Heater and cooking appliance

Abstract

The application provides a heater and a cooking appliance. The heater comprises a flow guide pipe having an inlet portion and an outlet portion, a flow channel is arranged in the flow guide pipe, and the flow channel is communicated with the inlet portion and the outlet portion; a heat conduction structure is arranged around the periphery of the flow guide pipe, and the inlet portion and the outlet portion are exposed to the heat conduction structure; and a heating element is arranged between the flow guide pipe and the heat conduction structure; wherein the heat conduction structure is used for radiating heat outward by the heating element. The heater can not only meet the cooking requirement in the steaming mode, but also meet the cooking requirement in the baking mode, so that the heater can be applied to cooking in different application scenarios. In other words, different cooking modes of the cooking appliance share the same heater, the space occupancy rate of the heater in the cooking appliance can be reduced, the component structure of the cooking appliance is simpler, the component structure is more compact, and thus the overall size of the cooking appliance can be reduced, and the production cost of the product can be reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of heater technology, and more specifically, to a heater and a cooking appliance. Background Technology

[0002] Cooking appliances have multiple cooking modes, such as baking and steaming. In related technologies, these appliances are equipped with multiple independent heating elements, each using a specific element for each cooking mode. For example, a steam-generating heating element is used for a regular cooking mode, while a direct-radiation heating element is used for a baking mode. This increases the production cost of the cooking appliance, and multiple heating elements increase the space occupied within the appliance, resulting in a larger size and hindering space-saving and cost-reduction efforts. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related technologies.

[0004] Therefore, the first aspect of this application proposes a heater.

[0005] The second aspect of this application proposes a cooking utensil.

[0006] In view of the above, the first aspect of this application provides a heater, comprising: a flow guide tube having an inlet and an outlet, and a flow channel provided inside the flow guide tube, the flow channel connecting the inlet and the outlet; a heat-conducting structure surrounding the periphery of the flow guide tube, the heat-conducting structure being exposed at both the inlet and the outlet; and a heating element located between the flow guide tube and the heat-conducting structure; wherein the heat-conducting structure is used to allow the heating element to radiate heat outward.

[0007] The heater provided in this application includes a flow guide tube, a heat conduction structure, and a heating element.

[0008] The guide tube has an inlet and an outlet, and a flow channel is provided inside the guide tube, connecting both the inlet and outlet. A heat-conducting structure surrounds the periphery of the guide tube, and a heating element is located between the guide tube and the heat-conducting structure. The heat-conducting structure is used to allow the heating element to radiate heat outwards.

[0009] When the cooking appliance is in steaming mode, the medium flows into the flow channel through the inlet. The heat generated by the heating element is directly transferred to the medium within the flow channel through the guide pipe. The medium flows and absorbs heat within the flow channel, transforming into steam. The steam is then discharged into the cooking chamber of the appliance through the outlet, heating the food inside to meet the appliance's steaming requirements. It can be understood that a portion of the heat generated by the heating element is transferred to the medium within the flow channel via the guide pipe, while another portion diffuses into the cooking chamber through the heat-conducting structure. This means that the food is heated not only by steam but also by thermal radiation, ensuring that all the heat generated by the heating element is applied to the food in the cooking chamber through a combined process, thus guaranteeing the heater's heating efficiency.

[0010] When the cooking appliance is in baking mode, no medium is introduced into the guide tube. The heat generated by the heating element is radiated outward through the heat-conducting structure and diffused into the cooking cavity, heating the food by thermal radiation to achieve the purpose of baking the food at high temperature.

[0011] Therefore, it can be seen that the heater can not only meet the cooking needs of steaming mode, but also the cooking needs of baking mode, enriching the heating modes of the heater and making it suitable for cooking in different application scenarios. In other words, different cooking modes of the cooking appliance can share the same heater. In this way, while ensuring the cooking performance of the cooking appliance, the space occupied by the heater in the cooking appliance can be reduced, making the composition of the cooking appliance simpler and more compact. This is conducive to reducing the overall size of the cooking appliance, reducing the production cost of the product, and improving the product's performance and market competitiveness.

[0012] Understandably, the heat-conducting structure surrounds the flow guide tube, with the heating element located between the flow guide tube and the heat-conducting structure. This defines the positional relationship between the heat-conducting structure, the heating element, and the flow guide tube. When the cooking appliance is in steaming mode, the heat generated by the heating element can act on the flow guide tube from multiple directions and angles, improving steam generation efficiency. Simultaneously, when the cooking appliance is in baking mode, the heat generated by the heating element can radiate into the cooking cavity from multiple directions and angles. This improves the uniformity of heat radiation within the cooking cavity, ensuring the optimal texture and flavor of the food.

[0013] Understandably, the heating element is located between the flow guide tube and the heat conduction structure. This arrangement balances the heat transfer path in both steaming and baking modes, thus meeting both the need for rapid heating of the medium within the flow channel to convert it into steam and the need for rapid heat radiation to the cooking cavity.

[0014] Understandably, both the inlet and outlet sections expose heat-conducting structures. The inlet section's exposed heat-conducting structure ensures it does not obstruct the flow, allowing the medium to flow into the channel. Similarly, the outlet section's exposed heat-conducting structure ensures it does not obstruct the flow, allowing steam to exit the heater through the outlet.

[0015] Understandably, having the heating element located on the outside of the flow guide tube helps prevent overheating and damage caused by scale buildup, compared to having it located on the inside.

[0016] In some technical solutions, optionally, the heat-conducting structure includes: a shell, a flow guide tube passing through the shell, with both the inlet and outlet protruding from the shell, the inner surface of the shell and the outer surface of the flow guide tube enclosing an annular mounting cavity, and the heating element located within the annular mounting cavity; and a heat-conducting part located within the annular mounting cavity, and the heat-conducting part filling the annular mounting cavity.

[0017] In this technical solution, the heat-conducting structure includes a shell and a heat-conducting part.

[0018] The guide tube passes through the outer shell, and the inner surface of the outer shell and the outer surface of the guide tube enclose an annular mounting cavity. The heating element and the heat-conducting part are located within the annular mounting cavity. That is, the annular mounting cavity serves to house the heating element and the heat-conducting part.

[0019] The heat-conducting part fills the annular mounting cavity, meaning it covers the cavity wall, the heating element, and fills the gap between the heating element and the cavity wall. This design increases the heat-conducting area, improving the thermal radiation efficiency of the heating element and consequently increasing the overall heating efficiency of the heater.

[0020] In some technical solutions, optionally, at least one of the housing and the heat-conducting part is an insulating element; the housing is provided with a first through hole and a second through hole; the heater also includes a first terminal and a second terminal, a portion of the first terminal extending into the annular mounting cavity through the first through hole and electrically connected to the heating element, and a portion of the second terminal extending into the annular mounting cavity through the second through hole and electrically connected to the heating element.

[0021] In this technical solution, the heater further includes a first terminal and a second terminal. A portion of the first terminal extends into the annular mounting cavity through a first through-hole and is electrically connected to the heating element, and a portion of the second terminal extends into the annular mounting cavity through a second through-hole and is electrically connected to the heating element. Both the portion of the first terminal located outside the housing and the portion of the second terminal located outside the housing are used to connect to an external power source to meet the usage requirements of controlling the operation and stopping of the heating element.

[0022] In this configuration, at least one of the outer casing and the heat-conducting part is an insulating component. The outer casing is an insulating casing. Alternatively, the heat-conducting part is an insulating heat-conducting part. Or, the outer casing is an insulating casing, and the heat-conducting part is an insulating heat-conducting part.

[0023] When the outer casing is an insulating component, it not only houses the heat-conducting part and protects the flow guide tube and heating element, but also provides insulation, ensuring the safety and reliability of the heater. In other words, by reusing the outer casing structure, its functionality is enriched, allowing the heating element to be safely electrically connected to an external power source via the first and second terminals without requiring additional insulation.

[0024] When the heat-conducting part is an insulating component, it not only radiates heat but also provides insulation, ensuring the safety and reliability of the heater. In other words, by reusing the structure of the heat-conducting part and enriching its function, it allows the heating element to be safely electrically connected to an external power source via the first and second terminals without requiring additional insulation.

[0025] In some technical solutions, optionally, the portions of the first terminal and the second terminal located outside the housing are both located on the periphery of the housing, and the first terminal and the second terminal are positioned far apart from each other.

[0026] In this technical solution, the positional relationship between the first terminal, the second terminal, the housing, the inlet, and the outlet is further defined.

[0027] Both the first and second terminals are located on the periphery of the housing. This arrangement facilitates wiring between the first and second terminals and reduces the need for bending and kinking of the connecting wires.

