Water tank assembly and steaming appliance

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of kitchen household appliances, and provides a water tank assembly and a steaming appliance. The water tank assembly comprises a water tank, a first plugging structure and a second plugging structure. The water tank is provided with a water storage cavity and a water supplement cavity, the water storage cavity is provided with a water outlet and a water inlet arranged at intervals, the water inlet is arranged at an upper position of the water tank, the water storage cavity and the water supplement cavity are communicated through the water outlet, the water supplement cavity is provided with a water supplement inlet and an air inlet arranged at intervals, and the air inlet is arranged above the water supplement inlet and the water outlet. The first plugging structure is detachably connected to the water inlet. The second plugging structure is movably arranged in the water supplement cavity to switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the second plugging structure blocks the air inlet and the water supplement inlet. In the second state, the second plugging structure opens the air inlet and the water supplement inlet, so that the water supplement cavity is communicated with a steam generation cavity through the water supplement inlet to form a communicating structure. The water tank assembly provided by the application can meet the water supplement without turning over the water tank, and the operation is more convenient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of kitchen appliance technology, and in particular to a water tank assembly and a steaming appliance. Background Technology

[0002] To increase the steam output speed of electric steamers, an independent water tank is usually installed, and the water flow is controlled to encourage a small amount of water to flow to the heating area, thereby achieving rapid boiling.

[0003] In related technologies, the water tank is installed upside down on the base, utilizing the principle of communicating vessels to maintain a relatively small water volume within the steam generation chamber. However, due to the specific assembly method of the water tank, it is necessary to rotate the tank 180 degrees each time water is added, which is not only cumbersome but also poses a risk of leakage. Utility Model Content

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a water tank assembly that not only eliminates the need to rotate the water tank 180 degrees when adding water and reduces the risk of leakage, but also makes operation more convenient and reliable.

[0005] A water tank assembly for a steaming appliance, the steaming appliance including a base assembly with a steam generating chamber, the water tank assembly including a water tank, a first sealing structure and a second sealing structure, the water tank having a water storage chamber and a water replenishment chamber, the water storage chamber having an outlet and a water inlet spaced apart, the water inlet being located at the upper part of the water tank, the water storage chamber and the water replenishment chamber communicating through the outlet, the water replenishment chamber having a water replenishment port and an air inlet spaced apart, the air inlet being located above the water replenishment port and the outlet; the first sealing structure is detachably sealed to the water inlet; the second sealing structure is movably disposed in the water replenishment chamber to switch between a first state and a second state, in the first state, the second sealing structure blocks the air inlet and the water replenishment port, in the second state, the second sealing structure opens the air inlet and the water replenishment port so that the water replenishment chamber communicating with the steam generating chamber through the water replenishment port as a communicating vessel structure.

[0006] Understandably, when the first sealing structure is sealed to the water inlet and the second sealing structure is switched to the second state, water is supplied from the storage chamber to the replenishment chamber through the outlet. Because the first sealing structure is sealed to the water inlet, when the water level in the storage chamber drops to a certain height, a negative pressure is generated within the storage chamber, stopping further water supply and maintaining a lower water level. Since the replenishment chamber and the steam generating chamber are connected via a communicating vessel structure, their water levels remain consistent, thus achieving controlled water volume in the steam generating chamber. As the water level in the steam generating chamber gradually decreases with heating and boiling, the water level in the replenishment chamber also decreases until it falls below the highest point of the outlet. At this point, outside air enters the storage chamber through the outlet, causing the air pressure inside and outside the storage chamber to reach equilibrium. When the water level in the storage chamber drops to a certain height, making water supply insufficient, the second sealing structure can be switched to the first state to seal the air inlet and the replenishment chamber, and then the first sealing structure can be removed to open the water inlet. At this point, water can be added to the storage chamber through the water inlet, and the water added to the storage chamber flows to the replenishment chamber through the water outlet. Since the air inlet and water replenishment port are blocked, the water in the replenishment chamber will not leak through these ports. Because the water inlet is located at the top of the water tank, the water tank does not need to be rotated 180 degrees during the water filling process. Furthermore, the combination of the first sealing structure blocking the water inlet and the second sealing structure blocking the air inlet and water replenishment port facilitates the movement of the water tank assembly after water filling is completed, reducing the risk of leakage during movement and making the operation safer and more reliable.

[0007] In some embodiments, the water inlet is located at the top of the water tank.

[0008] This design eliminates the need to tilt the water tank during water filling, making the operation safer and more reliable; moreover, this design increases the water storage capacity within the water storage chamber.

[0009] In some embodiments, the water tank includes a tank body with a cavity and a baffle plate disposed within the cavity, the baffle plate dividing the cavity into a water storage cavity and a water replenishment cavity, and the water outlet is disposed through the baffle plate.

