Steam generator and steaming cooking equipment
By working in concert with the heating device, water supply device, and steam storage device, the problem of low heating efficiency of steam generators is solved, enabling rapid steam generation and stable supply, improving cooking efficiency and results, and offering the advantages of energy saving and safety.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- XIAMEN YINGCHU IND & TRADE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-03
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-12
AI Technical Summary
Existing steam generators have low heating efficiency and slow steam generation speed, resulting in low cooking efficiency and uneven steam distribution, which affects the consistency of cooking results.
The system employs a coordinated operation of heating, water supply, and steam storage devices. Pressure balance is maintained through a balancing conduit, and safety is ensured by pressure sensors and pressure relief valves. Water-steam separation is achieved, and water level and temperature are precisely controlled by electric heating elements and float switches to ensure rapid steam generation and continuous supply.
It improves steam generation efficiency, shortens cooking time, ensures stable steam quality, reduces water consumption and achieves energy-saving effects, and enhances the safety and flexibility of the equipment.
Smart Images
Figure CN224229968U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to kitchen appliances, and more particularly to a steam generator and steaming cooking equipment. Background Technology
[0002] In the field of kitchen appliances, steam generators are indispensable components in steam ovens, steam ovens, and other similar equipment. Their main function is to generate steam through heating, providing the high-temperature steam environment required for cooking. Currently, most common steam generator heating devices adopt a heating plate structure.
[0003] However, in this type of heating plate steam generator, the heating plate is directly exposed inside the inner liner. During heating, a significant amount of heat is lost to the surrounding space, and the area of the heating plate in direct contact with the water is limited, resulting in low heat transfer efficiency. Due to heat loss and limited heating area, the water transitions from a liquid to a gaseous state slowly. During cooking, users need to wait a considerable amount of time for enough steam to be generated to cook the food. This not only reduces cooking efficiency but can also cause inconvenience for users, especially in situations requiring rapid cooking, such as breakfast preparation or urgent meals.
[0004] Furthermore, because steam and water coexist within the inner pot, this structure not only restricts the rapid diffusion of steam but may also lead to uneven heat distribution within the pot, thus affecting the consistency of cooking results. Therefore, improving the heating efficiency of steam generators, accelerating steam generation, and optimizing the steam-water separation structure to enhance cooking efficiency and effectiveness are pressing technical challenges in the current kitchen appliance industry. Utility Model Content
[0005] The main technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to provide a steam generator that can quickly generate steam, thereby improving cooking efficiency and results.
[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this utility model provides a steam generator, including a heating device, a water supply device, and a steam storage device; the heating device includes a first opening and a second opening, the first opening being connected to the steam storage device, and the second opening being connected to the water supply device;
[0007] The heating device includes a heating component for heating water to generate steam, a steam storage device for storing steam, and a water replenishment device for continuously replenishing water to the heating device.
[0008] A balancing conduit is provided between the steam storage device and the water supply device, and the balancing conduit is used to balance the pressure of the steam storage device and the water supply device;
[0009] The steam storage device includes a steam outlet and a steam pipe assembly connected to the steam outlet. The steam pipe assembly includes a steam output interface for connecting external steaming and cooking equipment.
[0010] The steam pipeline assembly includes a pressure sensor and a pressure relief valve. The pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure of the steam storage device. When the pressure exceeds the preset value of the pressure sensor, the pressure relief valve is used to release the pressure of the steam storage device.
[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the water replenishment device includes a water replenishment tank, a water inlet pipe, and a water pump. The two ends of the water inlet pipe are respectively connected to the water replenishment tank and the water pump. The water replenishment tank is connected to the heating device.
[0012] The water supply tank includes an inlet for connection to the water inlet pipe, and a one-way valve is installed at the inlet for one-way water intake through the water inlet pipe.
[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the water replenishment tank is equipped with a float switch, which is electrically connected to the water pump;
[0014] The float switch is used to detect the water level in the water tank and feed it back to the water pump, controlling the start and stop of the water pump according to the water level.
[0015] In a preferred embodiment, a water supply pipe is provided inside the water tank that connects to the water inlet;
[0016] The water outlet of the water supply conduit is located near the second opening, or the water outlet of the water supply conduit extends into the heating device through the second opening.
[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the heating assembly includes an electric heating element and an AC contactor. The AC contactor is connected to the electric heating element via a wire and is used to control the power supply to the electric heating element.
[0018] The heating device also includes a heating tank, with the first opening and the second opening both located on the heating tank, and the electric heating tube located inside the heating tank for heating water to generate steam.
