Cooking utensil
By introducing a bevel gear transmission structure and a reset part design into the cooking appliance, and integrating the knob with the snap-fit mechanism, the problems of high height and complicated operation of the cooking appliance are solved, and convenient lid operation and efficient storage are achieved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202422303862.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-20
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-14
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-09-20
AI Technical Summary
The overall height of the cooking appliance is relatively high, making it inconvenient to store and complicated for users to operate.
The knob and the snap-fit mechanism are integrated using a bevel gear transmission structure. The cover can be snapped on and off by operating the knob, reducing the overall height. Automatic reset and simplified operation are achieved through the design of the reset and abutment parts.
The overall height of the cooking utensils is reduced, which makes storage easier, simplifies the operation process, improves user experience and ease of use, and reduces the risk of misoperation.
Smart Images

Figure CN223429409U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of small household appliances, and in particular to a cooking utensil. Background Art
[0002] Cooking utensils are one of the indispensable tools in the kitchen. They come in many types and have different functions to meet different cooking needs.
[0003] The cooking utensil includes a pot body, a lid, and a handle. The pot body is provided with a rim, and the lid is provided with a snap-fit structure that engages with the rim. A handle is provided on the top surface of the lid. By gripping the handle, the user can drive the snap-fit structure to rotate relative to the pot body, thereby engaging or disengaging the snap-fit structure on the lid with the pot body.
[0004] Related art cookware uses handles on the top of the lid, which, while convenient for users, also presents a problem. Because the handles are at a certain height, placing them on the top of the lid increases the overall height of the cookware, making it more difficult to store. Utility Model Content
[0005] The main purpose of the present invention is to provide a cooking utensil to solve the problem that the overall height of the cooking utensil in the related art is relatively high and it is inconvenient to store the cooking utensil.
[0006] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the utility model, a cooking utensil is provided, comprising: a pot body assembly, comprising a pot body, pot teeth arranged on the pot body, a knob rotatably arranged on the pot body and a lower coupling member rotatably arranged on the pot body; a cover body assembly, comprising a cover body arranged on the pot body, a buckling mechanism movably arranged on the cover body, a swinging member rotatably arranged on the cover body and an upper coupling member rotatably arranged on the cover body, the buckling mechanism having a staggered position separated from the pot teeth and a buckling position buckled with the pot teeth; a locking mechanism movably arranged on the pot body, the locking mechanism having a locking position for locking the cover body on the pot body and a locking position for enabling the cover body to be opened from the pot body. Separation position; a bevel gear transmission structure is arranged between the lower coupling member and the knob, and the knob drives the lower coupling member to rotate through the bevel gear transmission structure, and the bevel gear transmission structure includes a first bevel gear connected to the knob and a second bevel gear connected to the lower coupling member, and the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear are in transmission cooperation; when the engaging mechanism is in the engaging position, the lower coupling member is driven to rotate through the bevel gear transmission structure when the knob is rotated, so as to drive the swing member to rotate through the transmission cooperation between the lower coupling member and the upper coupling member, so that the engaging mechanism switches between the staggered position and the engaging position, and when the engaging mechanism is in the staggered position and the engaging mechanism is in the engaging position, the engaging mechanism can be driven and switched from the engaging position to the separation position.
[0007] The technical solution of the present invention improves the transmission efficiency of the knob, reduces energy loss during transmission, and enhances the user experience. Furthermore, the bevel gear transmission structure offers superior stability and durability compared to the connecting rod transmission of related technologies, extending the service life of the cooking appliance. When the locking mechanism is in the locked position, the lower coupling member is driven to rotate by the bevel gear transmission structure when the knob is operated. The lower coupling member and the upper coupling member are then driven to rotate by the swinging member, allowing the locking mechanism to switch between the staggered and engaged positions. When the locking mechanism is in the engaged position, the pressure requirements during cooking are met. Furthermore, the locking mechanism remains in the engaged position, achieving double locking. When the locking mechanism is in the staggered position and the engaged position, the user operates the cooking appliance, driving the locking mechanism to switch from the engaged position to the disengaged position. At this point, the lid can be opened from the pot body. In this way, the user can drive the snap-fit structure to separate or engage by operating the knob on the pot body, avoiding the need for a handle on the top surface of the lid to drive the snap-fit structure to engage or disengage with the pot body. This reduces the overall height of the cooking appliance, making it easier to store the cooking appliance. Therefore, the technical solution of this application effectively solves the problem of the high overall height of cooking appliances in the related art, which makes it difficult to store the cooking appliance. Furthermore, by integrating the function of controlling the separation and engagement of the snap-fit mechanism into the knob, the user does not need to frequently change the grip position during operation, simplifying the use process of the cooking appliance.
[0008] Furthermore, the knob has a first operating position and a second operating position when rotated in a first direction. When the snap-fit mechanism is in the staggered position, the corresponding knob is in the first operating position, and when the snap-fit position is in the snap-fit position, the corresponding knob is in the second operating position. The pot body assembly also includes a first reset member provided on the pot body, the first reset member applies a first reset force to the knob, and when the lid is in a position opened from the pot body, the knob remains in the first operating position under the action of the first reset force. The first reset member in the above-mentioned pot body assembly applies a first reset force to the knob, ensuring that when the lid is opened from the pot body, the knob can automatically reset from the second operating position to the first operating position. This automatic reset function reduces the trouble of the user having to manually adjust the knob position after each operation, thereby improving the convenience of the cooking appliance.
[0009] Furthermore, the pot body includes a housing and a knob seat disposed on the housing, the engaging mechanism is movably disposed on the housing, the knob is rotatably disposed on the knob seat, and the ends of the first reset member respectively abut against the knob seat and the first bevel gear. The first reset member applies a first reset force to the knob via a bevel gear transmission structure. Applying the first reset force via the bevel gear transmission structure and utilizing the transmission ratio and stability of the bevel gear ensures smoother and more precise rotation of the knob, reducing the risk of misoperation due to improper manual operation.
