe 430, and the second adapter pipe communicates with the water quality detection tube 400. Wherein, the diameter of the first adapter pipe matches the diameter of the connecting pipe 430, and the diameter of the second adapter pipe matches the diameter of the water quality detection tube 400. It should be noted that the diameter of the first adapter pipe matches the diameter of the pipeline of the external water source, so as to facilitate the connection of the water circuits at both ends of the water quality detection tube 400 through the same type of adapter 420.

[0069] Regarding the structure of the water tank 100, in this embodiment, the water tank 100 includes a box body 101, a cover body 102, and a water separation member 103. The cover body 102 is arranged on the box body 101, and the water separation member 103 is clamped between the cover body 102 and the box body 101. A steam channel 104 is formed between the water separation member 103 and the cover body 102. The water separation member 103 is provided with a steam inlet 1031 communicating with the steam channel 104, and the cover body 102 is provided with a steam outlet 1021 communicating with the steam channel 104. The steam inlet 1031 and the steam outlet 1021 are arranged in a vertical offset. This setting makes the steam flow through a turn during the outflow process, improving the stability and uniformity of the steam outflow.

[0070] In this embodiment, the heating member 200 is a heating tube. The heating tube passes through the water separation member 103 and the cover body 102 and is connected to the cover body 102, so as to facilitate electrical connection with an external circuit. Regarding the specific structure of the heating tube, in this embodiment, the heating tube is a double-layer structure and is arranged vertically. That is, the heating tube includes a vertical connecting portion and a horizontally arranged heating portion. The heating portion includes a lower heating portion and an upper heating portion. The end of the lower heating portion is turned over in the opposite direction to form the upper heating portion. The structure of the double-layer heating tube makes the heating power greater, equivalent to twice that of a single-layer heating tube.

[0071] It should be noted that the upper horizontal plane of the upper heating pipe is the upper limit position of the water level, and the lower horizontal plane of the upper heating pipe is the lower limit position of the water level. The difference between the upper limit position and the lower limit position of the water level is H. That is to say, when the water level reaches the lower horizontal plane of the upper heating pipe, the liquid level sensor 310 sends a low water level signal to the controller, and the controller controls the water replenishing system to replenish water. When the water level reaches the upper horizontal plane of the upper heating pipe, the liquid level sensor 310 sends a high water level signal to the controller, and the controller controls the water replenishing system to stop replenishing water.

[0072] In some embodiments, a snap-action thermostat or an NTC temperature sensor can be installed at the bottom of the steam generator. When abnormal heating occurs, the power supply of the heating element 200 can be disconnected to avoid continuous heating, playing a protective role and improving the safety of using the steam generator.

[0073] In some embodiments, to improve the convenience of placing the steam generator, support feet 170 are provided at the bottom of the box body 101. The support feet 170 are used to support the box body 101; at the same time, the support feet 170 can make a certain accommodation space under the box body 101, so as to facilitate the arrangement of the connecting pipe 430 and the water quality detection pipe 400.

[0074] When using for the first time, start the steam generator and the water inlet function, and inject water into the water tank 100. When the water level exceeds the lower limit position, the liquid level sensor 310 sends a signal to the controller, and the controller controls the water inlet time to be T1.

[0075] The heating pipe heats to generate steam. When the water level is lower than the lower limit position, the heating stops, the sensor sends a signal to the controller, the controller controls the water inlet time to be T1, then stops the water inlet and starts heating again.

[0076] During the water inlet process, after starting the first water inlet program and the water inlet duration is T1, the liquid level sensor 310 detects the water level and judges whether the water level reaches the lower limit position. If not, start the second water inlet program, and the water inlet duration is T2. After stopping the water inlet, detect the water level again and judge whether the water level reaches the lower limit position. If not, it is determined that there is a water shortage, and the heating function is stopped. When there is a water shortage, the user can be reminded to perform maintenance in time. Among them, T1 = 5s and T2 = 5s.

[0077] During use, water quality is detected by the turbidity sensor 410. When the water quality is of the first quality, the reminder function is activated. When the water quality is of the second quality, the heating function of the heating element 200 is stopped, and the descaling function is activated. When the water quality is of the third quality, the descaling function is stopped, and the heating function of the heating element 200 is activated again. Among them, the first quality can be 60% < F < 65%; the second quality can be 70% < F < 75%; the third quality can be F < 15%. It should be noted that F is the fouling coefficient, and the detection standard of fouling and the descaling structure can be set according to the actual situation, and are not limited to the above numerical ranges.

[0078] Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention, rather than limiting the implementation manners of the present invention. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other different forms of changes or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is not necessary and impossible to enumerate all the implementation manners here. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, and improvements made within the spirit and principle of the present invention shall be included in the protection scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A steam generator, characterized in that: include: Water tank (100); A separator (130) is provided in the water tank (100) to separate the interior of the water tank (100) into a heating chamber (110) and a detection chamber (120) that are interconnected; A heating element (200) is disposed in the heating chamber (110), and the heating element (200) heats the water in the heating chamber (110) to generate steam; the steam flows outward through the steam channel (104) of the water tank (100); A water level detection component (300) is arranged in the water tank (100) and is used to detect the water level in the detection cavity (120).

2. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The steam generator further comprises a barrier (133) integrally formed with the partition (130), wherein the barrier (133) is disposed between the heating chamber (110) and the steam channel (104), and wherein the barrier (133) is configured such that the steam bypasses the barrier (133) when flowing from the heating chamber (110) to the steam channel (104).

3. The steam generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The barrier member (133) is formed on the top of the partition member (130).

4. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water tank (100) is provided with a water inlet hole (140), and the partition (130) is located on the extension line of the water inlet hole (140), and connects a part of the water inlet hole (140) with the heating chamber (110), and another part of the water inlet hole (140) with the detection chamber (120).

5. The steam generator according to claim 4, characterized in that: The partition (130) is penetrated by a relief notch (132) opening toward the water inlet hole (140); the heating chamber (110) and the detection chamber (120) are connected at the relief notch (132).

6. The steam generator according to claim 4, characterized in that: The partition (130) is provided with a connecting hole (131) connecting the heating chamber (110) and the detection chamber (120); wherein: The outline of the communicating hole (131) is a closed shape; or The communicating hole (131) is lower than the lower limit water level in the detection chamber (120); or The communication hole (131) is located on at least one side of the extension line of the axis of the water inlet hole (140).

7. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water level detection component (300) comprises a liquid level sensor (310) and a prism (320); the prism (320) is arranged inside the water tank (100); the liquid level sensor (310) is arranged outside the water tank (100); and the light emitted by the liquid level sensor (310) is reflected by the prism (320) back to the liquid level sensor (310) or directly penetrates into the water.

8. The steam generator according to claim 7, characterized in that: The water level detection assembly (300) comprises a mounting plate (330) made of a light-transmitting material, the liquid level sensor (310) and the prism (320) being respectively arranged on two sides of the mounting plate (330); the water tank (100) is provided with a detection channel (150), the mounting plate (330) being sealedly connected to the water tank (100) and blocking the detection channel (150).

9. The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The bottom of the water tank (100) is provided with a water inlet hole (140), and the steam generator comprises a water quality detection tube (400) and a turbidity sensor (410); the water quality detection tube (400) is located below the water tank (100) and is connected between the water inlet hole (140) and an external water source; the turbidity sensor (410) is fixed to the side wall of the water quality detection tube (400) and detects the quality of water in the water quality detection tube (400).

10. A cooking device, characterized in that A steam generator comprising any one of claims 1 to 9.

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