Cooking appliance and cooking apparatus

Abstract

The application discloses a cooking utensil and a cooking device. The cooking utensil comprises a cover body and a material washing bin. The cover body has a cover body center line extending in a vertical direction. The material washing bin is arranged on the cover body and has a material washing bin center line extending in the vertical direction. The material washing bin center line is offset relative to the cover body center line in a first direction and / or a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The material washing bin is arranged to be eccentric, so that the cover body space occupied by the material washing bin on the eccentric side is increased, and more cover body space can be left on the non-eccentric side. The arrangement of devices and components in the cover body space is more optimally designed due to the eccentricity of the material washing bin, so that other devices and / or components on the cover body except the material washing bin can be more reasonably and compactly arranged. Therefore, the utilization rate of the cover body space can be optimized, the size of the cover body is reduced, the miniaturization of the product is facilitated, and the user experience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of kitchen appliances, and more specifically to a cooking utensil and cooking apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Existing automatic cooking devices include a hopper for storing ingredients such as rice, a cooking appliance such as a rice cooker, and a washing hopper for washing the rice. The hopper can store a certain amount of rice. When cooking, the rice in the hopper is conveyed to the washing hopper for washing, and the washed rice is then cooked in the inner pot of the cooking appliance. Some automatic cooking devices have the hopper located on the left or right side of the cooking appliance, requiring a feeding pipe and a fan. The fan generates airflow, which transports the rice in the hopper to the washing hopper via the feeding pipe connected to the hopper.

[0003] The washing hopper is typically located in the center of the cover. However, the cover also needs to accommodate motors, steam valves, feeding pipes, water supply pipes, and / or drainage pipes. The arrangement of these devices and pipes is limited by the washing hopper in the center, which prevents other devices and components inside the cover from being arranged more rationally, resulting in a larger overall size of the cover.

[0004] Therefore, a cooking appliance is needed to at least partially solve the above problems. Utility Model Content

[0005] The description of this utility model introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0006] To at least partially solve the above problems, this application provides a cooking appliance for use in a cooking apparatus having a storage container arranged along a first direction with the cooking appliance, the cooking appliance comprising:

[0007] A cover, having a center line extending vertically; and

[0008] A washing bin is located on the cover body and has a center line extending vertically. The washing bin is positioned on the center line of the cover body.

[0009] The centerline of the washing hopper is misaligned relative to the centerline of the cover in a first direction and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0010] According to this solution, the washing material bin is set eccentrically with respect to the center line of the cover body, so that the space of the cover body occupied by the washing material bin on the eccentric side increases, and more space of the cover body can be left on the non-eccentric side. The layout of the devices and components in the cover body space is designed more optimally due to the eccentricity of the washing material bin, so that other devices and / or components on the cover body except the washing material bin can be arranged more reasonably and compactly. Thus, the utilization rate of the cover body space can be optimized, the size of the cover body can be reduced, which is beneficial to the miniaturization of the product and improves the user experience. This application breaks the conventional design of arranging the washing material bin at the center of the cover body, and provides new ideas and designs for the optimization of the cover body space.

[0011] Optionally, the cover body has a cover body longitudinal center line extending in the second direction and passing through the center line of the cover body, and the center line of the washing material bin is arranged on the first side of the cover body longitudinal center line. According to this solution, the washing material bin can deviate from the center line of the cover body in the first direction of the cover body, so that the spatial layout of each device including the washing material bin can be adjusted in the first direction, and the utilization rate of the space of the cover body in the first direction can be improved.

[0012] Optionally, the offset distance D1 from the center line of the washing material bin to the cover body longitudinal center line is 0mm < D1 ≤ 40mm. According to this solution, the eccentricity distance of the washing material bin is preferably less than or equal to 40mm, which can ensure that the material dropping port of the washing material bin corresponds to the area where the pot mouth of the pot liner is located, and can also reduce the size of the cover body in the first direction within an appropriate range / or the width size of the cover body.

[0013] The center line of the washing material bin is arranged on the first side of the cover body longitudinal center line closer to the storage appliance. According to this solution, the washing material bin can be closer to the storage appliance. Thus, the feeding pipeline between the washing material bin and the storage bin can be set shorter, the length of the feeding pipeline can be shortened, which is beneficial to reducing the working energy consumption of the air extraction device, and the power requirement for the air extraction device is lower, so that the cost of the air extraction device can be reduced.

[0014] Optionally, the cooking appliance further includes an in-cover feeding pipeline, which is arranged on the cover body and connected to the washing material bin, and the in-cover feeding pipeline is arranged on the first side of the cover body longitudinal center line. According to this solution, the in-cover feeding pipeline is on the eccentric side of the cover body longitudinal center line along with the washing material bin, and the length of the in-cover feeding pipeline on the cover body is shorter, which is beneficial to reducing the working energy consumption of the air extraction device, the power requirement for the air extraction device is lower, so that the cost of the air extraction device can be reduced; the in-cover feeding pipeline occupies less space on the cover body.

[0015] Optionally, the second direction is the front-to-back direction, with the internal feeding pipe arranged at the rear of the washing hopper. The internal feeding pipe occupies the space behind the washing hopper, rather than on the side of the washing hopper in the left-to-right direction, thus allowing for a larger offset distance for the washing hopper. The internal feeding pipe is arranged along the first direction. According to this design, this internal feeding pipe can be easily connected to a storage hopper located on one side of the cover in the first direction, and the shorter length of the internal feeding pipe saves space for facilitating the arrangement of other devices on the cover.

[0016] Optionally, the feed pipe inside the cover has a maximum length L1 in the horizontal direction, which is 40mm to 60mm. According to this solution, the length of the feed pipe inside the cover is relatively small, which can connect the feed pipe of the storage silo to the washing silo.

[0017] Optionally, the cooking appliance also includes an upper drain pipe, which is located on the cover and connected to the washing chamber. The upper drain pipe is arranged on the first side of the longitudinal centerline of the cover. According to this solution, the upper drain pipe is located on the eccentric side of the longitudinal centerline of the cover along with the washing chamber. The length of the upper drain pipe on the cover can be set to be shorter, thereby reducing the space occupied by the upper drain pipe on the cover. The space saved is convenient for arranging other devices on the cover.

[0018] Optionally, the cover includes a steam passage for venting steam. The steam passage is arranged in communication with the upper drainage pipe and is located on the first side of the longitudinal centerline of the cover along with the upper drainage pipe. According to this solution, the space above the upper drainage pipe is used to arrange the steam passage, which reduces the horizontal space of the cover for independently arranging the steam passage. The saved space facilitates the arrangement of other devices on the cover.

[0019] Optionally, the upper drainage pipe has a main pipe section extending in a straight line, the main pipe section having an axial length L2 along its own central axis in the horizontal direction, the axial length L2 being 35mm to 50mm. According to this scheme, the size of the upper drainage pipe can be set to a smaller value, which is beneficial to reducing the space occupied by the upper drainage pipe on the cover.

[0020] Optionally, the cover includes a steam channel for venting steam, which is located on the second side of the longitudinal centerline of the cover. According to this solution, the cover has a larger space on the non-eccentric side of the washing bin, which can be used to arrange an independent steam channel, thus improving the space utilization of the cover.

[0021] Optionally, the first direction is the left-right direction, and the second direction is the front-back direction. The cover has a transverse centerline extending in the left-right direction and passing through the center line of the cover. The centerline of the washing hopper is arranged in front of the transverse centerline of the cover. According to this solution, the space behind the washing hopper is increased, which facilitates the arrangement of the feeding pipe inside the cover and the heavy washing drive device, and avoids interference with the pivot structure at the rear end of the cover.

[0022] Optionally, the cooking appliance also includes an extraction device, which is constructed to use air power to transport solid food to the washing compartment. The extraction device has a vertically extending center line, and the center line of the extraction device and the center line of the washing compartment are respectively arranged on both sides of the longitudinal center line of the lid. According to this solution, more lid space can be reserved on the non-eccentric side of the washing compartment. Placing the extraction device on the non-eccentric side of the washing compartment can make full use of the larger lid space, improve the utilization rate of the lid space, and facilitate the miniaturization of the lid.

