Water tank device and steam cooking utensil

Abstract

The utility model provides a water tank device and a steam cooking utensil, the water tank device comprises: an installation housing, which comprises an installation cavity, one end of the installation cavity is provided with an installation port, and the installation housing is provided with a push rod; the water tank assembly can be inserted and mounted in the mounting cavity from the mounting opening, and the water tank assembly has a locking state and an unlocking state in the mounting cavity; the water tank assembly comprises a water outlet channel and a valve assembly mounted at the water outlet channel, the valve assembly can open or close the water outlet channel, and the push rod is used for being inserted into the water outlet channel and pushing the valve assembly to open the water outlet channel when the water tank assembly is mounted in the mounting cavity; the elastic piece is installed in the water outlet channel and used for pushing a part of the water tank assembly out of the installation shell when the water tank assembly is in the unlocking state and making the valve assembly close the water outlet channel. According to the structure, the push-out structure of the water tank assembly and the switch structure of the water outlet share one elastic piece, so that the structure of the product is simplified.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household appliance technology, and more specifically, to a water tank device and a steam cooking appliance. Background Technology

[0002] The oven with steam function in the relevant solution has a retractable water tank assembly, which is equipped with an extension mechanism and a valve assembly to open and close the water outlet channel of the water tank assembly. This type of oven has many parts and is costly. Utility Model Content

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve the problems of complex structure and high cost of steam ovens in the prior art or related technologies.

[0004] The first objective of this invention is to provide a water tank device.

[0005] The second objective of this invention is to provide a steam cooking appliance.

[0006] An embodiment of the first aspect of this utility model provides a water tank device, comprising: a mounting shell including a mounting cavity, one end of which is provided with a mounting port, and a push rod provided on the mounting shell; a water tank assembly capable of being inserted into the mounting cavity through the mounting port, the water tank assembly having a locked state and an unlocked state within the mounting cavity; the water tank assembly including a water outlet channel and a valve assembly, the valve assembly being installed at the water outlet channel and capable of moving between a first position and a second position to open or close the water outlet channel; the push rod being used to insert into the water outlet channel when the water tank assembly is installed in the mounting cavity, and to push the valve assembly from the first position to the second position to open the water outlet channel; and an elastic member installed in the water outlet channel, used to push a portion of the water tank assembly out of the mounting shell when the water tank assembly is in the unlocked state, and to move the valve assembly from the second position to the first position to close the water outlet channel.

[0007] The water tank device provided according to the embodiments of this utility model can be specifically used in steam cooking appliances, such as ovens. The water tank device specifically includes a mounting housing and a water tank assembly. The water tank assembly can be pressed into or pushed out of the mounting housing. After installation, the water tank assembly can be locked within the mounting housing. With the water tank assembly locked, the fit between the water tank assembly and the mounting housing is good, preventing the water tank assembly from easily shaking and thus preventing it from slipping out of the mounting housing. When the water tank assembly needs to be added, cleaned, or repaired, it can be unlocked, placing it in the unlocked state. After unlocking, the water tank assembly can be removed from the mounting housing.

[0008] The water tank assembly includes a water outlet channel through which water can be discharged. A valve assembly is installed within the water outlet channel, and a push rod is mounted on the housing. The water outlet channel can be opened and closed via the valve assembly, push rod, and elastic element. Specifically, when the water tank assembly is installed on the cooking appliance and steam generation is required, the water tank assembly is first locked. At this time, the push rod can be inserted into the water outlet channel, thereby pushing the valve assembly along the water outlet channel from a first position to a second position, thus opening the water outlet channel.

[0009] When it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly from the cooking appliance body to add water, the water tank assembly can be unlocked first. After the water tank assembly is unlocked, the external force exerted on the valve assembly by the push rod disappears, and the valve assembly returns to the first position under the action of the elastic element. This closes the water outlet channel of the water tank assembly, preventing water from flowing out. At the same time, the water tank assembly is pushed out under the action of the elastic element.

[0010] In this structure, the elastic element can push the water tank assembly out and also close the water outlet channel of the valve assembly. In other words, in this structure, the elastic element used for the telescopic installation of the water tank assembly and the elastic element required for the valve assembly are the same part. That is, the push-out structure of the water tank assembly and the opening and closing structure of the water outlet of the water tank assembly share a single elastic element, thereby simplifying the product structure.

[0011] Of course, in other solutions, the elastic components for the telescopic installation of the water tank assembly and the elastic components required for the valve assembly can also be two separate parts.

[0012] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, when the water tank assembly is in the locked state, the elastic element is in the compressed state. After the water tank assembly is unlocked, the elastic element can extend to push a part of the water tank assembly out of the mounting housing and move the valve assembly from the second position to the first position to close the water outlet channel.

[0013] In these technical solutions, when the water tank assembly is in the locked state, the elastic element is in a compressed state. When the water tank assembly is in the unlocked state, the elastic element can extend to push the water tank assembly out of the mounting housing. Simultaneously, after the water tank assembly extends out of the mounting housing, the push rod separates from the water outlet channel, and the valve assembly returns to the second position under the action of the elastic element, thereby closing the water outlet channel.

[0014] Of course, in other solutions, the elastic element can also be set to an extended state when the water tank assembly is in the locked state.

[0015] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the valve assembly includes: a valve stem, slidably mounted in the water outlet channel; a seal, mounted on the valve stem and capable of moving with the valve stem to open or seal the water outlet channel; and an elastic element, one end of which is connected to the valve stem and the other end of which is connected to the inner wall of the water outlet channel.

[0016] In this embodiment, the valve assembly specifically includes a valve stem and a seal. The valve stem is slidably mounted within the water outlet channel, and the seal is mounted on one end of the valve stem and moves with it, thereby opening or closing the water outlet channel by the movement of the seal. An elastic element, typically a spring, is installed between the valve stem and the water tank housing. Under normal conditions, the elastic element is compressed, and its rebound force compresses the seal, allowing it to close the water outlet channel. When the valve stem is pushed along the water outlet channel, it moves the seal, opening the water outlet channel and allowing water to flow out of the water tank assembly. Simultaneously, the elastic element is compressed during this process; therefore, after the external force on the valve stem disappears, the elastic element can return the valve stem to its initial position, causing the seal to close the water outlet channel again.

[0017] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the water outlet channel includes an outlet and an inlet. When the valve stem is in the first position, the seal blocks the outlet. When the valve stem is in the second position, the seal opens the outlet, so that the inlet and outlet are connected.

[0018] In these technical solutions, the sealing element is located within the water outlet channel, near the water outlet. When the water tank assembly is not installed into the mounting housing, the valve stem is in the first position, and the sealing element blocks the water outlet, preventing water from leaking out of the water tank housing through the water outlet channel. When the water tank assembly is installed into the mounting housing, the push rod is inserted into the water outlet channel and pushes up the valve stem, placing it in the second position. At this point, the elastic element is compressed, and the sealing element and valve stem move together to the other side of the water inlet, connecting the water outlet and the water inlet. This allows water inside the water tank housing to be discharged through the water outlet channel, facilitating water supply to steam cooking appliances. When it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly, the limiting mechanism between the water tank assembly and the housing assembly is released, the valve stem rebounds under the action of the elastic element, and the entire water tank assembly is pushed out. With this structure, when the water tank assembly is pushed out, the seal can move along the outlet of the water outlet channel. This allows the seal to squeeze out any remaining water in the water outlet channel, preventing excessive water residue. This also prevents the water tank assembly from leaking when it is removed, thus avoiding any impact on the user experience.

[0019] Conversely, the seal can also be located at the water inlet. When the water tank assembly is not installed in the housing, the seal seals the water inlet. When the water tank assembly is installed in the housing, the push rod pushes the valve stem forward, causing the seal to extend out of the outlet channel, thus opening the inlet of the outlet channel and allowing water to drain from the water tank assembly. However, with this design, because the outlet channel has a certain length and is generally placed horizontally, some residual water will remain in the outlet channel after the water tank assembly is unlocked. This water will then drip out during the removal of the water tank assembly, thus reducing the user experience.

[0020] Furthermore, it is advisable to slightly tilt the water outlet channel downwards from the inlet to the outlet, which can also reduce the residual water in the outlet channel.

[0021] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the elastic element is sleeved and installed outside the valve stem.

[0022] In these technical solutions, by directly mounting the elastic element outside the valve stem, the valve stem can guide the elastic element, preventing deformation during expansion and contraction. This makes the extension of the water tank assembly and the closure of the water outlet channel of the water tank assembly more reliable.

[0023] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the water tank device further includes: a first limiting member installed on the mounting housing; and a second limiting member disposed on the water tank assembly; when the water tank assembly is located in the mounting cavity, the first limiting member and the second limiting member mutually limit each other to lock the water tank assembly; when the water tank assembly is located in the mounting cavity, pressing the water tank assembly into the mounting cavity can release the limiting between the first limiting member and the second limiting member to unlock the water tank assembly.