[0019] In a preferred embodiment, a drain outlet is provided at the bottom of the heating tank.
[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the steam pipe assembly includes a first pipe assembly, a second pipe assembly, and a steam output pipe, the steam output pipe including the steam output port, and the first pipe assembly including the pressure sensor and the pressure relief valve;
[0021] The first pipe assembly is connected to the steam storage device via a first quick-connect clamp, the second pipe assembly is connected to the first pipe assembly via a second quick-connect clamp, and the second pipe assembly is connected to the steam output pipe via a third quick-connect clamp.
[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the first piping assembly further includes a temperature sensor and a safety valve, and the second piping assembly includes a pressure bypass valve for steam depressurization or as a steam outlet.
[0023] The temperature sensor is electrically connected to the AC contactor.
[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the second piping assembly includes a first interface, a second interface, and a third interface, wherein the first interface is connected to the first piping assembly, the second interface is connected to the steam output pipe, and the third interface is provided with the pressure bypass valve;
[0025] The second pipe assembly can be connected to another set of the second pipe assembly through the third interface.
[0026] This utility model also provides a steaming cooking device, including the aforementioned steam generator.
[0027] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of this utility model has the following beneficial effects:
[0028] 1. A steam generator is provided that can rapidly generate steam through the coordinated operation of a heating device, a water supply device, and a steam storage device. The heating device and the water supply device can quickly heat water to generate steam, shortening cooking time and improving cooking efficiency. The steam storage device can temporarily store the steam generated by the heating device, forming a stable steam buffer to ensure a continuous supply of steam.
[0029] 2. The heating device and steam storage device are set up to separate water and steam, which can increase the diffusion rate of steam. The heating device is equipped with heating components that can convert electrical energy into heat energy in a short time, quickly raise the water temperature, heat the water to boiling point more quickly, generate steam, and raise the steam temperature to 150℃ to meet the needs of high-temperature cooking.
[0030] 3. By using a water replenishment device to add water to the heating element, unnecessary water consumption can be precisely controlled and reduced, thus saving electricity and water and meeting environmental protection requirements. The water replenishment device can continuously replenish water to the heating element, ensuring a continuous supply of steam and meeting the needs of long-term cooking.
[0031] 4. The design of the balancing conduit ensures pressure balance between the steam storage unit and the water supply unit, avoiding safety issues caused by excessive pressure. The inclusion of pressure sensors and pressure relief valves further enhances the safety of the equipment. Attached Figure Description
[0032] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the steam generator in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] Figure 2 This is an overall cross-sectional view of the steam generator in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the steam storage device and steam pipeline assembly in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the steam generator installed inside the housing in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the steam output interface and the drain port extending out of the housing in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Heating device; 11. First opening; 12. Second opening; 13. Heating assembly; 131. Electric heating element; 132. AC contactor; 14. Heating tank; 141. Drain outlet; 2. Water supply device; 21. Water supply tank; 211. Water inlet; 212. One-way valve; 22. Water inlet pipe; 23. Water pump; 24. Float switch; 25. Water supply conduit; 3. Steam storage device; 31. Steam outlet; 4. Steam pipeline assembly ; 41. Steam output interface; 42. First piping assembly; 421. Pressure sensor; 422. Pressure relief valve; 423. Temperature sensor; 424. Safety valve; 43. Second piping assembly; 431. Pressure bypass valve; 432. First interface; 433. Second interface; 434. Third interface; 44. Steam output pipe; 45. First quick-connect clamp; 46. Second quick-connect clamp; 47. Third quick-connect clamp; 5. Balance guide tube; 6. Housing. Detailed Implementation
[0038] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present utility model without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0039] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "top / bottom," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0040] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "equipped with", "sleeved / connected", "connected", etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a wall-mounted connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model can be understood according to the specific circumstances.
[0041] refer to Figures 1-5 This embodiment provides a steam generator for steaming cooking equipment. This steam generator offers advantages such as rapid steam generation, high steam temperature, short steaming time, low water consumption, and energy saving, significantly improving the performance and user experience of the steaming cooking equipment. This steaming cooking equipment is suitable for various scenarios such as home kitchens, restaurants, and canteens, and has broad application prospects.