[0023] Optionally, the second direction is the front-to-back direction, and the front corner of the cover is constructed with a rounded shape, with the air extraction device arranged at the front corner of the cover. Utilizing the space of the rounded corner of the cover to arrange the air extraction device saves space in the cover, which is beneficial to improving the space utilization rate of the cover and making the cover smaller.

[0024] The distance D2 between the extraction device and the washing hopper is: D2≥1mm. According to this scheme, the extraction device will generate vibration during operation, and the washing hopper will also generate vibration due to water impact during washing. By separating the extraction device from the washing hopper at a certain distance, vibration transmission between the extraction device and the washing hopper can be avoided, thus reducing noise.

[0025] Optionally, the extraction device is connected to an air suction pipe, which connects the extraction device to the washing bin. The air suction pipe is located on the front side of the cover's transverse centerline. According to this design, the air suction pipe is arranged along with the extraction device on the front side of the washing bin, with the interface between the washing bin and the air suction pipe facing forward, avoiding direct rearward orientation. This prevents residual water from the washing bin from flowing back into the air suction pipe through this interface during the user's opening of the cover.

[0026] Optionally, the exhaust device is connected to an exhaust pipe, with the second direction being the front-to-back direction. The exhaust pipe extends rearward from the exhaust device and extends to or beyond the lateral centerline of the lid. According to this solution, the exhaust port can be located away from the user, resulting in less exhaust noise heard by the user when the user is in front of the cooking appliance and the exhaust device is running.

[0027] Optionally, the cooking appliance also includes a washing drive device, with the second direction being the front-to-back direction. The washing drive device is located behind the washing chamber and occupies the rear area of ​​the lid. According to this solution, placing the washing drive device at the rear not only makes efficient use of space but also reduces the torque required to open the lid, lowering costs while improving the user experience. Because the washing drive device is relatively heavy, placing it at the rear shifts the center of gravity of the entire lid backward, reducing the torque required to open the lid.

[0028] Optionally, the washing drive device is arranged along the first direction; and / or the length of the washing drive device is 110mm to 125mm. According to this solution, the length of the washing drive device is relatively large, and the space of the cover in the first direction is used to arrange the washing drive device to avoid increasing the size of the cover in the second direction.

[0029] Optionally, the cover includes a washing system and a washing system area. The washing system is located in the washing system area and includes a washing chamber. The projection of the cover onto the horizontal plane is the cover planar area, and the projection of the washing system area onto the horizontal plane is the washing system planar area. The washing system planar area accounts for 20% to 40% of the cover planar area. According to this solution, the washing system occupies a large horizontal area of ​​the cover, and the volume of the washing chamber can meet the requirements of washing the amount of food in one go.

[0030] Optionally, the cover includes a wind system and has a wind system area. The wind system is located in the wind system area. The projection of the cover onto the horizontal plane is the cover planar area, and the projection of the wind system area onto the horizontal plane is the wind system planar area. The wind system planar area accounts for 15% to 35% of the cover planar area. According to this solution, the proportion of the wind system occupying the cover planar area is moderate, and the size of the exhaust device and its connected pipes can meet the needs of wind-powered transport of food.

[0031] Optionally, the lid includes a steam channel and a steam channel area, the steam channel being located within the steam channel area. The projection of the lid onto a horizontal plane is the lid planar area, and the projection of the steam channel area onto a horizontal plane is the steam channel planar area. The steam channel planar area occupies 2% to 5% of the lid planar area. According to this solution, the steam channel occupies a small area of ​​the lid planar area, and the cross-section of the steam channel meets the requirement of smoothly venting steam from the cooking cavity.

[0032] Optionally, the cover includes a liner, the liner having a washing chamber cavity adapted to the washing chamber, the washing chamber being located within the washing chamber cavity, and the external cross-sectional area of ​​the washing chamber cavity being 5000 mm². 2 ~6500mm 2 According to this solution, the washing chamber also restricts the movement of the washing chamber in the horizontal and vertical directions, so that the washing chamber is stably held on the cover. The washing chamber occupies a moderate amount of internal space in the cover, and the volume of the washing chamber can meet the requirements of washing the amount of food at one time.

[0033] The cover includes a steam channel structure with an external cross-sectional area of ​​700 mm². 2 ~2000mm 2 According to this design, the steam channel occupies a moderate amount of horizontal space in the cover, and its cross-section is sufficient to allow steam from the cooking chamber to escape smoothly.

[0034] Optionally, the cooking appliance includes a pot inner vessel with a center line extending vertically, and the top of the pot inner vessel is configured to taper towards the center line. According to this design, the pot inner vessel can be positioned closer to the storage vessel, reducing the overall size of the machine in the first direction, i.e., the width of the machine, which is beneficial for product miniaturization.

[0035] Optionally, the centerline of the washing hopper may be offset from the centerline of the boiler, or the centerline of the washing hopper may overlap with the centerline of the boiler. According to this scheme, the washing hopper is either eccentric relative to the centerline of the boiler or located at the exact center of the boiler. The positions of the washing hopper and the boiler can be set independently, and the discharge port of the washing hopper corresponds to the opening area of ​​the boiler.

[0036] According to this application, a cooking apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0037] Storage equipment, including storage bins for storing solid food ingredients;

[0038] Cooking utensils according to any of the above aspects;

[0039] The feeding pipe has one part located inside the storage bin and the other part located inside the lid of the cooking appliance and connected to the washing bin.

[0040] According to this scheme, the washing hopper is set off-center from the center line of the cover, which increases the space occupied by the washing hopper on the eccentric side of the cover and leaves more space on the non-eccentric side of the cover.

[0041] Optionally, the cooking apparatus also includes a base forming a storage chamber. The storage chamber includes a bottom wall and an inclined guide wall, which are located within the storage chamber. According to this solution, the base can cover the bottom wall and the guide wall, concealing the unsightly bottom of the storage chamber, simplifying the external structure of the product, and improving its visual appeal.

[0042] Optionally, the cooking device also includes a power board and a fan located below the power board. The power board and the fan are located within the hopper cavity, with the fan located below the guide wall. According to this solution, utilizing the inclined space below the guide wall to house the fan can improve space utilization and reduce the overall size and volume of the machine. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference and used to understand this application, illustrate embodiments of the application and their descriptions, thereby explaining the principles of the application.

[0044] In the attached image:

[0045] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional exploded view of the cooking apparatus.

[0047] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A side view of a cross-section of the cooking apparatus shown, taken from a vertical section extending in the left-right direction.

[0048] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of the cooking apparatus, with the lid removed.

[0049] Figure 5 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the cross-section of the cover along the horizontal plane;

[0050] Figure 6 for Figure 1 The diagram shown is a three-dimensional representation of the cover, in which the faceplate has been removed;

[0051] Figure 7 for Figure 1 The diagram shown is an exploded three-dimensional representation of the cover.

[0052] Figure 8 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the inner pot shown;

[0053] Figure 9 for Figure 3 A top view of the cover after it has been removed;

[0054] Figure 10 for Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the cooking utensil shown;

[0055] Figure 11 for Figure 9 Another top view of the cover with the top cover removed;

[0056] Figure 12 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the storage device shown, taken from a vertical section extending in the front-to-back direction;

[0057] Figure 13 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the cross-section of the cover shown, taken from a vertical section extending along the front-back direction;

[0058] Figure 14 for Figure 13 The diagram shows another cross-sectional perspective of the cover, in which the removable cover assembly and the washing hopper have been removed;

[0059] Figure 15 for Figure 13 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the removable cover assembly and the washing hopper shown;

[0060] Figure 16 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cross-section taken by another vertical section extending along the front-back direction of the cover shown.