[0010] Furthermore, the knob is provided with a resisting member, and the engaging mechanism is provided with a resisting inclined surface. When the resisting member and the resisting inclined surface abut against each other, the knob is maintained in the first operating position. The resisting member and the resisting inclined surface abut against each other, thereby generating a certain resistance to the knob, so that the knob can be stably maintained in the first operating position when the user is not operating the knob.
[0011] Furthermore, the knob has a third operating position when rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction. When the knob switches between the first and third operating positions, the abutment member engages the abutment slope. When the knob switches from the first to the third operating position, the abutment member pushes the abutment slope, causing the engaging mechanism to switch from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The provision of the abutment member integrates the control of the engaging mechanism into the knob, eliminating the need for additional operating components. The user can engage and disengage the engaging mechanism simply by rotating the knob, simplifying the operating process and improving the user experience.
[0012] Furthermore, the pot assembly also includes a second reset member disposed on the pot body, which applies a second reset force to the locking mechanism. When the lid is opened from the pot body, the locking mechanism, under the action of the second reset force, switches from the disengaged position to the engaged position, and drives the abutting inclined surface to abut against the abutting member, thereby switching the knob from the third operating position to the first operating position. This automatic reset design eliminates the need for users to manually adjust the position of the locking mechanism after each operation, thereby improving the convenience of the cooking appliance.
[0013] Furthermore, when the swing member rotates, it has a first swing position, a second swing position, and a third swing position, with the first swing position being between the second and third swing positions. The lid assembly also includes a third reset member connected between the snap mechanism and the swing member, and the third reset member has a third reset force. When the lid is opened from the pot body, the swing member switches from the third swing position to the first swing position under the action of the third reset force. The swing member can automatically reset from the third swing position to the first swing position, eliminating the need for the user to manually adjust the position of the swing member after each operation, making it easier for the user to use the cooking appliance and reducing the complexity of operation.
[0014] Furthermore, the buckling mechanism includes a locking ring rotatably arranged on the cover body and a driving column arranged on the locking ring, the locking ring has a cover tooth that cooperates with the pot tooth, an elongated hole for penetrating the driving column is provided on the swinging member, a first end of the third reset member is connected to the driving column, a second end of the third reset member is connected to the swinging member, the third reset member also has a fourth reset force, the fourth reset force is greater than the third reset force, the first end of the elongated hole is arranged close to the second end of the third reset member relative to the second end of the elongated hole; when the knob is switched from the first operating position to the second operating position, the swinging member is switched from the first swing position to the second swing position, and the elongated hole is connected to the second operating position. The first end of the strip hole cooperates with the push-up of the driving column to rotate the snapping mechanism from the staggered position to the snapping position; when the knob switches from the second operating position to the first operating position, the swinging member switches from the second swinging position to the first swinging position, and the driving column rotates under the action of the fourth reset force to rotate the snapping mechanism from the snapping position to the staggered position; when the knob switches from the first operating position to the third operating position, the swinging member switches from the first swinging position to the third swinging position, and the snapping mechanism remains in the staggered position under the stop of the cover body, and the first end of the elongated hole gradually moves away from the driving column, and the second end of the elongated hole gradually approaches the driving column.
[0015] Furthermore, in order to provide flexibility for the user to operate the knob, the first direction is clockwise or counterclockwise.
[0016] Furthermore, the cooking appliance includes a rack and pinion transmission structure disposed between the upper coupling member and the swinging member. The upper coupling member drives the swinging member through the rack and pinion transmission structure. This transmission mechanism effectively and efficiently transmits power from the upper coupling member to the swinging member 30, ensuring a smooth and efficient driving process.
[0017] Furthermore, the pot body assembly further comprises a button movably arranged on the knob, the button driving the engaging mechanism to switch from the engaging position to the disengaging position. The above structure facilitates the user to drive the engaging mechanism by pressing the operating mode.
[0018] Furthermore, the snap-fit mechanism includes a locking ring rotatably arranged on the cover body and a driving column arranged on the locking ring. The locking ring has a cover tooth that cooperates with the pot tooth. The swinging member is provided with a matching hole that cooperates with the driving column. When the swinging member rotates, it drives the driving column to rotate, so that the snap-fit mechanism switches between the staggered position and the snap-fit position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The drawings constituting part of this application are provided to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The exemplary embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are provided to explain the present invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the present invention. In the drawings:
[0020] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of an embodiment of a cooking utensil according to the present invention is shown;
[0021] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cooking appliance at point A;
[0022] Figure 3 Shown Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cooking utensil at point B;
[0023] Figure 4 Shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the cooking utensil knob, knob base and first bevel gear;
[0024] Figure 5 Shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the first bevel gear of the cooking utensil;
[0025] Figure 6 Shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the knob base of the cooking utensil;
[0026] Figure 7 Shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the swing member and the third reset member of the cooking utensil;
[0027] Figure 8 Shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the partial structure of the middle plate of the cooking utensil;
[0028] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the cooking utensil according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown when the swing member is in a first swing position;
[0029] Figure 10 Shown Figure 9 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cooking utensil at position C;
[0030] Figure 11 Shown Figure 9 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a cooking utensil;
[0031] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the cooking utensil according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown when the swing member is in the second swing position;
[0032] Figure 13 Shown Figure 12 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cooking appliance at D;
[0033] Figure 14FIG4 shows a schematic perspective structural diagram of the cooking utensil according to an embodiment of the present invention when the swing member is in a third swing position;
[0034] Figure 15 Shown Figure 14 An enlarged schematic diagram of point E of the cooking appliance.
[0035] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the knob and button of another embodiment of the cooking appliance according to the present invention is shown;
[0036] Figure 17 A schematic three-dimensional structural diagram of an oscillating member according to another embodiment of the cooking utensil of the present invention is shown.