[0028] The first and second terminals are positioned far apart, meaning they are spaced apart with a significant distance between them. This reduces the risk of short circuits and lowers the probability of short circuits caused by conductive materials (such as dust or metal shavings) or accidental contact. Simultaneously, this dispersed arrangement of the first and second terminals, compared to their close proximity, prevents localized overheating, promotes heat dissipation, and extends service life. Furthermore, this arrangement increases the installation space between the first and second terminals and the external power supply, facilitating wiring, reducing the risk of accidental contact, and improving the safety and reliability of the product.

[0029] For example, the first terminal is closer to the inlet than the outlet, and the second terminal is closer to the outlet than the inlet.

[0030] In some technical solutions, the heating element may optionally be positioned closer to the flow channel than the outer casing.

[0031] In this technical solution, the mating structure of the heating element, the outer shell, and the guide tube is further defined. The heating element is closer to the guide tube than the outer shell. That is, the distance from the heating element to the guide tube is less than the distance from the heating element to the outer shell. In other words, shortening the distance between the heating element and the guide tube allows the heat generated by the heating element to be transferred to the medium in the flow channel in a timely and rapid manner when the cooking appliance is in steaming mode. The shorter heat transfer path helps to accelerate the conversion of the medium into steam and shortens the steam production time.

[0032] In addition, the distance between the heating element and the outer shell is relatively far, which provides space support for filling the heat-conducting part between the heating element and the outer shell. This allows the heat to be evenly radiated from the heater through the heat-conducting part when the cooking appliance is in baking mode, which helps to improve the uniformity of heat radiation in the cooking cavity and ensures the taste of the food.

[0033] In some technical solutions, the heating element optionally includes a flexible heating element that is spirally wound around a guide tube.

[0034] In this technical solution, the structure of the heating element is specifically defined. The heating element includes a flexible heating element that is spirally wound around the guide tube.

[0035] This design increases the contact area between the heating element and the guide tube, maximizing the contact area between the spirally arranged flexible heating element and the outer peripheral wall of the guide tube. This allows for more uniform heat distribution, preventing localized overheating or undercooling. Simultaneously, the direct contact between the flexible heating element and the guide tube reduces thermal resistance, enabling efficient heat transfer to the medium within the flow channel and accelerating its conversion into steam.

[0036] Meanwhile, the spiral arrangement of the flexible heating element allows for the placement of a longer flexible heating element within the available space. Furthermore, the elasticity of the spiral flexible heating element can buffer deformation of the flexible heating element or guide tube caused by temperature changes, thus reducing the risk of breakage.

[0037] In some technical solutions, optionally, there are multiple flexible heating elements, a first terminal, and a second terminal; multiple flexible heating elements are connected in parallel, and each flexible heating element is connected to a first terminal and a second terminal.

[0038] In this technical solution, the number and connection method of the flexible heating element are further defined.

[0039] Specifically, there are multiple flexible heating elements, multiple first terminals, and multiple second terminals. These multiple flexible heating elements are connected in parallel; specifically, each flexible heating element is connected to one first terminal and one second terminal. Because the multiple flexible heating elements are connected in parallel, each flexible heating element is independently connected to an external power source through one first terminal and one second terminal, enabling multi-level power adjustment. For example, at least a portion of the multiple flexible heating elements can be energized according to cooking needs. When a portion of the flexible heating elements are energized, the corresponding power mode is lower, suitable for heat preservation or slow steaming. When all the flexible heating elements are energized, the corresponding power mode is higher, suitable for rapid heating. This setup can meet various cooking needs, improve the flexibility and adaptability of the heater, and further optimize the heater's heating efficiency.

[0040] In some technical solutions, the heating element may optionally include a heating tube, which is sleeved on the guide tube, and both the first terminal and the second terminal are electrically connected to the heating tube.

[0041] In this technical solution, the structure of the heating element is specifically defined. The heating element includes a heating tube, which is sleeved on the guide tube. The first terminal and the second terminal are both electrically connected to the heating tube.

[0042] This design increases the contact area between the heating element and the guide tube, allowing for a more even distribution of heat and preventing overheating or undercooling.

[0043] In some technical solutions, optionally, when the outer casing is an insulating component, the outer casing includes: an insulating heat-conducting tube sleeved on the flow guide tube, with a gap between the inner surface of the insulating heat-conducting tube and the outer surface of the flow guide tube; a first insulating cover covering a first end of the insulating heat-conducting tube; a second insulating cover covering a second end of the insulating heat-conducting tube; an inlet portion extending out of the outer casing through the first insulating cover, and / or an outlet portion extending out of the outer casing through the second insulating cover; or at least one of the inlet portion and the outlet portion extending out of the outer casing through the insulating heat-conducting tube.

[0044] In this technical solution, when the outer casing is an insulating component, the structure of the outer casing is further defined, such that the outer casing includes an insulating heat-conducting pipe, a first insulating cover, and a second insulating cover. A gap exists between the inner surface of the insulating heat-conducting pipe and the outer surface of the heat-conducting pipe.

[0045] The insulated heat-conducting tube has a first end and a second end, with the first end and the second end positioned opposite each other. A first insulating cap is placed over the first end of the insulated heat-conducting tube, and a second insulating cap is placed over the second end. The first and second insulating caps function to seal the insulated heat-conducting tube, ensuring the sealing of the annular mounting cavity formed by the inner surface of the outer shell and the outer surface of the heat-conducting tube, thus preventing heat leakage.

[0046] The inlet protrudes from the housing through a first insulating cover, and / or the outlet protrudes from the housing through a second insulating cover. Alternatively, the outlet protrudes from the housing through a second insulating cover. Or, the inlet protrudes from the housing through both the first and second insulating covers.

[0047] When the inlet protrudes from the outer casing through the first insulating cover, the first insulating cover not only seals the annular mounting cavity but also secures the insulating heat-conducting pipe and the flow-guiding pipe, thus defining the mating dimensions of the two pipes. Furthermore, since at least a portion of the inlet is located on the outside of the outer casing, it facilitates the connection between the inlet and the external piping.

[0048] When the outlet protrudes from the outer casing through the second insulating cover, the second insulating cover not only seals the annular mounting cavity but also secures the insulating heat-conducting pipe and the guide pipe, thus defining their mating dimensions. Simultaneously, at least a portion of the outlet is located on the outer side of the outer casing, and this outer portion serves to guide steam effectively into the cooking cavity. Furthermore, this arrangement facilitates the connection between the outlet and the external piping.

[0049] At least one of the inlet and outlet portions extends out of the outer casing via an insulated heat-conducting pipe. The inlet portion extends out of the outer casing via the insulated heat-conducting pipe. Alternatively, the outlet portion extends out of the outer casing via the insulated heat-conducting pipe. Alternatively, both the inlet and outlet portions extend out of the outer casing via insulated heat-conducting pipes. That is, the insulated heat-conducting pipe serves to allow the inlet and outlet portions to extend and to limit their movement. When at least a portion of the inlet portion is located outside the outer casing, it facilitates connection between the inlet portion and the external piping. When at least a portion of the outlet portion is located outside the outer casing, the outlet portion located outside the outer casing serves to guide steam flow, allowing steam to be effectively guided into the cooking cavity, and this arrangement also facilitates connection between the outlet portion and the external piping.

[0050] In some technical solutions, optionally, the thickness of the insulating heat-conducting pipe is greater than or equal to the thickness of the flow-guiding pipe.

[0051] In this technical solution, the thickness relationship between the insulating heat-conducting pipe and the flow-guiding pipe is further defined, ensuring that the thickness of the insulating heat-conducting pipe is greater than or equal to the thickness of the flow-guiding pipe. This guarantees the structural rigidity and strength of the outer shell, effectively protects the flow-guiding pipe and the heating element located between the flow-guiding pipe and the insulating heat-conducting pipe, reduces the external forces acting on the flow-guiding pipe and the heating element, and provides structural support to ensure the product's service life.

[0052] In some technical solutions, the flow channel may optionally extend in a spiral shape.

[0053] In this technical solution, the structure of the flow channel is further defined so that the flow channel extends in a spiral shape. This structure allows the medium to flow along the spiral-shaped flow channel when it flows through it. The spiral-shaped flow channel eliminates dead zones in the flow of the medium, preventing the medium from accumulating in certain places in the flow channel. This avoids the situation where scale formed by the medium due to heating accumulates in the dead zones of the flow channel and blocks the guide pipe. This provides structural support for ensuring the working efficiency of the heater, helps to reduce the frequency of heater maintenance, and helps to improve the performance of the product.

[0054] Meanwhile, the spiral-shaped flow channel allows the medium to flow along this channel. During this flow, the medium is propelled closer to the heating element by inertial centrifugal force, bringing it closer to the heating element. This design enhances fluid turbulence, improves heat transfer, effectively increases the heat transfer coefficient, and further enhances steam generation efficiency. In other words, through the synergistic effect of efficient heat transfer and optimized flow field, overall heat transfer performance is improved, enabling the heater to provide high-temperature steam in a shorter time, meeting the demands of efficient cooking.

