Steam generating device, laundry treating apparatus, and cooking appliance

Abstract

The application discloses a steam generating device, a clothes processing device and a cooking appliance. The steam generating device comprises a shell and a heating assembly. The shell has a water supply groove and an evaporation cavity. The shell also has a liquid inlet and a steam outlet. The liquid inlet is communicated with the water supply groove and the evaporation cavity. The steam outlet is communicated with the evaporation cavity and is used for discharging steam out of the evaporation cavity. The heating assembly is located at the bottom of the evaporation cavity and is used for heating liquid in the evaporation cavity to generate steam. The heating assembly has a heating surface. The bottom surface of the water supply groove is higher than the liquid inlet, and the liquid inlet is higher than the heating surface. The steam generating device can increase the water supply pressure and improve the stability of steam output.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of steam generating equipment technology, and in particular to a steam generating device, a clothing treatment device, and a cooking appliance. Background Technology

[0002] Garment processing equipment, such as garment steamers, steam treatment machines, and steam irons, uses high-temperature steam to iron clothes. Taking a garment steamer as an example, it mainly consists of a steam generator, a water tank, and an ironing head. During operation, the water tank supplies water to the evaporation chamber of the steam generator. The water is heated and vaporized in the evaporation chamber to produce steam. The steam then acts on the clothes through the ironing head to complete the ironing process.

[0003] However, during the continuous generation of steam in the evaporation chamber, the high-pressure steam formed inside the chamber can easily cause some water to flow back into the water supply tank, thereby interfering with the normal water supply from the water supply tank to the evaporation chamber, causing water supply delay, which in turn disrupts the stability of steam output and affects the ironing effect. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a steam generator, a clothing treatment device, and a cooking appliance that can increase water supply pressure, thereby improving the stability of steam output.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this application provides a steam generating apparatus, comprising: A housing having a water supply tank and an evaporation chamber, the housing further having a liquid inlet and a steam outlet, the liquid inlet communicating with the water supply tank and the evaporation chamber, and the steam outlet communicating with the evaporation chamber and used to discharge steam from the evaporation chamber; and A heating assembly, located at the bottom of the evaporation chamber, is used to heat the liquid in the evaporation chamber to generate steam, and the heating assembly has a heating surface; The bottom surface of the water supply tank is higher than the liquid inlet, and the liquid inlet is positioned higher than the heating surface.

[0006] In some embodiments, the distance H between the heating surface and the bottom surface of the water supply tank satisfies: 10mm ≤ H ≤ 30mm.

[0007] In some embodiments, the wall of the water supply tank is recessed downward to form an installation groove, and the heating component is disposed in the installation groove.

[0008] In some embodiments, the housing includes a base assembly and a steam hood; The base assembly has a water supply tank, the steam hood is disposed in the water supply tank and cooperates with the base assembly to form an evaporation chamber, the bottom of the steam hood has a liquid inlet communicating with the water supply tank, the steam hood also has a steam outlet, and the heating component is located inside the steam hood.

[0009] In some embodiments, the base assembly includes: The base body has the aforementioned water supply tank; and An annular bracket is installed in the mounting slot; The heating component is mounted on the annular bracket and is sealed to the annular bracket.

[0010] In some embodiments, the annular support has an annular limiting groove that mates with the steam hood, the steam hood being supported by the groove wall of the annular limiting groove.

[0011] In some embodiments, the steam hood includes an outer cover and a water-proof portion connected together, the outer cover being supported by the base assembly and having the liquid inlet and the steam outlet; The outer cover is disposed around the periphery of the water-proof part, and cooperates with the outer peripheral wall of the water-proof part and the base assembly to form the evaporation chamber.

[0012] In some embodiments, the bottom end face of the waterproof portion is higher than the bottom end face of the outer cover and is spaced apart from the heating component.

[0013] In some embodiments, the bottom end face of the water-proof portion is planar, and the heating surface of the heating assembly is opposite to and parallel to the bottom surface of the water-proof portion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the steam hood also has a buffer chamber for the inflow of liquid into the evaporation chamber, the buffer chamber being used to replenish the evaporation chamber with liquid during operation of the steam generator.

[0015] In some embodiments, the buffer cavity is located on the periphery of the water-blocking portion, and the bottom of the buffer cavity is open to communicate with the evaporation cavity, while the top of the buffer cavity is sealed.