[0061] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0062] 1. Cooking apparatus 2. Cooking utensils

[0063] 3. Storage containers 4. Clean water tank

[0064] 5. Sewage tank 6. Cover

[0065] 7. Pot body, 8. Inner pot

[0066] 9. Cooking cavity 10. Heating device

[0067] 11 Washing bin 12 Washing chamber

[0068] 13 Washing device 14 Liner

[0069] 14a Liner Body 15 Face Cover

[0070] 16 Removable cover assembly 17 Drainage pipe

[0071] 17a Upper drainage pipe 17b Lower drainage pipe

[0072] 18 Storage silos 19 Base

[0073] 20 Storage chamber 21 Storage bin cover

[0074] 22 Feeding pipe 22a Feeding pipe inside the cover

[0075] 23. Air extraction device; 24. Air intake pipe

[0076] 25 Exhaust pipe 26 Washing silo side wall

[0077] 27. Bottom cover of the washing hopper; 28. Washing drive unit

[0078] 29. Accommodation cavity; 30. Gear set

[0079] 31 First feeding pipe; 32 Inner cover feeding pipe

[0080] 33. Warehouse wall; 34. Warehouse side wall

[0081] 35. Bottom wall of the silo; 36. Guide wall

[0082] 37 air intake chamber 38 air inlet

[0083] 39 Gear transmission assembly 40 Hopper cavity

[0084] 41 Sleeve transmission assembly 45 Inner cover

[0085] 46. ​​Boiler opening sealing ring; 47. Washing hopper top cover

[0086] 48 Exhaust port 49 Side wall port

[0087] 50 impeller, 51 electric drive

[0088] 52 Housing 53 Air Inlet

[0089] 54 Air outlet 55 Shock absorber

[0090] 56 Air inlet seal 57 Power board

[0091] 58 Heating Components 59 Heat Dissipation Structure

[0092] 60 Exhaust fan device 61 Separation chamber

[0093] 62 partition plate 64 intake channel

[0094] 65 Intake passage wall 66 First airflow passage

[0095] 67 pairs of interfaces, 68 substrates

[0096] 69 channel components 70 cavity wall

[0097] 71 Washing hopper cavity 72 Channel cavity

[0098] 73 Pipe connector 74 Second airflow channel

[0099] 75 Airflow Inlet 76 Airflow Outlet

[0100] 78 Washing System 79 Wind Power System

[0101] 80 Steam passage 81 Steam passage seal

[0102] 82 Steam Channel Cylinder CL1 Cover Centerline

[0103] CL11 Longitudinal centerline of the cover; CL12 Transverse centerline of the cover.

[0104] CL2 Washing bin centerline; CL3 Extraction device centerline

[0105] CL4 inner pot centerline Cr reference circle

[0106] R1 Washing System Area R2 Air Power System Area

[0107] R3 Steam Passage Area Detailed Implementation

[0108] The following description provides numerous specific details to offer a more thorough understanding of this application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this application can be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well-known in the art have not been described to avoid confusion with this application.

[0109] To fully understand this application, a detailed description will be provided below. It is obvious that the implementation of embodiments of this application is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art. Preferred embodiments of this application are described in detail below; however, other embodiments may also be available in addition to these detailed descriptions.

[0110] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0111] The ordinal numbers such as “first” and “second” used in this application are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as a specific order. Furthermore, for example, the term “first component” does not imply the existence of a “second component,” and the term “second component” does not imply the existence of a “first component.” It should be noted that the terms “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0112] Exemplary embodiments according to this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application is thorough and complete, and that the concept of these exemplary embodiments is fully conveyed to those skilled in the art.

[0113] This application provides a cooking device. Specifically, it is an automated cooking device capable of automatically adding rice and water and completing the cooking process, such as an automated rice cooker.

[0114] Exemplary embodiments according to this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0115] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, the cooking apparatus 1 according to this application includes a cooking appliance 2, a storage container 3, a clean water tank 4, and a wastewater tank 5. The cooking appliance 2 is used to perform cooking functions, such as cooking rice or porridge. The storage container 3 is used to store solid food ingredients, such as rice, beans, and other grains. The storage container 3 can, for example, employ temperature and humidity control measures to preserve the food ingredients. The clean water tank 4 is used to store clean water for cooking and washing. The wastewater tank 5 is used to store wastewater after washing the ingredients.

[0116] Specifically, the cooking appliance 2 includes, for example, a lid 6 and a pot body 7. The pot body 7 is used to heat solid ingredients, and the lid 6 is used to close the pot body 7. A removable inner pot 8 is disposed within the pot body 7, and the internal space of the inner pot 8 forms a cooking cavity 9 for holding ingredients. A heating device 10 is also provided in the pot body 7, for example, below the inner pot 8, to heat the inner pot 8 and cook the ingredients. To facilitate the removal and placement of the inner pot 8, a washing chamber 11 is provided in the lid 6 for washing solid ingredients, and the internal space of the washing chamber 11 forms a washing cavity 12. A washing device 13 is typically installed in the washing chamber 11. When the lid 6 closes the pot body 7, the cooking appliance 1 can control the connection and disconnection between the washing cavity 12 and the cooking cavity 9. Therefore, the cooking appliance 1 of this application can also automatically wash ingredients.

[0117] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the cover 6 mainly includes a liner 14, a face cover 15, and a removable cover assembly 16. The face cover 15 covers the liner 14 and covers its upper and peripheral sides. The removable cover assembly 16 is located on the lower side of the liner 14 and is detachably installed to the liner 14 for cleaning. Optionally, the washing chamber 11 is connected to the removable cover assembly 16, and the two form a whole. Thus, the washing chamber 11 can be removed from the liner 14 together with the removable cover assembly 16 for cleaning the washing chamber 12.

[0118] The washing chamber 12 is connected to the clean water tank 4 via a clean water pipe (not shown). Clean water from the clean water tank 4 is supplied to the washing chamber 12 via the clean water pipe using a water supply device (e.g., a water pump). The washing chamber 12 is connected to the wastewater tank 5 via a drain pipe 17, thereby discharging the wastewater after washing into the wastewater tank 5. The wastewater tank 5 is, for example, detachably connected to the pot body 7, so that the wastewater tank 5 can be removed from the pot body 7 for easy wastewater treatment and cleaning. The upper drain pipe 17a of the drain pipe 17 is, for example, provided with the washing chamber 11 in the cover 6, and the lower drain pipe 17b is provided inside the pot body 7. When the cover 6 is closed to the pot body 7, the upper drain pipe 17a and the lower drain pipe 17b are connected, thereby connecting the washing chamber 12 to the wastewater tank 5. For example, the outlet of the upper drain pipe 17a faces downward, and the inlet of the lower drain pipe 17b faces upward, so that the outlet and inlet are opposite each other when the cover 6 is closed to the pot body 7.

[0119] The storage container 3 includes a storage bin 18 for storing solid food ingredients and a base 19. The internal space of the storage bin 18 is formed as a storage cavity 20. A storage bin cover 21 is provided on the top of the storage bin 18, which can be opened and closed. The storage bin 18 is detachably / removably mounted on the base 19, allowing it to be removed for filling with food ingredients and for cleaning. Optionally, the base 19 is configured to have a storage cavity 30, and at least the bottom of the storage bin 18 is located within the storage cavity 30. Concealing the unsightly bottom portion of the storage bin 18 simplifies the external structure of the product and improves its visual appeal.

[0120] The storage chamber 20 is connected to the washing chamber 12 via a feeding pipe 22. The cooking apparatus 1 also includes, for example, a feeding device for transferring solid food ingredients from the storage chamber 20 to the washing chamber 12 via the feeding pipe 22. The feeding device is configured to use airflow to transfer the food ingredients. The feeding device is, for example, an extraction device 23 (e.g., a fan, air pump, etc.) to transfer the food ingredients using negative pressure. The extraction device 23 is connected to the washing chamber 12 via an intake pipe 24, and the feeding device is connected to an exhaust pipe 25 for venting exhaust to the external environment. The extraction device 23 is located within the cover 6 along with the washing chamber 11, and the intake pipe 24 is relatively short.

[0121] To save on piping, the cooking appliance 2 is arranged adjacent to the storage container 3 in the horizontal direction, for example, they are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction. The first direction is, for example, the left-right direction. The cooking appliance 2 and the storage container 3 can also be arranged adjacent to each other along a second direction. The second direction is, for example, the front-back direction. The storage container 3 is adjacent to and arranged side by side with the cooking appliance 2 in the horizontal direction. The storage container 3 is connected to the cooking appliance 2, specifically the base 19 is connected to the pot body 7, thus forming a whole.

[0122] It should be noted that the directions "up," "down," "front," "back," "left," and "right" in this application refer to the directions defined by the cooking device 1 when it is in its normal position and the lid 6 is closed over the pot body 7. The terms "front" and "back" as used herein are based on the user's position when using the cooking device 1. Specifically, the direction in which the cooking device 1 faces the user is defined as "front," and the opposite direction is defined as "back."