[0010] Understandably, the use of baffles not only serves to separate different areas of the tank's internal cavity but also increases the structural strength of the water tank.

[0011] In some embodiments, the box body includes a top plate, a middle plate, and a bottom plate, which are arranged vertically from top to bottom at intervals. A portion of the bottom plate protrudes from the top plate and is positioned opposite the middle plate. The partition plate is connected between the middle plate and the bottom plate.

[0012] This design allows the water storage chamber and the water replenishment chamber to share the same bottom plate, which in turn places the water replenishment chamber at a lower position than the water storage chamber, making full use of the space inside the water storage chamber.

[0013] In some embodiments, the water inlet is located on the bottom plate of the tank; and / or, the air inlet is located on the middle plate; and / or, the water filling inlet is located on the top plate of the tank.

[0014] This design not only facilitates manufacturing but also allows the water tank to work in conjunction with the first and second sealing structures, improving the sealing effect.

[0015] In some embodiments, the bottom of the water tank is provided with an assembly portion for limiting and engaging with the base assembly.

[0016] In other words, by utilizing the assembly section, it is easier to position the water tank assembly on the base assembly, thereby maintaining the assembly stability of the water tank assembly and minimizing any offset or wobbling of the water tank assembly relative to the base assembly.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second sealing structure includes a sealing post and a sealing part. The sealing part is connected to the sealing post and includes a first sealing element and a second sealing element arranged at intervals. The first sealing element is used to seal the air inlet, and the second sealing element is used to seal the water inlet. The sealing post is configured to drive the first sealing element and the second sealing element to move synchronously under the action of an external force to switch between the first state and the second state.

[0018] In other words, by installing both the first and second seals on the sealing column, the first and second seals can be controlled simultaneously, thus satisfying the simultaneous opening and closing of the air inlet and water inlet.

[0019] In some embodiments, the air inlet and the water inlet are arranged at axial intervals along the sealing column.

[0020] This setup allows for the simultaneous opening and closing of the air inlet and water inlet by driving the sealing column to move vertically up and down. It is not only easy to operate, but also easier to seal under pressure.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first seal is located outside the water supply cavity, and the second seal is located inside the water supply cavity.

[0022] This design allows the second seal to withstand the water pressure inside the water inlet when it blocks the water inlet. Furthermore, the downward force exerted on the first seal by the sealing column further enhances the sealing effect.

[0023] In some embodiments, an assembly flange protrudes from the edge of the water inlet, and a portion of the sealing post passes through the assembly flange; the second sealing structure further includes a reset member, which is disposed between the assembly flange and the sealing post, and the sealing post can move under the action of the reset member to switch to the first state.

[0024] Understandably, the use of a reset component allows the second sealing structure to automatically reset when not subjected to external force, thus sealing the air inlet and water inlet in a timely manner and reducing the risk of leakage.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first sealing structure includes a sealing cover and a third sealing element. The sealing cover includes a force-applying section and a sealing section connected to the force-applying section. The sealing section is inserted into the water inlet. The third sealing element is sleeved on the outside of the sealing section and is used to press between the sealing cover and the water tank.

[0026] In other words, the cooperation between the sealing section and the third sealing element ensures reliable sealing at the water inlet; and the force application section makes it easy for users to apply force to move the sealing cover.

[0027] This application also provides a steaming appliance, including a base assembly and the aforementioned water tank assembly. The base assembly is provided with a steam generating chamber having a water inlet. The highest height of the water outlet in the water tank assembly is greater than the lowest height of the water inlet. The water replenishment port in the water tank assembly is connected to the water inlet through a connecting channel. The highest height of the connecting channel is not greater than the highest height of the water outlet.

[0028] The steaming appliance provided in this application has the technical effects of any of the above embodiments due to the arrangement of the water tank assembly.

[0029] In some embodiments, the base assembly has a connecting hole that connects to the connection channel, and the wall of the connecting hole has a protruding trigger structure that can move to contact the second sealing structure to switch to the second state.