[0016] In some embodiments, the steam generator further includes the water tank; the base assembly has a mounting cavity, the bottom of which has the water supply trough; The water tank is installed in the mounting cavity and has a water supply port for supplying water to the water supply tank; The steam hood is supported at the bottom of the water supply tank, and the evaporation chamber is connected to the water supply tank through the liquid inlet.

[0017] In some embodiments, the base assembly includes: The base body has the mounting cavity; and The first insertion part is connected to the base body and has a water outlet channel; The water tank includes: The box body; and The second connector is connected to the main body of the tank, and the first connector has the water supply port; The second plug-in part is inserted into and sealed to the first plug-in part, and the water supply port is connected to the water supply tank through the water outlet channel.

[0018] In some embodiments, the base assembly further includes a cover that covers the opening of the mounting cavity, and the steam hood passes through the cover and partially extends out of the mounting cavity.

[0019] In some embodiments, the cover covers a portion of the mounting cavity opening, and the water tank is mounted in the mounting cavity via another portion of the mounting cavity opening.

[0020] A second aspect of this application provides a garment processing device, comprising: The steam generator as described in the above embodiments, and The ironing head is connected to the steam outlet of the evaporation chamber.

[0021] A third aspect of this application provides a cooking utensil, comprising: Base; The steam generator as described in the above embodiment is installed on the base; and A cookware is mounted on the base, and the steam outlet supplies steam into the cookware.

[0022] In the steam generator provided in this embodiment, the shell has a water supply tank and an evaporation chamber. The shell also has a liquid inlet and a steam outlet. The liquid inlet is connected to the water supply tank to form a water flow channel, thereby supplying water to the evaporation chamber. The bottom surface of the water supply tank is higher than the liquid inlet, and the liquid inlet is positioned higher than the heating surface. This creates a height difference between the bottom surface of the water supply tank and the heating surface, utilizing gravitational potential energy to convert into water supply pressure. The greater the height difference, the stronger the water supply pressure. When high pressure is generated in the evaporation chamber due to steam generation, the height difference between the water supply tank and the heating surface provides sufficient pressure to counteract the interference of the high pressure in the evaporation chamber on the water supply and increase the water supply pressure. This ensures that water from the water supply tank flows continuously and stably into the evaporation chamber, avoiding insufficient steam output due to water supply interruption and improving the stability of steam output. Furthermore, this submerged heating surface design eliminates the need for an additional pressurization device; pressure regulation can be achieved solely through structural design, simplifying the device structure and reducing costs. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a garment processing device in one embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a steam generator in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a steam hood in one embodiment of this application; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along the AA direction; Figure 5 for Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along the BB direction; Figure 6 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of point C in the middle.

[0025] Explanation of icon numbers: 100. Steam generator; 10. Shell; 1. Base assembly; 101. Mounting cavity; 102. Water supply tank; 103. Mounting groove; 11. Base body; 12. First insertion part; 13. Annular bracket; 14. Seal; 15. Cover; 2. Steam hood; 201. Evaporation chamber; 202. Liquid inlet; 203. Steam outlet; 204. Buffer chamber; 21. Outer cover; 211. Main body; 212. Narrowing part; 22. Waterproofing part; 2201. Water return chamber; 3. Water tank; 301. Water supply port; 31. Tank body; 32. Second insertion part; 4. Heating assembly; 401. Heating surface.

[0026] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0028] In the following description, when referring to the accompanying drawings, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0029] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0031] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0032] In daily life, garment processing equipment (such as garment steamers, steam care machines, and steam irons) are widely used to iron clothes to remove wrinkles and improve their smoothness and appearance. Among these, garment steamers, for example, are favored by many users due to their ease of operation and excellent ironing results.

[0033] Garment steamers typically consist of a steam generator, a water tank, and an ironing head. During operation, the water tank continuously supplies water to the evaporation chamber of the steam generator. The evaporation chamber is equipped with a heating element, which heats the water inside to a boiling state, thereby generating high-temperature and high-pressure steam. The generated steam is then transported to the ironing head through pipes, and finally applied to the surface of the clothing by the ironing head, utilizing the high temperature and humidity of the steam to iron the garment.