[0024] In these technical solutions, the water tank assembly and the mounting housing can be locked and unlocked via a first limiting member and a second limiting member. After the water tank assembly is unlocked, it can be removed from the mounting housing for adding water, cleaning, or repair / replacement. When the water tank assembly is locked, the fit between the water tank assembly and the mounting housing is good, preventing the water tank assembly from easily shaking and thus preventing it from slipping out of the mounting housing.

[0025] In this design, installing the water tank assembly simply requires pushing it into the housing. Removing the assembly is achieved by pressing it; the elastic element releases the water tank, allowing it to be detached for adding or cleaning. This design eliminates the need for a motor or other power source, simplifying the water tank assembly and reducing costs. Furthermore, the water tank assembly itself features a second limiting element, allowing the elastic element to directly engage with the assembly. This first limiting element further secures the assembly, ensuring reliable positioning and a more stable installation within the housing, preventing loosening.

[0026] Furthermore, this design integrates the structure that drives the water tank assembly to rebound directly into the water tank assembly and the mounting housing, simplifying the overall structure of the water tank device and thus reducing product costs. In addition, this structure uses the water tank assembly itself as the rebound component, making the pressing and ejection of the water tank assembly more reliable.

[0027] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the water tank assembly includes a water tank shell, and the second limiting member includes a limiting structure disposed on the water tank shell.

[0028] In these technical solutions, the water tank assembly includes a water tank shell for holding water. A second limiting member is used to limit the installation position of the water tank assembly within the shell. Specifically, the second limiting member can be a limiting structure directly disposed on the water tank shell; that is, the second limiting member is part of the water tank assembly, and more specifically, the second limiting member is part of the water tank shell.

[0029] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the second limiting member and the water tank shell are an integral structure.

[0030] In these technical solutions, the second limiting member can be either a protruding structure or a recessed structure on the water tank shell. The second limiting member and the water tank shell are an integral structure, resulting in higher connection strength and better reliability. Alternatively, in other solutions, the second limiting member and the water tank shell can be separately installed, and the second limiting member can be detachably mounted on the water tank shell.

[0031] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the second limiting member includes a guide slide, the guide slide including a limiting groove; the first limiting member includes a movable member, the movable member is mounted on the mounting housing, and a portion of the movable member is located within the guide slide; when the water tank assembly is installed into the mounting cavity, at least a portion of the movable member can move from the first end of the guide slide to the limiting groove and be limited in the limiting groove; when the water tank assembly is located in the mounting cavity, pressing the water tank assembly into the mounting cavity allows at least a portion of the movable member to move towards the second end of the guide slide to separate from the limiting groove, thereby unlocking the water tank assembly.

[0032] In these technical solutions, the first limiting member includes a movable member, which can be a rotating member or a sliding member. When the water tank assembly is installed inside the mounting housing or removed from the mounting housing, the movable member can move relative to the guide slide. A limiting groove is provided in the guide slide to restrict the movable member, ensuring that the water tank assembly can be locked in the third position. Subsequently, when it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly, the water tank assembly can be pressed into the mounting housing to move it inward. This allows the movable member to move again to the position where it separates from the limiting groove, thus limiting the water tank assembly and placing it in an unlocked state. After the water tank assembly is unlocked, the elastic member can rebound, pushing the water tank assembly a distance outward from the mounting housing, thereby automatically ejecting the water tank. This facilitates subsequent disassembly of the water tank assembly for cleaning, adding water, or maintenance.

[0033] In this design, when the water tank assembly is pulled out of the mounting housing, the moving part can continue to slide as before, instead of sliding back. This arrangement results in different movement paths for the moving part when the water tank assembly is inserted into and removed from the mounting housing, thus making the locking and unlocking engagement between the moving part and the guide rail more reliable.

[0034] Conversely, when the water tank assembly is unlocked, at least a portion of the moving part can also move back toward the first end of the guide slide until the moving part separates from the limiting groove.

[0035] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the movable part includes a sliding part, which can slide along the guide slide and can be limited to the limiting groove when the water tank assembly is located in the mounting cavity.

[0036] In these technical solutions, the moving parts include sliding parts. The sliding of the sliding part along the guide rail allows for the insertion and removal of the water tank assembly. Simultaneously, after the water tank assembly is inserted and installed in place, i.e., when the water tank assembly is installed into the mounting cavity, the sliding part can be better engaged in the limiting groove. This limiting groove prevents the sliding part from sliding further, thus locking the water tank assembly. When it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly again, the water tank assembly can be pressed inward to retract the limiting groove. The sliding part slides out of the limiting groove along the second guide surface, thereby releasing the limiting fit between the sliding part and the limiting groove, freeing the water tank assembly and facilitating its removal for heating, adding water, cleaning, or repair / replacement.

[0037] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, when the water tank assembly is in the locked state, the water tank assembly is located in the third position within the mounting cavity; when the water tank assembly is in the unlocked state, the water tank assembly is located in the fourth position within the mounting cavity. The guide slide includes: a first guide surface; a second guide surface, set at a first angle to the first guide surface, and a limiting groove formed by the first guide surface and the second guide surface; a first slide, with the first guide surface disposed at the second end of the first slide. The first slide is used to guide the sliding member from the first end of the first slide to the first guide surface during the process of the water tank assembly sliding from the mounting opening into the mounting cavity to the fifth position. When the component is in the fifth position, the water tank assembly is released, and under the action of the elastic element, the water tank assembly moves to the third position outside the mounting cavity. The sliding element slides along the first guide surface to the connection between the first guide surface and the second guide surface, and is limited to the connection between the first guide surface and the second guide surface. The second slide has one end connected to the end of the second guide surface away from the first guide surface. When the water tank assembly is in the third position inside the mounting cavity, the water tank assembly is pressed into the mounting cavity, and the sliding element can move along the second guide surface into the second slide. During the process of the water tank assembly sliding out of the mounting cavity from the mounting port, the sliding element can move along the second slide.

[0038] In these technical solutions, the first guide surface and the second guide surface can be connected to form a limiting groove. After the water tank assembly is installed in place, the sliding member is confined within the limiting groove by the rebound force of the elastic member. Thus, through the interaction between the limiting groove and the sliding member, the position of the water tank assembly can be limited, preventing the water tank assembly from falling out of the mounting cavity without other external forces. In order to guide the sliding member to enter the limiting groove formed by the first guide surface and the second guide surface normally, a first slide rail is provided. Through the first slide rail, the sliding member can be guided to move along a preset trajectory. This ensures that after the water tank assembly is installed in place, the sliding member can reach the bottom of the limiting groove exactly, preventing the sliding member from being jammed prematurely and causing the water tank assembly to fail to install correctly.

[0039] When it is necessary to disassemble the water tank assembly, the water tank assembly can be pressed into the mounting housing so that the other end of the sliding member can move along the second guide surface to separate from the limiting groove, thereby releasing the locking of the mounting housing to the water tank assembly, so that the water tank assembly can be pulled out from the mounting housing, thus realizing the disassembly of the water tank assembly relative to the mounting housing.

[0040] The guide slide also includes a second slide. When the water tank assembly is pulled out of the mounting housing, the sliding member can slide along the second slide, which can limit the position of the sliding member and guide the water tank assembly to prevent it from shifting and getting stuck with the mounting housing.

[0041] Furthermore, in this structure, the movement paths of the sliding components are inconsistent when the water tank assembly is inserted into the mounting housing and when the water tank assembly is pulled out of the mounting housing, forming a loop. This makes the locking and unlocking engagement between the sliding components and the guide rail more reliable.

[0042] Conversely, the second slide can be omitted, and the structure of the first slide and the first guide surface can be reasonably designed so that when the water tank assembly is unlocked, the other end of the sliding member can return to the first slide along the first guide surface.

[0043] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the guide slide further includes: an expansion section disposed at the first end of the first slide, and a fourth guide surface disposed on the two inner sidewalls of the expansion section. The fourth guide surface is used to guide the sliding member to move into the first slide during the process of the water tank assembly sliding from the installation port into the installation cavity.

[0044] In these technical solutions, because the sliding member has a certain sliding range, its position is not fixed after the water tank assembly is removed. After the water tank assembly is correctly inserted into the mounting housing, the sliding member can always fall within the range of the outward expansion section. When the water tank assembly is inserted inward, the fourth guide surface guides the sliding member into the first slide rail. This structure allows the sliding member to slide into the first slide rail regardless of its initial position, and then move along a fixed trajectory to the limiting part. Thus, before installing the water tank assembly, it is not necessary to reset the sliding member or specifically determine its position, making the installation of the water tank assembly more convenient.