[0042] The steam generator includes a housing 6 and a heating device 1, a water supply device 2, and a steam storage device 3 (such as...) disposed within the housing 6. Figure 4 The heating device 1 includes a first opening 11 and a second opening 12. The first opening 11 is connected to the steam storage device 3, and the second opening 12 is connected to the water supply device 2. The heating device 1 includes a heating component 13 for heating water to generate steam. The steam storage device 3 is used to store steam, and the water supply device 2 is used to continuously replenish water to the heating device 1. A balancing conduit 5 is provided between the steam storage device and the water supply device 2 to balance the pressure of the steam storage device 3 and the water supply device 2. The steam storage device 3 includes a steam outlet 31 and a steam pipe assembly 4 connected to the steam outlet 31. The steam pipe assembly 4 includes a steam output interface 41, which extends out of the housing 6 for connecting external steaming and cooking equipment (such as...). Figure 5The steam pipeline assembly 4 includes a pressure sensor 421 and a pressure relief valve 422. The pressure sensor 421 is used to measure the pressure of the steam storage device 3. When the pressure exceeds the preset value of the pressure sensor 421, the pressure relief valve 422 is used to relieve the pressure of the steam storage device 3. The pressure sensor 421 and the pressure relief valve 422 are used to monitor and realize safe pressure relief.
[0043] In this embodiment, the heating device 1, the water supply device 2, and the steam storage device 3 work together to quickly heat water and generate steam, improving cooking efficiency. The installation of the balancing conduit 5, the pressure sensor 421, and the pressure relief valve 422 creates pressure balance and safety protection. The design of the balancing conduit 5 ensures pressure balance between the steam storage device 3 and the water supply device 2, preventing backflow and safety issues caused by excessive pressure. The pressure sensor 421 and the pressure relief valve 422 further enhance the safety of the equipment.
[0044] By separating water and steam through a heating device 1 and a steam storage device 3, water and steam are achieved. The heating device 1 focuses on heating the water. Because the water and steam are separated, the heating device 1 can heat the water more precisely, allowing it to quickly reach its boiling point and convert into steam. This separation design avoids ineffective heat transfer and loss when water and steam are mixed, enabling more efficient heat utilization and significantly improving heating efficiency. By separating water and steam, the steam storage device 3 can collect purer steam. In traditional mixed steam generators, water droplets may be mixed in with the steam, leading to unstable steam quality. The separation design effectively avoids this, resulting in purer steam with a more stable temperature, thus improving cooking results.
[0045] The water supply device 2 continuously replenishes water to the heating device 1, ensuring a continuous supply of steam to meet the needs of long-term cooking. For example... Figure 1 Specifically, the water replenishment device 2 includes a water replenishment tank 21, an inlet pipe 22, and a water pump 23. The water pump 23 is a water booster pump used for external water supply. The two ends of the inlet pipe 22 are respectively connected to the water replenishment tank 21 and the water pump 23. The water replenishment tank 21 is connected to the heating device 1. The water replenishment tank 21 includes an inlet 211 for connecting to the inlet pipe 22. A one-way valve 212 is installed at the inlet 211. The one-way valve 212 is used for one-way water intake through the inlet pipe 22 to prevent water backflow and ensure the stable operation of the water replenishment system.
[0046] like Figure 2The water replenishment tank 21 is equipped with a float switch 24, which is electrically connected to the water pump 23. The float switch 24 detects the water level in the water replenishment tank 21 and feeds back to the water pump 23, controlling the pump's operation based on the water level. The float switch 24 can detect the water level in the water replenishment tank 21 in real time and automatically control the pump's operation based on the water level, achieving automatic water replenishment, reducing manual intervention, and ensuring a stable water level in the tank 21. Precise water level control via the float switch 24 avoids unnecessary water replenishment operations, reduces energy consumption, and improves the equipment's energy-saving performance.
[0047] like Figure 2 The water tank 21 is connected to the water inlet 211 and is provided with a water supply pipe 25; the water outlet of the water supply pipe 25 is located near the second opening 12, or the water outlet of the water supply pipe 25 extends into the heating device 1 through the second opening 12, so as to ensure that the water can directly enter the heating area, improve the water supply efficiency, reduce heat loss, and at the same time avoid affecting the sensing of the float switch 24 when adding water.
[0048] Heating component 13 is used to quickly generate steam, such as Figure 1 Specifically, the heating assembly 13 includes an electric heating element 131 and an AC contactor 132. The AC contactor 132 is connected to the electric heating element 131 via a wire and is used to control the on / off state of the electric heating element 131. The combination of the electric heating element 131 and the AC contactor 132 can quickly heat water to produce steam, improving heating efficiency. The use of the AC contactor 132 can also achieve precise control of the heating process, avoiding overheating. Compared with traditional heating plates, the electric heating element 131 has higher heating efficiency and can heat water to boiling point and produce steam more quickly.