[0030] In other words, when the water tank assembly is installed on the base assembly, the trigger structure can move to contact the second sealing structure to open the air inlet and water inlet, making operation more convenient. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology 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 these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a water tank assembly provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 2 An exploded view of a water tank assembly provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a water tank assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the second sealing structure in a water tank assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 6 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a section at point B in the middle;

[0038] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a steaming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 8 A partial schematic diagram of a steaming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a steaming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified view of a section at point C;

[0042] Figure 11 A bottom view of a steaming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Reference numerals: 100, water tank assembly; 110, water tank; 111, tank body; 112, baffle plate; 113, assembly flange; 120, first sealing structure; 121, sealing cover; 122, third sealing element; 130, second sealing structure; 131, sealing post; 132, sealing part; 133, reset element; 200, base assembly; 210, assembly area; 220, triggering structure; 230, sealing gasket; 300, connecting channel; 400, steaming rack; 500, pot lid; 600, operating part; 1101, water storage chamber; 11 02. Water supply chamber; 1103. Water outlet; 1104. Water inlet; 1105. Water supply port; 1106. Air inlet; 1107. Assembly section; 1111. Top plate; 1112. Middle plate; 1113. Bottom plate; 1114. First enclosure plate; 1115. Second enclosure plate; 1131. Sealing protrusion; 1211. Force application section; 1212. Sealing section; 1321. First sealing element; 1322. Second sealing element; 1311. Limiting protrusion; 2001. Steam generation chamber; 2002. Water inlet; 2003. Connecting hole. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0045] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to," "set on," or "properly placed on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intermediate component. When a component is considered to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intermediate component present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application's specification are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0046] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0047] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature and the second feature are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used in this application includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0049] Currently, water tanks typically have a storage chamber and a replenishment chamber, connected by an outlet. The replenishment chamber is also connected to the steam generating chamber, forming a communicating vessel structure to maintain the same water level in both chambers. A float is installed within the replenishment chamber, connected to a valve plate used to seal the outlet. The float's rise and fall under the buoyancy of the water adjusts the opening and closing of the valve plate, thus controlling the water flow. However, the need for the float to work with the valve plate makes assembly complex; furthermore, the floats are mostly made of hollow plastic, which can corrode and plasticize under long-term scouring from the return hot water.

[0050] Based on this, related technologies have proposed a method that abandons the float and utilizes pressure changes within the water storage chamber to maintain consistent water levels in the water replenishment chamber and the steam generation chamber. However, this method requires the water tank to be filled with water and then rotated 180 degrees to be installed upside down on the base. This ensures that the top of the water tank forms an area that is not connected to the external environment, thus utilizing this pressure change for water replenishment. This results in the water tank needing to be disassembled and rotated relative to the base each time water is added, which is not only cumbersome but also poses a risk of leakage during the rotation and movement process.

[0051] Therefore, the water tank assembly provided in one embodiment of this application, by utilizing the pressure change within the water storage chamber to maintain consistent water levels in the water replenishment chamber and the steam generation chamber, not only eliminates the need to rotate the water tank 180 degrees during water addition and reduces the risk of leakage, but also makes operation more convenient and reliable. The following is a detailed description of this water tank assembly.

[0052] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 8For example, the water tank assembly 100 is used in a steaming appliance, which includes a base assembly 200 having a steam generating chamber 2001. The water tank assembly 100 includes a water tank 110, a first sealing structure 120, and a second sealing structure 130. The water tank 110 has a water storage chamber 1101 and a water replenishment chamber 1102. The water storage chamber 1101 has an outlet 1103 and a water inlet 1104 arranged at intervals. The water inlet 1104 is located at the upper part of the water tank 110, and the water storage chamber 1101 and the water replenishment chamber 1102 are connected through the outlet 1103. The water replenishment chamber 1102 has an outlet 1105 and an air inlet 1106 arranged at intervals. The air inlet 1106 is located above the outlet 1105 and the outlet 1103. The first sealing structure 120 is detachably and sealingly connected to the water inlet 1104. The second sealing structure 130 is movably disposed in the water supply chamber 1102 to switch between the first state and the second state. In the first state, the second sealing structure 130 seals the air inlet 1106 and the water supply inlet 1105; in the second state, the second sealing structure 130 opens the air inlet 1106 and the water supply inlet 1105, so that the water supply chamber 1102 is connected to the steam generating chamber 2001 through the water supply inlet 1105, forming a communicating vessel structure.

[0053] When the first sealing structure 120 is sealed to the water inlet 1104 and the second sealing structure 130 is switched to the second state, the water storage chamber 1101 replenishes water to the water replenishment chamber 1102 through the water outlet 1103. Since the first sealing structure 120 is sealed to the water inlet 1104, when the water level in the water storage chamber 1101 drops to a certain height, a negative pressure will be generated in the water storage chamber 1101 to stop the water storage chamber 1101 from continuing to replenish water, thereby keeping the water replenishment chamber 1102 at a lower water level. Since the water replenishment chamber 1102 is connected to the steam generating chamber 2001 through the water inlet 1105 as a communicating vessel structure, the water levels in the water replenishment chamber 1102 and the steam generating chamber 2001 are kept consistent, thereby achieving a smaller water volume control in the steam generating chamber 2001. As the water level in the steam generating chamber 2001 gradually decreases due to heating and boiling, the water level in the water replenishment chamber 1102 also gradually decreases until it falls below the highest point of the outlet 1103. At this point, outside air enters the water storage chamber 1101 through the outlet 1103, causing the air pressure inside and outside the water storage chamber 1101 to reach equilibrium. Water from the water storage chamber 1101 then flows to the water replenishment chamber 1102 through the outlet 1103, and water from the water replenishment chamber 1102 flows to the steam generating chamber 2001 through the water replenishment port 1105, until the water level in the water replenishment chamber 1102 is no lower than the highest point of the outlet 1103, i.e., the outlet 1103 is submerged. Negative pressure is then generated again in the water storage chamber 1101, and water replenishment stops.