[0045] Of course, in other solutions, the outer extension section and the fourth guide surface may not be set. In this case, in order to ensure that the slider can slide into the first slide, the position of the slider needs to be fixed in advance.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, a limiting hole is provided on the mounting housing, and the slider is slidably mounted on the limiting hole, thereby limiting the sliding range of the slider.

[0047] In these technical solutions, to prevent the slider from sliding excessively, a limiting hole is provided on the mounting housing. This limiting hole can limit the sliding range of the slider, so that the slider can only move within a predetermined area. This can limit the position of the slider and prevent the slider from moving to other positions and failing to cooperate with the second limiting member on the water tank assembly. This ensures that after the water tank assembly is installed on the water tank housing, the slider can always cooperate with the second limiting member to lock the water tank assembly.

[0048] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the movable component includes: a rotating component, the first end of which is rotatably mounted outside the mounting housing, the mounting housing having a limiting hole, the second end of which passes through the limiting hole and is inserted into the mounting cavity, and a sliding component disposed on the second end of the rotating component, wherein the sliding component and the rotating component are an integral structure, or the sliding component and the rotating component are detachably connected.

[0049] In these technical solutions, the moving part includes a rotating part, and a sliding part is disposed on the rotating part. The sliding part can be moved by the rotation of the rotating part. This structure allows for relatively convenient sliding installation of the sliding part.

[0050] In this design, the sliding component and the rotating component can form a single part, for example, they can be integrally molded or processed separately and then joined together to form a single structure. Alternatively, the sliding component and the rotating component can also be two completely independent parts.

[0051] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the water tank device further includes: a press-fitting component disposed outside the mounting housing, and at least a portion of the rotating component located between the press-fitting component and the mounting housing.

[0052] In these technical solutions, the press-fitting component is used to press the rotating component toward the water tank assembly. This allows the press-fitting component to limit the position of the rotating component, enabling it to abut against the water tank assembly and preventing the rotating component from separating from the water tank assembly during rotation.

[0053] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the press-fitting component is elastic, and the press-fitting component can press the rotating component toward the water tank assembly through elasticity.

[0054] In these technical solutions, the press-fitting component can be set as an elastic structure, so that the elastic force of the press-fitting component can press the rotating component, so that the other end of the rotating component can always be in contact with the water tank assembly, avoiding the situation where the other end of the rotating component separates from the water tank assembly, which would cause the water tank assembly to fail to lock.

[0055] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, the water tank device further includes: a support structure disposed on the outer wall of the mounting housing and supported on the side of the rotating member near the mounting housing.

[0056] In this embodiment, to limit the height of the rotating component, a support structure is provided on the mounting housing to support the rotating component. This support structure allows for better control of the mounting height of the rotating component. Simultaneously, the support structure also reduces the contact area between the rotating component and the mounting housing, thereby reducing friction between them.

[0057] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the water tank assembly includes: a water tank shell, the water tank shell including a water outlet channel; a valve assembly installed at the water outlet channel for opening or closing the water outlet channel; a push rod is provided on the mounting shell, the push rod is used to insert into the water outlet channel when the water tank assembly is installed in the third position, and push the valve assembly to move to open the water outlet channel; after the water tank assembly slides out of the mounting cavity, the valve assembly returns to the position of closing the water outlet channel, so that the water outlet channel is closed.

[0058] In these technical solutions, the water tank assembly includes a water tank shell, which includes a water outlet channel through which water inside the water tank assembly can be discharged. A valve assembly is installed within the water outlet channel, allowing the water outlet channel to be opened and closed. For example, when the water tank assembly is detached from the cooking appliance for water addition, the water outlet channel can be closed via the valve assembly to facilitate water addition. When the water tank assembly is installed on the cooking appliance and steam generation is required, the water outlet channel can be opened to facilitate water output from the water tank assembly.

[0059] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the valve assembly includes: a valve stem, slidably mounted in the water outlet channel, the valve stem being able to move between a first position and a second position under the action of a push rod; an elastic element, located in the water outlet channel, one end of the elastic element being connected to the valve stem, and the other end of the elastic element being connected to the inner wall of the water outlet channel; and a sealing element, mounted on the valve stem, capable of following the movement of the valve stem to open or seal the water outlet channel.

[0060] In this embodiment, the valve assembly specifically includes a valve stem, an elastic element, and a seal. The valve stem is slidably mounted within the water outlet channel. The seal is mounted on one end of the valve stem and moves with it, thus opening or closing the water outlet channel by moving the seal. The elastic element, typically a spring, is abutted between the valve stem and the water tank housing. Under normal conditions, the elastic element is compressed, and its rebound force compresses the seal, allowing it to close the water outlet channel. When the valve stem is pushed along the water outlet channel, it moves the seal, opening the water outlet channel and allowing water to flow out of the water tank assembly. Simultaneously, the elastic element is compressed during this process. Therefore, after the external force on the valve stem disappears, the elastic element returns the valve stem to its initial position, causing the seal to close the water outlet channel again.

[0061] Specifically, a push rod can be installed on the cooking unit at the position corresponding to the water outlet channel. After the water tank assembly is installed on the cooking unit, the push rod can be inserted into the water outlet channel, thereby pushing the valve rod to move along the water outlet channel, thus opening the water outlet channel. After the water tank assembly is removed, the external force exerted by the push rod on the valve rod disappears, and the valve rod and the seal reset under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element, thereby closing the water outlet channel of the water tank assembly, so that water cannot flow from the water outlet channel of the water tank assembly.

[0062] For example, one end of the valve stem passes through the inlet of the water outlet channel and enters the water-containing chamber. A seal is installed at the inlet of the water outlet channel. Pushing the valve stem along the water outlet channel causes the seal to move away from the outlet, thus opening the inlet of the water outlet channel. In this configuration, the seal is located at the inlet of the water outlet channel, allowing the entire water outlet channel to be opened and closed by using the seal to open or close the inlet.

[0063] In this embodiment, the elastic element used for the telescopic installation of the water tank assembly and the elastic element required for the valve assembly are the same part. That is, the push-out structure of the water tank assembly and the opening and closing structure of the water outlet of the water tank assembly share the same elastic element, which simplifies the structure of the product.

[0064] Of course, in other solutions, the elastic components for the telescopic installation of the water tank assembly and the elastic components required for the valve assembly can also be two separate parts.

[0065] In any of the above technical solutions, optionally, the water outlet channel includes an outlet and an inlet. When the valve stem is in the first position, the seal blocks the outlet. When the valve stem is in the second position, the seal opens the outlet, so that the inlet and outlet are connected.

[0066] In any of the above technical solutions, the elastic element may optionally include a spring capable of stretching or shortening.

[0067] In these technical solutions, the use of a spring that can extend or retract provides better elasticity to push the water tank assembly out when it needs to be removed from the steam cooking appliance. Simultaneously, the spring also allows the valve body assembly to return to its initial installation position to block the water outlet passage, thereby preventing leakage after the water tank assembly is removed from the steam cooking appliance.

[0068] Of course, elastic components can also be other structures with a certain degree of elasticity and hardness, such as metal springs and rubber parts.

[0069] A second aspect of this utility model provides a steam cooking appliance, including: a water tank device provided in any embodiment of the first aspect.

[0070] The steam cooking appliance provided according to the embodiments of the present invention includes the water tank device provided in any of the embodiments of the first aspect. Therefore, the steam cooking appliance has all the beneficial effects of the water tank device provided in any of the embodiments of the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0071] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the steam cooking appliance further includes: a cooking chamber, the cooking chamber including a chamber body and a door body, the chamber body having a food inlet and outlet at a first end along a first direction, the door body being installed at the first end to open or close the food inlet and outlet, a water tank shell being installed on the chamber body along a first direction, and the installation opening being located at the first end of the chamber body along the first direction.

[0072] The steam cooking appliance provided according to an embodiment of this utility model includes a cooking chamber and a water tank assembly. The cooking chamber generates steam and performs cooking. The water tank assembly is detachably installed on the cooking chamber to supply water to it. The cooking chamber includes a body and a door. A cooking chamber is provided inside the body, and the cooking chamber communicates with the food inlet / outlet. The door is installed on the body and is used to open and close the food inlet / outlet. The water tank assembly is installed on the side of the body where the door is located, for example, on the front side of the body. The water tank assembly can also be installed onto the body along the front side and can be pulled out in a front-back direction for easy assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, the water tank assembly is placed horizontally on the body, not vertically.

[0073] Furthermore, the water tank assembly can be pulled and installed onto the tank body via the mounting port along the first direction. The water tank assembly includes: a water tank shell, the water tank shell including a water-containing cavity and an inlet and outlet communicating with the water-containing cavity, the inlet and outlet being disposed at one end of the water tank shell along the first direction; a cover, detachably mounted on the water tank shell to open or close the inlet and outlet; and a sealing ring disposed between the water tank shell and the cover to seal the gap between the water tank shell and the cover.