[0055] In some technical solutions, optionally, a spiral tube is provided inside the guide tube, the spiral tube extends from the inlet to the outlet, and the inner surface of the spiral tube encloses the outlet channel.

[0056] In this technical solution, the structure of the guide tube is further refined. A spiral tube is incorporated within the guide tube, extending from the inlet to the outlet, with its inner surface enclosing a flow channel. This specifically defines the structure forming the flow channel, ensuring its airtightness and providing structural support for the effective flow of the medium within the channel.

[0057] In some technical solutions, optionally, the inner surface of the guide pipe is provided with a spiral groove, which extends from the inlet to the outlet, and the groove wall of the spiral groove encloses the outlet channel.

[0058] In this technical solution, the structure of the guide tube is further refined. A spiral groove is provided on the inner surface of the guide tube, extending from the inlet to the outlet, with the groove wall enclosing the flow channel. That is, the structure forming the flow channel is specifically defined. This design avoids the need for a separate flow channel, making the guide tube structure more compact. This helps reduce the overall size of the heating element, decreases the space occupied by the heater within the cooking appliance, and simplifies and compacts the appliance's overall structure. This, in turn, helps reduce the overall dimensions of the cooking appliance, lowers production costs, and improves product performance and market competitiveness.

[0059] In some technical solutions, the guide tube may optionally be an insulating tube.

[0060] This technical solution further defines the type of flow guide tube, making it an insulating tube. That is, the flow guide tube not only guides flow but also provides insulation, ensuring the safety and reliability of the heater. In other words, it reuses the structure of the flow guide tube, enriches its functionality, and provides structural support for meeting the safety requirements of the heater.

[0061] In some technical solutions, optionally, the ratio of the inner diameter of the guide tube to the inner diameter of the insulating heat-conducting tube is greater than or equal to 1 / 5 and less than or equal to 1 / 2; the inner diameters of the inlet and outlet are equal.

[0062] In this technical solution, the compatibility between the flow guide tube and the heat conduction structure is further defined.

[0063] The inlet and outlet sections have the same inner diameter, which has the advantages of easy processing and low production cost.

[0064] Specifically, the ratio of the inner diameter of the guide tube to the inner diameter of the insulating heat-conducting tube is greater than or equal to 1 / 5 and less than or equal to 1 / 2. This defines the relationship between the inner diameters of the guide tube and the insulating heat-conducting tube. This design balances the flow rate of the medium in the guide tube with the clearance between the insulating heat-conducting tube, the heating element, and the guide tube. This helps reduce thermal resistance, ensuring that when the cooking appliance is in steaming mode, the medium flowing through the guide tube can be effectively converted into steam while also guaranteeing the effectiveness and reliability of heat radiation. Similarly, when the cooking appliance is in baking mode, it ensures the efficiency of heat radiation. In other words, this design guarantees the heating efficiency of the heater.

[0065] For example, the ratio of the inner diameter of the flow guide tube to the inner diameter of the insulating heat-conducting tube may be 1 / 3 or 1 / 4.

[0066] In some technical solutions, the flexible heating element may optionally include a first heating section, a second heating section, and a third heating section, wherein the second heating section is connected between the first heating section and the third heating section, and the first heating section is located between the inlet and the second heating section; the pitch of at least one of the first heating section and the third heating section is less than the pitch of the second heating section; and / or the length of at least one of the first heating section and the third heating section is equal to the length of the second heating section.

[0067] In this technical solution, the structure of the flexible heating element is further defined.

[0068] The flexible heating element includes a first heating section, a second heating section, and a third heating section, with the second heating section connected between the first heating section and the third heating section.

[0069] The first heating section is located between the inlet and the second heating section, and the third heating section is located between the second heating section and the outlet. The first heating section is closer to the inlet than the second heating section, and the third heating section is closer to the outlet than the second heating section.

[0070] The length of at least one of the first heating section and the third heating section is equal to the length of the second heating section. That is, the length of the first heating section is equal to the length of the second heating section, or the length of the third heating section is equal to the length of the second heating section, or the lengths of both the first heating section and the third heating section are equal to the length of the second heating section.

[0071] Specifically, the pitch of at least one of the first heating section and the third heating section is less than the pitch of the second heating section. That is, the pitch of the first heating section is less than the pitch of the second heating section, or the pitch of the third heating section is less than the pitch of the second heating section, or both the pitches of the first heating section and the third heating section are less than the pitch of the second heating section.

[0072] It is understandable that the medium entering the guide tube at the inlet is a liquid. The medium needs to increase its temperature and absorb the latent heat of vaporization to change from liquid to gas. In this process, the medium needs to absorb a large amount of heat. Therefore, the first heating section is located between the inlet and the second heating section. That is, the medium first exchanges heat with the first heating section, which has relatively large and concentrated heat, and then exchanges heat with the second heating section, which has relatively small and dispersed heat. This accelerates the conversion of the medium into steam and can also take into account the energy consumption of the product and avoid heat waste.

[0073] When the pitch of the third heating section is less than that of the second heating section, the distance from the third heating section to the outlet is less than the distance from the second heating section to the outlet. In other words, the third heating section is closer to the outlet than the second heating section. This structural design allows the medium to first exchange heat with the second heating section, where the heat is relatively small and dispersed, and then with the third heating section, where the heat is relatively large and concentrated. The heat exchange between the medium and the second heating section converts the medium into saturated steam. After exchanging heat with the third heating section, the saturated steam is further heated into superheated steam. The superheated steam then flows out of the heater through the outlet and into the cooking chamber of the cooking appliance to cook the food. The high temperature of the superheated steam enables rapid and uniform heating of vegetables, ensuring their high nutritional value. It can also be used to reduce the salt and fat content of meat.

[0074] Understandably, superheated steam has a higher temperature than saturated steam. High temperature can significantly shorten the cooking time of food, making it especially suitable for food that needs to be processed quickly (such as thick-cut meat). At the same time, high temperature can destroy microorganisms, improving the safety and reliability of food. In addition, high temperature can shorten cooking time to reduce the dissolution and loss of nutrients, thus increasing the amount of nutrients retained in food.

[0075] It is understandable that saturated steam has a higher humidity, which makes the food moist, while superheated steam has a relatively lower humidity, which can meet the eating needs of crispy outside and tender inside, and can retain more juice inside the food while forming a crispy crust.

[0076] Understandably, compared to saturated steam, the high temperature and fluidity of superheated steam allow it to penetrate food more quickly, distribute heat evenly across different parts of the food, ensure even heating, shorten cooking time, improve cooking efficiency, and reduce energy consumption.

[0077] By limiting the pitch relationship between the first heating section, the second heating section, and the third heating section, it is also possible to prevent the heat in the second heating section from being too concentrated, thus avoiding the situation where the flexible heating element is overloaded due to high temperature and malfunctions.

[0078] By defining the length relationship between the first heating section, the second heating section, and the third heating section, such that the length of at least one of the first heating section and the third heating section is equal to the length of the second heating section, this setting provides ease of processing and simplifies the assembly difficulty of the product.

[0079] Understandably, the flexible heating element is flexible and its shape is variable. It can be spirally wound around the guide tube and fitted to the outer surface of the guide tube. This reduces the distance between the flexible heating element and the guide tube, thus reducing thermal resistance. The heat generated by the flexible heating element can be directly and efficiently conducted through the guide tube to the medium inside, accelerating the conversion of the medium into steam. This improves the heat transfer efficiency of the flexible heating element and, consequently, the overall efficiency of the heater.

[0080] Understandably, taking the example where the pitch of the first heating section is smaller than that of the second heating section, when the flexible heating element is working, the first heating section with the smaller pitch generates relatively more heat, while the second heating section with the larger pitch generates relatively less heat. In other words, different locations within the flexible heating element generate different amounts of heat. This allows the positions and lengths of the first and second heating sections to be set according to the changing medium within the guide tube (e.g., liquid, gas, or a vapor-liquid mixture), thus balancing heat transfer efficiency and energy consumption and improving the heater's performance.

[0081] The second aspect of this application provides a cooking appliance, including a heater as described in the first aspect.

[0082] The cooking appliance provided in this application includes a heater as described in the first aspect, and therefore has all the beneficial effects of the aforementioned heater, which will not be described in detail here.

[0083] For example, cooking appliances include steam ovens, microwave-steam-oven combos, etc., which will not be listed here.