[0123] Understandably, the cooking apparatus 1 also includes a control device, and the electrical control components of the cooking apparatus 1 (such as the heating device 10, water pump, fan, etc.) all operate under the control of the control device.

[0124] The workflow of cooking device 1 typically includes the following steps:

[0125] Step 1: Adding ingredients. The cooking device 1 uses the suction device 23 and the feeding pipe 22 to transport a certain amount of ingredients from the storage chamber 20 to the washing chamber 12, and then stops the suction device 23.

[0126] The second step is washing the ingredients. The water pump is controlled to add a certain amount of clean water to the washing chamber 12, and then the washing device 13 in the washing chamber 12 is driven to work (e.g., rotate) to wash the ingredients.

[0127] Step 3: Drainage. After the washing process is completed, the washing device 13 is stopped, and the wastewater is discharged into the sewage tank 5 through the drain pipe 17.

[0128] Step 4: Discharge. After washing and draining, connect the washing chamber 12 to the cooking chamber 9. The ingredients in the washing chamber 12 can fall into the cooking chamber 9 by their own weight.

[0129] Because the washing chamber 12 has a limited volume, the control device calculates the number of feeding cycles based on the amount of food set by the user, and repeats steps one to four above until the amount of food in the cooking chamber 9 reaches the user's required amount. When the suction device 23 is used for feeding, under stable airflow conditions, the amount of food fed is basically proportional to the suction time.

[0130] Step 5: Add water. Based on the cooking function set by the user, calculate the amount of water needed for cooking and control the water adding device to add water to the cooking chamber 9 through the washing chamber 12 (that is, water first enters the washing chamber 12 and then enters the cooking chamber 9).

[0131] Step 6: Cooking. Control the heating device 10 according to the cooking program to complete the cooking process.

[0132] Understandably, all of the above steps are performed when the lid 6 closes the pot body 7. Therefore, the cooking device 1 provided in this application is a fully automatic cooking device 1, which allows users to easily complete the entire rice cooking process with just one button operation or remote operation.

[0133] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the washing chamber 11 includes a washing chamber sidewall 26 and a washing chamber bottom cover 27 that surround the washing cavity 12. The washing chamber bottom cover 27 is movable relative to the washing chamber sidewall 26 in an axial direction (e.g., vertical direction). A drain pipe 17 is connected to the washing chamber sidewall 26. The washing chamber sidewall 26 is provided with a drain outlet 81 that communicates with the drain pipe 17. During the vertical movement of the washing chamber bottom cover 27, when it is above the drain outlet 81, the washing chamber 11 can perform washing operations; when it is below the drain outlet 81 but has not left the washing chamber sidewall 26, the washing chamber 11 can perform drainage operations; when it is completely away from the washing chamber sidewall 26, the bottom of the washing chamber 11 is open, allowing the ingredients and water in the washing chamber 11 to enter the pot 8, and the washing chamber 11 can perform the operations of discharging ingredients and adding water to the cooking cavity 9.

[0134] A washing drive device 28 is also provided inside the cover 6. The washing drive device 28 is used to drive the washing device 13 to perform the washing action. The washing device 13 is rotatably disposed in the washing chamber 11, for example, the washing device 13 is constructed as a stirring element. The washing drive device 28 is mounted on the liner 14 and is located on the rear side of the washing chamber 11. The washing drive device 28 is capable of driving the washing device 13 to rotate within at least the washing chamber 11 and to move the bottom cover 27 of the washing chamber. Optionally, the washing device 13 is connected to the bottom cover 27 of the washing chamber and moves up and down together with the bottom cover 27 of the washing chamber.

[0135] In this application, the washing chamber 12 and the cooking chamber 9 are both places used for processing solid food ingredients, and are also referred to as processing chambers. The washing bin 11 and the inner pot 8 are corresponding processing bins. The washing device 13 can be understood as the processing device in the washing bin 11. The processing bin may also include, for example, a grinding bin for grinding and crushing food ingredients, and the processing device in the grinding bin may be, for example, a crushing device.

[0136] More broadly, the processing chamber is also a type of container 29 used for at least temporary storage of food ingredients. Correspondingly, the washing chamber 11 and the inner pot 8 are containers used for at least temporary storage of food ingredients. The containers can be used to process food ingredients, i.e., used as processing chambers; or they can be used only for temporary storage of food ingredients, i.e., used as transfer chambers. In the illustrated embodiment, the cooking apparatus 1 is described using the washing chamber 11 for washing food ingredients as an example. However, the containers can also be used for other functions.

[0137] In some embodiments not shown, the cooking device 1 uses pre-washed ingredients, such as pre-rinsed rice, thus the cooking appliance 2 does not need a washing chamber 11. The vacuum device 23 directly transports the solid ingredients from the storage chamber 20 to the cooking chamber 9. The clean water in the clean water tank 4 is used only for cooking and is directly sent into the cooking chamber 9. The above working steps also eliminate the processes of washing, draining, and unloading. The cooking device 1 may also omit the wastewater tank 5. The washing chamber 11 can be replaced, for example, with a grinding chamber. Of course, the cooking device 1 can also have both a washing chamber 11 and a grinding chamber. In other embodiments not shown, the cooking chamber 9 is also used for washing ingredients, so the cooking appliance 2 does not need a separate washing chamber 11. In this case, the clean water tank 4 is connected to the cooking chamber 9 through a clean water pipe extending inside the cover 6.

[0138] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the feeding pipe 22 includes a first feeding pipe 31 located in the storage container 3 and a second feeding pipe located in the cooking appliance 2. The second feeding pipe is disposed in the cover 6 to facilitate connection with the washing chamber 12 in the cover 6. Each of the first and second feeding pipes provides at least one pipe section, each pipe section having openings at both ends, which are connected by an internal channel (cavity), and all channels form a feeding channel. When the cover 6 is in the closed position, the first and second feeding pipes can dock and communicate. Exemplarily, the outlet of the first feeding pipe 31 is located on the side of the storage container facing the cooking appliance 2, and the inlet of the second feeding pipe is located on the side of the cover 6 facing the storage container.

[0139] The storage bin 18 includes a bin wall 33 forming a storage cavity 20. The bin wall 33 includes a side wall 34, a bottom wall 35, and an inclined guide wall 36. The side wall 34 is arranged substantially vertically, the bottom wall 35 is arranged substantially horizontally, and the guide wall 36 is inclined relative to the vertical direction and located between the side wall 34 and the bottom wall 35. During feeding, solid food materials flow towards the bottom wall 35 under the guidance of the guide wall 36. The bottom wall 35 of the storage bin 18 / storage cavity 20 is provided with an air inlet 38, and the inlet of the first feeding pipe 31 is adjacent to the air inlet 38. When the food materials are transported by wind power, wind can enter the storage bin 18 from the air inlet 38 and flow into the first feeding pipe 31, thereby causing the food materials at the air inlet 38 to flow together.

[0140] Optionally, the storage device 3 also includes a flow guide chamber 37 connected to the storage bin 18. The internal spaces of the storage bin 18 and the flow guide chamber 37 are connected to form a storage cavity 20. In this case, the air inlet 38 is located on the bottom wall 35 of the flow guide chamber 37. The inlet of the first feeding pipe 31 is adjacent to or located inside the flow guide chamber 37, so that solid food can be easily drawn into the first feeding pipe 31 by the airflow inside the flow guide chamber 37.

[0141] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 13As shown, the washing drive device 28 is connected to the washing device 13 via a transmission assembly. The transmission assembly includes a gear transmission assembly 39 and a sleeve transmission assembly 40. The gear transmission assembly 39 is mainly located outside the washing chamber 11 and is connected to the washing drive device 28, while the sleeve transmission assembly 40 is mainly located inside the washing chamber 11 and is connected to the washing device 13. Optionally, the gear transmission assembly 39 includes at least three gears. Specifically, the drive shaft of the washing drive device 28 faces upward, and a first gear is sleeved on the drive shaft. At least one second gear is rotatably mounted on the liner 14. A third gear is rotatably mounted on the washing chamber 11 and located on top of the washing chamber 11. A second gear and a third gear are separably coupled, and after coupling, the second gear and the third gear are coaxially arranged, and the third gear can rotate together with the second gear. The third gear meshes with the teeth of the sleeve transmission assembly 40, and the sleeve transmission assembly 40 can partially move up and down in a straight line to drive the washing device 13 to move up and down in a straight line.