[0034] However, in actual use, high-pressure steam is continuously generated in the evaporation chamber of the steam generator. This high-pressure steam can easily interfere with the water supply process from the water supply tank to the evaporation chamber. Specifically, the high pressure in the evaporation chamber causes some unheated water to flow back into the water supply tank under pressure, thus hindering the normal water supply and causing a delay in the water supply from the water supply tank to the evaporation chamber. The instability of the water supply directly affects the continuity and stability of steam generation by the steam generator.

[0035] In response to this, this application provides a garment processing device to solve the problem of unstable steam output from the evaporation chamber in existing garment processing devices. The garment processing device of this application will be described in detail below using a garment steamer as an example.

[0036] Please see Figures 1 to 6 The garment processing equipment in this embodiment includes a steam generator 100 and an ironing head.

[0037] The steam generator 100 is used to generate high-temperature steam and includes a housing 10 and a heating assembly 4. The housing 10 has a water supply tank 102 and an evaporation chamber 201. The housing 10 also has a liquid inlet 202 and a steam outlet 203. The liquid inlet 202 connects the water supply tank 102 and the evaporation chamber 201, and the steam outlet 203 connects to the evaporation chamber 201 and is used to discharge steam from the evaporation chamber 201. The heating assembly 4 is located at the bottom of the evaporation chamber 201 and is used to heat the liquid in the evaporation chamber 201 to generate steam. The heating assembly 4 has a heating surface 401.

[0038] Water supply tank 102 supplies water to evaporation chamber 201 through liquid inlet 202. After the garment steamer is started, heating component 4 heats the water in evaporation chamber 201. The steam generated by boiling water accumulates in the chamber to form pressure, and then is delivered to ironing head through steam outlet 203. High-temperature steam is used to soften clothing fibers to complete ironing.

[0039] In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the water supply tank 102 is higher than the liquid inlet 202, and the liquid inlet 202 is positioned higher than the heating surface 401. This creates a height difference H between the bottom surface of the water supply tank 102 and the heating surface 401. Gravitational potential energy is converted into water supply pressure; the greater the height difference, the stronger the water supply pressure. When high pressure is generated in the evaporation chamber 201 due to steam production, the height difference between the water supply tank 102 and the heating surface 401 provides sufficient pressure to counteract the interference of the high pressure in the evaporation chamber 201 on the water supply, and increases the water supply pressure, ensuring a continuous and stable flow of water from the water supply tank 102 into the evaporation chamber 201, avoiding insufficient steam output due to water supply interruption. This submerged heating surface 401 design eliminates the need for additional pressurization devices; pressure regulation can be achieved solely through structural design, simplifying the device structure and reducing costs.

[0040] Specifically, the housing 10 serves as the basic structure of the steam generator 100. Its internal evaporation chamber 201 can be made of a relatively enclosed space using a high-temperature and corrosion-resistant material (such as stainless steel). The shape can be designed as a cylinder, rectangle, or irregular shape according to the layout of the heating component 4. When the heating component 4 is working, the water in the evaporation chamber 201 absorbs heat, boils, and vaporizes. It is then transported to the ironing head through the steam outlet 203, where the high-temperature steam softens the clothing fibers to complete the ironing process.

[0041] Steam outlet 203 is a steam output channel located in housing 10 and connected to evaporation chamber 201. For example, steam outlet 203 is positioned near the top of evaporation chamber 201 or at the top to prevent liquid water from being directly discharged with the steam, while allowing it to discharge directly in a vertical direction, reducing condensation loss during transport and ensuring ironing effect.

[0042] The heating component 4 may include an electric heating element or a thick film heating element, and the heating component 4 may directly or indirectly heat the water in the evaporation chamber 201. Exemplarily, the heating component 4 covers most of the bottom area of ​​the evaporation chamber 201 to ensure uniform heat transfer.

[0043] In some embodiments, the housing 10 includes a base assembly 1 and a steam hood 2, and the steam generator 100 also includes a water tank 3.

[0044] The base assembly 1 serves as a support structure for the steam generator 100, and is used to mount the steam hood 2, water tank 3, and heating assembly 4. Wiring channels can be pre-installed inside the base assembly 1 for connecting the heating assembly 4 to a power source.

[0045] The steam hood 2 is connected to the base assembly 1 and cooperates with the base assembly 1 to form an evaporation chamber 201, which is a chamber for steam generation. The steam hood 2 can be made of food-grade high-temperature resistant plastic or metal, and its inner side is smooth or streamlined to reduce steam flow resistance. The steam hood 2 has a liquid inlet 202, which is connected to a water tank 3 for receiving room temperature replenishment water; the steam hood 2 also has a steam outlet 203, which is connected to the ironing head through a pipe, thereby realizing directional steam delivery.