[0084] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent in the following description or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0085] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0086] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the heater according to the first embodiment of this application is shown;

[0087] Figure 2 An exploded view of the heater according to the first embodiment of this application is shown;

[0088] Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of the heater according to the second embodiment of this application is shown;

[0089] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a guide tube according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0090] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the guide tube along AA;

[0091] Figure 6 A partial structural schematic diagram of a guide tube according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0092] in, Figures 1 to 6 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0093] 10 Heater, 100 Guide tube, 110 Inlet, 120 Outlet, 130 Flow channel, 130a Spiral tube, 130b Spiral groove, 200 Thermally conductive structure, 210 Housing, 212 First through hole, 214 Second through hole, 215 Insulating thermally conductive tube, 216 First insulating cover, 217 Second insulating cover, 220 Thermally conductive part, 300 Heating element, 300a Flexible electric heating part, 300b Heating tube, 310 First heating section, 320 Second heating section, 330 Third heating section, 400 Annular mounting cavity, 500 First terminal, 600 Second terminal. Detailed Implementation

[0094] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application, the application 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.

[0095] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of this application. However, this application may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0096] The following reference Figures 1 to 6 This application describes heater 10 and cooking appliances according to some embodiments.

[0097] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a heater 10 according to some embodiments of this application includes a flow guide 100, a heat conduction structure 200, and a heating element 300.

[0098] The flow guide 100 has an inlet 110 and an outlet 120.

[0099] The guide tube 100 has a flow channel 130 inside.

[0100] The flow channel 130 connects the inlet section 110 and the outlet section 120.

[0101] The heat-conducting structure 200 surrounds the periphery of the flow guide tube 100.

[0102] Both the inlet section 110 and the outlet section 120 expose the heat-conducting structure 200.

[0103] The heating element 300 is located between the flow guide tube 100 and the heat conduction structure 200.

[0104] The heat-conducting structure 200 is used to supply heat radiated outward by the heating element 300.

[0105] The heater 10 provided in this application includes a flow guide tube 100, a heat conduction structure 200, and a heating element 300.

[0106] The guide tube 100 has an inlet portion 110 and an outlet portion 120. A flow channel 130 is provided inside the guide tube 100, connecting the inlet portion 110 and the outlet portion 120. A heat-conducting structure 200 surrounds the periphery of the guide tube 100, and a heating element 300 is located between the guide tube 100 and the heat-conducting structure 200. The heat-conducting structure 200 is used to allow the heating element 300 to radiate heat outwards.

[0107] When the cooking appliance is in steaming mode, the medium flows into the flow channel 130 through the inlet 110. The heat generated by the heating element 300 can be directly transferred to the medium in the flow channel 130 through the guide pipe 100. The medium flows in the flow channel 130 and absorbs heat. After being heated, the medium is converted into steam. The steam is discharged into the cooking cavity of the cooking appliance through the outlet 120 to heat the food in the cooking cavity, thereby meeting the cooking appliance's steaming requirements. It can be understood that part of the heat generated by the heating element 300 is transferred to the medium in the flow channel 130 through the guide pipe 100, and another part of the heat is diffused into the cooking cavity through the heat-conducting structure 200. That is, the food can be heated not only by steam but also by thermal radiation. The heat generated by the heating element 300 is applied to the food in the cooking cavity in a combined manner, ensuring the heating efficiency of the heater 10.

[0108] When the cooking appliance is in the baking mode, no medium is introduced into the guide pipe 100. The heat generated by the heating element 300 is radiated outward through the heat conduction structure 200 and diffused into the cooking cavity to heat the food by thermal radiation, thereby achieving the purpose of baking the food at high temperature.

[0109] Therefore, it can be seen that the heater 10 can not only meet the cooking needs in the steaming mode, but also the cooking needs in the baking mode, enriching the heating modes of the heater 10. This makes the heater 10 suitable for cooking in different application scenarios. In other words, different cooking modes of the cooking appliance share the same heater 10. In this way, while ensuring the cooking performance of the cooking appliance, the space occupied by the heater 10 in the cooking appliance can be reduced, making the composition structure of the cooking appliance simpler and more compact. This is conducive to reducing the overall size of the cooking appliance, reducing the production cost of the product, and improving the performance and market competitiveness of the product.

[0110] Understandably, the heat-conducting structure 200 surrounds the periphery of the guide tube 100, and the heating element 300 is located between the guide tube 100 and the heat-conducting structure 200. This defines the positional relationship between the heat-conducting structure 200, the heating element 300, and the guide tube 100. This allows the heat generated by the heating element 300 to act on the guide tube 100 from multiple directions and angles when the cooking appliance is in steaming mode, thus improving the efficiency of steam generation. Simultaneously, when the cooking appliance is in baking mode, the heat generated by the heating element 300 can radiate into the cooking cavity from multiple directions and angles. This improves the uniformity of heat radiation within the cooking cavity, ensuring the optimal texture and flavor of the food.

[0111] Understandably, the heating element 300 is located between the guide tube 100 and the heat-conducting structure 200. This arrangement balances the heat transfer path in both steaming and baking modes, so that it can meet the needs of rapidly heating the medium in the flow channel 130 to convert it into steam, and also meet the needs of rapidly radiating heat to the cooking cavity.

[0112] Understandably, both the inlet 110 and the outlet 120 expose the heat-conducting structure 200. The inlet 110 exposes the heat-conducting structure 200, meaning the heat-conducting structure 200 does not obstruct the inlet 110, allowing the medium to flow into the flow channel 130. Similarly, the outlet 120 exposes the heat-conducting structure 200, meaning the heat-conducting structure 200 does not obstruct the outlet 120, allowing steam to exit the heater 10 through the outlet 120.

[0113] It is understandable that the heating element 300 is located on the outside of the guide tube 100. Compared with the heating element 300 being located on the inside of the guide tube 100, this can avoid the situation where the heating element 300 is damaged due to overheating caused by scale buildup.

[0114] Specifically, the medium includes liquids, or a combination of liquids and gases. When the medium is a liquid, it can be water.

[0115] In some embodiments, exemplarily, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the heat-conducting structure 200 includes a housing 210 and a heat-conducting part 220.

[0116] The guide tube 100 passes through the housing 210, and both the inlet 110 and the outlet 120 protrude from the housing 210.

[0117] The inner surface of the outer casing 210 and the outer surface of the guide tube 100 enclose an annular mounting cavity 400.

[0118] The heating element 300 is located inside the annular mounting cavity 400.

[0119] The heat-conducting part 220 is located inside the annular mounting cavity 400, and the heat-conducting part 220 fills the annular mounting cavity 400.

[0120] In this embodiment, the heat-conducting structure 200 includes a housing 210 and a heat-conducting part 220.

[0121] A guide tube 100 passes through the outer casing 210, and the inner surface of the outer casing 210 and the outer surface of the guide tube 100 enclose an annular mounting cavity 400. A heating element 300 and a heat-conducting part 220 are located within the annular mounting cavity 400. That is, the annular mounting cavity 400 serves to house the heating element 300 and the heat-conducting part 220.

[0122] The heat-conducting portion 220 completely fills the annular mounting cavity 400, meaning it covers the cavity wall of the annular mounting cavity 400, covers the heating element 300, and fills the gap between the heating element 300 and the cavity wall of the annular mounting cavity 400. This configuration increases the heat-conducting area of ​​the heat-conducting portion 220, which is beneficial for improving the thermal radiation efficiency of the heating element 300, and thus for improving the heating efficiency of the heater 10.

[0123] For example, the heat-conducting part 220 is a heat-conducting powder.

[0124] The heat-conducting part 220 fills the annular mounting cavity 400. Therefore, there are no gaps in the annular mounting cavity 400, which will not increase the thermal resistance and can ensure the effectiveness and feasibility of the heat-conducting structure 200 radiating heat outward.

[0125] In some embodiments, exemplarily, at least one of the housing 210 and the heat-conducting portion 220 is an insulating element.

[0126] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the outer casing 210 is provided with a first through hole 212 and a second through hole 214.

[0127] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the heater 10 also includes a first terminal 500 and a second terminal 600.

[0128] A portion of the first terminal 500 extends into the annular mounting cavity 400 through the first through hole 212 and is electrically connected to the heating element 300.

[0129] A portion of the second terminal 600 extends into the annular mounting cavity 400 through the second through hole 214 and is electrically connected to the heating element 300.

[0130] In this embodiment, the heater 10 further includes a first terminal 500 and a second terminal 600. A portion of the first terminal 500 extends into the annular mounting cavity 400 through a first through hole 212 and is electrically connected to the heating element 300. A portion of the second terminal 600 extends into the annular mounting cavity 400 through a second through hole 214 and is electrically connected to the heating element 300. The portion of the first terminal 500 located outside the housing 210 and the portion of the second terminal 600 located outside the housing 210 are both used to connect to an external power source to meet the usage requirements of controlling the operation of the heating element 300 and controlling the shutdown of the heating element 300.