[0142] The air extraction device 23 may include an impeller 50, an electric actuator 51 for driving the impeller 50 to rotate, and a housing 52. The rotation of the impeller 50 generates wind to create airflow, which creates negative pressure within the washing chamber 12, thereby transferring food ingredients from the storage chamber 20 to the washing chamber 12. The electric actuator 51 is located above and connected to the impeller 50. The electric actuator 51 includes a housing, a motor, and a circuit board. The motor and circuit board are located inside the housing, with the circuit board located above the motor. The electric actuator 51 is located outside and fixed to the housing 52, while the impeller 50 is located inside the housing 52 and rotatable relative to it. Figure 5 and Figure 16 The location of the impeller 50 is schematically shown, but the structure of the impeller 50 is not shown. It can be understood that the impeller 50 is a conventional impeller with multiple blades.

[0143] like Figure 7 As shown, the housing 52 can be constructed as a volute. An air inlet 53 is located at the bottom of the housing 52, and an air outlet 54 is located on the side of the housing 52. The exhaust device 23 uses bottom air intake and side air outlet. Water entrained in the airflow is thrown out from the side air outlet 54 by the centrifugal force of the impeller 50, further preventing water from flowing into the top electric actuator 51. The exhaust device 23 of this application can be, for example, a fan, which is inverted so that the electric actuator 51 is at the top and the air inlet 53 is at the bottom.

[0144] The inlet of the suction pipe 24 can communicate with the washing chamber 12, and the outlet of the suction pipe 24 can communicate with the air inlet 53. The air outlet 54 is connected to the exhaust pipe 25. The suction pipe 24 is located outside the rear side of the washing chamber 11, for example, the suction pipe 24 is located at the front side of the washing chamber 11. The exhaust device 23 can be located outside the rear side of the washing chamber 11, for example, the exhaust device 23 is located at the front side of the washing chamber 11, and is partially located at the front corner of the cover 6. The exhaust pipe 25 extends rearward from the air outlet 54, and the end of the exhaust pipe 25 away from the air outlet 54 can be provided with an exhaust port 48 or connected to a waste gas treatment device 44 having an exhaust port 48, such as an ash collection box or a silencer.

[0145] Existing automatic cooking devices 1 generally have a feeding device at the bottom of the washing chamber 11. In order to distribute the ingredients as evenly as possible in the center of the inner pot 8 during feeding, the center of the washing chamber 11 is usually located at the center of the lid 6, and the center of the washing chamber 11 is located at the center of the inner pot 8. Although some food processors also have a processing chamber with a feeding device offset from the center of the lid 6, the offset is to align the feeding port of the feeding device with the center of the inner pot 8.

[0146] This application features an eccentric design for the washing bin 11. Specifically, the washing bin 11 is positioned eccentrically relative to the centerline of the cover 6. This eccentric design is intended to adjust the arrangement of the washing bin 11 on the cover 6, achieving a compact layout and reducing the volume of the cover 6; it is not for adjusting the material discharge position. The eccentric design of the washing bin 11 is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the cover 6 has a center line CL1 extending vertically, and the washing bin 11 has a center line CL2 extending vertically. The washing bin 11 is disposed on the center line CL1 of the cover. The center line CL2 of the washing bin is offset relative to the center line CL1 of the cover in a first direction and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Both the first and second directions are horizontal.

[0147] By setting the washing bin 11 off-center from the centerline of the cover 6, the space occupied by the washing bin 11 on the off-center side of the cover 6 is increased, while more space is available on the non-off-center side. The arrangement of devices and components within the cover 6 is optimized due to the off-center setting of the washing bin 11, allowing for a more rational and compact arrangement of other devices and / or components on the cover 6. This optimizes the utilization of the space in the cover 6, reduces its size, facilitates product miniaturization, and improves the user experience. This application breaks with the conventional design of placing the washing bin 11 in the exact center of the cover 6, providing a new approach and design for optimizing the space in the cover 6.

[0148] The cover body 6 has a cover body transverse center line CL12 extending in the first direction and passing through the cover body center line CL1, and a cover body longitudinal center line CL11 extending in the second direction and passing through the cover body center line CL1. Optionally, for the illustrated embodiment, the first direction is the left - right direction, and the second direction is the front - back direction. In this application, the illustrated embodiment is taken as an example for description. The cover body transverse center line CL12 is along the left - right direction, and the cover body longitudinal center line CL11 is along the front - back direction. The material washing bin 11 can deviate from the cover body center line CL1 in the first direction of the cover body 6. Thus, the spatial layout of each device including the material washing bin 11 can be adjusted in the first direction, improving the space utilization rate of the cover body 6 in the first direction.

[0149] Optionally, the offset distance D1 from the material washing bin center line CL2 to the cover body longitudinal center line CL11 is 0mm < D1 ≤ 40mm. The offset distance D1 can be appropriate values such as 1mm, 5mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 35mm, 40mm, etc. The eccentricity distance of the material washing bin 11 is preferably less than or equal to 40mm, which can ensure that the material discharge port of the material washing bin 11 corresponds to the area where the pot mouth of the pot liner 8 is located, and can also appropriately reduce the size of the cover body 6 in the first direction / or the width dimension of the cover body 6.

[0150] The material washing bin center line CL2 is arranged on the first side closer to the storage appliance 3 of the cover body longitudinal center line CL11. For the illustrated embodiment, the storage appliance 3 is located on the left side of the cooking appliance 2, and the first side here is the left side; alternatively, the storage appliance 3 is located on the right side of the cooking appliance 2, and the first side here is the right side. The material washing bin 11 can be closer to the storage appliance 3. Thus, the feeding pipeline 22 between the material washing bin 11 and the storage bin 18 can be set shorter, reducing the length of the feeding pipeline 22, which is beneficial to reducing the working energy consumption of the air extraction device 23, having a lower power demand for the air extraction device 23, and thus reducing the cost of the air extraction device 23.

[0151] The feeding pipeline 32 inside the cover (i.e., the second feeding pipeline 22 above) is arranged on the cover body 6 and connected to the material washing bin 11. The feeding pipeline 32 inside the cover is arranged on the first side of the cover body longitudinal center line CL11. The feeding pipeline 32 inside the cover is on the eccentric side of the cover body longitudinal center line CL of the material washing bin 11. The length of the feeding pipeline 32 inside the cover on the cover body 6 is shorter, which is beneficial to reducing the working energy consumption of the air extraction device 23, having a lower power demand for the air extraction device 23, and thus reducing the cost of the air extraction device 23; the feeding pipeline 32 inside the cover occupies less space on the cover body 6.

[0152] The in-lid feeding pipe 32 is arranged on the rear side of the washing hopper 11. The in-lid feeding pipe 32 occupies the space of the cover 6 on the rear side of the washing hopper 11, rather than on the left-right side of the washing hopper 11. Therefore, the offset distance of the washing hopper 11 can be designed to be larger. The in-lid feeding pipe 32 is arranged along the first direction (i.e., the left-right direction), so that the in-lid feeding pipe 32 can be easily connected to the storage hopper 18 located on the side of the cover 6 in the first direction. Moreover, the length of the in-lid feeding pipe 32 is shorter, and the space saved is convenient for arranging other devices on the cover 6.

[0153] The inner feeding pipe 32 has a maximum length L1 in the horizontal direction. This maximum length L1 is 40mm to 60mm, such as 40mm, 45mm, 50mm, 55mm, 60mm, etc.

[0154] The centerline CL2 of the washing hopper is positioned in front of the transverse centerline CL12 of the cover, meaning the washing hopper is eccentrically positioned forward. The increased space behind the washing hopper 11 is used to house the feed pipe 32 inside the cover and the washing drive device 28, and avoids interference with the pivot structure at the rear end of the cover 6. The space in front of the washing hopper 11 can be used to house the upper drainage pipe 17a, the air extraction device 23, and pipes connected to the air extraction device 23.

[0155] Alternatively, if needed and / or desired, the centerline CL2 of the washing hopper is positioned behind the transverse centerline CL12 of the cover, i.e., the washing hopper 11 is offset backward. The positions of the washing hopper 11, the in-cover feeding pipe 32, the washing drive device 28, and other devices are adjusted backward.