[0054] like Figures 1 to 3When the water level in the water storage chamber 1101 drops to a certain height, for example, below the highest point of the outlet 1103, the water storage chamber 1101 cannot continue to replenish water. At this time, the second sealing structure 130 can be switched to the first state to seal the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105, and then the first sealing structure 120 can be removed to open the water inlet 1104. Then, water can be added to the water storage chamber 1101 through the water inlet 1104, and the water added to the water storage chamber 1101 will flow to the water replenishment chamber 1102 through the outlet 1103. At this time, because the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105 are in a sealed state, the water in the water replenishment chamber 1102 will not leak through the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105. Meanwhile, since the water inlet 1104 is located at the top of the water tank 110, the water tank 110 does not need to be rotated 180 degrees during the water filling process. Furthermore, with the first sealing structure 120 sealing the water inlet and the second sealing structure 130 sealing the air inlet 1106 and the water supply inlet 1105, it is convenient to move the water tank assembly 100 after the water filling is completed, reducing the risk of water leakage during the movement process, and making the operation safer and more reliable.

[0055] Please see Figures 1 to 3 In some embodiments, the water inlet 1104 is located at the top of the water tank 110. This arrangement makes it easier to add water to the water tank 110, and eliminates the need to tilt the tank during the filling process, making the operation safer and more reliable. Furthermore, this arrangement increases the water storage capacity of the water storage chamber 1101. In some specific embodiments, the water inlet 1104 is located directly above the water storage chamber 1101, meaning the central axis of the water storage chamber 1101 coincides with the central axis of the water inlet 1104. Alternatively, the central axis of the water inlet 1104 can be parallel to the central axis of the water storage chamber 1101, meaning the water inlet 1104 is eccentrically positioned relative to the water storage chamber 1101.

[0056] Alternatively, the water inlet 1104 can be located on the upper side of the water tank 110, meaning the central axis of the water inlet 1104 is angled to the central axis of the water storage chamber 1101. When adding water, the water tank 110 can be slightly tilted to reduce leakage. Alternatively, a guide section can extend from the side of the water tank 110, with the guide section angled and arranged to form a horizontally oriented water inlet 1104. The only requirement is that the water tank 110 does not need to be rotated 180 degrees when adding water; this is merely an example.

[0057] Please see Figures 1 to 4In some embodiments, the water tank 110 includes a tank body 111 with a cavity and a baffle 112 disposed within the cavity. The baffle 112 divides the cavity into a water storage cavity 1101 and a water replenishment cavity 1102, and an outlet 1103 is disposed through the baffle 112. That is, the baffle 112 divides the cavity into two areas, one area serving as the water storage cavity 1101 and the other area serving as the water replenishment cavity 1102. The outlet 1103 is disposed at intervals along the thickness direction of the baffle 112, facilitating the flow of water from the water storage cavity 1101 to the water replenishment cavity 1102. Moreover, the baffle 112 effectively provides a supporting structure within the tank body 111, increasing the structural strength of the water tank 110.

[0058] The partition plate 112 and the tank body 111 can be integrally formed, for example, by injection molding. Alternatively, the partition plate 112 can be bonded to the tank body 111. Or, the partition plate 112 can be screwed to the tank body 111. In this case, a sealing ring or sealing filler can be provided between the partition plate 112 and the tank body 111 to ensure that the water storage chamber 1101 can only communicate with the water supply chamber 1102 through the water outlet 1103. Furthermore, when both the tank body 111 and the partition plate 112 are made of metal, they can be welded together. This is merely an example.

[0059] Please see Figures 1 to 4 In some embodiments, the box body 111 includes a top plate 1111, a middle plate 1112, and a bottom plate 1113, which are arranged vertically from top to bottom at intervals. A portion of the bottom plate 1113 protrudes from the top plate 1111 on the horizontal plane, and the protruding portion is positioned opposite to the middle plate 1112. A baffle 112 connects the middle plate 1112 and the bottom plate 1113.