[0046] In addition, in some embodiments, the steam hood 2 is further provided with a buffer chamber 204, which is connected to the evaporation chamber 201. For example, the volume of the buffer chamber 204 can be 1 / 10 to 1 / 2 of the volume of the evaporation chamber 201 (for example, when the volume of the evaporation chamber 201 is 1L, the buffer chamber 204 is 100-500mL), which can both buffer enough hot water and avoid occupying too much space.

[0047] Water tank 3, a water storage device, is installed on base assembly 1 and supplies water to evaporation chamber 201 through liquid inlet 202. Water tank 3 can be supplied by gravity flow or with the assistance of a micro water pump to ensure timely replenishment when the liquid level in evaporation chamber 201 drops. When the garment steamer is started, water tank 3 delivers room temperature tap water or purified water to evaporation chamber 201 to provide a water source for steam generation.

[0048] The heating component 4 is installed at the bottom of the evaporation chamber 201 of the base assembly 1, and is at least partially located in the evaporation chamber 201. The heating component 4 has a heating surface 401 located at the bottom of the evaporation chamber 201, which enables it to quickly heat the water in the evaporation chamber 201 to boiling. During operation, the heating component 4 continuously generates heat, keeping the water in the evaporation chamber 201 in a boiling state and continuously generating steam.

[0049] In this embodiment, when the steam generator 100 is running, the heating component 4 is energized and heated, causing the water in the evaporation chamber 201 to boil and generate high-temperature steam. The steam is then transported to the ironing head through the steam outlet for ironing. As steam continues to be generated, the pressure inside the evaporation chamber 201 gradually increases. When the pressure exceeds the connection threshold between the buffer chamber 204 and the evaporation chamber 201, some of the high-temperature hot water is squeezed into the buffer chamber 204 for buffering. At this time, the internal pressure of the buffer chamber 204 increases due to the injection of hot water, forming a reverse pressure to prevent all the hot water in the evaporation chamber 201 from being squeezed out, ensuring that the evaporation chamber 201 always retains a basic amount of water to maintain boiling.

[0050] When the liquid level in the evaporation chamber 201 drops to a critical point (e.g., 1 / 3 of the initial liquid level) due to steam output, or when the pressure in the buffer chamber 204 exceeds the pressure inside the buffer chamber 204, the hot water in the buffer chamber 204 flows back to the evaporation chamber 201 under the action of the pressure difference. Since the returning water is hot water, the temperature difference between it and the high-temperature environment inside the evaporation chamber 201 is small, and it can be quickly vaporized by the heating component 4, thereby avoiding steam interruption caused by room temperature water replenishment and improving the continuity and stability of steam output.

[0051] In this embodiment, the base assembly 1 has an installation cavity 101, and the bottom of the installation cavity 101 has a water supply tank 102. The installation cavity 101 is the installation space for the water tank 3, and the water supply tank 102 at the bottom of the installation cavity 101 serves as a transfer water supply. The water tank 3 has a water inlet 301. After the water tank 3 is installed in the installation cavity 101, its water inlet 301 corresponds to the water supply tank 102. The room temperature water in the water tank 3 first flows into the water supply tank 102, and then enters the evaporation chamber 201 through the liquid inlet 202 at the bottom of the steam hood 2, forming a multi-stage water supply structure of "water tank 3-water supply tank 102-evaporation chamber 201". Among them, the water supply tank 102 has a buffering function: the water supply tank 102 can first store a certain amount of water, so that the room temperature water flowing into the water tank 3 is temporarily stored in the water supply tank 102. The water in the water supply tank 102 is heated by the surrounding environment (such as the heat conducted by the evaporation chamber 201) before entering the evaporation chamber 201. This reduces the temperature difference between the steam and the high-temperature environment inside the evaporation chamber 201, avoids steam interruption caused by direct injection of cold water into the evaporation chamber 201, and improves the stability of steam output.