[0156] As described above, the upper drainage pipe 17a is provided on the cover 6 and connected to the washing bin 11. Optionally, the upper drainage pipe 17a is arranged on the first side of the longitudinal centerline CL11 of the cover. The upper drainage pipe 17a is located on the eccentric side of the longitudinal centerline CL11 of the cover along with the washing bin 11. The length of the upper drainage pipe 17a on the cover 6 can be set to be shorter, thereby reducing the space occupied by the upper drainage pipe 17a on the cover 6. The saved space is convenient for arranging other devices on the cover 6.

[0157] The cover 6 also includes a steam channel 80 for venting steam. The steam channel 80 is connected to the cooking chamber 9. The steam channel 80 is independently arranged on the second side of the longitudinal centerline CL11 of the cover. The cover 6 has a large space on the non-eccentric side of the washing chamber 11, which can be used to arrange the independent steam channel 80, thus improving the space utilization of the cover 6.

[0158] Alternatively, the steam passage 80 is connected to the upper drain pipe 17a and is arranged together with the upper drain pipe 17a on the first side of the longitudinal centerline CL11 of the cover. Thus, the steam in the cooking chamber 9 can flow sequentially through the washing chamber 12, part of the upper drain pipe 17a and the steam passage 80, and then be discharged to the external environment; and by utilizing the space above the upper drain pipe 17a to arrange the steam passage 80, the horizontal space in the cover 6 for independently arranging the steam passage 80 is reduced, and the saved space is convenient for arranging other devices on the cover 6.

[0159] See Figure 11 The upper drainage pipe has a main pipe section extending in a straight line. The main pipe section is inclined relative to the front-to-back direction. The main pipe section has an axial length L2 along its own central axis in the horizontal direction, which is 35mm to 50mm. For example, suitable values ​​for the axial length L2 are 35mm, 38mm, 40mm, 42mm, 45mm, 48mm, 50mm, etc. The size of the upper drainage pipe 17a can be set to a smaller value, which helps to reduce the space occupied by the upper drainage pipe 17a on the cover 6.

[0160] See Figure 9 The extraction device 23 has an extraction device centerline CL3 extending vertically. The extraction device centerline CL3 and the washing bin centerline CL2 are respectively arranged on both sides of the longitudinal centerline CL11 of the cover. The washing bin 11 can leave more space for the cover 6 on the non-eccentric side. By placing the extraction device 23 on the non-eccentric side of the washing bin 11, the larger space of the cover 6 can be fully utilized, improving the utilization rate of the space of the cover 6 and facilitating the miniaturization of the cover 6.

[0161] The front corner of the cover 6 is rounded, and the air extraction device 23 is arranged at the front corner of the cover 6. By utilizing the space of the rounded corner of the cover 6 to arrange the air extraction device 23, the space of the cover 6 is saved, which helps to improve the space utilization of the cover 6 and make the cover 6 smaller.

[0162] The distance D2 between the exhaust device 23 and the washing hopper 11 is: D2 ≥ 1mm. For example, the distance D2 can be a suitable value such as 1mm, 2mm, 4mm, 6mm, or 8mm. The exhaust device 23 will generate vibration during operation, and the washing hopper 11 will also generate vibration due to water impact during washing. By maintaining a certain distance between the exhaust device 23 and the washing hopper 11, vibration transmission between them can be avoided, thus reducing noise.

[0163] As described above, the suction device 23 is connected to the washing chamber 11 via the suction pipe 24. Optionally, the suction pipe 24 is arranged in front of the lateral centerline CL12 of the lid. The suction pipe 24 is arranged together with the suction device 23 in front of the washing chamber 11, with the interface between the washing chamber 11 and the suction pipe 24 facing forward, avoiding facing the rear, thereby preventing residual water in the washing chamber 11 from flowing back into the suction pipe 24 through this interface during the user's opening of the lid. The exhaust pipe 25 of the suction device 23 extends rearward from the suction device 23 and extends to or beyond the lateral centerline CL12 of the lid. The exhaust port 48 of the exhaust pipe 25 is located at or behind the lateral centerline CL12 of the lid, thereby keeping the exhaust port 48 away from the user, so that the exhaust noise heard by the user is less when the user is in front of the cooking device 1 and the suction device 23 is running.

[0164] When the washing chamber 11 is positioned offset from the front of the lateral centerline CL12 of the cover, the area behind the washing chamber 11 can be increased. Therefore, the washing drive device 28 is arranged behind the washing chamber 11 and occupies the rear area of ​​the cover 6. Positioning the washing drive device 28 at the rear not only makes efficient use of space but also reduces the opening torque, lowering costs and improving the user experience. Because the washing drive device 28 is relatively heavy, its rearward placement shifts the center of gravity of the entire cover 6 backward, further reducing the opening torque.

[0165] The washing drive device 28 is arranged along the first direction, i.e., along the left-right direction. Optionally, the length of the washing drive device 28 is 110mm to 125mm. The washing drive device 28 is relatively long, and the space of the cover 6 in the first direction is used to arrange the washing drive device 28 to avoid increasing the size of the cover 6 in the second direction.

[0166] See Figure 11 The cover 6 includes a washing system 78 and has a washing system area R1. The cover 6 includes a ventilation system 79 and has a ventilation system area R2. The cover 6 includes a steam passage 80 and has a steam passage area R3. Figure 11 The washing system area R1, the air system area R2, and the steam passage area R3 are roughly outlined with dashed lines. The washing system 78 is located in the washing system area R1 and mainly includes the washing chamber 11, the inner feeding pipe 32, and the upper drainage pipe 17a. The projection of the cover 6 onto the horizontal plane is the planar area of ​​the cover 6, and the projection of the washing system area R1 onto the horizontal plane is the planar area of ​​the washing system 78. The proportion of the planar area of ​​the washing system 78 within the planar area of ​​the cover 6 can be 20% to 40%, for example, suitable values ​​such as 20%, 22%, 24%, 26%, 28%, 30%, 35%, and 40%. The washing system 78 occupies a large horizontal area of ​​the cover 6, and the volume of the washing chamber 12 can meet the requirements of washing the food in one go.

[0167] The wind system 79 is located in the wind system area R2 and mainly includes an exhaust device 23, an intake pipe 24, and an exhaust pipe 25. The projection of the wind system area R2 onto the horizontal plane is the planar area of ​​the wind system 79. The proportion of the planar area of ​​the wind system 79 within the planar area of ​​the cover 6 can be 15% to 35%, such as suitable values ​​like 15%, 18%, 20%, 22%, 24%, 26%, 28%, 30%, and 35%. The proportion of the wind system 79 occupying the planar area of ​​the cover 6 is moderate, and the dimensions of the exhaust device 23 and its connected pipes can meet the needs of wind-powered transport of food.

[0168] The steam passage 80 is located in the steam passage area R3. The projection of the steam passage area R3 onto the horizontal plane is the steam passage 80 planar area. The proportion of the steam passage 80 planar area within the planar area of ​​the cover 6 can be 2% to 5%, such as 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5%, 5%, etc. The steam passage 80 occupies a small proportion of the planar area of ​​the cover 6, and the cross-section of the steam passage 80 meets the requirement of smoothly venting the steam from the cooking cavity 9.

[0169] The inner pot 8 has a center line CL4 extending vertically, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the top of the inner pot 8 is configured to taper towards the centerline CL4 of the inner pot, for example, in a spherical kettle. This allows the inner pot 8 to be positioned closer to the storage container 3, reducing the overall size of the machine in the first direction, i.e., the overall width, which is beneficial for product miniaturization. See also Figure 9 and Figure 10 The centerline CL2 of the washing hopper deviates from the centerline CL4 of the boiler liner. Figure 9 The centerline CL4 of the inner pot is defined by a reference circle Cr, which is concentric with the pot rim circle. Alternatively, the centerline CL2 of the washing bin overlaps with the centerline CL4 of the inner pot. The washing bin 11 is eccentric relative to the centerline CL4 of the inner pot or located at the exact center of the inner pot 8. The positions of the washing bin 11 and the inner pot 8 can be set independently, with the discharge port of the washing bin 11 corresponding to the pot rim area of ​​the inner pot 8. Setting the washing bin 11 eccentric relative to the centerline CL4 of the inner pot allows for more even material distribution, preventing food from piling up in the central area of ​​the inner pot 8.