[0060] In other words, along the vertical direction, the projected area of ​​the bottom plate 1113 is equal to the sum of the projected areas of the top plate 1111 and the middle plate 1112. The space between the bottom plate 1113 and the top plate 1111 serves as the water storage chamber 1101, and the space between the bottom plate 1113 and the middle plate 1112 serves as the water replenishment chamber 1102. The water storage chamber 1101 and the water replenishment chamber 1102 share a single bottom plate 1113. Thus, the water replenishment chamber 1102 is positioned lower than the water storage chamber 1101, resulting in a lower position for the outlet 1103, which facilitates full utilization of the space within the water storage chamber 1101.

[0061] In actual use, the container body 111 also includes a first baffle 1114 and a second baffle 1115. The top of the first baffle 1114 is connected to the top plate 1111 of the container, and the bottom of the second baffle 1115 is connected to the bottom plate 1113 of the container. The bottom of the first baffle 1114 and the top of the second baffle 1115 are connected, and both are connected to the middle plate 1112. The first baffle 1114 and the second baffle 1115 are integrally formed.

[0062] For example, the top panel 1111, the first enclosure panel 1114, the second enclosure panel 1115, the middle panel 1112, and the partition panel 112 can be integrally injection molded, and then the bottom panel 1113 can be connected to the bottom of the second enclosure panel 1115.

[0063] Furthermore, the water inlet 1104 is located on the top plate 1111, the air inlet 1106 is located on the middle plate 1112, and the water replenishment inlet 1105 is located on the bottom plate 1113. Because the top plate 1111, middle plate 1112, and bottom plate 1113 are all horizontally arranged, this configuration is more conducive to manufacturing. The water inlet 1104 can be located in the middle of the top plate 1111, or it can be located on the side of the top plate 1111. The air inlet 1106 can be located in the middle or on the side of the middle plate 1112. The central axis of the air inlet 1106 and the central axis of the water replenishment inlet 1105 can coincide, be parallel, or intersect; this is only an example.

[0064] Alternatively, the water inlet 1104 can also be located at the end of the first enclosure 1114 near the top plate 1111. The water inlet 2002 can also be located at the end of the second enclosure 1115 near the middle plate 1112. The only requirement is that the water inlet 1104 is located at the upper part of the water storage chamber 1101, and the water inlet 2002 is located above the water replenishment inlet 1105 and the water outlet 1103.

[0065] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 Furthermore, the bottom of the water tank 110 is provided with an assembly part 1107 for limiting and engaging with the base assembly 200. In other words, the assembly part 1107 helps to position the water tank assembly 100 on the base assembly 200, thereby maintaining the assembly stability of the water tank assembly 100 and minimizing any offset or wobbling of the water tank assembly 100 relative to the base assembly 200.

[0066] The assembly part 1107 can be an assembly groove. Specifically, the edge of the second enclosure plate 1115 protrudes vertically downward from the bottom plate 1113, thus forming an assembly groove together with the bottom plate 1113. Correspondingly, the base assembly 200 is provided with an assembly protrusion for limiting and engaging with the assembly groove. The assembly protrusion is inserted into the limiting groove, thereby limiting the assembly position of the water tank assembly 100.

[0067] Alternatively, the assembly part 1107 can also be an assembly protrusion. Specifically, an assembly protrusion is provided downward on the side of the bottom plate 1113 opposite to the bottom plate 1113. Correspondingly, the base assembly 200 is provided with an assembly groove, and the positioning is achieved by the interlocking cooperation between the assembly protrusion and the assembly groove. This is only an example.

[0068] Please see Figures 1 to 5 In some embodiments, the second sealing structure 130 can control the simultaneous opening and closing of the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105. The second sealing structure 130 includes a sealing post 131 and a sealing portion 132 connected to the sealing post 131. The sealing portion 132 includes a first sealing element 1321 and a second sealing element 1322, which are spaced apart and sleeved on the outside of the sealing post 131. The first sealing element 1321 is used to seal the air inlet 1106, and the second sealing element 1322 is used to seal the water inlet 1105. The sealing post 131 is configured to drive the first sealing element 1321 and the second sealing element 1322 to move synchronously under the action of external force to switch between the first state and the second state.

[0069] In other words, by installing both the first seal 1321 and the second seal 1322 on the sealing post 131, the first seal 1321 and the second seal 1322 can be controlled simultaneously, satisfying the simultaneous opening and closing of the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105. This configuration not only simplifies the structure but also makes the operation faster and more convenient.