[0131] In this configuration, at least one of the outer casing 210 and the heat-conducting part 220 is an insulating component. The outer casing 210 is an insulating casing. Alternatively, the heat-conducting part 220 is an insulating heat-conducting part. Alternatively, the outer casing 210 is an insulating casing, and the heat-conducting part 220 is an insulating heat-conducting part.

[0132] When the outer casing 210 is an insulating component, it not only houses the heat-conducting part 220 and protects the flow guide tube 100 and the heating element 300, but also provides insulation, ensuring the safety and reliability of the heater 10. In other words, by reusing the structure of the outer casing 210, its functionality is enriched, allowing the heating element 300 to be safely electrically connected to an external power source via the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 without requiring additional insulation.

[0133] When the heat-conducting part 220 is an insulating component, it not only radiates heat but also provides insulation, ensuring the safety and reliability of the heater 10. In other words, by reusing the structure of the heat-conducting part 220, its functionality is enriched, allowing the heating element 300 to be safely electrically connected to an external power source via the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 without requiring additional insulation.

[0134] For example, the heat-conducting part 220 includes, but is not limited to, magnesium oxide heat-conducting parts, boron nitride heat-conducting parts, and aluminum oxide heat-conducting parts, etc., which are not listed here. Other high-performance heat-conducting parts used to conduct heat and maintain structural insulation are also within the scope of protection of this application.

[0135] In some embodiments, exemplary, the portions of the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 located outside the housing 210 are both located on the periphery of the housing 210.

[0136] The first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 are positioned far apart from each other.

[0137] In this embodiment, the positional relationship between the first terminal 500, the second terminal 600, the housing 210, the inlet 110, and the outlet 120 is further defined.

[0138] The portions of the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 located outside the housing 210 are both situated on the periphery of the housing 210. That is, the portion of the first terminal 500 outside the housing 210 is situated on the periphery of the housing 210, and the portion of the second terminal 600 outside the housing 210 is situated on the periphery of the housing 210. This arrangement facilitates wiring between the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 and helps reduce bending and kinking of the connecting wires.

[0139] The first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 are positioned far apart from each other, that is, they are arranged with a large gap between them. This reduces the risk of short circuits and lowers the probability of short circuits caused by conductive materials (such as dust or metal shavings) or accidental contact between the first and second terminals 500 and 600. Simultaneously, this dispersed arrangement of the first and second terminals 500 and 600, compared to their close proximity, avoids localized overheating of the two terminals, promoting heat dissipation and extending their service life. Furthermore, this arrangement increases the installation space between the first and second terminals 500 and the external power supply, facilitating wiring, reducing the risk of accidental contact, and improving the safety and reliability of the product.

[0140] For example, the first terminal 500 is disposed near the inlet 110, and the second terminal 600 is disposed near the outlet 120.

[0141] For example, the second terminal 600 is disposed near the inlet 110, and the first terminal 500 is disposed near the outlet 120.

[0142] In some embodiments, for example, the heating element 300 is closer to the flow channel 100 than the housing 210.

[0143] In this embodiment, the mating structure of the heating element 300, the outer shell 210, and the guide tube 100 is further defined. The heating element 300 is closer to the guide tube 100 than the outer shell 210. That is, the distance from the heating element 300 to the guide tube 100 is less than the distance from the heating element 300 to the outer shell 210. In other words, shortening the distance between the heating element 300 and the guide tube 100 allows the heat generated by the heating element 300 to be transferred to the medium in the flow channel 130 in a timely and rapid manner when the cooking appliance is in steaming mode. The shorter heat transfer path helps to accelerate the conversion of the medium into steam and shortens the steam output time.

[0144] In addition, the distance between the heating element 300 and the outer shell 210 is relatively far, which provides space support for filling the heat-conducting part 220 between the heating element 300 and the outer shell 210. This allows the heat to be evenly radiated from the heater 10 through the heat-conducting part 220 when the cooking appliance is in baking mode, which helps to improve the uniformity of heat radiation in the cooking cavity and ensures the cooking taste of the food.

[0145] In some embodiments, exemplarily, such as Figure 2 As shown, the heating element 300 includes a flexible heating part 300a, which is spirally wound on the guide tube 100.

[0146] In this embodiment, the structure of the heating element 300 is specifically defined. The heating element 300 includes a flexible heating part 300a, which is spirally wound on the guide tube 100.

[0147] This design increases the contact area between the heating element 300 and the guide tube 100, maximizing the contact area between the spirally arranged flexible heating element 300a and the outer peripheral wall of the guide tube 100. This allows for more uniform heat distribution, preventing localized overheating or undercooling. Simultaneously, the direct contact between the flexible heating element 300a and the guide tube 100 reduces thermal resistance, enabling efficient heat transfer through the guide tube 100 to the medium within the flow channel 130, accelerating the conversion of the medium into steam.

[0148] Meanwhile, the spiral arrangement of the flexible heating element 300a allows for a longer flexible heating element 300a to be arranged within the effective space. In addition, the elasticity of the spiral flexible heating element 300a can buffer the deformation of the flexible heating element 300a or the guide tube 100 caused by temperature changes, which helps to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0149] For example, the heating power can be adjusted by adjusting the pitch of the spirally arranged flexible heating element 300a.

[0150] In some embodiments, for example, there are multiple flexible heating elements 300a, first terminals 500, and second terminals 600.

[0151] Multiple flexible heating elements 300a are connected in parallel, and each flexible heating element 300a is connected to a first terminal 500 and a second terminal 600.

[0152] In this embodiment, the number and connection method of the flexible heating elements 300a are further defined.

[0153] Specifically, there are multiple flexible heating elements 300a, multiple first terminals 500, and multiple second terminals 600. These multiple flexible heating elements 300a are connected in parallel; specifically, each flexible heating element 300a is connected to one first terminal 500 and one second terminal 600. Because the multiple flexible heating elements 300a are connected in parallel, each flexible heating element 300a is independently connected to an external power source through one first terminal 500 and one second terminal 600, enabling multi-level power adjustment. For example, at least a portion of the multiple flexible heating elements 300a can be energized according to cooking needs. When a portion of the flexible heating elements 300a are energized, the corresponding power mode is lower, suitable for heat preservation or slow steaming. When all the flexible heating elements 300a are energized, the corresponding power mode is higher, suitable for rapid heating. This configuration can meet various cooking needs, improves the flexibility and adaptability of the heater 10, and further optimizes the heating efficiency of the heater 10.

[0154] For example, there are two flexible heating elements 300a, two first terminals 500, and two second terminals 600.

[0155] For example, the number of flexible heating element 300a, first terminal 500 and second terminal 600 are both three.

[0156] For example, the number of flexible heating element 300a, first terminal 500 and second terminal 600 are both four.

[0157] In some embodiments, exemplarily, such as Figure 3 As shown, the heating element 300 includes a heating tube 300b.

[0158] Heating tube 300b is sleeved on guide tube 100.

[0159] Both the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 are electrically connected to the heating tube 300b.

[0160] In this embodiment, the structure of the heating element 300 is specifically defined. The heating element 300 includes a heating tube 300b, which is sleeved on the guide tube 100. The first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 are both electrically connected to the heating tube 300b.

[0161] This design increases the contact area between the heating element 300 and the guide tube 100, allowing the heat to be distributed more evenly and preventing overheating or overcooling.

[0162] In some embodiments, exemplarily, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, when the outer casing 210 is an insulating component, the outer casing 210 includes an insulating heat-conducting pipe 215, a first insulating cover 216, and a second insulating cover 217.

[0163] An insulated heat-conducting tube 215 is fitted onto a flow guide tube 100.

[0164] There is a gap between the inner surface of the insulating heat pipe 215 and the outer surface of the flow pipe 100.

[0165] The first insulating cover 216 is placed over the first end of the insulating heat-conducting tube 215.

[0166] The second insulating cover 217 is placed over the second end of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215.

[0167] The inlet 110 extends out of the housing 210 through the first insulating cover 216, and / or the outlet 120 extends out of the housing 210 through the second insulating cover 217.

[0168] Alternatively, at least one of the inlet 110 and the outlet 120 may extend out of the outer casing 210 via an insulated heat-conducting pipe 215.

[0169] In this embodiment, when the outer casing 210 is an insulating component, the structure of the outer casing 210 is further defined such that the outer casing 210 includes an insulating heat-conducting pipe 215, a first insulating cover 216, and a second insulating cover 217. A gap exists between the inner surface of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 and the outer surface of the guide pipe 100.

[0170] The insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 has a first end and a second end, with the first end and the second end of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 positioned opposite each other. A first insulating cover 216 is placed over the first end of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215, and a second insulating cover 217 is placed over the second end of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215. The first insulating cover 216 and the second insulating cover 217 serve to seal the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215, ensuring the sealing of the annular mounting cavity 400 formed by the inner surface of the outer shell 210 and the outer surface of the guide pipe 100, and preventing leakage of the heat-conducting part 220.