[0049] like Figure 2 The heating device 1 further includes a heating tank 14, with the first opening 11 and the second opening 12 both located on the heating tank 14. The electric heating tube 131 is disposed within the heating tank 14 and used to heat water to generate steam. The design of the heating tank 14 makes the entire heating device 1 compact, space-saving, and easy to install and maintain. Furthermore, the water is heated within the heating tank 14 via the electric heating tube 131, which is evenly distributed within the tank, ensuring more uniform heating of the water. This uniform heating method reduces localized overheating or underheating, further improving the efficiency and quality of steam generation.
[0050] The bottom of the heating tank 14 is provided with a drain port 141, which extends from the bottom of the shell 6 (e.g., Figure 5This is used for wastewater discharge, facilitating regular cleaning of scale and impurities, reducing dirt accumulation inside the equipment, extending its service life, and lowering maintenance costs. Regular scale removal helps maintain the thermal conductivity of the heating tank 14, improving heating efficiency and further saving energy and reducing consumption.
[0051] The steam storage device 3 can temporarily store the steam generated by the heating device 1, forming a stable steam buffer zone. For example... Figure 3 The steam storage device 3 outputs steam through the steam pipe assembly 4. Specifically, the steam pipe assembly 4 includes a first pipe assembly 42, a second pipe assembly 43, and a steam output pipe 44. The steam output pipe 44 includes the steam output interface 41. The first pipe assembly 42 includes the pressure sensor 421 and the pressure relief valve 422, which ensures that the steam maintains a stable pressure and temperature during the output process. Through precise temperature control and steam output, temperature differences can be effectively eliminated, ensuring that food is heated evenly and improving the cooking effect. This rapid output function can significantly shorten cooking time and improve cooking efficiency.
[0052] The first pipe assembly 42 is connected to the steam storage device 3 via a first quick-connect clamp 45, the second pipe assembly 43 is connected to the first pipe assembly 42 via a second quick-connect clamp 46, and the second pipe assembly 43 is connected to the steam output pipe 44 via a third quick-connect clamp 47. The steam pipe assembly 4 achieves quick connection and disassembly via quick-connect clamps, which facilitates installation and maintenance and improves the ease of use of the equipment.
[0053] like Figure 2 The first piping assembly 42 is equipped with a pressure sensor 421, a pressure relief valve 422, and a temperature sensor 423, enabling real-time monitoring of steam pressure and temperature and timely intervention in abnormal situations to ensure safe operation of the equipment. The first piping assembly 42 also includes a temperature sensor 423 and a safety valve 424. The second piping assembly 43 includes a pressure bypass valve 431, which is used for steam pressure relief or as a steam outlet 31, further enhancing the safety performance of the equipment and preventing accidents caused by excessive pressure. The design of the pressure bypass valve 431 also allows it to be used as a steam outlet 31, increasing the flexibility of steam output and meeting different cooking needs.
[0054] Temperature sensor 423 is electrically connected to AC contactor 132. Based on the feedback signal from temperature sensor 423, AC contactor 132 can automatically adjust the on / off state of electric heating element 131 to ensure that the water temperature is always kept within a suitable range. This precise temperature control not only improves heating efficiency but also avoids energy waste caused by overheating.
[0055] like Figure 3The second pipe assembly 43 includes a first interface 432, a second interface 433, and a third interface 434. The first interface 432 is connected to the first pipe assembly 42, the second interface 433 is connected to the steam output pipe 44, and the third interface 434 is equipped with the pressure bypass valve 431. The second pipe assembly 43 can be connected to another set of second pipe assemblies 43 through the third interface 434 to realize the expansion of the pipe assembly. This design makes the steam pipe assembly 4 have good modularity, which is convenient for customization and expansion according to actual needs, and improves the versatility and flexibility of the equipment.
[0056] In this embodiment, the coordinated operation of the heating device 1, the water supply device 2, and the steam storage device 3 is as follows:
[0057] Simultaneous water replenishment and heating: The water replenishment device 2 automatically replenishes water to the water tank 21 according to the signal from the float switch 24. At the same time, the water pump 23 delivers water to the heating device 1 through the water supply pipe 25. The electric heating element 131 in the heating device 1 starts heating under the control of the AC contactor 132, rapidly converting the water into steam. This simultaneous water replenishment and heating method ensures that the heating device 1 always has enough water for heating, avoiding heating interruptions due to water shortage.