[0170] like Figure 12As shown, the cooking device 1 also includes a power board 57 and a fan 60 located below the power board 57. The power board 57 is equipped with a heating element 58 and a heat dissipation structure 59. The power board 57 and the fan 60 are located within the hopper cavity 40, with the fan 60 located below the guide wall 36. The fan 60 dissipates heat from the power board 57. Specifically, the base 19 is provided with a partition plate 62, which forms a partition cavity 61. The power board 57 and the fan 60 are located within the partition cavity 61. By utilizing the inclined space below the guide wall 36 to house the fan 60, space utilization can be improved, reducing the overall size and volume of the machine. Simultaneously, the inclined partition plate 62 guides airflow to dissipate heat from the power board 57.

[0171] like Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown, the cover 6 is provided with a first airflow channel 66. The washing chamber 12 is connected to the suction pipe 24 through the first airflow channel 66. The first airflow channel 66 is provided with an upward-facing interface 67, and the inlet end of the suction pipe 24 passes through the interface 67. Water blocked in the suction pipe 24 can flow back from the inlet end to the first airflow channel 66 and accumulate in the first airflow channel 66 to prevent water from flowing back into the washing chamber 12 and contaminating the washing chamber 12.

[0172] As described above, the washing chamber 11 is configured to be removed from the cover 14 along with the removable cover assembly 16. Specifically, the removable cover assembly 16 may include an inner cover 45 and a pot opening sealing ring 46. The pot opening sealing ring 46 is connected to the outer periphery of the inner cover 45. The lower surface of the inner cover 45 forms the cooking cavity 9. The washing chamber 11 is connected to the inner cover 45. A first airflow channel 66 is provided in the washing chamber 11; in other words, the structure forming the first airflow channel 66 is connected to the washing chamber 11. The structure forming the first airflow channel 66 is also removed along with the removable cover assembly 16, thereby allowing the first airflow channel 66 to be cleaned and the accumulated water removed.

[0173] The inlet end of the suction pipe 24 is connected to and exits from the upper side of the interface 67. When the removable cover assembly 16 is disassembled, the washing bin 11 is removed together with the removable cover assembly 16, and the suction pipe 24 is detached from the interface 67 so that the suction pipe 24 is held on the liner 14. When the removable cover assembly 16 is installed, the inlet end of the suction pipe 24 automatically connects to the interface 67.

[0174] The cover 6 also includes a base plate 68 and a channel member 69. The base plate 68 is located on the upper side of the removable cover assembly 16 and is connected to the inner cover 45. Optionally, the base plate 68 is annular in shape. The outer periphery of the base plate 68 abuts against the outer periphery of the pot opening sealing ring 46 and / or the inner cover 45. The base plate 68 covers substantially the entire upper side surface of the removable cover assembly 16. The inner periphery of the base plate 68 is connected to the bottom of the washing chamber sidewall 26. If needed and / or desired, the base plate 68 is located on one side of the washing chamber 11, and the base plate 68 covers a portion of the inner cover 45. The side of the channel member 69 is connected to the washing chamber sidewall 26, and the bottom of the channel member 69 is connected to the base plate 68. The washing chamber sidewall 26, the channel member 69, and the base plate 68 form a first airflow channel 66. By utilizing the washing chamber sidewall 26 and the base plate 68 to form a partial first airflow channel 66, the internal structure of the cover 6 is reduced, the space of the cover 6 is saved, and the miniaturization of the cover 6 is facilitated.

[0175] The interface 67 is provided on the channel member 69. Specifically, the first airflow channel 66 includes a vertical channel portion and a horizontal channel portion that are connected to each other. The interface 67 is provided on the wall of the channel member 69 for forming the horizontal channel portion.

[0176] Optionally, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the liner 14 has a washing chamber cavity 71. Specifically, the liner 14 includes a liner body 14a and a cavity wall 70. A second feeding pipe, a washing drive device 28, an air extraction device 23, etc., are fixed to the upper side of the liner body 14a. The cavity wall 70 extends upward from the liner body 14a and forms the washing chamber cavity 71. The washing chamber 11 is located inside the washing chamber cavity 71. The washing chamber cavity 71 is adapted to the outside of the washing chamber 11. The washing chamber cavity 71 can position the washing chamber 11 so that it is easier for the user to operate when disassembling and installing the removable cover assembly 16. The washing chamber cavity 71 also restricts the movement of the washing chamber 11 in the horizontal and vertical directions, so that the washing chamber 11 is stably held on the cover 6. Furthermore, the cavity wall 70 can isolate electrical devices (such as the washing drive device 28 and the air extraction device 23) from the washing chamber 11. This prevents water from accidentally flowing out of the washing bin 11 and affecting the electrical equipment.

[0177] Optionally, the external height of the washing hopper cavity can be 70mm to 80mm. The external cross-sectional area of ​​the washing hopper cavity can be 5000mm². 2 ~6500mm 2 For example, an external cross-sectional area of ​​5000 mm² 2 5200mm 2 5500mm 2 5800mm 2 6000mm 2 6200mm 2 6500mm2 The washing chamber occupies a moderate amount of internal space within the cover, and its volume is sufficient to meet the requirements for washing a single batch of food. For example, the above dimensions can be obtained based on a maximum washing capacity of 100g.

[0178] The cover 14 also has a channel cavity 72, specifically, the cavity wall 70 also forms a channel cavity 72. The structure forming the first airflow channel 66, i.e., the channel member 69, is located within the channel cavity 72. The channel cavity 72 is adapted to the outside of the channel member 69. The channel cavity 72 can position the channel member 69 so that it is easier for the user to operate when removing and installing the removable cover assembly 16. The channel cavity 72 also restricts the movement of the channel member 69 in the horizontal and vertical directions, so that the channel member 69 is stably held on the cover 6 together with the washing bin 11.

[0179] The inlet end of the suction duct 24 can be connected to the liner 14. Optionally, the suction duct 24 includes a fitting 73a with an inlet end connected to the liner 14. The aforementioned flexible tube 73b can be fitted onto the other end of the fitting 73a opposite to the inlet end, thereby forming the suction duct 24. The suction duct 24 has a more robust and reliable structure, and its assembly is easier.

[0180] like Figure 16 As shown, the liner 14 is also provided with an air inlet channel 64. The air inlet channel 64 is located below the exhaust device 23. The suction pipe 24 is connected to the air inlet 53 of the exhaust device 23 via the air inlet channel 64. Thus, after the impeller 50 stops operating, the water remaining on the impeller 50 will accumulate in the air inlet channel 64. When the exhaust device 23 starts operating again, the water accumulated in the air inlet channel 64 will be thrown out from the air outlet 54 with the airflow, further preventing water from entering the electric drive 51. The outlet end of the suction pipe 24 is connected to the side wall of the air inlet channel 64. Specifically, the liner 14 includes an air inlet channel wall 65, which extends upward from the liner body 14a and forms the air inlet channel 64 with the liner body 14a. The outlet end of the suction pipe 24 is connected to the vertically extending side wall of the air inlet channel wall 65. Optionally, the intake passage wall 65 is provided with annular ribs, and the flexible tube 73b is sleeved on the annular ribs.

[0181] Optionally, the overall height of the air intake channel 64 and the air extraction device 23 is 50-70 mm, which can avoid increasing the thickness of the cover.

[0182] like Figure 7 and Figure 16As shown, the exhaust device 23 also includes a shock absorber 55 and an air inlet seal 56. The shock absorber 55 is located on top of the electric actuator 51, sandwiched between the faceplate 15 and the electric actuator 51. The shock absorber 55 can absorb the vibration of the exhaust device 23, preventing mechanical damage to the exhaust device 23 due to vibration, preventing displacement due to vibration, and reducing noise. The air inlet seal 56 is located between the exhaust device 23 and the air inlet channel wall 65 to form a seal, preventing airflow from leaking out from the installation gap. It also plays a role in fixing the exhaust device 23 and damping vibration, providing a certain degree of vibration reduction for the exhaust device 23. The air inlet seal 56 is made of soft rubber.