[0171] An inlet 110 extends out of the outer casing 210 through a first insulating cover 216, and / or an outlet 120 extends out of the outer casing 210 through a second insulating cover 217. Alternatively, the outlet 120 extends out of the outer casing 210 through the second insulating cover 217. Or, the inlet 110 extends out of the outer casing 210 through the first insulating cover 216, and the outlet 120 extends out of the outer casing 210 through the second insulating cover 217.

[0172] When the inlet 110 extends out of the outer casing 210 through the first insulating cover 216, the first insulating cover 216 not only seals the annular mounting cavity 400, but also fixes the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 and the flow guide pipe 100, thus limiting the mating dimensions of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 and the flow guide pipe 100. Simultaneously, since at least a portion of the inlet 110 is located on the outside of the outer casing 210, it facilitates the connection between the inlet 110 and the outer piping.

[0173] When the outlet 120 extends out of the outer casing 210 through the second insulating cover 217, the second insulating cover 217 not only seals the annular mounting cavity 400, but also fixes the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 and the guide pipe 100, thus defining the mating dimensions of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 and the guide pipe 100. Simultaneously, at least a portion of the outlet 120 is located on the outside of the outer casing 210. The outlet 120 located on the outside of the outer casing 210 has a guiding function, allowing steam to be effectively guided into the cooking cavity. Furthermore, this arrangement facilitates the connection of the outlet 120 to the external piping.

[0174] At least one of the inlet portion 110 and the outlet portion 120 extends out of the outer casing 210 via an insulating heat-conducting pipe 215. Alternatively, the outlet portion 120 extends out of the outer casing 210 via the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215. Alternatively, both the inlet portion 110 and the outlet portion 120 extend out of the outer casing 210 via the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215. That is, the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 serves to allow the inlet portion 110 and the outlet portion 120 to extend, and also serves to limit the extension of the inlet portion 110 and the outlet portion 120. When at least a portion of the inlet portion 110 is located outside the outer casing 210, it facilitates the connection of the inlet portion 110 to the external pipeline. When at least a portion of the outlet portion 120 is located outside the outer casing 210, the outlet portion 120 located outside the outer casing 210 serves to guide the steam flow, allowing the steam to be effectively guided into the cooking cavity, and this arrangement also facilitates the connection of the outlet portion 120 to the external pipeline.

[0175] In some embodiments, exemplarily, the thickness of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 is greater than or equal to the thickness of the flow guide pipe 100.

[0176] In this embodiment, the thickness relationship between the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 and the flow-guiding pipe 100 is further defined, such that the thickness of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 is greater than or equal to the thickness of the flow-guiding pipe 100. This ensures the structural rigidity and strength of the outer casing 210, effectively protects the flow-guiding pipe 100 and the heating element 300 located between the flow-guiding pipe 100 and the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215, reduces the external forces acting on the flow-guiding pipe 100 and the heating element 300, and provides structural support to ensure the product's service life.

[0177] In some embodiments, the flow channel 130 extends in a spiral shape, for example.

[0178] In this embodiment, the structure of the flow channel 130 is further defined so that the flow channel 130 extends in a spiral shape. This structure allows the medium to flow along the spirally extended flow channel 130 when it flows through it. The spirally extended flow channel 130 eliminates dead zones in the flow of the medium, preventing the medium from accumulating in any part of the flow channel 130. This avoids the situation where scale formed by the medium due to heating accumulates in the dead zones of the flow channel 130 and blocks the guide pipe 100. This provides structural support for ensuring the working efficiency of the heater 10, helps to reduce the maintenance frequency of the heater 10, and helps to improve the performance of the product.

[0179] Meanwhile, the flow channel 130 extends in a spiral shape, allowing the medium to flow along this spiral path. During this flow, the medium is propelled by inertial centrifugal force, moving closer to the heating element 300 and thus bringing it closer to the heating element. This design enhances fluid turbulence, improves heat transfer, effectively increases the heat transfer coefficient, and further enhances steam generation efficiency. In other words, through the synergistic effect of efficient heat transfer and optimized flow field, the overall heat transfer performance is improved, enabling the heater 10 to provide high-temperature steam in a shorter time, meeting the demands of efficient cooking.

[0180] In some embodiments, exemplarily, such as Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, a spiral tube 130a is provided inside the guide tube 100. The spiral tube 130a extends from the inlet 110 to the outlet 120, and the inner surface of the spiral tube 130a encloses the outlet channel 130.

[0181] In this embodiment, the structure of the guide tube 100 is further refined. A spiral tube 130a is provided inside the guide tube 100, extending from the inlet portion 110 to the outlet portion 120. The inner surface of the spiral tube 130a encloses a flow channel 130. That is, the structure forming the flow channel 130 is specifically defined, ensuring the airtightness of the flow channel 130 and providing structural support for ensuring the effective flow of the medium within the flow channel 130.

[0182] In some embodiments, exemplarily, such as Figure 6 As shown, the inner surface of the guide pipe 100 is provided with a spiral groove 130b, which extends from the inlet 110 to the outlet 120, and the groove wall of the spiral groove 130b encloses the outlet channel 130.

[0183] In this embodiment, the structure of the guide tube 100 is further refined. A spiral groove 130b is provided on the inner surface of the guide tube 100, extending from the inlet 110 to the outlet 120. The groove wall of the spiral groove 130b encloses the flow channel 130. That is, the structure forming the flow channel 130 is specifically defined. This arrangement avoids the need for a separate flow channel 130, making the structure of the guide tube 100 more compact. This helps reduce the overall size of the heating element 300b, reduces the space occupied by the heater 10 within the cooking appliance, simplifies the composition of the cooking appliance, and makes the composition more compact. This, in turn, helps reduce the overall size of the cooking appliance, lowers production costs, and improves product performance and market competitiveness.

[0184] In some embodiments, exemplarily, the guide tube 100 is an insulating tube.

[0185] In this embodiment, the type of the flow guide 100 is further defined, making the flow guide 100 an insulating tube. That is, the flow guide 100 not only has the function of guiding flow, but also has insulation properties, which can ensure the safety and reliability of the heater 10. In other words, the structure of the flow guide 100 is reused, enriching the function of the flow guide 100 and providing structural support for meeting the safety requirements of the heater 10.

[0186] In some embodiments, exemplarily, the ratio of the inner diameter of the flow guide 100 to the inner diameter of the insulating heat-conducting pipe 215 is greater than or equal to 1 / 5 and less than or equal to 1 / 2; the inner diameters of the inlet portion 110 and the outlet portion 120 are equal.

[0187] In this embodiment, the cooperation relationship between the flow guide tube 100 and the heat conduction structure 200 is further defined.

[0188] The inner diameters of the inlet 110 and the outlet 120 are equal, which has the advantages of easy processing and low production cost.

[0189] The ratio of the inner diameter of the guide tube 100 to the inner diameter of the insulating heat-conducting tube 215 is greater than or equal to 1 / 5 and less than or equal to 1 / 2. This defines the relationship between the inner diameters of the guide tube 100 and the insulating heat-conducting tube 215. This design balances the medium flow rate of the guide tube 100 with the fitting clearance between the insulating heat-conducting tube 215, the heating element 300, and the guide tube 100. This helps reduce thermal resistance, ensuring that when the cooking appliance is in steaming mode, the medium flowing through the guide tube 100 can be effectively converted into steam while also guaranteeing the effectiveness and reliability of heat radiation. Furthermore, when the cooking appliance is in baking mode, it ensures the efficiency of heat radiation. In other words, this design guarantees the heating efficiency of the heater 10.

[0190] For example, the ratio of the inner diameter of the flow guide 100 to the inner diameter of the insulating heat conduction pipe 215 includes 1 / 3 or 1 / 4.

[0191] In some embodiments, exemplarily, such as Figure 2 As shown, the flexible heating element 300a includes a first heating section 310, a second heating section 320, and a third heating section 330. The second heating section 320 is connected between the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330. The first heating section 310 is located between the inlet section 110 and the second heating section 320. The pitch of at least one of the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330 is less than the pitch of the second heating section 320. And / or the length of at least one of the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330 is equal to the length of the second heating section 320.

[0192] In this embodiment, the structure of the flexible heating element 300a is further defined.

[0193] The flexible heating element 300a includes a first heating section 310, a second heating section 320 and a third heating section 330, with the second heating section 320 connected between the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330.

[0194] The first heating section 310 is located between the inlet section 110 and the second heating section 320, and the third heating section 330 is located between the second heating section 320 and the outlet section 120. The first heating section 310 is closer to the inlet section 110 than the second heating section 320, and the third heating section 330 is closer to the outlet section 120 than the second heating section 320.