[0052] In this embodiment, the liquid inlet 202 is located at the bottom of the steam hood 2, forming a water flow channel with the water supply tank 102. The heating surface 401 of the heating component 4 is lower than the bottom surface of the water supply tank 102, creating a height difference H between them. Thus, gravitational potential energy is converted into water supply pressure; the greater the height difference, the stronger the water supply pressure. When high pressure is generated in the evaporation chamber 201 due to steam generation, the height difference between the water supply tank 102 and the heating surface 401 provides sufficient pressure to counteract the interference of the high pressure in the evaporation chamber 201 on the water supply and increase the water supply pressure. This ensures a continuous and stable flow of water from the water supply tank 102 into the evaporation chamber 201, preventing insufficient steam output due to water supply interruption. This design of the sunken heating surface 401 eliminates the need for additional pressurization devices; pressure regulation can be achieved solely through structural design, simplifying the device structure and reducing costs.

[0053] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the distance H between the heating surface 401 and the bottom surface of the water supply tank 102 satisfies 10mm ≤ H ≤ 30mm. When H is 10mm, it can provide basic water supply pressure to meet the water supply needs of a small garment steamer, and will not increase the overall thickness of the device due to excessive height difference; when H is 30mm, it is suitable for high-power garment steamers and can maintain stable water supply under high pressure in the evaporation chamber 201. If H is less than 10mm, the water supply pressure may be insufficient, making it difficult to overcome the high pressure in the evaporation chamber 201, and water supply delay may easily occur; if H is greater than 30mm, although it can increase the water supply pressure, it will increase the height of the base assembly 1, making the device larger and affecting portability.

[0054] Please continue reading. Figure 2 and Figure 6In some embodiments, the wall of the water supply tank 102 is recessed downwards to form a mounting groove 103, within which the heating component 4 is installed. This brings the heating component 4 closer to the water in the water supply tank 102, shortening the heat transfer path and improving heating efficiency. Simultaneously, the mounting groove 103 also positions and protects the heating component 4, preventing it from moving or being damaged by external impacts during operation. Furthermore, the recessed structure of the mounting groove 103 increases the effective volume of the water supply tank 102, allowing more water to be stored near the heating component 4, further optimizing the heating effect.

[0055] In some embodiments, the base assembly 1 includes a base body 11 and an annular bracket 13. The base body 11 has a water supply tank 102, and the annular bracket 13 is installed in a mounting groove 103 formed by the downward indentation of the tank wall of the water supply tank 102. The heating assembly 4 is installed on the annular bracket 13 and is sealed to the annular bracket 13 by a sealing element 14. On the one hand, the annular bracket 13 provides stable support for the heating assembly 4, enabling the annular bracket 13 to work stably under high temperature and high pressure environments; on the other hand, the use of the sealing element 14 effectively prevents water and steam from leaking from the connection between the heating assembly 4 and the annular bracket 13, improving the safety and reliability of the equipment. The sealing element 14 can be a high-temperature resistant silicone sealing ring. Furthermore, the design of the annular bracket 13 facilitates the installation and wiring of the heating assembly 4; maintenance personnel only need to operate on the side of the annular bracket 13 away from the evaporation chamber 201, reducing the difficulty of equipment maintenance.

[0056] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the annular support 13 has an annular limiting groove that mates with the steam hood 2, with the steam hood 2 supported on the groove wall. This limiting structure design ensures accurate alignment and tight fit between the steam hood 2 and the annular support 13, preventing the steam hood 2 from shaking or shifting during operation, thereby guaranteeing the stability and reliability of the steam generator 100. Simultaneously, the annular limiting groove also provides a certain degree of sealing for the steam hood 2, reducing the possibility of steam leakage from the connection between the steam hood 2 and the annular support 13.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the steam hood 2 includes an outer cover 21 and a water-proof section 22 connected to each other. The outer cover 21 is supported by the base assembly 1, thus providing support and stability for the steam hood 2. The bottom of the outer cover 21 is provided with a liquid inlet 202, and the top of the outer cover 21 is provided with a steam outlet 203. The outer cover 21 is arranged around the periphery of the water-proof section 22, and its inner wall, the outer peripheral wall of the water-proof section 22, and the base assembly 1 together form an annular evaporation chamber 201. The annular structure of the chamber makes the heating area of ​​the evaporation chamber 201 more uniformly distributed, and the heat generated by the heating component 4 can be quickly transferred to all areas within the annular space, accelerating the boiling of water. At the same time, the steam flow rate within the annular space is faster, reducing steam retention within the chamber and increasing the speed at which steam is discharged from the steam outlet 203, thereby improving steam generation efficiency, meeting ironing needs more quickly, and shortening waiting time.