[0074] In this embodiment, the water tank assembly specifically includes a water tank shell and a cover. The water tank shell is provided with an inlet and an outlet, and the cover is detachably mounted on the inlet and outlet of the water tank shell. Furthermore, to ensure a seal between the water tank shell and the cover, a sealing ring is provided between them. This sealing ring ensures a sealed connection between the two, thereby preventing water leakage from the water tank assembly.

[0075] In other oven designs, the water tank assembly typically features a water inlet directly on the side wall of the tank's outer shell without a removable cover. This makes it difficult to open the tank and clean its interior. In contrast, this application incorporates a removable cover, allowing for easy cleaning of the tank's interior. This significantly improves cleaning convenience and ensures the tank remains clean. Furthermore, the user can easily inspect the interior by opening the cover, allowing for quicker detection and cleaning of any dirt or debris. This provides users with greater peace of mind when using the water tank assembly.

[0076] The first direction can specifically refer to the front-to-back direction of the cooking unit. For example, the water tank assembly can be disassembled and installed from the front of the cooking unit. The cover and outer shell of the water tank assembly are also assembled along the front-to-back direction, which means that the water tank assembly is installed horizontally on the cooking unit, rather than vertically.

[0077] Optionally, steam cooking appliances include ovens. Of course, steam cooking appliances can also be other devices that require a water tank.

[0078] Optionally, in any of the above technical solutions, the steam cooking appliance further includes: a heating device installed on the housing for heating the food inside the cooking cavity; a water receiving tank installed inside the cooking cavity and capable of being heated by the heating device; and a connecting pipe assembly for connecting the water tank device and the water receiving tank to transport water from the water tank device to the water receiving tank.

[0079] Furthermore, the water in the water tank device can flow into the water receiving tank through the connecting pipe assembly under the action of gravity.

[0080] In the above embodiments, optionally, the water tank shell includes a first arc-shaped surface arranged along the circumferential direction of the water tank shell. The two ends of the first arc-shaped surface arranged along the circumferential direction of the water tank shell are connected by a first outer wall surface. The first outer wall surface includes a first plane and a second arc-shaped surface. An indicator structure is provided on the first plane to indicate the installation direction of the water tank assembly. The second arc-shaped surface is located on the side of the first plane near the water inlet and outlet of the water tank shell.

[0081] In this embodiment, the water tank shell is generally cylindrical, with most of its outer wall surface being curved, such as an arc surface. However, at least a portion of the outer wall surface of the water tank shell is a first flat surface. This first flat surface facilitates the installation of indicator structures, first limiting members of the water tank assembly, etc. For example, during processing, a cylindrical water tank can be machined first, and then a portion of the outer wall surface of the cylindrical water tank can be flattened to form the first flat surface.

[0082] In addition, by setting a first plane, it is easy for users to distinguish the front and back of the water tank shell, thereby avoiding incorrect installation of water tank components.

[0083] Furthermore, the first outer wall surface also includes a second arc-shaped surface. The second arc-shaped surface is located on the side of the first plane near the water inlet / outlet of the water tank shell. That is, the part of the first outer wall surface near the water inlet / outlet is arc-shaped, not flat. This makes the outer wall surface around the entire water inlet / outlet circular, which makes it convenient to make the cover circular as well. This makes the appearance of the entire water tank assembly more beautiful. Especially when the water tank assembly is used in ovens, it can make the shape of the water tank assembly consistent with the knobs and other parts on the oven, thereby improving the overall aesthetics of the oven.

[0084] In the above embodiments, optionally, the water tank shell includes two oppositely arranged second outer side walls, each of which is provided with one of a guide rib and a guide groove. The guide rib or guide groove is arranged along a first direction, and the water tank assembly can be slidably installed on the mounting shell by the guidance of the guide rib and guide groove.

[0085] In this embodiment, guide structures, such as guide ribs or guide grooves, are provided on the outer walls of the opposite sides of the water tank shell. Simultaneously, another compatible guide structure can be provided on the cooking cabinet. The cooperation of these two guide structures allows the water tank assembly to be smoothly installed on the cooking cabinet, thus facilitating the assembly and disassembly of the water tank assembly. Furthermore, the guide ribs or guide grooves are arranged along a first direction, allowing the water tank assembly to be slidably installed onto the cooking cabinet along this first direction.

[0086] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will become apparent in the description that follows, or may be learned by practice of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0087] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0088] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the water tank device in the embodiments of this utility model;

[0089] Figure 2 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the water tank assembly in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0090] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle;

[0091] Figure 4This is the second structural schematic diagram of the water tank device in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0092] Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the water tank device in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0093] Figure 6 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0094] Figure 7 This is the second structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0095] Figure 8 This is the third structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0096] Figure 9 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the steam cooking appliance in the embodiments of this utility model;

[0097] Figure 10 This is the second structural schematic diagram of the steam cooking appliance in the embodiments of this utility model.

[0098] in, Figures 1 to 10 The correspondence between the reference numerals and the component names is as follows:

[0099] 100 Water tank device, 200 Steam cooking appliance, 1 Mounting shell, 10 Limiting hole, 12 Mounting cavity, 14 Mounting port, 16 Push rod, 18 Support structure, 2 First limiting component, 22 Movable component, 24 Sliding component, 26 Rotating component, 3 Water tank assembly, 30 Water tank shell, 302 Cover, 304 First plane, 306 Indicating structure, 308 Guide rib, 32 Second limiting component, 320 Guide slide, 322 First guide surface, 324 Second guide surface, 326 First slide, 327 Limiting groove, 328 Second slide, 329 Outer expansion section, 3292 Fourth guide surface, 34 Water outlet channel, 342 Water outlet, 344 Water inlet, 36 Valve assembly, 38 Valve stem, 39 Sealing component, 4 Elastic component, 5 Press-fit component, 6 Box body, 62 Cooking cavity, 64 Food inlet and outlet, 7 Door body, 8 Connecting pipe assembly, 9 Water receiving tank. Detailed Implementation

[0100] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this utility model, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0101] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0102] The following reference Figures 1 to 10 The water tank device 100 and steam cooking appliance 200 provided in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0103] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, an embodiment of the first aspect of this utility model provides a water tank device 100, comprising: a mounting housing 1, including a mounting cavity 12, one end of which is provided with a mounting port 14, and a push rod 16 provided on the mounting housing 1; a water tank assembly 3, which can be inserted into the mounting cavity 12 through the mounting port 14, and the water tank assembly 3 has a locked state and an unlocked state within the mounting cavity 12; the water tank assembly 3 includes a water outlet channel 34 and a valve assembly 36, the valve assembly 36 being installed at the water outlet channel 34 and movable between a first position and a second position to open or close the water outlet channel 34; the push rod 16 being used to insert into the water outlet channel 34 when the water tank assembly 3 is installed in the mounting cavity 12, and to push the valve assembly 36 from the first position to the second position to open the water outlet channel 34; and an elastic member 4, installed in the water outlet channel 34, for pushing a portion of the water tank assembly 3 out of the mounting housing 1 when the water tank assembly 3 is in the unlocked state, and causing the valve assembly 36 to move from the second position to the first position to close the water outlet channel 34.

[0104] The water tank device 100 provided according to the embodiments of this utility model can be specifically used in a steam cooking appliance 200, such as an oven. The water tank device 100 specifically includes a mounting housing 1 and a water tank assembly 3. The water tank assembly 3 can be pressed into or pushed out of the mounting housing 1. After installation, the water tank assembly 3 can be locked within the mounting housing 1. With the water tank assembly 3 locked, the fit between the water tank assembly 3 and the mounting housing 1 is good, preventing the water tank assembly 3 from easily shaking and thus preventing it from slipping out of the mounting housing 1. When the water tank assembly 3 needs to be added, cleaned, or repaired, it can be unlocked, placing it in the unlocked state. After unlocking, the water tank assembly 3 can be removed from the mounting housing 1.

[0105] The water tank assembly 3 includes a water outlet channel 34 through which water can be discharged. A valve assembly 36 is installed within the water outlet channel 34, and a push rod 16 is mounted on the housing 1. The water outlet channel 34 can be opened and closed via the valve assembly 36, the push rod 16, and the elastic element 4. Specifically, when the water tank assembly 3 is installed on the cooking appliance body 6 and steam is required, the water tank assembly 3 is first locked. At this time, the push rod 16 can be inserted into the water outlet channel 34, thereby pushing the valve assembly 36 along the water outlet channel 34 from a first position to a second position, thus opening the water outlet channel 34.

[0106] When it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly 3 from the cooking unit 6 to add water, the water tank assembly 3 can be unlocked first. After the water tank assembly 3 is unlocked, the external force exerted by the push rod 16 on the valve assembly 36 disappears, and the valve assembly 36 returns to the first position under the action of the elastic member 4. This closes the water outlet channel 34 of the water tank assembly 3, preventing water from flowing out of the water outlet channel 34. At the same time, the water tank assembly 3 is pushed out under the action of the elastic member 4.