[0037] The above drawings include the following reference numerals:
[0038] 11. Cover; 111. Arc-shaped hole; 12. Snap-fit mechanism; 121. Locking ring; 122. Driving column;
[0039] 20. Pot body; 21. Pot teeth; 22. Outer shell; 221. Knob seat; 222. First retaining rib; 223. Arc guide groove; 23. Inner pot; 24. Middle plate; 241. Mounting hole;
[0040] 30. Swinging member; 31. Long hole; 311. First end of the long hole; 312. Second end of the long hole; 32. Swinging plate; 321. Mounting slot; 322. Fixing hook; 33. Tooth condition; 34. Matching hole;
[0041] 41. Third restoration member; 42. Second restoration member; 43. First restoration member;
[0042] 50. Clamping mechanism; 51. Abutting slope; 52. Avoidance space; 53. Hook;
[0043] 60. Knob; 611. Pushing member; 70. Bevel gear transmission structure; 61. First bevel gear; 612. Second retaining rib; 62. Button;
[0044] 71. Lower coupling member; 72. Second bevel gear;
[0045] 80. Gear rack transmission structure; 81. Upper coupling member; 82. Gear member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0046] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is actually only illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention and its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0047] It should be noted that the terms used herein are only for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to the present application. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is also intended to include the plural form. In addition, it should be understood that when the terms "comprise" and / or "include" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components and / or combinations thereof.
[0048] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of the parts and steps, numerical expressions and numerical values set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention. At the same time, it should be understood that, for ease of description, the sizes of the various parts shown in the accompanying drawings are not drawn according to actual proportional relationships. The technology, methods and equipment known to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but in appropriate cases, the technology, methods and equipment should be considered as part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed here, any specific value should be interpreted as being merely exemplary, rather than as a limitation. Therefore, other examples of the exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar numbers and letters represent similar items in the following figures, and therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further discussed in subsequent figures.
[0049] like Figures 1 to 4 and Figures 9 to 15As shown, the present application provides a cooking appliance. The embodiment of the cooking appliance includes: a pot assembly, a lid assembly, a locking mechanism 50, and a bevel gear transmission structure 70. The pot assembly includes a pot 20, pot teeth 21 disposed on the pot 20, a knob 60 rotatably disposed on the pot 20, and a lower coupling member 71 rotatably disposed on the pot 20. The lid assembly includes a lid 11 disposed on the pot 20, a locking mechanism 12 movably disposed on the lid 11, a swinging member 30 rotatably disposed on the lid 11, and an upper coupling member 81 rotatably disposed on the lid 11. The locking mechanism 12 has an offset position in which it is separated from the pot teeth 21 and a locking position in which it is engaged with the pot teeth 21. The locking mechanism 50 is movably disposed on the pot 20 and has a locking position in which the lid 11 is locked to the pot 20 and a detached position in which the lid 11 can be opened from the pot 20. A bevel gear transmission structure 70 is disposed between the lower coupling member 71 and the knob 60. The knob 60 drives the lower coupling member 71 through the bevel gear transmission structure 70. The bevel gear transmission structure 70 includes a first bevel gear 61 connected to the knob 60 and a second bevel gear 72 connected to the lower coupling member 71. The first bevel gear 61 and the second bevel gear 72 work in conjunction with each other. The bevel gear transmission structure 70 improves the transmission efficiency of the knob 60, reduces energy loss during the transmission process, and enhances the user experience. Furthermore, the bevel gear transmission structure 70 offers superior stability and durability compared to conventional connecting rod transmissions, extending the life of the cooking appliance. When the locking mechanism 50 is in the locking position, the knob 60 rotates to drive the lower coupling member 71 to rotate through the bevel gear transmission structure 70, so as to drive the swing member 30 to rotate through the transmission cooperation between the lower coupling member 71 and the upper coupling member 81, so that the locking mechanism 12 switches between the staggered position and the locking position. When the locking mechanism 12 is in the staggered position and the locking mechanism is in the locking position, the locking mechanism 50 can be driven and switched from the locking position to the disengaged position.
[0050] Using the technical solution of this embodiment, when the locking mechanism 50 is in the engaged position, the operating knob 60 is rotated, which drives the lower coupling member 71 to rotate via the bevel gear transmission structure 70. The lower coupling member 71 then rotates via the upper coupling member 81, thereby rotating the swing member 30. This allows the locking mechanism 12 to switch between the staggered and engaged positions. When the locking mechanism 12 is in the engaged position, the pressure requirements during cooking are met. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 50 remains in the engaged position, achieving a double lock. When the locking mechanism 12 is in the staggered position and the engaged position, a user operates the cooking appliance, actuating the locking mechanism 50 and switching it from the engaged position to the disengaged position. At this point, the lid 11 can be opened from the pot 20. This allows the user to engage or disengage the locking mechanism by operating the knob on the pot, eliminating the need for a handle on the top surface of the lid to engage or disengage the locking mechanism with the pot. This reduces the overall height of the cooking appliance, facilitating storage of the cooking appliance. Therefore, the technical solution of the present application effectively solves the problem of the high overall height of the cooking utensils in the related art, which makes it inconvenient to store the cooking utensils. In addition, by integrating the function of controlling the separation and fastening of the fastening mechanism 12 into the knob, the user does not need to frequently change the grip position during operation, thus simplifying the use process of the cooking utensils.
[0051] It should be noted that the pot body includes an outer shell, a heat-insulating cover arranged inside the outer shell, and an inner pot arranged inside the heat-insulating cover, and the pot teeth are arranged on the heat-insulating cover or the inner pot, or the pot body also includes a middle plate arranged on the top of the outer shell and a pressure ring arranged above the middle plate, and the pot teeth are arranged on the pressure ring.