[0058] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the buffer chamber 204 is disposed around the periphery of the water-proof portion 22, with an open bottom that directly communicates with the evaporation chamber 201, and a sealed top. This allows the buffer chamber 204 and the evaporation chamber 201 to form a single, interconnected chamber at the bottom. When the pressure inside the evaporation chamber 201 increases, high-temperature hot water can flow into the buffer chamber 204 through the bottom opening for buffering, eliminating the need for additional flow guiding structures and simplifying the internal structure. The top seal ensures that the buffer chamber 204 forms a closed space after receiving hot water. As hot water is continuously injected, the pressure inside the chamber gradually increases, creating effective back pressure and preventing excessive pressure on the water in the evaporation chamber 201, ensuring that the evaporation chamber 201 always retains sufficient water to maintain boiling. Simultaneously, the bottom opening allows the buffer chamber 204 to quickly return the buffered hot water to the evaporation chamber 201 when the liquid level in the evaporation chamber 201 drops, reducing backflow resistance, ensuring uninterrupted steam generation, and improving the continuity and stability of steam output.

[0059] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the buffer chamber 204 can be configured in various ways. Specifically, this embodiment provides three ways of forming the buffer chamber 204 to achieve hot water buffering and reflux functions.

[0060] In the first configuration, the buffer cavity 204 is directly formed on the outer peripheral wall of the water-proof part 22, for example, by forming a groove in the outer wall of the water-proof part 22. This method makes the buffer cavity 204 and the water-proof part 22 an integral structure, which is compact and has good sealing performance.

[0061] In the second configuration, the buffer cavity 204 is formed on the inner wall of the outer cover 21. By protruding on the inner wall of the outer cover 21 to form a cavity structure, it is easier to process and install the outer cover 21 separately, thus reducing the difficulty of production.

[0062] In the third configuration, the steam hood 2 also includes a stiffener plate. The stiffener plate connects the water-proof part 22 and the outer cover 21. The stiffener plate, the water-proof part 22 and the outer cover 21 together enclose and form a buffer cavity 204. The stiffener plate not only serves to separate the cavity, but also enhances the overall structural strength of the steam hood 2, and can better withstand the high pressure of the evaporation cavity 201.

[0063] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the number of buffer chambers 204 is at least two, such as 2, 3, or 4, etc., and multiple buffer chambers 204 are distributed at intervals around the periphery of the water-proof part 22. The arrangement of multiple buffer chambers 204 makes the hot water buffering more uniform, avoiding the problem of uneven hot water distribution caused by excessive local pressure in a single buffer chamber 204. When the pressure in the evaporation chamber 201 increases, the high-temperature hot water can be diverted to different buffer chambers 204, and each buffer chamber 204 buffers the hot water simultaneously, reducing the pressure load on a single chamber and extending the service life of the components. For example, four buffer chambers 204 distributed at 90° intervals can receive hot water from four different directions in the evaporation chamber 201, making the pressure distribution in the chamber more balanced. At the same time, when the liquid level in the evaporation chamber 201 drops, multiple buffer chambers 204 can return hot water to the evaporation chamber 201 from different positions, allowing hot water to replenish all areas of the evaporation chamber 201 more quickly and evenly, reducing local water temperature fluctuations.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the bottom end face of the water-insulating part 22 is higher than the bottom end face of the outer cover 21 and is spaced apart from the heating component 4. This spaced design between the bottom end face of the water-insulating part 22 and the heating component 4 creates a thin water layer. The smaller the distance, the thinner the water layer, allowing the heat from the heating component 4 to be transferred more directly and quickly to the water layer, enabling the water to reach boiling point faster and shortening the steam generation time. Simultaneously, the thinner water layer provides more even heating, avoiding unstable steam generation caused by excessive local temperature differences, ensuring continuous and stable steam output, and improving ironing efficiency.

[0065] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bottom end face of the water-proof portion 22 is planar, and the heating surface 401 of the heating component 4 is opposite to and parallel to the bottom surface of the water-proof portion 22. The planar bottom end face increases the contact area with water, and together with the parallel heating surface 401, the heat generated by the heating component 4 can be evenly applied to the water layer below the water-proof portion 22. Compared with non-parallel or non-planar structures, this reduces the possibility of heat concentration or uneven heat distribution, avoids intermittent steam caused by local overheating or insufficient heating, thereby ensuring stable steam output from the ironing head and improving the smoothness of ironing clothes.