[0107] In this structure, the elastic element 4 can push out the water tank assembly 3 and also close the water outlet channel 34 of the valve assembly 36. In other words, in this structure, the elastic element 4 used for the telescopic installation of the water tank assembly 3 and the elastic element 4 required for the valve assembly 36 are the same part. That is, the push-out structure of the water tank assembly 3 and the opening and closing structure of the water outlet 342 of the water tank assembly 3 share a single elastic element 4, thereby simplifying the structure of the product.

[0108] Of course, in other solutions, the elastic element 4 for the telescopic installation of the water tank assembly 3 and the elastic element 4 required for the valve assembly 36 can also be two separate parts.

[0109] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, when the water tank assembly 3 is in the locked state, the elastic member 4 is in the compressed state. After the water tank assembly 3 is unlocked, the elastic member 4 can extend to push a part of the water tank assembly 3 out of the mounting housing 1 and move the valve assembly 36 from the second position to the first position to close the water outlet channel 34.

[0110] In these embodiments, when the water tank assembly 3 is in the locked state, the elastic member 4 is in the compressed state. When the water tank assembly 3 is in the unlocked state, the elastic member 4 can extend to push the water tank assembly 3 out of the mounting housing 1. At the same time, after the water tank assembly 3 extends out of the mounting housing 1, the push rod 16 separates from the water outlet channel 34, and the valve assembly 36 returns to the second position under the action of the elastic member 4, thereby closing the water outlet channel 34.

[0111] Of course, in other solutions, when the water tank assembly 3 is in the locked state, the elastic element 4 can also be set to the extended state.

[0112] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the valve assembly 36 includes: a valve stem 38, which is slidably mounted in the water outlet channel 34; a seal 39, which is mounted on the valve stem 38 and can move with the valve stem 38 to open or seal the water outlet channel 34; and an elastic member 4, one end of which is connected to the valve stem 38 and the other end of which is connected to the inner wall of the water outlet channel 34.

[0113] In this embodiment, the valve assembly 36 specifically includes a valve stem 38 and a seal 39. The valve stem 38 is slidably mounted within the water outlet channel 34, and the seal 39 is mounted on one end of the valve stem 38 and can move with the valve stem 38. Thus, the water outlet channel 34 can be opened or closed by the movement of the seal 39. The elastic element 4 is generally a spring. The elastic element 4 is abutted between the valve stem 38 and the water tank housing 30. Under normal conditions, the elastic element 4 is in a compressed state. The rebound force of the elastic element 4 can compress the seal 39, allowing the seal 39 to close the water outlet channel 34. When the valve stem 38 is pushed along the water outlet channel 34, the valve stem 38 can drive the seal 39 to move, opening the water outlet channel 34, allowing water to flow out of the water tank assembly 3. Simultaneously, during this process, the elastic element 4 is compressed. Therefore, after the external force on the valve stem 38 disappears, the elastic element 4 can drive the valve stem 38 back to its initial position, causing the seal 39 to close the water outlet channel 34 again.

[0114] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the water outlet channel 34 includes an outlet 342 and an inlet 344. When the valve stem 38 is in the first position, the seal 39 blocks the outlet 342. When the valve stem 38 is in the second position, the seal 39 opens the outlet 342, so that the inlet 344 and the outlet 342 are connected.

[0115] In these embodiments, the seal 39 is disposed within the water outlet channel 34 and near the water outlet 342. When the water tank assembly 3 is not installed into the mounting housing 1, the valve stem 38 is in the first position, and the seal 39 blocks the water outlet 342, preventing water in the water tank housing 30 from leaking out through the water outlet channel 34. When the water tank assembly 3 is installed into the mounting housing 1, the push rod 16 is inserted into the water outlet channel 34 and pushes up the valve stem 38, placing it in the second position. At this time, the elastic member 4 is compressed, and the seal 39 and the valve stem 38 move together to the other side of the water inlet 344, connecting the water outlet 342 and the water inlet 344. This allows water in the water tank housing 30 to be discharged through the water outlet channel 34, facilitating water supply to the steam cooking appliance 200. When it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly 3, the limiting mechanism between the water tank assembly 3 and the housing assembly is released, the valve stem 38 rebounds under the action of the elastic member 4, and the entire water tank assembly 3 is pushed out. With this structure, when the water tank assembly 3 is pushed out, the seal 39 can move along the outlet of the water outlet channel 34. In this way, the seal 39 can squeeze out the remaining water in the water outlet channel 34, avoiding the presence of too much water in the water outlet channel 34. This prevents the water tank assembly 3 from leaking when it is removed, thus avoiding affecting the user experience.

[0116] Conversely, it can also be like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the seal 39 is positioned at the water inlet 344. When the water tank assembly 3 is not installed in the mounting housing, the seal 39 seals the water inlet 344. When the water tank assembly 3 is installed in the mounting housing 1, the push rod 16 pushes the valve rod 38 forward, causing the seal 39 to extend out of the water outlet channel 34, thereby opening the inlet of the water outlet channel 34 and allowing water to drain from the water tank assembly 3. However, because the water outlet channel 34 has a certain length and is generally placed horizontally, some residual water will remain in the water outlet channel 34 after the water tank assembly 3 is unlocked. During the removal of the water tank assembly 3, this water will drip out, negatively impacting the user experience.

[0117] Furthermore, it is advisable to slightly tilt the water outlet channel 34 downwards from the inlet to the outlet, which can also reduce the residual water in the water outlet channel 34.

[0118] In any of the above embodiments, the elastic element 4 is optionally mounted on the outside of the valve stem 38.

[0119] In these embodiments, by directly sleeved the elastic element 4 onto the valve stem 38, the valve stem 38 can guide the elastic element 4, preventing deformation of the elastic element 4 during extension and retraction. This makes the extension of the water tank assembly 3 and the closure of the water outlet channel 34 of the water tank assembly 3 more reliable.

[0120] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the elastic element 4 includes a spring that can extend or shorten.

[0121] In these embodiments, the use of a spring that can extend or shorten provides better elasticity to push the water tank assembly 3 out when it needs to be removed from the steam cooking appliance 200. Simultaneously, the spring also allows the valve body assembly to return to its initial installation position to block the water outlet passage 34, thereby preventing leakage of the water tank assembly 3 after it has been removed from the steam cooking appliance 200.

[0122] Of course, the elastic element 4 can also be other structures with a certain degree of elasticity and hardness, such as metal springs or rubber parts.

[0123] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the water tank device 100 further includes: a first limiting member 2, installed on the mounting housing 1; and a second limiting member 32, disposed on the water tank assembly 3. When the water tank assembly 3 is located in the mounting cavity 12, the first limiting member 2 and the second limiting member 32 mutually limit each other to lock the water tank assembly 3. When the water tank assembly 3 is located in the mounting cavity 12, pressing the water tank assembly 3 into the mounting cavity 12 can release the limitation between the first limiting member 2 and the second limiting member 32 to unlock the water tank assembly 3.

[0124] In these embodiments, the water tank assembly 3 and the mounting housing 1 can be locked and unlocked by the first limiting member 2 and the second limiting member 32. After the water tank assembly 3 is unlocked, it can be removed from the mounting housing 1 for adding water, cleaning, or repairing / replacing. When the water tank assembly 3 is locked, the fit between the water tank assembly 3 and the mounting housing 1 is good, and the water tank assembly 3 is not easy to shake, thus preventing it from slipping out of the mounting housing 1.

[0125] In this structure, when installing the water tank assembly 3, it is only necessary to push the water tank assembly 3 into the mounting housing 1. When it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly 3, pressing the water tank assembly 3 will release the constraint on the water tank assembly 3 under the rebound action of the elastic member 4, thus allowing the water tank assembly 3 to be detached from the product for adding water or cleaning. This structure eliminates the need for a motor or other power equipment for disassembly of the water tank assembly 3, thereby simplifying the structure of the water tank device 100 and reducing its cost. Furthermore, this structure includes a second limiting member 32 on the water tank assembly 3 itself, allowing the elastic member 4 to directly act on the water tank assembly 3, thereby directly limiting the water tank assembly 3 through the first limiting member 2. This makes the limiting of the water tank assembly 3 more reliable and also makes the installation of the water tank assembly 3 within the mounting housing 1 more stable, preventing the water tank assembly 3 from loosening.

[0126] Furthermore, this design integrates the structure that drives the water tank assembly 3 to rebound directly into the water tank assembly 3 and the mounting housing 1, simplifying the overall structure of the water tank device 100 and thus reducing product costs. In this structure, the water tank assembly 3 itself acts as the rebound component, making the pressing and pushing of the water tank assembly 3 more reliable.