[0052] It should be noted that the fastening mechanism 12 includes a locking ring or locking cover rotatably mounted on the cover body, the locking ring or locking cover having a cover tooth that engages or disengages the pot teeth. Of course, in other embodiments, the fastening mechanism 12 includes a caliper structure that is movable in the radial direction of the cover body, the caliper structure having a cover tooth that engages or disengages the pot teeth, or the fastening mechanism 12 includes a flap having a cover tooth that is flipped over and mounted on the cover body to engage or disengage the pot teeth. When the cover tooth engages the pot teeth in a locked position, the fastening mechanism 12 is in a fastened position; when the cover tooth disengages from the pot teeth, the fastening mechanism 12 is in a disengaged position.
[0053] The pot teeth of the present application can be a pot edge, a convex edge or an outward turning edge.
[0054] In this embodiment, a connecting square hole is provided on the rear of the knob 60, and a connecting square post is provided on the axle of the first bevel gear 61, which is inserted into the connecting square hole. In this way, when the knob 60 is rotated, the first bevel gear 61 can be rotated together. The knob 60 is located on the front side of the pot body 20.
[0055] like Figures 1 to 4and Figures 9 to 15 As shown, the knob 60 has a first operating position and a second operating position when rotated in a first direction. When the locking mechanism 12 is in the staggered position, the knob 60 is in the first operating position; when the locking mechanism 12 is in the locked position, the knob 60 is in the second operating position. The knob 60 has a first operating position and a second operating position. This allows the user to intuitively identify the state of the locking mechanism 12, i.e., whether it is in the staggered or locked position, by the position of the knob. The pot assembly also includes a first return member 43 disposed on the pot body 20. The first return member 43 applies a first return force to the knob 60. When the lid 11 is opened from the pot body 20, the knob 60 remains in the first operating position due to the first return force. The first return member 43 in the pot assembly applies the first return force to the knob 60, ensuring that the knob 60 automatically returns to the first operating position from the second operating position when the lid 11 is opened from the pot body 20. This automatic return function reduces the need for users to manually adjust the knob position after each operation, thereby improving the convenience of the cooking appliance. Furthermore, since the knob 60 is automatically kept in the first operating position when the cover 11 is opened, this reduces the possibility of user misoperation during operation and ensures the correct use of the cooking appliance. The first reset member 43 is preferably a compression spring.
[0056] like Figures 1 to 4 and Figures 9 to 15 As shown, the pot body 20 includes a housing 22 and a knob seat 221 disposed on the housing 22, and the engaging mechanism 50 is movably disposed on the housing 22. By integrating the knob 60 and the engaging mechanism 50 on the housing 22 of the pot body 20, a compact structure and efficient use of space are achieved. The knob 60 is rotatably disposed on the knob seat 221, and the two ends of the first reset member 43 respectively abut the knob seat 221 and the first bevel gear 61. The first reset member 43 applies a first reset force to the knob 60 via the bevel gear transmission structure 70. By applying the first reset force via the bevel gear transmission structure 70 and utilizing the transmission ratio and stability of the bevel gear, the knob 60 is ensured to rotate more smoothly and accurately, reducing the risk of misoperation due to improper manual operation.
[0057] like Figures 1 to 15As shown, the pot body 20 includes an outer shell 22, a middle plate 24 disposed at the top of the outer shell 22, and an inner pot 23 disposed within the outer shell 22. The pot teeth 21 are disposed on the inner pot 23. The middle plate 24 is provided with a mounting hole 241 for mounting a lower coupling member 71. The lower coupling member 71 is rotatable within the mounting hole 241. A knob seat 221 is provided on the side of the outer shell 22. The knob 60 is rotatably mounted on the knob seat 221. The rear portion of the knob seat 221 is provided with an arcuate guide groove 223. A first return member 43 is disposed within the arcuate guide groove 223. A first retaining rib 222 is disposed within the arcuate guide groove 223. A first bevel gear 61 is provided with a second retaining rib 612. The two ends of the first return member 43 abut against the first retaining rib 222 and the second retaining rib 612, respectively. The first return member 43 applies a fourth return force to the first bevel gear 61 to return the knob 60 to its original position. After opening the cover, when the user mistakenly rotates the operating knob 60 from the first operating position to the second operating position and no longer operates, the knob 60 will not remain in the second operating position. Under the action of the fourth reset force of the first reset member 43, the knob 60 automatically rotates back from the second operating position to the first operating position, so that the user can directly operate the knob 60 from the first operating position to the second operating position or the third operating position next time, thereby improving the convenience of user operation.
[0058] Of course, in other embodiments, both ends of the first restoring member 43 abut against the knob seat 221 and the knob 60 respectively, and the first restoring member directly applies the first restoring force to the knob.
[0059] like Figure 1 、 Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 9 to 15 As shown, the knob 60 is provided with a resisting member 611, and the engaging mechanism 50 is provided with a resisting inclined surface 51. When the resisting member 611 and the resisting inclined surface 51 abut against each other, the knob 60 is maintained in the first operating position. The resisting member 611 and the resisting inclined surface 51 abut against each other, and can generate a certain resistance to the knob 60. When the user does not operate the knob, the knob 60 can be stably maintained in the first operating position.
[0060] Moreover, since the two ends of the first reset member 43 are respectively abutted against the knob seat 221 and the first bevel gear 61, the first reset member 43 applies a first reset force to the knob 60 through the bevel gear transmission structure 70. When the abutting member 611 is abutted against the abutting inclined surface 51, the knob 60 remains in the first operating position. This design enables the knob 60 to automatically remain in the first operating position when no operation is required. When the user needs to operate the knob, he can start directly from the first operating position without repositioning, which simplifies the operation process and improves the user experience.
[0061] In the embodiment, the abutting member 611 is an eccentric column, which is eccentric to the rotation axis of the knob 60 by a certain distance, and is provided with a ball head at the end, which can abut against the abutting inclined surface 51.