[0183] like Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown, the washing bin 11 includes a washing bin top cover 47. The washing bin top cover 47 is coverably disposed on the top of the washing chamber 12, or it can be said to be the top of the washing bin side wall 26. Optionally, the washing bin side wall 26 is cylindrical, and the washing bin top cover 47 is semi-annular. The middle part of the washing bin top cover 47 is used to accommodate the sleeve transmission assembly 40.

[0184] The washing hopper top cover 47 is hollow, and the hollow internal space forms a second airflow channel 74. The washing chamber 12 is connected to the suction pipe 24 through the second airflow channel 74, specifically, the washing chamber 12 is connected to the suction pipe 24 through the second airflow channel 74 and the first airflow channel 66. The bottom wall of the second airflow channel 74 is provided with multiple airflow inlets 75. The multiple airflow inlets 75 are arranged in an array and are close to the center of the washing hopper 11.

[0185] like Figure 16 As shown, the cover 6 includes a steam channel structure for forming a steam channel 80. The steam channel structure mainly includes a steam channel seal 81 and a steam channel cylinder 82. The steam channel seal 81 is installed on the liner 14 and abuts against the inner cover 45. The diameter of the steam channel 80 is at least 30 mm to 50 mm at the steam outlet. The external cross-sectional area of ​​the steam channel structure can be 700 mm². 2 ~2000mm 2 For example, an external cross-sectional area of ​​700 mm 2 900mm 2 1000mm 2 1500mm 2 1800mm 2 2000mm 2 The steam channel 80 occupies a moderate amount of horizontal space in the cover 6, and its cross-section is sufficient to allow steam from the cooking chamber 9 to be discharged smoothly.

[0186] The offset distance of the washing hopper 11 is set as follows: the discharge port of the washing hopper 11 is suitable as long as it does not exceed the opening area of ​​the inner pot 8. For example, the inner pot 8 is designed as a 2L vessel with a diameter of φ150-180mm, and the inner diameter of the washing hopper is φ70mm. Starting from the center of the inner pot 8, the maximum offset distance to the left is the radius of the inner pot 8 minus the radius of the washing hopper 11, i.e., 150 / 2-70 / 2 and 180 / 2-70 / 2, thus the maximum offset distance can be 40-55mm. If a 3L inner pot 8 is used, the calculation is based on a diameter of φ200-240mm. In this case, with a 2L inner pot, the minimum distance from the side wall 34 of the washing hopper to the storage hopper 18 can be set to 20-60mm.

[0187] The sequence of steps in this embodiment can be adjusted, combined, or reduced according to actual needs. The terminal units in this embodiment can be integrated, further divided, or reduced according to actual needs.

[0188] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the application. Features described in one embodiment may be applied, alone or in combination with other features, to another embodiment, unless that feature is not applicable in that other embodiment or is otherwise stated. This application has been described through the above embodiments; however, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only, and this application is not limited to the above embodiments. Many variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this application, and all such variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

Claims

1. A cooking appliance for use in a cooking apparatus having a storage container, the storage container and the cooking appliance being arranged along a first direction, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes: A cover having a center line extending in a vertical direction; and A washing bin is disposed on the cover body, and the washing bin has a center line extending along the vertical direction. The washing bin is located on the center line of the cover body. Wherein, the center line of the washing hopper is misaligned relative to the center line of the cover in the first direction and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

2. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover has a longitudinal centerline extending along the second direction and passing through the centerline of the cover, and the centerline of the washing bin is arranged on the first side of the longitudinal centerline of the cover.

3. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The offset distance D1 between the centerline of the washing hopper and the longitudinal centerline of the cover is 0 mm. <D1≤40mm; And / or, the centerline of the washing bin is arranged on the first side of the cover's longitudinal centerline, closer to the storage device.

4. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes an in-lid feeding pipe, which is located in the lid and connected to the washing chamber. The in-lid feeding pipe is arranged on the first side of the longitudinal center line of the lid.

5. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second direction is the front-to-back direction, and the feed pipe inside the cover is arranged on the rear side of the washing hopper; and / or the feed pipe inside the cover is arranged along the first direction.

6. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner feeding pipe has a maximum length L1 in the horizontal direction, which is 40mm to 60mm.

7. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes an upper drainage pipe, which is located on the cover and connected to the washing compartment. The upper drainage pipe is arranged on the first side of the longitudinal center line of the cover.

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cover includes a steam channel for venting steam, which is connected to the upper drainage pipe and is arranged together with the upper drainage pipe on the first side of the longitudinal centerline of the cover.

9. The cooking utensil according to claim 7, characterized in that, The upper drainage pipe has a main pipe section extending in a straight line, and the main pipe section has an axial length L2 along its own central axis in the horizontal direction, which is 35mm to 50mm.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cover includes a steam channel for venting steam, which is arranged on the second side of the longitudinal centerline of the cover.

11. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first direction is the left-right direction, the second direction is the front-back direction, the cover has a lateral center line extending along the left-right direction and passing through the center line of the cover, and the center line of the washing hopper is arranged in front of the lateral center line of the cover.

12. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes an extraction device, which is configured to use wind power to transport solid food to the washing chamber. The extraction device has a center line extending along the vertical direction, and the center line of the extraction device and the center line of the washing chamber are respectively arranged on both sides of the longitudinal center line of the cover.

13. The cooking utensil according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second direction is the front-to-back direction, the front corner of the cover is constructed with a rounded corner shape, and the air extraction device is arranged at the front corner of the cover; And / or the distance D2 between the air extraction device and the washing hopper is: D2≥1mm.

14. The cooking utensil according to claim 12, characterized in that, The air extraction device is connected to an air suction pipe, and the air extraction device is connected to the washing hopper via the air suction pipe. The air suction pipe is arranged on the front side of the transverse center line of the cover.

15. The cooking utensil according to claim 12, characterized in that, The air extraction device is connected to an exhaust pipe, the second direction being the front-to-back direction, and the exhaust pipe extends backward from the air extraction device and extends to or beyond the transverse centerline of the cover.

16. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes a washing drive device, the second direction being the front-to-back direction, and the washing drive device is arranged on the rear side of the washing chamber and occupies the rear area of ​​the cover.

17. The cooking utensil according to claim 16, characterized in that, The washing drive device is arranged along a first direction; and / or the length of the washing drive device is 110mm to 125mm.

18. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The cover includes a washing system and has a washing system area. The washing system is located in the washing system area and includes the washing bin. The projection of the cover on the horizontal plane is the cover plane area. The projection of the washing system area on the horizontal plane is the washing system plane area. The washing system plane area accounts for 20% to 40% of the area within the cover plane area.

19. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The cover includes a wind system and has a wind system area. The wind system is located in the wind system area. The projection of the cover on the horizontal plane is the cover plane area. The projection of the wind system area on the horizontal plane is the wind system plane area. The wind system plane area accounts for 15% to 35% of the cover plane area.

20. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The cover includes a steam channel and has a steam channel area. The steam channel is located in the steam channel area. The projection of the cover onto the horizontal plane is the cover plane area. The projection of the steam channel area onto the horizontal plane is the steam channel plane area. The steam channel plane area accounts for 2% to 5% of the cover plane area.

21. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The cover includes a liner, the liner having a washing chamber cavity adapted to the washing chamber, the washing chamber being located within the washing chamber cavity, and the external cross-sectional area of ​​the washing chamber cavity being 5000 mm². 2 ~6500mm 2 ; And / or the cover includes a steam channel structure with an external cross-sectional area of ​​700 mm². 2 ~2000mm 2 .

22. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes a pot inner liner having a center line extending in a vertical direction, and the top of the pot inner liner being configured to taper toward the center line.

23. The cooking utensil according to claim 22, characterized in that, The centerline of the washing hopper is deviated from the centerline of the pot, or the centerline of the washing hopper overlaps with the centerline of the pot.

24. A cooking apparatus, characterized in that, The cooking device includes: Storage equipment, including a storage bin for storing solid food ingredients; Cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 23; A feeding pipe, a portion of which is arranged inside the storage bin, and another portion of which is arranged inside the lid of the cooking appliance and connected to the washing bin.

25. The cooking apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, The cooking device also includes a base, which forms a material storage cavity. The material storage cavity includes a bottom wall and an inclined guide wall, which are located within the material storage cavity.

26. The cooking apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that, The cooking device also includes a power board and a fan device located below the power board. The power board and the fan device are located inside the hopper cavity, and the fan device is located below the guide wall.

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