[0058] Rapid Steam Generation and Storage: Steam generated by heating device 1 enters steam storage device 3 through first opening 11. Steam storage device 3 can temporarily store steam and output it externally through steam pipe assembly 4. This rapid generation and storage method ensures a continuous supply of steam; even if heating device 1 cannot generate enough steam for a short period, the steam in the storage device can still meet the needs of the cooking equipment.
[0059] Precise pressure and temperature control: The pressure sensor 421 within the steam storage unit 3 monitors the steam pressure in real time and feeds the signal back to the control system. When the pressure exceeds the preset value, the pressure relief valve 422 automatically opens to release excess steam, ensuring the safe operation of the equipment. Simultaneously, the temperature sensor 423 monitors the steam temperature in real time and adjusts the heating power of the heating device 1 through the control system to ensure the steam temperature remains within a suitable range. This precise pressure and temperature control further improves the quality and stability of the steam, thereby increasing cooking efficiency.
[0060] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model, but the design concept of the present utility model is not limited thereto. Any non-substantial modifications made to the present utility model by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present utility model using this concept shall be deemed as an infringement of the protection scope of the present utility model.
Claims
1. A steam generator, characterized in that: It includes a heating device, a water supply device, and a steam storage device; the heating device includes a first opening and a second opening, the first opening being connected to the steam storage device, and the second opening being connected to the water supply device; The heating device includes a heating component for heating water to generate steam, a steam storage device for storing steam, and a water replenishment device for continuously replenishing water to the heating device. A balancing conduit is provided between the steam storage device and the water supply device, and the balancing conduit is used to balance the pressure of the steam storage device and the water supply device; The steam storage device includes a steam outlet and a steam pipe assembly connected to the steam outlet. The steam pipe assembly includes a steam output interface for connecting external steaming and cooking equipment. The steam pipeline assembly includes a pressure sensor and a pressure relief valve. The pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure of the steam storage device. When the pressure exceeds the preset value of the pressure sensor, the pressure relief valve is used to release the pressure of the steam storage device.
2. A steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water replenishment device includes a water replenishment tank, a water inlet pipe, and a water pump. The two ends of the water inlet pipe are respectively connected to the water replenishment tank and the water pump. The water replenishment tank is connected to the heating device. The water supply tank includes an inlet for connection to the water inlet pipe, and a one-way valve is installed at the inlet for one-way water intake through the water inlet pipe.
3. A steam generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The water supply tank is equipped with a float switch, which is electrically connected to the water pump. The float switch is used to detect the water level in the water tank and feed it back to the water pump, controlling the start and stop of the water pump according to the water level.
4. A steam generator according to claim 3, characterized in that: The water supply tank is equipped with a water inlet pipe connected to the water inlet. The water outlet of the water supply conduit is located near the second opening, or the water outlet of the water supply conduit extends into the heating device through the second opening.
5. A steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heating assembly includes an electric heating element and an AC contactor. The AC contactor is connected to the electric heating element via a wire and is used to control the power supply to and from the electric heating element. The heating device also includes a heating tank, with the first opening and the second opening both located on the heating tank, and the electric heating tube located inside the heating tank for heating water to generate steam.
6. A steam generator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The bottom of the heating tank is equipped with a drain outlet.
7. A steam generator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The steam pipeline assembly includes a first pipeline assembly, a second pipeline assembly, and a steam output pipe. The steam output pipe includes the steam output interface. The first pipeline assembly includes the pressure sensor and the pressure relief valve. The first pipe assembly is connected to the steam storage device via a first quick-connect clamp, the second pipe assembly is connected to the first pipe assembly via a second quick-connect clamp, and the second pipe assembly is connected to the steam output pipe via a third quick-connect clamp.
8. A steam generator according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first piping assembly also includes a temperature sensor and a safety valve, and the second piping assembly includes a pressure bypass valve, which is used for steam depressurization or as a steam outlet; The temperature sensor is electrically connected to the AC contactor.
9. A steam generator according to claim 8, characterized in that: The second pipeline assembly includes a first interface, a second interface, and a third interface. The first interface is connected to the first pipeline assembly, the second interface is connected to the steam output pipe, and the third interface is equipped with the pressure bypass valve. The second pipe assembly can be connected to another set of the second pipe assembly through the third interface.
10. A steaming cooking device, characterized in that: The steam generator includes any one of claims 1-9.