[0127] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the water tank assembly 3 includes a water tank shell 30, and the second limiting member 32 includes a limiting structure disposed on the water tank shell 30.

[0128] In these embodiments, the water tank assembly 3 includes a water tank housing 30 for holding water. A second limiting member 32 is used to limit the installation position of the water tank assembly 3 within the mounting housing 1. Specifically, the second limiting member 32 can be a limiting structure directly disposed on the water tank housing 30; that is, the second limiting member 32 is part of the water tank assembly 3.

[0129] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, the second limiting member 32 and the water tank shell 30 are an integral structure.

[0130] In these embodiments, the second limiting member 32 can be a protruding structure or a recessed structure on the water tank outer shell 30. The second limiting member 32 and the water tank outer shell 30 are an integral structure, resulting in higher connection strength and better reliability. Of course, in other solutions, the second limiting member 32 and the water tank outer shell 30 can be separately provided, and then the second limiting member 32 can be detachably installed on the water tank outer shell 30.

[0131] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 3 As shown, the second limiting member 32 includes a guide slide 320, and the guide slide 320 includes a limiting groove 327; the first limiting member 2 includes a movable member 22, which is mounted on the mounting housing 1, and a portion of the movable member 22 is located within the guide slide 320; when the water tank assembly 3 is installed into the mounting cavity 12, at least a portion of the movable member 22 can move from the first end of the guide slide 320 to the limiting groove 327 and be limited in the limiting groove 327; when the water tank assembly 3 is located in the mounting cavity 12, pressing the water tank assembly 3 into the mounting cavity 12 allows at least a portion of the movable member 22 to move towards the second end of the guide slide 320 to separate from the limiting groove 327, thereby unlocking the water tank assembly 3.

[0132] In these embodiments, the first limiting member 2 includes a movable member 22, which may specifically be a rotating member 26 or a sliding member 24. When the water tank assembly 3 is installed in the mounting housing 1 or removed from the mounting housing 1, the movable member 22 can move relative to the guide slide 320. A limiting groove 327 is provided in the guide slide 320, which restricts the movable member 22 to ensure that the water tank assembly 3 can be locked in the third position. Subsequently, when it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly 3, the water tank assembly 3 can be pressed into the mounting housing 1 to move it inward. This allows the movable member 22 to move again to the position separated from the limiting groove 327, thereby limiting the water tank assembly 3 and placing it in an unlocked state. After the water tank assembly 3 is unlocked, the elastic element 4 can rebound, thereby pushing the water tank assembly 3 to move a certain distance out of the mounting housing 1, so as to realize the automatic ejection of the water tank, making it convenient for the user to disassemble the water tank assembly 3 for cleaning, adding water or maintenance.

[0133] In this configuration, when the water tank assembly 3 is pulled out of the mounting housing 1, the movable part 22 can continue to slide as before, instead of sliding back. This design ensures that the movement path of the movable part 22 is inconsistent when the water tank assembly 3 is inserted into the mounting housing 1 and when it is pulled out of the mounting housing 1, thereby making the locking and unlocking engagement between the movable part 22 and the guide slide 320 more reliable.

[0134] Conversely, when the water tank assembly 3 is unlocked, at least a portion of the movable part 22 can also move back toward the first end of the guide slide 320 until the movable part 22 separates from the limiting groove 327.

[0135] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the movable part 22 includes a sliding part 24, which can slide along the guide slide 320 and is limited to the limiting groove 327 when the water tank assembly 3 is located in the mounting cavity 12.

[0136] In these embodiments, the movable component 22 includes a sliding component 24. The sliding component 24 slides along the guide slide 320, allowing the water tank assembly 3 to be inserted and removed. Simultaneously, after the water tank assembly 3 is inserted and installed in place, i.e., when the water tank assembly 3 is installed into the mounting cavity 12, the sliding component 24 can be better engaged in the limiting groove 327, thus preventing the sliding component 24 from sliding and locking the water tank assembly 3. When it is necessary to remove the water tank assembly 3 again, the water tank assembly 3 can be pressed inward to retract the limiting groove 327, causing the sliding component 24 to slide out of the limiting groove 327 along the second guide surface 324. This releases the limiting engagement between the sliding component 24 and the limiting groove 327, freeing the water tank assembly 3 and facilitating its removal for heating, adding water, cleaning, or repair / replacement.

[0137] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 3 As shown, when the water tank assembly 3 is in the locked state, it is located in the third position within the mounting cavity 12. When the water tank assembly 3 is in the unlocked state, it is located in the fourth position within the mounting cavity 12. The guide slide 320 includes: a first guide surface 322; a second guide surface 324, which is set at a first angle to the first guide surface 322; a limiting groove 327, which is surrounded by the first guide surface 322 and the second guide surface 324; and a first slide 326, with the first guide surface 322 disposed at the second end of the first slide 326. The first slide 326 is used to guide the sliding member 24 from the first end of the first slide 326 to the first guide surface 322 during the process of the water tank assembly 3 sliding from the mounting port 14 into the mounting cavity 12 to the fifth position. When the water tank assembly 3 is in the fifth position... When the water tank assembly 3 is released, it moves to the third position outside the mounting cavity 12 under the action of the elastic member 4. The sliding member 24 slides along the first guide surface 322 to the connection between the first guide surface 322 and the second guide surface 324, and is limited to the connection between the first guide surface 322 and the second guide surface 324. The second slide 328 has one end connected to the end of the second guide surface 324 away from the first guide surface 322. When the water tank assembly 3 is in the third position inside the mounting cavity 12, the water tank assembly 3 is pressed into the mounting cavity 12, and the sliding member 24 can move along the second guide surface 324 into the second slide 328. During the process of the water tank assembly 3 sliding out of the mounting cavity 12 from the mounting port 14, the sliding member 24 can move along the second slide 328.

[0138] In these embodiments, the first guide surface 322 and the second guide surface 324 can be connected to form a limiting groove 327. After the water tank assembly 3 is installed in place, the sliding member 24 is limited within the limiting groove 327 by the rebound force of the elastic member 4. Thus, through the interaction between the limiting groove 327 and the sliding member 24, the position of the water tank assembly 3 can be limited, preventing the water tank assembly 3 from falling out of the mounting cavity 12 without other external forces. In order to guide the sliding member 24 to enter the limiting groove 327 formed by the first guide surface 322 and the second guide surface 324 normally, a first slide rail 326 is provided. Through the first slide rail 326, the sliding member 24 can be guided to move along a preset trajectory. This ensures that after the water tank assembly 3 is installed in place, the sliding member 24 can just reach the bottom of the limiting groove 327, and the sliding member 24 will not be stuck in advance, which would prevent the water tank assembly 3 from being installed correctly.

[0139] When it is necessary to disassemble the water tank assembly 3, the water tank assembly 3 can be pressed into the mounting housing 1 so that the other end of the sliding member 24 can move along the second guide surface 324 to separate from the limiting groove 327, thereby releasing the locking of the mounting housing 1 to the water tank assembly 3, so that the water tank assembly 3 can be pulled out from the mounting housing 1, thereby realizing the disassembly of the water tank assembly 3 relative to the mounting housing 1.

[0140] Among them, such as Figure 3 As shown, the guide slide 320 also includes a second slide 328. When the water tank assembly 3 is pulled out from the mounting housing 1, the sliding member 24 can slide along the second slide 328, which can limit the position of the sliding member 24 and guide the water tank assembly 3 to avoid the water tank assembly 3 from shifting and getting stuck with the mounting housing 1.

[0141] Furthermore, in this structure, when the water tank assembly 3 is inserted into the mounting housing 1 and when the water tank assembly 3 is pulled out of the mounting housing 1, the movement paths of the sliding member 24 are not consistent and form a loop, thereby making the locking and unlocking cooperation between the sliding member 24 and the guide slide 320 more reliable.

[0142] Conversely, the second slide rail 328 may not be provided, and the structure of the first slide rail 326 and the first guide surface 322 may be reasonably designed so that when the water tank assembly 3 is unlocked, the other end of the sliding member 24 can return to the first slide rail 326 along the first guide surface 322.

[0143] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 3As shown, the guide slide 320 further includes: an expansion section 329, which is disposed at the first end of the first slide 326. The two inner sidewalls of the expansion section 329 are provided with a fourth guide surface 3292. The fourth guide surface 3292 is used to guide the sliding member 24 to move into the first slide 326 during the process of the water tank assembly 3 sliding from the mounting port 14 into the mounting cavity 12.

[0144] In these embodiments, since the slider 24 has a certain sliding range, its position is not fixed after the water tank assembly 3 is removed. After the water tank assembly 3 is correctly inserted into the mounting housing 1, the slider 24 can always fall within the range of the outward expansion section 329. When the water tank assembly 3 is inserted inward, the slider 24 can be guided into the first slide rail 326 by the fourth guide surface. This structure allows the slider 24 to slide into the first slide rail 326 regardless of its initial position, and then move along a fixed trajectory to the limiting part. Thus, before installing the water tank assembly 3, it is not necessary to reset the slider 24 or specifically determine its position, making the installation of the water tank assembly 3 more convenient.