[0062] As shown in Figure 1 , Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 9 to 15 , the knob 60 also has a third operation position when it rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and the knob 60 switches between the first operation position and the third operation position, and the abutting member 611 abuts against the abutting inclined surface 51, and pushes the abutting inclined surface 51 when the knob 60 switches from the first operation position to the third operation position, so as to switch the clamping mechanism 50 from the clamping position to the separation position. The arrangement of the first bevel gear 61 can integrate the control of the buckling mechanism 12 on the knob 60, and the arrangement of the abutting member 611 can also integrate the control of the clamping mechanism 50 on the knob 60, which reduces the additional operation members, and the user can only rotate the knob 60 to realize the clamping and separation of the clamping mechanism 50, and the buckling and separation of the buckling mechanism 12, which not only simplifies the operation process and improves the user experience, but also makes the structure of the cooking utensil more compact and saves space.
[0063] As shown in Figures 9 to 15 , the pot assembly further comprises a second reset member 42 arranged on the pot 20, which applies a second reset force to the clamping mechanism 50, and in the case that the cover 11 is opened from the pot 20, the clamping mechanism 50 switches from the separation position to the clamping position under the action of the second reset force, and the abutting inclined surface 51 is abutted against the abutting member 611, so as to switch the knob 60 from the third operation position to the first operation position. When the cover 11 is opened from the pot 20, the second reset force applied by the second reset member 42 can automatically switch the clamping mechanism 50 from the separation position back to the clamping position. This automatic reset design reduces the user's trouble of manually adjusting the position of the clamping mechanism after each operation, and improves the convenience of the cooking utensil. The above-mentioned second reset member 42 is preferably a compression spring.
[0064] As shown in Figures 9 to 15As shown, the swing piece 30 has a first swing position, a second swing position and a third swing position when rotating, and the first swing position is between the second swing position and the third swing position. The cover assembly further comprises a third reset piece 41 connected between the buckling mechanism 12 and the swing piece 30, and the third reset piece 41 has a third reset force. When the cover 11 is opened from the pot body 20, the swing piece 30 is switched from the third swing position to the first swing position under the action of the third reset force. In this way, the swing piece 30 is automatically reset from the third swing position to the first swing position under the action of the third reset force, avoiding the user's need to manually adjust the swing piece position after each operation, making the user more relaxed when using the cooking utensil, reducing the complexity of the operation, and thus enhancing the user's experience.
[0065] As shown in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figures 9 to 15 , the buckling mechanism 12 comprises a lock ring 121 rotatably arranged on the cover 11 and a driving column 122 arranged on the lock ring 121, and the lock ring 121 has cover teeth cooperating with the pot teeth 21. The swing piece 30 is provided with a long hole 31 for penetrating the driving column 122, the first end of the third reset piece 41 is connected to the driving column 122, and the second end of the third reset piece 41 is connected to the swing piece 30. The third reset piece 41 also has a fourth reset force, and the fourth reset force is greater than the third reset force. The first end 311 of the long hole is arranged close to the second end of the third reset piece 41 relative to the second end 312 of the long hole. When the knob 60 is switched from the first operation position to the second operation position, the swing piece 30 is switched from the first swing position to the second swing position, and the first end 311 of the long hole is in push-up cooperation with the driving column 122 to make the buckling mechanism 12 rotate from the staggered position to the buckling position. When the knob 60 is switched from the second operation position to the first operation position, the swing piece 30 is switched from the second swing position to the first swing position, and the driving column 122 rotates under the action of the fourth reset force to make the buckling mechanism 12 rotate from the buckling position to the staggered position. When the knob 60 is switched from the first operation position to the third operation position, the swing piece 30 is switched from the first swing position to the third swing position, the buckling mechanism 12 is kept in the staggered position under the stop of the cover 11, the first end 311 of the long hole gradually moves away from the driving column 122, and the second end 312 of the long hole gradually moves close to the driving column 122.
[0066] When the knob 60 rotates in the first direction, the lower coupling member 71 is driven to rotate through the bevel gear transmission structure 70, so that the swing member 30 is driven to rotate in the third direction through the transmission cooperation between the lower coupling member 71 and the upper coupling member 81. The swing member 30 rotates from the first swing position to the second swing position, and the swing member 30 drives the driving column 122 to rotate, thereby driving the locking ring 121 to rotate, so that the knob 60 is rotated from the first operating position to the second operating position, and the locking mechanism 12 is switched from the staggered position to the locked position.
[0067] When the knob 60 is rotated in the second direction, the bevel gear transmission structure 70 drives the lower coupling member 71 to rotate. The lower coupling member 71, through the transmission cooperation with the upper coupling member 81, drives the swing member 30 to rotate in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction. The swing member 30 rotates from the second swing position to the first swing position. Because the first end of the third reset member 41 is connected to the drive post 122, and the second end of the third reset member 41 is connected to the swing member 30, the fourth reset force is greater than the third reset force. The third reset member 41 can drive the drive post 122 to rotate, thereby driving the lock ring 121 to rotate, causing the knob 60 to rotate from the second operating position to the first operating position, and the locking mechanism 12 to switch from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The third reset member 41 is preferably a tension spring. When the swing member 30 rotates from the second swing position to the first swing position, the fourth reset force is greater than the third reset force, providing additional protection. This ensures that the drive post 122 rotates under the fourth reset force, allowing the locking mechanism 12 to switch from the engaged position to the disengaged position.