[0070] The first sealing element 1321 and the second sealing element 1322 are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the sealing column 131. When the sealing column 131 moves along its own axial direction toward one end, the first sealing element 1321 and the second sealing element 1322 are pressed against the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105 respectively, thus sealing the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105; that is, switching to the first state. Conversely, when the sealing column 131 moves along its own axial direction toward the other end, the first sealing element 1321 and the second sealing element 1322 are moved away from the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105, thereby releasing the seal and opening the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105; that is, switching to the second state.

[0071] When water is added, because the air inlet 1106 is blocked, when the water in the water replenishment chamber 1102 submerges the highest point of the water outlet 1103, the water replenishment chamber 1102 forms a closed cavity. At this time, the air pressure and water pressure in the area above the water surface of the water replenishment chamber 1102 can reach a state of equilibrium, so that the water in the water storage chamber 1101 will no longer flow into the water replenishment chamber 1102, further ensuring that water will not leak from the air inlet 1106.

[0072] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some specific embodiments, the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105 are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the sealing column 131, that is, the central axis of the air inlet 1106 and the central axis of the water inlet 1105 are coaxial or parallel. Furthermore, since the air inlet 1106 is located above the water inlet 1105, the sealing column 131 can move vertically, enabling the simultaneous opening and closing of the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105. This not only facilitates operation but also makes it easier to apply sealing force.

[0073] The air inlet 1106 and water inlet 1105 are coaxially arranged to ensure uniform force on the first seal 1321 and the second seal 1322. Alternatively, the air inlet 1106 and water inlet 1105 can be eccentrically arranged, meaning their central axes are parallel. The sealing column 131 can have an eccentric section when installing the first seal 1321 to ensure a tight fit between the first seal 1321 and the edge of the air inlet 1106. This is merely an example.

[0074] Furthermore, the first sealing element 1321 is disposed outside the water replenishment cavity 1102, and the second sealing element 1322 is disposed inside the water replenishment cavity 1102. The sealing column 131 moves downward to switch to the first state, and moves upward to switch to the second state. Therefore, in the first state, the first sealing element 1321 is pressed against the air inlet 1106 from the outside of the middle plate 1112, and the second sealing element 1322 is pressed against the side of the water replenishment port 1105 facing the water replenishment cavity 1102. The water in the water replenishment cavity 1102 also exerts downward pressure on the second sealing element 1322, further maintaining the first sealing element 1321 more firmly pressed against the air inlet 1106, thus improving the sealing effect.

[0075] like Figures 3 to 5As shown, in some embodiments, an assembly flange 113 protrudes from the edge of the water inlet 1105, and a portion of the sealing post 131 passes through the assembly flange 113. The second sealing structure 130 also includes a reset member 133, which is disposed between the assembly flange 113 and the sealing post 131. The sealing post 131 can move under the action of the reset member 133 to switch to the first state. That is, by using the reset member 133, the second sealing structure 130 can automatically reset when not subjected to external force, and switch to the first state in a timely manner, which is beneficial for timely sealing of the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105, reducing the risk of water leakage.

[0076] In actual use, the mounting flange 113 has a sealing protrusion 1131 protruding radially inward along the water inlet 1105, and a limiting protrusion 1311 protrudes from the lower end of the sealing post 131. The reset member 133 is pressed between the sealing protrusion 1131 and the limiting protrusion 1311. At the same time, the second sealing member 1322 is pressed into contact with the end face of the sealing protrusion 1131 that is away from the limiting protrusion 1311 to achieve the sealing of the water inlet 1105.

[0077] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 When the water tank assembly 100 is installed on the base assembly 200, the sealing column 131 can move upward, and the limiting protrusion 1311 approaches the sealing protrusion 1131 to compress the reset member 133. Simultaneously, the first sealing member 1321 moves upward away from the middle plate 1112 to open the air inlet 1106, and the second sealing member 1322 moves upward away from the sealing protrusion 1131 to open the water inlet 1105. Conversely, when the water tank assembly 100 is disassembled relative to the base assembly 200, the sealing column 131 moves downward under the action of the reset member 133, causing the first sealing member 1321 to move downward and press against the middle plate 1112 to block the air inlet 1106, and the second sealing member 1322 to move downward and press against the sealing protrusion 1131 to block the water inlet 1105.

[0078] The end of the sealing post 131 that faces away from the second seal 1322 can protrude from the first seal 1321, facilitating the user's gripping and adjustment of the sealing post 131, thereby enabling the switching between the first and second states. This design eliminates the need for a dedicated mating structure, such as a trigger structure, in the base assembly 200 to drive the movement of the sealing post 131. This not only simplifies manufacturing but also facilitates cleaning of the base assembly 200.

[0079] It should be noted that the aforementioned vertical direction refers to the up-down direction in the diagram.