[0066] In some embodiments, a return water chamber 2201 is formed in the middle of the water-insulating part 22, with its top open and communicating with the evaporation chamber 201. A return water outlet is provided on the wall to connect to the evaporation chamber 201. When the garment steamer is working, a large amount of steam generated in the evaporation chamber 201 flows upward. Some of the steam encounters the relatively cooler chamber wall (such as the area near the steam outlet 203) during its ascent, and liquefies into small water droplets. These water droplets flow back to the return water chamber 2201 along the inner wall of the return water chamber 2201, and then replenish the evaporation chamber 201 through the return water outlet. The return water outlet can be located on the periphery or bottom of the water-insulating part 22. A periphery return water outlet facilitates timely return of water droplets during flow, while a bottom return water outlet allows gravity to facilitate smoother flow of water droplets into the evaporation chamber 201. This achieves the recycling of steam-liquefied water, and the replenished liquid water is at a higher temperature, allowing for rapid re-vaporization after entering the evaporation chamber 201, avoiding steam output fluctuations caused by water replenishment and enhancing steam stability.

[0067] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the downward projection of the return water inlet at least partially falls on the heating surface 401 of the heating assembly 4. When the liquefied water droplets flow from the return water inlet into the evaporation chamber 201, some of the droplets can directly fall onto the heating surface 401 and be rapidly heated to a boiling state, converting into steam. In this way, the heating path of the returning water droplets is shortened, the heating time is reduced, and the stability of steam output is further improved.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the outer cover 21 includes a main body 211 and a narrowing section 212 connected sequentially along the steam flow direction. A liquid inlet 202 is located at the bottom of the main body 211, and a steam outlet 203 is located at the top of the narrowing section 212. The main body 211 has a relatively large space, providing sufficient room for heating and boiling water. The narrowing section 212 gradually narrows along the steam flow direction. According to fluid mechanics principles, when steam flows within the narrowing section 212, the flow velocity increases, and the pressure increases accordingly, allowing the steam to be ejected more forcefully from the steam outlet 203. The high-pressure, high-speed steam can penetrate clothing fibers more effectively, enhancing the wrinkle-removing effect. Simultaneously, the design of the narrowing section 212 reduces energy loss during steam flow, allowing more heat to be applied to the clothing, thus improving ironing efficiency.

[0069] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the base assembly 1 further includes a first insertion part 12, and the water tank 3 includes a tank body 31 and a second insertion part 32. The base body 11 and the water tank 3 are quickly connected via the first insertion part 12 and the second insertion part 32. The first insertion part 12 has a built-in water outlet channel, and the second insertion part 32 of the water tank 3 has a water supply port 301. After the two are inserted, a continuous water supply path is formed. This design allows the installation and removal of the water tank 3 to be carried out by only axial insertion and removal operations, without the need for additional tools or complicated steps. The sealing of the insertion structure can be achieved by an O-ring seal. When inserted into place, the seal is compressed to form a radial seal, ensuring the sealing of the water supply process. In addition, the interface between the first insertion part 12 and the second insertion part 32 can adopt a foolproof design (such as an asymmetrical shape) to avoid damage caused by misinsertion and improve ease of use.

[0070] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the base assembly 1 further includes a cover 15, which covers the opening of the mounting cavity 101, with the steam hood 2 extending through and partially protruding from the cover 15. The cover 15 not only protects the water tank 3 and piping within the mounting cavity 101 but also provides a stable support structure for the steam hood 2. The connection between the steam hood 2 and the cover 15 employs a sealed design (such as a silicone sealing ring) to prevent heat leakage from gaps, thus improving heat utilization. Simultaneously, the presence of the cover 15 reduces the possibility of external dust and moisture entering the mounting cavity 101, extending the service life of internal components. The portion of the steam hood 2 extending out of the mounting cavity 101 facilitates connection to the ironing head, shortening the steam transmission path and reducing heat loss.