[0145] Of course, in other solutions, the outer extension section 329 and the fourth guide surface 3292 may not be set. In this case, in order to ensure that the slider 24 can slide into the first slide rail 326, the position of the slider 24 needs to be fixed in advance.

[0146] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 1 As shown, the mounting housing 1 is provided with a limiting hole 10, and the sliding member 24 is slidably mounted on the limiting hole 10. The sliding range of the sliding member 24 can be limited by the limiting hole 10.

[0147] In these embodiments, to prevent the slider 24 from sliding excessively, a limiting hole 10 is provided on the mounting housing 1. The limiting hole 10 can limit the sliding range of the slider 24, so that the slider 24 can only move within a predetermined area. This can limit the position of the slider 24 and prevent the slider 24 from moving to other positions and failing to cooperate with the second limiting member 32 on the water tank assembly 3. This ensures that after the water tank assembly 3 is installed on the water tank housing 30, the slider 24 can always cooperate with the second limiting member 32 to lock the water tank assembly 3.

[0148] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 1As shown, the movable component 22 includes: a rotating component 26, the first end of which is rotatably mounted on the outside of the mounting housing 1, the mounting housing 1 having a limiting hole 10, the second end of which passes through the limiting hole 10 and is inserted into the mounting cavity 12, and a sliding component 24 disposed on the second end of the rotating component 26. The sliding component 24 and the rotating component 26 are an integral structure, or the sliding component 24 and the rotating component 26 are detachably connected.

[0149] In these embodiments, the movable member 22 includes a rotating member 26, and a sliding member 24 is disposed on the rotating member 26. The sliding member 24 can be slidable by rotating the rotating member 26. This structure allows for relatively convenient sliding installation of the sliding member 24.

[0150] The sliding member 24 and the rotating member 26 can be formed as a single part, for example, they can be integrally molded or processed separately and then connected to form a single structure. Alternatively, the sliding member 24 and the rotating member 26 can also be two completely independent parts.

[0151] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 1 As shown, the water tank device 100 further includes: a press-fitting member 5 disposed outside the mounting housing 1, and at least a portion of the rotating member 26 located between the press-fitting member 5 and the mounting housing 1.

[0152] In these embodiments, the press-fitting member 5 is used to press the rotating member 26 toward the water tank assembly 3. This can limit the position of the rotating member 26 so that the rotating member 26 can abut against the water tank assembly 3, and prevent the rotating member 26 from separating from the water tank assembly 3 during rotation.

[0153] In any of the above embodiments, the press-fitting member 5 is optionally elastic, capable of pressing the rotating member 26 toward the water tank assembly 3 by means of elasticity.

[0154] In these embodiments, the press-fitting member 5 can be configured as an elastic structure, so that the elastic force of the press-fitting member 5 can press the rotating member 26, so that the other end of the rotating member 26 can always abut against the water tank assembly 3, avoiding the situation where the other end of the rotating member 26 separates from the water tank assembly 3 and the water tank assembly 3 cannot be locked.

[0155] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 1 As shown, the water tank device 100 also includes a support structure 18, which is disposed on the outer wall of the mounting housing 1 and supported on the side of the rotating member 26 near the mounting housing 1.

[0156] In this embodiment, in order to limit the height position of the rotating component 26, a support structure 18 is provided on the mounting housing 1 to support the rotating component 26. The support structure 18 can better limit the installation height of the rotating component 26. At the same time, the support structure 18 can also reduce the contact area between the rotating component 26 and the mounting housing 1, thereby reducing the friction between the rotating component 26 and the mounting housing 1.

[0157] like Figure 9 As shown, an embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention provides a steam cooking appliance 200, including: a water tank device 100 provided in any embodiment of the first aspect.

[0158] The steam cooking appliance 200 provided according to the embodiments of the present invention includes the water tank device 100 provided in any embodiment of the first aspect. Therefore, the steam cooking appliance 200 has all the beneficial effects of the water tank device 100 provided in any embodiment of the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0159] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the steam cooking appliance 200 includes a housing 6 and a door 7. The housing 6 has a food inlet / outlet 64 at a first end along a first direction. The door 7 is installed at the first end to open or close the food inlet / outlet 64. The water tank shell 30 is installed on the housing 6 and is arranged along the first direction. The installation port 14 is located at the first end of the housing 6 along the first direction.

[0160] The steam cooking appliance 200 provided according to an embodiment of this utility model includes a cooking chamber and a water tank assembly 3. The cooking chamber generates steam and performs cooking functions. The water tank assembly 3 is detachably installed on the cooking chamber to supply water to the cooking chamber. The cooking chamber includes a body 6 and a door 7. A cooking cavity 62 is provided inside the body 6, and the cooking cavity 62 communicates with a food inlet / outlet 64. The door 7 is installed on the body 6 and is used to open and close the food inlet / outlet 64. The water tank assembly 3 is installed on the side of the body 6 where the door 7 is provided, for example, on the front side of the body 6. The water tank assembly 3 can also be installed on the body 6 along the front side, and it can be pulled out in the front-back direction to achieve disassembly and assembly. Furthermore, the water tank assembly 3 is also placed front-back on the body 6, that is, it is installed horizontally on the body 6, not vertically.

[0161] Furthermore, such as Figures 1 to 10As shown, the water tank assembly 3 can be pulled and installed onto the tank body 6 via the mounting port 14 along a first direction. The water tank assembly 3 includes: a water tank shell 30, which includes a water-containing cavity and an inlet / outlet 342 communicating with the water-containing cavity, the inlet / outlet 342 being disposed at one end of the water tank shell 30 along the first direction; a cover 302, which is detachably installed on the water tank shell 30 to open or close the inlet / outlet 342; and a sealing ring, which is disposed between the water tank shell 30 and the cover 302 to seal the gap between the water tank shell 30 and the cover 302.

[0162] In this embodiment, the water tank assembly 3 specifically includes a water tank shell 30 and a cover 302. The water tank shell 30 is provided with an inlet / outlet 342, and the cover 302 is detachably mounted on the inlet / outlet 342 of the water tank shell 30. Meanwhile, to ensure a seal between the water tank shell 30 and the cover 302, a sealing ring is also provided between them. This sealing ring ensures a sealed connection between the two, thereby preventing water leakage from the water tank assembly 3.

[0163] In other oven designs, the water tank assembly typically has a water inlet directly on the side wall of the water tank shell without a removable cover. This makes it difficult to open the water tank and thus inconvenient for cleaning. In this application, a removable cover 302 is provided. This allows for easy cleaning of the water tank assembly 3 by opening the cover 302, improving the convenience of cleaning and ensuring cleanliness. Furthermore, this design allows users to easily inspect the interior of the water tank assembly 3 for dirt and grime, making it easier to detect and clean the assembly promptly. This provides users with greater peace of mind when using the water tank assembly 3.

[0164] The first direction can specifically refer to the front-to-back direction of the cooking cabinet. For example, the water tank assembly 3 can be disassembled and installed from the front of the cooking cabinet. The cover 302 and the outer shell 30 of the water tank assembly 3 are also assembled along the front-to-back direction. This means that the water tank assembly 3 is installed horizontally on the cooking cabinet, rather than vertically. This reduces the height of the water tank assembly 3 and avoids the entire product being too tall. As a result, the water tank assembly 3 can be installed on the top of the cabinet 6, thus providing conditions for the water tank assembly 3 to be lowered by gravity.

[0165] Optionally, the steam cooking appliance 200 includes an oven. Of course, the steam cooking appliance 200 can also be other devices that require a water tank.

[0166] In any of the above embodiments, optionally, as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the steam cooking appliance 200 also includes: a heating device installed on the housing 6 for heating the food in the cooking chamber 62; a water tank 9 installed in the cooking chamber 62 and capable of being heated by the heating device; and a connecting pipe assembly 8 for connecting the water tank device 100 and the water tank 9 to transport water from the water tank device 100 to the water tank 9.

[0167] Furthermore, the water in the water tank device 100 can flow into the water receiving tank 9 through the connecting pipe assembly 8 under the action of gravity.

[0168] In the above embodiments, optionally, as shown... Figure 2 As shown, the water tank outer shell 30 includes a first arc-shaped surface arranged along the circumferential direction of the water tank outer shell 30. The two ends of the first arc-shaped surface arranged along the circumferential direction of the water tank outer shell 30 are connected by a first outer wall surface. The first outer wall surface includes a first plane 304 and a second arc-shaped surface. An indicator structure 306 is provided on the first plane 304 to indicate the installation direction of the water tank assembly 3. The second arc-shaped surface is located on the side of the first plane 304 near the water inlet / outlet 342 of the water tank outer shell 30.