[0080] In some specific embodiments, the reset element 133 is a spring.

[0081] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 10 In some embodiments, the air inlet 1106 has a tapered section on the side facing the first seal 1321, and at least a portion of the first seal 1321 is accommodated in the tapered section and press-fitted with it. That is, the tapered section causes a press-fitted first conical surface to form at the air inlet 1106, and the first seal 1321 also has a correspondingly fitted second conical surface. The surface contact and press-fitting of the first and second conical surfaces increase the sealing performance. Furthermore, the tapered section allows at least a portion of the first seal 1321 to extend into the air inlet 1106, minimizing the size protruding from the middle plate 1112, thereby reducing the risk of the first seal 1321 being affected by collisions or interference from other structures, thus compromising its sealing performance.

[0082] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the first sealing structure 120 includes a sealing cover 121 and a third sealing element 122. The sealing cover 121 includes a force-applying section 1211 and a sealing section 1212 connected together. The sealing section 1212 is inserted into the water inlet 1104, and the third sealing element 122 is sleeved on the outside of the sealing section 1212 for pressing between the sealing cover 121 and the water tank 110.

[0083] Understandably, the third sealing element 122 is used to seal the water inlet 1104; and because part of the sealing cover 121 is inserted into the water inlet 1104, the other part protrudes from the outside of the water inlet 1104, making it easy for the user to hold and move the sealing cover 121. The thickness of the water inlet 1104 can be increased to improve the structural strength of the water inlet 1104. The first sealing structure 120 can be threaded to the hole wall forming the water inlet 1104 on the water tank 110, or it can be plugged into the water inlet 1104. It only needs to be able to provide a detachable sealing connection with the water inlet 1104.

[0084] Please see Figures 7 to 11 One embodiment of this application provides a steaming appliance, including a base assembly 200 and the aforementioned water tank assembly 100. The base assembly 200 is provided with a steam generating chamber 2001 having a water inlet 2002. The water supply port 1105 in the water tank assembly 100 is connected to the water inlet 2002 through a connecting channel 300. The highest height of the connecting channel 300 is not greater than the highest height of the water outlet 1103, and the highest height of the water outlet 1103 is greater than the lowest height of the water inlet 2002. In other words, it is precisely because of the height limitations of the water inlet 2002, the water outlet 1103, and the connecting channel 300 that the steam generating chamber 2001 and the water supply chamber 1102 are connected in a communicating vessel structure, enabling synchronous changes in water levels in both.

[0085] Specifically, by utilizing the change in the water level in the water supply chamber 1102 relative to the highest point of the outlet 1103 and the pressure change in the water storage chamber 1101 under the closed cavity, the water supply chamber 1102 and the steam generating chamber 2001 are kept at the same water level, thereby keeping the steam generating chamber 2001 in a state of low water volume and satisfying the stable control of the water volume in the steam generating chamber 2001. At the same time, with the water inlet 1104 located at the upper position of the water tank 110 and the first sealing structure 120, water can be added without rotating the water tank 110 by 180 degrees; and with the air inlet 1106 and the second sealing structure 130 at the water supply chamber 1102, water leakage from the water supply chamber 1102 is prevented during water addition.

[0086] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the base assembly 200 has an assembly area 210 for mounting the water tank assembly 100, and the assembly area 210 has a connecting hole 2003 communicating with the connecting channel 300. The assembly part 1107 on the water tank assembly 100 is limited and engaged with the assembly area 210, and the water inlet 1105 on the water tank assembly 100 communicates with the connecting hole 2003. Simultaneously, a trigger structure 220 protrudes from the bottom wall of the connecting hole 2003. The trigger structure 220 can move by contacting the second sealing structure 130 to open the air inlet 1106 and the water inlet 1105. The trigger structure 220 surrounds a flow cavity, and one end of it extends away from the water tank assembly 100 to connect with the connecting channel 300. Specifically, when the water tank assembly 100 is installed in the assembly area 210, the trigger structure 220 can move upward by contacting the sealing post 131, causing the first seal 1321 and the second seal 1322 to move to switch to the second state.

[0087] A sealing gasket 230 may be provided on the bottom wall of the connecting hole 2003, and the sealing gasket 230 is sleeved on the outside of the trigger structure 220. The aforementioned assembly flange 113 is pressed onto the sealing gasket 230 to ensure the sealing performance of the connecting hole 2003.

[0088] like Figure 7 As shown, in actual use, the steaming appliance also includes a steaming rack 400 mounted on the base assembly 200 and a pot lid 500 fastened to the steaming rack 400. The base assembly 200 is also provided with an operating part 600, which is convenient for manual operation by the user.