[0068] When the knob 60 is in the first operating position, the knob 60 rotates in the second direction, and the lower coupling member 71 is driven to rotate through the bevel gear transmission structure 70, so as to drive the swing member 30 to continue to rotate in the fourth direction through the transmission cooperation between the lower coupling member 71 and the upper coupling member 81. However, since the snap-fit mechanism 12 is kept in the staggered position under the stop of the cover body 11, the swing member 30 rotates from the first swing position to the third swing position, the first end 311 of the elongated hole gradually moves away from the driving column 122, and the second end 312 of the elongated hole gradually approaches the driving column 122, and the abutting member 611 on the knob 60 abuts against the abutting inclined surface 51 to push the abutting inclined surface 51, so that the engaging mechanism 50 is switched from the engaging position to the disengaged position, thereby enabling the cover to be opened. After the lid is opened, because the first end of the third reset member 41 is connected to the drive column 122 and the second end of the third reset member 41 is connected to the swing member 30, the swing member 30 can be driven by the third reset force of the third reset member 41 to rotate through the third reset member 41, so that the swing member 30 rotates from the third swing position to the first swing position. This design allows the knob 60 to automatically return to the first operating position when no operation is required, and the swing member 30 also automatically returns to the first swing position. Even if the user rotates the knob in the wrong direction during operation, the knob 60 and the swing member 30 can automatically return to their original position, avoiding safety hazards caused by incorrect operation. When closing the lid, the lower coupling member 71 and the upper coupling member 81 can accurately drive and cooperate together. When the user needs to operate the knob, they can directly start from the first operating position, and the swing member 30 also directly starts from the first swing position without the need for repositioning. This simplifies the operation process and improves the user experience.
[0069] In this embodiment, when the swing member 30 drives the driving column 122 to rotate, in order to enable the locking ring 121 to rotate smoothly and steadily, an arc-shaped hole 111 is provided on the cover body 11 for guiding the driving column 122, and when the swing member 30 switches from the first swing position to the third swing position, the driving column 122 is stopped by one end of the arc-shaped hole 111, so that the snap-fit mechanism 12 is maintained in the staggered position under the stop of the cover body 11.
[0070] In this embodiment, the first direction is clockwise, and the second direction is counterclockwise. Correspondingly, the third direction is leftward relative to the left-right direction of the pot, and the fourth direction is rightward relative to the left-right direction of the pot. Of course, in other embodiments, the first direction is counterclockwise, the second direction is clockwise, the third direction is rightward, and the fourth direction is leftward.
[0071] The swing member 30 includes a swing plate 32 with a mounting slot 321. The third reset member 41 is located within the mounting slot 321. As a key component of the swing member 30, the swing plate 32 provides a stable platform, ensuring stability when the swing member 30 switches between different swing positions. Furthermore, the mounting slot 321 allows the third reset member 41 to be compactly mounted on the swing plate 32, saving space and making the entire cover assembly more compact.
[0072] In this embodiment, the first end of the third reset member 41 is connected to the driving column 122, and the swing member 30 also includes a fixing hook 322 arranged on the swing plate 32, the fixing hook 322 is spaced apart from the long hole 31, and the second end of the third reset member 41 is connected to the fixing hook 322.
[0073] like Figures 1 to 5 and Figure 11 As shown, the cooking appliance further includes a rack and pinion transmission structure 80 disposed between the upper coupling member 81 and the swinging member 30. The upper coupling member 81 drives the swinging member 30 to rotate via the rack and pinion transmission structure 80. The rack and pinion transmission structure 80 effectively and efficiently transmits the power of the upper coupling member 81 to the swinging member 30, ensuring a smooth and efficient driving process.
[0074] In this embodiment, the rack and pinion transmission structure 80 includes a gear member 82 connected to the upper coupling member 81 and a rack member 33 provided on the swing member 30 , and the rack member 33 is meshed with the gear member 82 for transmission.
[0075] In another embodiment of the cooking appliance, Figure 9 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the difference from the embodiment of the cooking utensil is that the pot assembly further includes a button 62 movably disposed on the knob 60, and the button 62 drives the engaging mechanism 50 to switch from the engaged position to the disengaged position. In this way, the user can conveniently press the button 62 to switch the engaging mechanism 50 from the engaged position to the disengaged position.
[0076] In another embodiment of the cooking appliance, Figure 1 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 15 and Figure 17As shown, the locking mechanism 12 includes a locking ring 121 rotatably mounted on the cover body 11 and a driving post 122 mounted on the locking ring 121. The locking ring 121 has a cover tooth that engages with the pot tooth 21. The swinging member 30 is provided with a mating hole 34 that engages with the driving post 122. When the swinging member 30 rotates, the driving post 122 rotates, thereby switching the locking mechanism 12 between the staggered position and the engaged position. Thus, when the knob 60 switches between the first operating position and the second operating position, the bevel gear transmission structure 70 drives the lower coupling member 71 to rotate. The transmission cooperation between the lower coupling member 71 and the upper coupling member 81 drives the swinging member 30 to rotate, and the swinging member 30 drives the driving post 122 to rotate, thereby switching the locking mechanism 12 between the staggered position and the engaged position.
[0077] In this embodiment, the engaging mechanism 50 is further provided with an escape space 52. When the knob 60 rotates between the first operating position and the second operating position, the abutting member 611 rotates within the escape space 52. Thus, when the knob 60 rotates between the first operating position and the second operating position, the engaging mechanism 50 does not interfere with the abutting member 611, thereby preventing the engaging mechanism 50 from being driven, and thus enabling the engaging mechanism 50 to reliably remain in the engaged position.
[0078] The engaging mechanism 50 includes a hook plate rotatably disposed on the middle plate, the hook plate having a hook 53. The top inclined surface 51 and the escape space 52 are both disposed on the hook plate. The second reset member 42 applies a third reset force to the hook plate.
[0079] In this embodiment, the cover body 11 includes an inner lining located above the locking ring, and the locking mechanism 50 also includes an undercut arranged at the bottom of the inner lining. The hook 53 and the undercut can be in a hook-fit state or a unhooked state. When the hook 53 and the undercut are in the hook-fit state, the locking mechanism 50 is in the engaged position. When the hook 53 is separated from the undercut, the locking mechanism 50 is in the separated position.
[0080] The lid assembly is pivotally mounted on the pot body 20, and the lid assembly and the pot body 20 are connected by a torsion spring (not shown). Thus, when the locking mechanism 50 is in the disengaged position, the lid assembly can automatically spring open under the action of the torsion spring, so that the lid assembly can be opened from the pot body 20.