[0195] The length of at least one of the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330 is equal to the length of the second heating section 320. That is, the length of the first heating section 310 is equal to the length of the second heating section 320, or the length of the third heating section 330 is equal to the length of the second heating section 320, or the lengths of both the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330 are equal to the length of the second heating section 320.

[0196] Specifically, the pitch of at least one of the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330 is less than the pitch of the second heating section 320. That is, the pitch of the first heating section 310 is less than the pitch of the second heating section 320, or the pitch of the third heating section 330 is less than the pitch of the second heating section 320, or both the pitches of the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330 are less than the pitch of the second heating section 320.

[0197] It is understandable that the medium entering the guide pipe 100 from the inlet 110 is a liquid. The medium needs to increase its temperature and absorb the latent heat of vaporization to change from liquid to gas. In this process, the medium needs to absorb a large amount of heat. Therefore, the first heating section 310 is located between the inlet 110 and the second heating section 320. That is, the medium first exchanges heat with the first heating section 310, which has relatively large and concentrated heat, and then exchanges heat with the second heating section 320, which has relatively small and dispersed heat, so as to accelerate the conversion of the medium into steam and take into account the energy consumption of the product and avoid the waste of heat.

[0198] When the pitch of the third heating section 330 is less than the pitch of the second heating section 320, the distance from the third heating section 330 to the outlet 120 is less than the distance from the second heating section 320 to the outlet 120. In other words, the third heating section 330 is closer to the outlet 120 than the second heating section 320. This structural arrangement allows the medium to first exchange heat with the second heating section 320, where the heat is relatively small and dispersed, and then with the third heating section 330, where the heat is relatively large and concentrated. The heat exchange between the medium and the second heating section 320 converts the medium into saturated steam. After heat exchange with the third heating section 330, the saturated steam is further heated into superheated steam. The superheated steam then flows out of the heater 10 through the outlet 120 and into the cooking chamber of the cooking appliance to cook food. The high temperature of the superheated steam enables rapid and uniform heating of vegetables, ensuring high nutritional value. It can also reduce the salt and fat content of meat.

[0199] Understandably, superheated steam has a higher temperature than saturated steam. High temperature can significantly shorten the cooking time of food, making it especially suitable for food that needs to be processed quickly (such as thick-cut meat). At the same time, high temperature can destroy microorganisms, improving the safety and reliability of food. In addition, high temperature can shorten cooking time to reduce the dissolution and loss of nutrients, thus increasing the amount of nutrients retained in food.

[0200] It is understandable that saturated steam has a higher humidity, which makes the food moist, while superheated steam has a relatively lower humidity, which can meet the eating needs of crispy outside and tender inside, and can retain more juice inside the food while forming a crispy crust.

[0201] Understandably, compared to saturated steam, the high temperature and fluidity of superheated steam allow it to penetrate food more quickly, distribute heat evenly across different parts of the food, ensure even heating, shorten cooking time, improve cooking efficiency, and reduce energy consumption.

[0202] By limiting the pitch relationship between the first heating section 310, the second heating section 320 and the third heating section 330, it is also possible to prevent the heat of the second heating section 320 from being too concentrated, and to avoid the situation where the flexible heating element 300a is overloaded due to high temperature and thus fails.

[0203] By defining the length relationship between the first heating section 310, the second heating section 320, and the third heating section 330, such that the length of at least one of the first heating section 310 and the third heating section 330 is equal to the length of the second heating section 320, this setting provides processing convenience and simplifies the assembly difficulty of the product.

[0204] Understandably, the flexible heating element 300a is flexible, its shape is variable, and it can be wound around the guide tube 100 in a spiral manner, fitting snugly against the outer surface of the guide tube 100. This reduces the distance between the flexible heating element 300a and the guide tube 100, thereby reducing thermal resistance. The heat generated by the flexible heating element 300a can be directly and efficiently conducted through the guide tube 100 to the medium inside, accelerating the conversion of the medium into steam. This improves the heat transfer efficiency of the flexible heating element 300a and consequently, the operating efficiency of the heater 10.

[0205] Understandably, taking the example where the pitch of the first heating section 310 is smaller than the pitch of the second heating section 320, when the flexible heating element 300a is working, the first heating section 310 with the smaller pitch generates relatively more heat, while the second heating section 320 with the larger pitch generates relatively less heat. In other words, different positions of the flexible heating element 300a generate different amounts of heat. Thus, the positions and lengths of the first heating section 310 and the second heating section 320 can be set according to the changes in the medium within the guide tube 100 (e.g., the medium is liquid, gaseous, or a vapor-liquid mixture), to balance heat transfer efficiency and energy consumption, thereby improving the performance of the heater 10.

[0206] For example, the lengths of the first heating section 310, the second heating section 320, and the third heating section 330 are all equal.

[0207] For example, the ratio of the pitch of the first heating section 310, the pitch of the second heating section 320, and the pitch of the third heating section 330 is 2:3:2.

[0208] For example, the pitch of the first heating section 310 is equal to the pitch of the third heating section 330.

[0209] For example, the pitch of the first heating section 310 is not equal to the pitch of the third heating section 330.

[0210] For example, the flexible heating element 300a includes a heating wire or a heating tape.

[0211] A cooking appliance according to some embodiments of this application includes: a heater 10 as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0212] The cooking appliance provided in this application includes the heater 10 as described in any of the above embodiments, and therefore has all the beneficial effects of the heater 10, which will not be described in detail here.

[0213] For example, cooking appliances include steam ovens, microwave-steam-oven combos, etc., which will not be listed here.

[0214] For example, this application combines steam generation and baking functions by designing a single heater 10, thereby simplifying the structure of the cooking appliance, saving the occupancy rate of the internal space of the cooking appliance, and helping to reduce the production cost of the product.

[0215] For example, this application forms a heater 10 that integrates steaming and baking by wrapping a flexible heating element 300a around a thermally conductive insulating material tube (i.e., a flow guide tube 100). The heater 10 includes a thermally conductive insulating material tube, a flexible heating element 300a, and terminals (i.e., a first terminal 500 and a second terminal 600), etc.

[0216] For example, the flow guide 100 includes a quartz glass tube, the insulating heat conduction tube 215 includes a ceramic tube, the heating element 300 includes a flexible electric heating part 300a, and the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 both include a terminal post.

[0217] For example, when the flow guide 100 includes a quartz glass tube, the material of the flow guide 100 is high-temperature resistant quartz glass, and the flow guide 100 serves as a flow channel for the medium. The outer diameter of the flow guide 100 is greater than or equal to 10 mm and less than or equal to 14 mm. For example, the outer diameter of the flow guide 100 includes 11 mm, 12 mm, and 13 mm, etc., which are not listed here. The wall thickness of the flow guide 100 is greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 2 mm. For example, the wall thickness of the flow guide 100 includes 1.2 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, and 1.8 mm, etc., which are not listed here. The quartz glass tube is in direct contact with the flexible heating element 300a, serving as the main carrier for heat conduction.

[0218] For example, when the insulating heat pipe 215 includes a ceramic tube, the material of the insulating heat pipe 215 is high-temperature resistant ceramic. The insulating heat pipe 215 is used to enclose the inner quartz glass tube, and the ceramic tube and the quartz glass tube form a cavity structure (i.e., an annular mounting cavity 400). The outer diameter of the ceramic tube is greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 25 mm. For example, the outer diameter of the ceramic tube includes 21 mm, 22 mm, 23 mm, and 24 mm, etc., which are not listed here. The wall thickness of the ceramic tube is greater than or equal to 2 mm and less than or equal to 3 mm. For example, the wall thickness of the ceramic tube includes 2.2 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, and 2.8 mm, etc., which are not listed here. The ceramic tube provides additional insulation protection while maintaining good heat resistance.

[0219] For example, when the heating element 300 includes a flexible heating element 300a, the material of the heating element 300 is a high-performance resistance alloy, such as nickel-chromium or iron-chromium-aluminum. The flexible heating element 300a is wound around the outer surface of the quartz glass tube, and the winding spacing of the flexible heating element 300a can be optimized according to power requirements. The power of a single flexible heating element 300a is greater than or equal to 500W and less than or equal to 1000W. For example, the power of a single flexible heating element 300a includes 600W, 700W, 800W, and 900W, etc., which are not listed here.

[0220] For example, when both the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 include a terminal block, the materials of the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 are both metallic conductive materials. Both the first terminal 500 and the second terminal 600 are used to connect the flexible heating element 300a to an external power source to ensure the stability of electrical transmission.

[0221] For example, when the housing 210 includes a first insulating cover 216 and a second insulating cover 217, the materials of the first insulating cover 216 and the second insulating cover 217 are both high-temperature resistant insulating materials. The first insulating cover 216 and the second insulating cover 217 are installed at both ends of the quartz glass tube and the ceramic tube. The first insulating cover 216 and the second insulating cover 217 are used to fix the position of the quartz glass tube and the ceramic tube, and at the same time, they can prevent the heat-conducting part 220 in the annular mounting cavity 400 from leaking.