[0071] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the cover 15 only covers a portion of the opening of the mounting cavity 101, with the water tank 3 installed through the other part of the opening. This design allows the water tank 3 to be installed and removed independently of the cover 15, without first removing the cover 15, further simplifying the installation and removal process of the water tank 3. For example, when water needs to be added, the user can directly remove the water tank 3 from the opening without having to disassemble the entire cover 15. At the same time, the partial coverage of the mounting cavity 101 by the cover 15 still protects critical internal components (such as the steam hood 2 and the heating assembly 4).

[0072] This application further proposes a cooking appliance, which can be an electric steamer, a steam oven, a steam stew pot, etc. Taking an electric steamer as an example, the cooking appliance includes a base, a steam generating device 100 as described in the above embodiments, and a pot.

[0073] The base is the supporting structure of the cooking appliance, providing an installation platform for the steam generator 100 and the pot. The base contains components such as control circuits and power interfaces, used to regulate the operating status of the steam generator 100 (such as heating power and working time).

[0074] The steam generator 100 is installed on the base, and the high-temperature and high-pressure steam generated by its evaporation chamber 201 is delivered to the cookware through the steam outlet 203. The cookware is installed on the base, and the food is placed inside the cookware. When the high-temperature steam enters the cookware, it will flow around the food and release heat, thereby realizing the cooking functions such as steaming, heating or keeping the food warm.

[0075] The cooking appliance in this embodiment utilizes the stable operation of the steam generator 100 to achieve efficient and stable cooking results.

[0076] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A steam generating device, characterized in that, include: The housing has a water supply tank and an evaporation chamber. The housing also has a liquid inlet and a steam outlet. The liquid inlet is connected to the water supply tank and the evaporation chamber, and the steam outlet is connected to the evaporation chamber and is used to discharge steam from the evaporation chamber. and A heating assembly, located at the bottom of the evaporation chamber, is used to heat the liquid in the evaporation chamber to generate steam, and the heating assembly has a heating surface; The bottom surface of the water supply tank is higher than the liquid inlet, and the liquid inlet is positioned higher than the heating surface.

2. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The distance H between the heating surface and the bottom surface of the water supply tank satisfies: 10mm ≤ H ≤ 30mm.

3. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water supply tank has a recessed wall forming an installation groove, and the heating component is located in the installation groove.

4. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The housing includes a base assembly and a steam hood; The base assembly has a water supply tank, the steam hood is disposed in the water supply tank and cooperates with the base assembly to form an evaporation chamber, the bottom of the steam hood has a liquid inlet communicating with the water supply tank, the steam hood also has a steam outlet, and the heating component is located inside the steam hood.

5. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The base assembly includes: The base body has the aforementioned water supply tank; and An annular bracket is installed in the mounting slot; The heating component is mounted on the annular bracket and is sealed to the annular bracket.

6. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The annular support has an annular limiting groove that mates with the steam hood, and the steam hood is supported on the groove wall of the annular limiting groove.

7. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The steam hood includes an outer cover and a water-proof section connected to each other. The outer cover is supported by the base assembly and has the liquid inlet and the steam outlet. The outer cover is disposed around the periphery of the water-proof part, and cooperates with the outer peripheral wall of the water-proof part and the base assembly to form the evaporation chamber.

8. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The bottom end face of the water-proof part is higher than the bottom end face of the outer cover and is spaced apart from the heating component.

9. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The bottom end face of the water-proof part is flat, and the heating surface of the heating component is opposite to and parallel to the bottom surface of the water-proof part.

10. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The steam hood also has a buffer chamber for the liquid to flow into the evaporation chamber, the buffer chamber being used to replenish the evaporation chamber with liquid during the operation of the steam generator.

11. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The buffer chamber is located on the periphery of the water-isolated part, and the bottom of the buffer chamber is open to communicate with the evaporation chamber, while the top of the buffer chamber is sealed.

12. The steam generating apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a water tank; the base assembly has a mounting cavity, the bottom of which has the water supply trough; The water tank is installed in the mounting cavity and has a water supply port for supplying water to the water supply tank; The steam hood is supported at the bottom of the water supply tank, and the evaporation chamber is connected to the water supply tank through the liquid inlet.

13. A garment processing device, characterized in that, include: The steam generating apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, and The ironing head is connected to the steam outlet of the evaporation chamber.

14. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, include: Base; The steam generating apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 12 is installed on the base; as well as A cookware is mounted on the base, and the steam outlet supplies steam into the cookware.

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