[0081] In this embodiment, the functions implemented when the user operates the knob of the cooking appliance in the first operating position, the second operating position, and the third operating position are as follows:
[0082] When the user rotates the knob clockwise to drive the first bevel gear 61 to rotate, and the engagement of the first bevel gear 61 with the second bevel gear 72 drives the lower coupling member 71 to rotate counterclockwise, the abutting member 611 idles in the avoidance space 52, and the abutting member 611 does not contact the abutting inclined surface 51. The knob rotates from the first operating position to the second operating position. After the knob is released, under the action of the first reset member 43, the knob automatically rotates counterclockwise to a position where the abutting member 611 abuts against the abutting inclined surface 51, and the knob is reset to the first operating position. When the user rotates the knob counterclockwise, the abutting member 611 abuts against the abutting inclined surface 51 and moves downward to push the abutting inclined surface 51, so that the abutting inclined surface 51 is subjected to force to rotate the hook plate about its swing axis, so that the hook 53 rotates backward and disengages from the inverted hook. This position is set to the unhooked engagement state, that is, the knob is in the third operating position. The push-up member 611 only moves on the push-up slope 51. After the knob is released, the push-up member 611 is pushed back to the starting point of the push-up slope 51 along the push-up slope 51 under the action of the force of the push-up slope 51 and the third reset force of the second reset member 42 on the hook plate. This corresponds to the first operating position of the knob. Due to the action of the first reset force of the first reset member on the knob, the position of the push-up member 611 is just limited to the starting point of the push-up slope 51, that is, the first operating position of the knob, and the hook plate and the knob are automatically reset at the same time.
[0083] After closing the cover, the hook 53 of the hook plate automatically engages with the inverted hook. At this time, the knob 60 is rotated clockwise, and the lower coupling part 71 rotates counterclockwise synchronously, driving the upper coupling part 81 that cooperates with the lower coupling part 71 to rotate counterclockwise; the upper coupling part 81 is fixed together with the gear part 82, and the gear part 82 is engaged with the gear condition 33 to drive the swing part 30 to rotate left, so that the locking mechanism 12 rotates clockwise to lock and can withstand pressure. At this time, the knob is rotated from the first operating position to the second operating position. After cooking is complete and the pressure inside the pot has been released, the knob 60 is rotated counterclockwise to disengage the latching mechanism 12. At this point, when the knob is rotated from the second operating position to the first operating position and then further counterclockwise to the third operating position, the swing member 30 continues to rotate from the first swing position to the third swing position, but the latching mechanism 12 does not rotate. However, the drive column 122 of the latching mechanism 12 is restricted by the arc-shaped hole 111 and cannot move, thereby pulling the third reset member 41 to maintain the gear member 82 in engagement with the gear condition 33 for a certain distance until the latching mechanism 50 is in the disengaged position, thereby enabling the lid to be opened. After releasing the knob, it automatically returns to the first operating position; the hook plate returns to the engaged position. After opening the lid, the knob can be automatically reset by rotating it. The first reset force is less than the engagement force of the latching mechanism 12. Otherwise, the third reset force of the third reset member is too large, directly unscrewing the latching mechanism 12 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, where it cannot withstand pressure. The fourth reset force of the third reset member 41 is greater than the screwing force of the snap-fit mechanism 12, so that the driving column 122 of the snap-fit mechanism 12 is at the right end of the elongated hole 31 on the swinging member 30. Only when the knob is turned counterclockwise from the first operating position, the driving column 122 will move from the right end of the elongated hole 31 to the left end until the hook is unhooked. After the knob 60 is released, the third reset member 41 is automatically pulled back to its original position; this method of using the first reset force of the first reset member 43 to reset the knob and the method of using the third reset member 41 to reset the swinging member 30 of the cover assembly are combined into one, which is more convenient for users to prevent misoperation; this operation method is very convenient, and at the same time, the cover assembly also frees up space for a larger operation interactive interface, which improves the user experience of the product; the technology of the present application has the advantages of stable structure, simplicity, low cost and easy production.
[0084] The embodiment of the cooking appliance is an electric pressure cooker. Of course, in embodiments not shown in the figures, the pot body can also be a cup body or an inner pot. The cooking appliance can also be an electric rice cooker, a low-pressure rice cooker, a soy milk maker, a food processor, a stir-fry machine, an electric stew pot, a multi-function pot, etc.
[0085] In the description of the present invention, it needs to be understood that the directions or positional relationships indicated by directional words such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" are usually based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise specified, these directional words do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction or be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Therefore, they cannot be understood as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention; the directional words "inside and outside" refer to the inside and outside relative to the outline of each component itself.
[0086] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "above," "on the upper surface of," "on top of," etc. may be used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature to other devices or features as shown in the figures. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would then be positioned as "below" or "below" the other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both the orientations of "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptions used herein should be interpreted accordingly.
[0087] In addition, it should be noted that the use of words such as "first" and "second" to limit components is only for the convenience of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above words have no special meaning and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model.
[0088] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is susceptible to various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention shall be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A cooking utensil, characterized in that: include: A pot body assembly, comprising a pot body (20), pot teeth (21) arranged on the pot body (20), a knob (60) rotatably arranged on the pot body (20), and a lower coupling member (71) rotatably arranged on the pot body (20); A cover assembly comprises a cover (11) covering the pot body (20), a snap-fit mechanism (12) movably arranged on the cover (11), a swing member (30) rotatably arranged on the cover (11), and an upper coupling member (81) rotatably arranged on the cover (11), wherein the snap-fit mechanism (12) has a staggered position separated from the pot teeth (21) and a snap-fit position snap-fitted with the pot teeth (21); a locking mechanism (50) movably disposed on the pot body (20), the locking mechanism (50) having a locking position for locking the cover body (11) on the pot body (20) and a separation position for enabling the cover body (11) to be opened from the pot body (20); A bevel gear transmission structure (70) is provided between the lower coupling member (71) and the knob (60), wherein the knob (60) drives the lower coupling member (71) to rotate via the bevel gear transmission structure (70), wherein the bevel gear transmission structure (70) comprises a first bevel gear (61) connected to the knob (60) and a second bevel gear (72) connected to the lower coupling member (71), wherein the first bevel gear (61) and the second bevel gear (72) are in transmission cooperation with each other; When the locking mechanism (50) is in the locking position, the knob (60) is rotated to drive the lower coupling member (71) to rotate through the bevel gear transmission structure (70), so as to drive the swing member (30) to rotate through the transmission cooperation between the lower coupling member (71) and the upper coupling member (81), so that the locking mechanism (12) switches between the staggered position and the locking position. When the locking mechanism (12) is in the staggered position and the locking mechanism is in the locking position, the locking mechanism (50) can be driven and switched from the locking position to the separation position.