[0222] For example, the thermally conductive portion 220 is filled within the annular mounting cavity 400. The thermally conductive portion 220 comprises magnesium oxide or other high-performance insulating and thermally conductive material, and is used to conduct heat and maintain structural insulation.

[0223] For example, during cooking, the flexible heating element 300a is energized for heating, and water is injected into the inlet 110 by a water pump and flows into the quartz glass tube. The heat generated by the flexible heating element 300a is directly transferred to the water flowing inside the quartz glass tube. The water is heated and quickly vaporizes to form steam. The steam exits the heater 10 from the outlet 120 and is discharged into the cooking chamber to complete the steam generation function. The annular mounting cavity 400 between the ceramic tube and the quartz glass tube is filled with magnesium oxide, which is used for heat conduction and insulation. At the same time, the positions of the ceramic tube and the quartz glass tube are fixed by the first insulating cover 216 and the second insulating cover 217 to prevent leakage of the heat conduction part 220 and ensure the stability and safety of the heater 10 operation.

[0224] For example, this application significantly improves heat conduction efficiency by directly winding the flexible electric heating element 300a around the outside of the quartz glass tube, resulting in faster steam generation and more uniform baking temperature rise.

[0225] For example, when the guide pipe 100 is in water-flow mode, stable steam can be generated within 8 seconds. When the cooking appliance is in dry-burning mode, the heater 10 heats up quickly. This application has a reasonable design for the structure of the heater 10, which helps to simplify the composition of the cooking appliance, and also significantly saves internal space and production costs, thereby improving the ease of use and market competitiveness of the cooking appliance.

[0226] For example, during the operation of heater 10, the flexible electric heating element 300a is energized for heating, and the generated heat is directly transferred to the water inside the quartz glass tube through the tube. Water enters the flow channel 130 inside the quartz glass tube from the inlet 110 via a water pump. A spiral tube 130a is provided inside the quartz glass tube, and the inner surface of the spiral tube 130a encloses the flow channel 130. The spiral tube 130a not only increases the contact area and turbulence effect of the water flow, improving heat exchange efficiency, but also effectively reduces scale deposition on the tube wall through its spiral design. The structure of the spiral tube 130a causes the water flow to rotate and turbulent, reducing scale accumulation in local high-temperature areas, thereby extending the product's service life and reducing the frequency of cleaning and maintenance. After being heated, the water quickly turns into steam, which is discharged from the outlet 120 and enters the cooking chamber to steam the food inside. Both the first insulating cover 216 and the second insulating cover 217 are used to secure the quartz glass tube and the ceramic tube, preventing leakage of the internal filling material (e.g., magnesium oxide) and ensuring the stability and safety of the heater 10 during operation. The ceramic tube encloses the entire structure, providing insulation and thermal protection to prevent heat loss.

[0227] For example, in baking mode, the quartz glass tube is not irrigated with water. The flexible heating element 300a heats the ceramic tube by dry burning, and the heat is evenly diffused into the cooking cavity to achieve high-temperature baking. The ceramic tube has high-temperature resistance and good heat diffusion performance. Combined with the magnesium oxide filling, it ensures that the equipment can operate safely and stably at high temperatures for a long time.

[0228] For example, two flexible heating elements 300a can be wound simultaneously on the guide tube 100. Each flexible heating element 300a is independently connected to an external power source via a first terminal 500 and a second terminal 600 to achieve a two-level power adjustment function. When powered on, one or both flexible heating elements 300a can be turned on according to cooking needs. The single-level mode has lower power and is used for heat preservation or slow steaming, while the dual-level mode has higher power and can heat up quickly to meet different cooking needs. This design improves the flexibility and applicability of the product and further optimizes heating efficiency.

[0229] For example, the cross-sectional shape of the guide tube 100 includes, but is not limited to, elliptical, polygonal and irregular shapes, wherein irregular shape refers to a structure with an irregular shape.

[0230] For example, the heat-conducting part 220 includes, but is not limited to, magnesium oxide powder, boron nitride powder and aluminum oxide powder.

[0231] For example, the flow guide tube 100 includes, but is not limited to, quartz glass tube, high-temperature resistant ceramic tube, silicate tube and special glass tube.

[0232] For example, the insulating heat-conducting tube 215 includes, but is not limited to, ceramic tubes, silicate tubes, and special glass tubes.

[0233] For example, the main radiation parameters of the flexible heating element 300a are: low temperature (temperature less than 500°C), mainly far-infrared (wavelength greater than 5μm), invisible, and only perceptible through thermal sensing. The guide tube 100 is used in conjunction with the flexible heating element 300a, and the wavelength of the guide tube 100 is matched with that of the heating system of the flexible heating element 300a. The main parameters of the guide tube 100 are: light transmission band, with a main peak greater than or equal to 5μm and less than or equal to 15μm (far-infrared) at low temperature (temperature less than 500°C).

[0234] In this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise expressly defined. The terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "linking" 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 application based on the specific circumstances.

[0235] 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 this application. 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. The above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A heater, characterized in that, include: A flow guide tube having an inlet and an outlet, and a flow channel inside the flow guide tube connecting the inlet and the outlet; A heat-conducting structure surrounds the periphery of the flow guide tube, and the heat-conducting structure is exposed at both the inlet and the outlet. A heating element is located between the flow guide tube and the heat-conducting structure; The heat-conducting structure is used to allow the heating element to radiate heat outwards.

2. The heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermally conductive structure includes: The housing has a flow guide tube that passes through it, and both the inlet and outlet protrude from the housing. The inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the flow guide tube form an annular mounting cavity, and the heating element is located within the annular mounting cavity. A heat-conducting part is located inside the annular mounting cavity, and the heat-conducting part fills the annular mounting cavity.

3. The heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least one of the outer casing and the heat-conducting part is an insulating component; The outer casing is provided with a first through hole and a second through hole; The heater further includes a first terminal and a second terminal, a portion of the first terminal extending into the annular mounting cavity through the first through hole and electrically connected to the heating element, and a portion of the second terminal extending into the annular mounting cavity through the second through hole and electrically connected to the heating element.

4. The heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The portions of the first terminal and the second terminal located outside the housing are both located on the periphery of the housing, and the first terminal and the second terminal are positioned far apart from each other.

5. The heater according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The heating element is closer to the flow guide tube than the outer shell.

6. The heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The heating element includes a flexible heating element, which is spirally wound around the guide tube.

7. The heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The number of the flexible heating element, the first terminal, and the second terminal are all multiple; Multiple flexible heating elements are connected in parallel, and each flexible heating element is connected to a first terminal and a second terminal.

8. The heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The flexible heating element includes a first heating section, a second heating section, and a third heating section. The second heating section is connected between the first heating section and the third heating section, and the first heating section is located between the inlet and the second heating section. The pitch of at least one of the first heating section and the third heating section is smaller than the pitch of the second heating section; and / or The length of at least one of the first heating section and the third heating section is equal to the length of the second heating section.

9. The heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The heating element includes a heating tube, which is sleeved on the guide tube, and the first terminal and the second terminal are both electrically connected to the heating tube.

10. The heater according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, When the housing is an insulating component, the housing includes: An insulating heat-conducting tube is sleeved on the flow guide tube, and there is a gap between the inner surface of the insulating heat-conducting tube and the outer surface of the flow guide tube; A first insulating cover is provided on the first end of the insulating heat-conducting tube; A second insulating cover is provided on the second end of the insulating heat-conducting tube; The inlet extends out of the housing through the first insulating cover, and / or the outlet extends out of the housing through the second insulating cover; or At least one of the inlet and the outlet extends out of the housing through the insulating heat-conducting pipe.

11. The heater according to claim 10, characterized in that, The thickness of the insulating heat-conducting tube is greater than or equal to the thickness of the flow-guiding tube.

12. The heater according to claim 10, characterized in that, The ratio of the inner diameter of the flow guide tube to the inner diameter of the insulating heat-conducting tube is greater than or equal to 1 / 5 and less than or equal to 1 / 2. The inner diameters of the inlet and the outlet are equal.

13. The heater according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The flow channel extends in a spiral shape.

14. The heater according to claim 13, characterized in that, The guide tube contains a spiral tube that extends from the inlet to the outlet, and the inner surface of the spiral tube encloses the flow channel.

15. The heater according to claim 13, characterized in that, The inner surface of the guide tube is provided with a spiral groove, which extends from the inlet to the outlet, and the groove wall of the spiral groove encloses the flow channel.

16. The heater according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The guide tube is an insulating tube.

17. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, include: The heater as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16.

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