[0089] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0090] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the patent protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A water tank assembly for a steaming appliance, the steaming appliance comprising a base assembly (200) having a steam generation chamber (2001), characterized in that, The water tank assembly (100) includes: A water tank (110) is provided with a water storage chamber (1101) and a water replenishment chamber (1102). The water storage chamber (1101) is provided with an outlet (1103) and a water inlet (1104) arranged at intervals. The water inlet (1104) is located at the upper part of the water tank (110). The water storage chamber (1101) and the water replenishment chamber (1102) are connected through the outlet (1103). The water replenishment chamber (1102) is provided with an outlet (1105) and an air inlet (1106) arranged at intervals. The air inlet (1106) is located above the outlet (1105) and the outlet (1103). The first sealing structure (120) is detachably and sealingly connected to the water inlet (1104); and The second sealing structure (130) is movably disposed in the water supply chamber (1102) to switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the second sealing structure (130) seals the air inlet (1106) and the water supply inlet (1105). In the second state, the second sealing structure (130) opens the air inlet (1106) and the water supply inlet (1105) so that the water supply chamber (1102) is connected to the steam generating chamber (2001) through the water supply inlet (1105) to form a communicating vessel structure.

2. The water tank assembly of claim 1, wherein, The water inlet (1104) is located on the top of the water tank (110).

3. The water tank assembly of claim 1, wherein, The water tank (110) includes: The box body (111) with a cavity; and A baffle (112) is provided in the cavity, which divides the cavity into the water storage cavity (1101) and the water replenishment cavity (1102), and the water outlet (1103) is provided through the baffle (112).

4. The water tank assembly of claim 3, wherein, The box body (111) includes a top plate (1111), a middle plate (1112), and a bottom plate (1113), which are arranged vertically from top to bottom at intervals. A portion of the bottom plate (1113) protrudes from the top plate (1111) and is positioned opposite to the middle plate (1112). The partition plate (112) is connected between the middle plate (1112) and the bottom plate (1113).

5. The water tank assembly of claim 4, wherein, The water inlet (1105) is located on the bottom plate (1113) of the tank; and / or, The air inlet (1106) is located on the middle plate (1112); and / or, The water inlet (1104) is located on the top plate (1111) of the tank.

6. The water tank assembly of claim 1, wherein, The bottom of the water tank (110) is provided with an assembly part (1107) for limiting and cooperating with the base assembly (200).

7. The water tank assembly of claim 1, wherein, The second sealing structure (130) includes: Sealing column (131); and The sealing part (132) is connected to the sealing column (131) and includes a first sealing element (1321) and a second sealing element (1322) arranged at intervals. The first sealing element (1321) is used to block the air inlet (1106), and the second sealing element (1322) is used to block the water inlet (1105). The sealing post (131) is configured to drive the first seal (1321) and the second seal (1322) to move synchronously under the action of external force to switch between the first state and the second state.

8. The water tank assembly of claim 7, wherein, The air inlet (1106) and the water inlet (1105) are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the sealing column (131).

9. The water tank assembly of claim 7, wherein, The first sealing element (1321) is located outside the water replenishment cavity (1102), and the second sealing element (1322) is located inside the water replenishment cavity (1102).

10. The water tank assembly of claim 7, wherein, The water inlet (1105) has a protruding assembly flange (113) at its edge, and part of the sealing column (131) passes through the assembly flange (113). The second sealing structure (130) further includes a reset member (133), which is disposed between the assembly flange (113) and the sealing post (131). The sealing post (131) can move under the action of the reset member (133) to switch to the first state.

11. The water tank assembly of claim 1, wherein, The first sealing structure (120) includes: The sealing cap (121) includes a force-applying section (1211) and a sealing section (1212) connected to the force-applying section (1211), the sealing section (1212) being inserted into the water inlet (1104); and The third sealing element (122) is sleeved on the outside of the sealing section (1212) and is used to press between the sealing cover (121) and the water tank (110).

12. A steaming appliance, characterized in that, include: The base assembly (200) is provided with a steam generating chamber (2001) having a water inlet (2002); and According to any one of claims 1 to 11, the water tank assembly (100) has a maximum height of the outlet (1103) greater than the minimum height of the inlet (2002), and the water supply port (1105) of the water tank assembly (100) is connected to the inlet (2002) through a connecting channel (300), wherein the maximum height of the connecting channel (300) is not greater than the maximum height of the outlet (1103).

13. The vaporizing appliance of claim 12, wherein, The base assembly (200) is provided with a connecting hole (2003) that connects to the connecting channel (300). A trigger structure (220) is provided on the hole wall of the connecting hole (2003). The trigger structure (220) can move to contact the second sealing structure (130) to switch to the second state.

Images