[0169] In this embodiment, the water tank outer shell 30 is generally cylindrical, with most of its outer wall surface being curved, such as an arcuate surface. However, at least a portion of the outer wall surface of the water tank outer shell 30 is a first plane 304. The first plane 304 facilitates the installation of the indicator structure 306, the first limiting member of the water tank assembly 3, etc. For example, during processing, a cylindrical water tank can be machined first, and then a portion of the outer wall surface of the cylindrical water tank can be flattened to form the first plane 304.

[0170] In addition, by setting the first plane 304, it is also convenient for users to distinguish the front and back of the water tank shell 30, thereby avoiding incorrect installation of the water tank assembly 3.

[0171] Furthermore, the first outer wall surface also includes a second arc-shaped surface. The second arc-shaped surface is located on the side of the first plane 304 near the inlet / outlet 342 of the water tank shell 30. That is, the part of the first outer wall surface near the inlet / outlet 342 is arc-shaped, not flat. This makes the outer wall surface around the entire inlet / outlet 342 circular, which makes it convenient to set the cover 302 as circular as well. This makes the appearance of the entire water tank assembly 3 more beautiful. Especially when the water tank assembly 3 is used in ovens, it can make the shape of the water tank assembly 3 consistent with the knobs and other parts on the oven, thereby improving the overall aesthetics of the oven.

[0172] In the above embodiments, optionally, as shown... Figure 2As shown, the water tank outer shell 30 includes two oppositely arranged second outer side walls. Each second outer side wall is provided with one of a guide rib 308 and a guide groove. The guide rib 308 or the guide groove is arranged along the first direction. The water tank assembly 3 can be slidably installed on the mounting shell 1 by the guidance of the guide rib 308 and the guide groove.

[0173] In this embodiment, guide structures, such as guide ribs 308 or guide grooves, are provided on the outer walls of the opposite sides of the water tank shell 30. Simultaneously, another compatible guide structure can be provided on the cooking cabinet. The cooperation of these two guide structures allows the water tank assembly 3 to be smoothly installed on the cooking cabinet, thus facilitating its assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, the guide ribs 308 or guide grooves are arranged along a first direction, enabling the water tank assembly 3 to be slidably installed onto the cooking cabinet along this first direction.

[0174] The water tank device 100 is located at the top of the cooking cavity 62 along the height direction of the box body 6, so that the water tank device 100 is installed at a high position, thereby providing conditions for the water tank device 100 to be lowered by gravity.

[0175] The following section uses an oven as an example to further illustrate the water tank device and steam cooking appliance in this application.

[0176] Among the relevant solutions, the retractable water tank design for ovens mainly falls into two categories: The first type uses a motor to control the retraction of the water tank, but this method is complex, requires electricity, has low reliability, and is costly. The second type uses a spring-loaded mechanism, requiring manual pressing to retract the water tank, but this method is also complex, has low reliability, and is costly.

[0177] This embodiment proposes a telescopic water box solution, which incorporates a limiting module and a spring. The "extension" and "retraction" of the water box are controlled by the combined action of the limiting module and the spring. Thus, pressing the water box allows for both "pull-out" and "push-in" states. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rebound device is integrated into the water box / shell system, resulting in a simpler system, higher reliability, and lower cost.

[0178] In the description of this specification, the terms "connection," "installation," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0179] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0180] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A water tank device, characterized in that, include: The mounting housing includes a mounting cavity, one end of which is provided with a mounting port, and a push rod is provided on the mounting housing; A water tank assembly is capable of being inserted into the mounting cavity through the mounting port. The water tank assembly has a locked state and an unlocked state within the mounting cavity. The water tank assembly includes a water outlet channel and a valve assembly. The valve assembly is installed at the water outlet channel and is movable between a first position and a second position to open or close the water outlet channel. A push rod is used to insert into the water outlet channel when the water tank assembly is installed in the mounting cavity and push the valve assembly from the first position to the second position to open the water outlet channel. An elastic element, installed within the water outlet channel, is used to push a portion of the water tank assembly out of the mounting housing when the water tank assembly is in the unlocked state, and to move the valve assembly from the second position to the first position to close the water outlet channel.

2. The water tank device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the water tank assembly is in the locked state, the elastic element is in the compressed state. After the water tank assembly is unlocked, the elastic element can extend to push a portion of the water tank assembly out of the mounting housing and move the valve assembly from the second position to the first position to close the water outlet channel.

3. The water tank device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve assembly includes: The valve stem is slidably installed within the water outlet channel; A sealing element, installed on the valve stem, can move with the valve stem to open or seal the water outlet channel; One end of the elastic element is connected to the valve stem, and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the inner wall of the water outlet channel.

4. The water tank device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The water outlet channel includes an outlet and an inlet. When the valve stem is in the first position, the seal blocks the outlet. When the valve stem is in the second position, the seal opens the outlet, allowing the inlet and outlet to connect.

5. The water tank device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic element is sleeved and installed outside the valve stem.

6. The water tank device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic element includes a spring capable of stretching or shortening.

7. The water tank device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Also includes: The first limiting member is installed on the mounting housing; The second limiting component is disposed on the water tank assembly; When the water tank assembly is located in the mounting cavity, the first limiting member and the second limiting member limit each other to lock the water tank assembly. When the water tank assembly is located in the mounting cavity, pressing the water tank assembly into the mounting cavity can release the restriction between the first limiting member and the second limiting member, thereby unlocking the water tank assembly.

8. The water tank device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water tank assembly includes a water tank shell, and the second limiting member includes a limiting structure disposed on the water tank shell; and / or The second limiting member and the outer shell of the water tank are an integral structure.

9. The water tank device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second limiting member includes a guide slide, and the guide slide includes a limiting groove; The first limiting member includes a movable member, which is mounted on the mounting housing, and a portion of the movable member is located within the guide slide. When the water tank assembly is installed into the mounting cavity, at least a portion of the movable member can move from the first end of the guide slide to the limiting groove and be limited in the limiting groove; When the water tank assembly is located in the mounting cavity, pressing the water tank assembly into the mounting cavity allows at least a portion of the movable member to move toward the second end of the guide slide to separate from the limiting groove, thereby unlocking the water tank assembly.

10. The water tank device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The movable component includes a sliding component that is slidable along the guide slide and is confined to the limiting groove when the water tank assembly is located within the mounting cavity.

11. The water tank device according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the water tank assembly is in the locked state, it is located in the third position within the mounting cavity; when the water tank assembly is in the unlocked state, it is located in the fourth position within the mounting cavity. The guide slide includes: First guide surface; The second guide surface is set at a first angle to the first guide surface, and the limiting groove is formed by the first guide surface and the second guide surface; The first slide rail has a first guide surface disposed at the second end of the first slide rail. The first slide rail is used to guide the sliding member from the first end of the first slide rail to the first guide surface during the process of the water tank assembly sliding from the mounting port into the mounting cavity to the fifth position. When the water tank assembly is in the fifth position, the water tank assembly is released, and the water tank assembly moves to the outside of the mounting cavity to the third position under the action of the elastic member. The sliding member slides along the first guide surface to the connection between the first guide surface and the second guide surface and is limited to the connection between the first guide surface and the second guide surface. The second slide rail has one end connected to the end of the second guide surface away from the first guide surface. When the water tank assembly is in the third position inside the mounting cavity, the water tank assembly is pressed into the mounting cavity, and the sliding member can move along the second guide surface into the second slide rail. As the water tank assembly slides out of the mounting cavity from the mounting port, the sliding member can move along the second slide rail.

12. The water tank device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The guide rail also includes: An expansion section is provided at the first end of the first slide rail. A fourth guide surface is provided on the two inner sidewalls of the expansion section. The fourth guide surface is used to guide the sliding member to move into the first slide rail during the process of the water tank assembly sliding from the mounting port into the mounting cavity.

13. The water tank device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The mounting housing is provided with a limiting hole, and the sliding member is slidably mounted on the limiting hole, thereby limiting the sliding range of the sliding member.

14. The water tank device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The movable component includes: A rotating component, the first end of which is rotatably mounted outside the mounting housing, the mounting housing having a limiting hole, the second end of which passes through the limiting hole and is inserted into the mounting cavity, a sliding component being disposed on the second end of the rotating component, the sliding component and the rotating component being an integral structure, or the sliding component and the rotating component being detachably connected.

15. The water tank device according to claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: A press-fit component is disposed outside the mounting housing, and at least a portion of the rotating component is located between the press-fit component and the mounting housing; and / or A support structure is disposed on the outer wall of the mounting housing and supports the rotating component on the side near the mounting housing.

16. A steam cooking appliance, characterized in that, Includes the water tank device as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. The steam cooking appliance according to claim 16, characterized in that, The steam cooking appliance includes an oven.

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