2. The cooking appliance according to claim 1, wherein The knob (60) has a first operating position and a second operating position when rotated in a first direction; when the locking mechanism (12) is in the staggered position, the corresponding knob (60) is in the first operating position; when the locking mechanism (12) is in the locking position, the corresponding knob (60) is in the second operating position; The pot body assembly further comprises a first resetting member (43) arranged on the pot body (20), wherein the first resetting member (43) applies a first resetting force to the knob (60), and when the cover (11) is in a position opened from the pot body (20), the knob (60) is maintained in the first operating position under the action of the first resetting force.
3. The cooking appliance according to claim 2, wherein: The pot body (20) comprises a shell (22) and a knob seat (221) arranged on the shell (22); the engaging mechanism (50) is movably arranged on the shell (22); the knob (60) is rotatably arranged on the knob seat (221); two ends of the first reset member (43) respectively abut against the knob seat (221) and the first bevel gear (61); the first reset member (43) applies the first reset force to the knob (60) through the bevel gear transmission structure (70).
4. The cooking appliance according to claim 2, wherein: The knob (60) is provided with a resisting member (611), and the engaging mechanism (50) is provided with a resisting inclined surface (51). When the resisting member (611) and the resisting inclined surface (51) are in abutment with each other, the knob (60) is maintained in the first operating position.
5. The cooking appliance according to claim 4, wherein: The knob (60) also has a third operating position when it is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The knob (60) switches between the first operating position and the third operating position. The abutting member (611) abuts against the abutting inclined surface (51). When the knob (60) switches from the first operating position to the third operating position, the abutting inclined surface (51) is pushed to switch the engaging mechanism (50) from the engaging position to the disengaged position.
6. The cooking appliance according to claim 5, characterized in that The pot body assembly further comprises a second reset member (42) provided on the pot body (20), wherein the second reset member (42) applies a second reset force to the engaging mechanism (50). When the cover (11) is opened from the pot body (20), the engaging mechanism (50) switches from the separation position to the engagement position under the action of the second reset force, and drives the abutting inclined surface (51) to abut against the abutting member (611), so that the knob (60) switches from the third operating position to the first operating position.
7. The cooking appliance according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The swing member (30) has a first swing position, a second swing position, and a third swing position when rotating, and the first swing position is located between the second swing position and the third swing position; The cover assembly further comprises a third resetting member (41) connected between the snap-fit mechanism (12) and the swing member (30), wherein the third resetting member (41) has a third resetting force. When the cover (11) is opened from the pot body (20), the swing member (30) switches from the third swing position to the first swing position under the action of the third resetting force.
8. The cooking appliance according to claim 7, wherein: The locking mechanism (12) includes a locking ring (121) rotatably arranged on the cover body (11) and a driving column (122) arranged on the locking ring (121), the locking ring (121) has a cover tooth matched with the pot tooth (21), the swing member (30) is provided with a long hole (31) for passing the driving column (122), the first end of the third reset member (41) is connected to the driving column (122), the second end of the third reset member (41) is connected to the swing member (30), the third reset member (41) also has a fourth reset force, the fourth reset force is greater than the third reset force, the first end (311) of the long hole is arranged close to the second end of the third reset member (41) relative to the second end (312) of the long hole; When the knob (60) is switched from the first operating position to the second operating position, the swing member (30) is switched from the first swing position to the second swing position, and the first end (311) of the long hole is pushed and matched with the driving column (122) to rotate the locking mechanism (12) from the staggered position to the locking position; When the knob (60) is switched from the second operating position to the first operating position, the swing member (30) is switched from the second swing position to the first swing position, and the drive column (122) rotates under the action of the fourth reset force, so that the locking mechanism (12) rotates from the locking position to the staggered position; When the knob (60) switches from the first operating position to the third operating position, the swing member (30) switches from the first swing position to the third swing position, the locking mechanism (12) is kept in the staggered position under the stop of the cover body (11), the first end (311) of the long hole gradually moves away from the driving column (122), and the second end (312) of the long hole gradually approaches the driving column (122).
9. The cooking appliance according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that The first direction is clockwise or counterclockwise.
10. The cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that The cooking appliance further comprises a rack and pinion transmission structure (80), wherein the rack and pinion transmission structure (80) is arranged between the upper coupling member (81) and the swing member (30), and the upper coupling member (81) drives the swing member (30) to rotate via the rack and pinion transmission structure (80).
11. The cooking appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that The pot body assembly further comprises a button (62) movably arranged on the knob (60), and the button (62) drives the engaging mechanism (50) to switch from the engaging position to the disengaging position.
12. The cooking appliance according to claim 11, wherein The locking mechanism (12) comprises a locking ring (121) rotatably arranged on the cover body (11) and a driving column (122) arranged on the locking ring (121); the locking ring (121) has a cover tooth that cooperates with the pot tooth (21); the swing member (30) is provided with a matching hole (34) that cooperates with the driving column (122); when the swing member (30) rotates, it drives the driving column (122) to rotate, so that the locking mechanism (12) switches between the staggered position and the locking position.