A cooking appliance

Abstract

The application discloses a cooking utensil. The cooking utensil comprises a pot body and a pot liner. The pot body comprises a side heating assembly; the pot liner is arranged in the pot body in a removable manner, an inside of the pot liner forms a cooking cavity for containing food materials, and the pot liner comprises a pot liner bottom and a pot liner side. The side heating assembly surrounds an outer periphery of the pot liner side and forms an annular air flow channel between the pot liner side and the side heating assembly. The side heating assembly comprises an air flow generating device and at least one side heating component. The air flow generating device is used to drive air in the air flow channel to flow around the pot liner side. According to the application, the side heating assembly of the cooking utensil surrounds the outer periphery of the pot liner side, the side heating assembly comprises the air flow generating device, the side heating assembly adopts a hot air convection heating mode, or the function of hot air convection heating is added, and the pot liner side is evenly heated.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] The deliciousness of cooked rice is closely related to temperature uniformity. One way to achieve uniform temperature in the inner pot is through three-dimensional heating, such as placing heating sources at the bottom and sides. Side heating sources typically use side-mounted IH coils. However, these coils need to be positioned away from non-straight-walled pots, preventing them from being equidistant from the pot's sides and resulting in uneven temperature distribution. Furthermore, due to cost considerations, side-mounted IH coils only cover a portion of the inner pot's sides; current models typically have a height of about 30mm-40mm, covering only a small area. When using IH electromagnetic heating, the coil coverage area causes temperature differences. If the bottom or sides of the inner pot are completely covered by the IH coil, these areas directly receive magnetic field induction, generating a large amount of heat; while areas not covered by the coil do not directly receive the magnetic field and therefore have a lower temperature. This also contributes to the uneven temperature distribution on the sides of the inner pot.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to solve the problem of uneven temperature in the side heating system of the inner pot during the current rice cooker heating process. Utility Model Content

[0004] The utility model description section introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This utility model description section 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.

[0005] To at least partially solve the above problems, this application provides a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance comprising:

[0006] The pot body includes a side heating assembly;

[0007] The inner pot is removably installed within the pot body, and its interior forms a cooking cavity for holding food. The inner pot includes a bottom and sides.

[0008] The side heating assembly heats the side of the pot, and the side heating assembly includes an airflow generating device and at least one side heating component. An annular airflow channel is formed between the side heating assembly and the side of the pot, and the airflow generating device is used to drive the air in the airflow channel to flow around the side of the pot.

[0009] According to this application, the cooking appliance is equipped with a side heating element. When the bottom of the inner pot is about to stick, the side heating element can provide sufficient heat to the food to ensure that the rice is cooked and to bring out its aroma, thereby reducing the bottom heating power and preventing the rice from sticking to the pot. The side uses hot air convection heating, which is conducive to uniform side temperature, ensuring that the rice is heated evenly and guaranteeing the cooking quality.

[0010] Optionally, the cooking appliance further includes a barrier mechanism located at the bottom of the airflow channel. The barrier mechanism is in contact with the pot body and the inner pot, and the barrier mechanism, the pot body, and the inner pot form the airflow channel.

[0011] According to this application, the barrier mechanism makes it difficult for heat from the side to transfer to the bottom, which helps to control the temperature of the bottom of the pot within a temperature range that is less likely to cause sticking (preventing starch from solidifying).

[0012] Optionally, the pot body includes a receiving cavity for accommodating the inner pot. When the inner pot is placed in the receiving cavity, the barrier mechanism abuts against and supports the inner pot, so that there is a gap between the flange of the inner pot's rim and the middle plate of the pot body.

[0013] According to this application, when the inner pot is placed in the pot body, the blocking mechanism supports the inner pot, thereby blocking the airflow channel.

[0014] Optionally, the gap is less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0015] According to this application, when the inner pot is placed in the pot body, the inner pot will not protrude too much from the pot body, thus allowing it to make good contact with the sealing ring of the lid and the pot opening.

[0016] Optionally, the barrier mechanism is configured as a sealing ring.

[0017] According to this application, the barrier mechanism is constructed as a sealing ring, which is inexpensive and has a good sealing effect.

[0018] Optionally, the sealing ring is used to surround the outer periphery of the inner pot, the outer periphery of the sealing ring is used to contact the pot body, and the inner periphery of the sealing ring is used to contact the inner pot.

[0019] According to this application, the sealing ring is used to surround the outer periphery of the pot.

[0020] Optionally, the barrier mechanism is disposed at the bottom of the side heating assembly.

[0021] Furthermore, the side heating assembly includes:

[0022] At least one of the side heating elements, the side heating element being used to perform the heating function; and

[0023] A side support component supports the side heating component and surrounds the inner pot. The bottom of the side support component is provided with a protruding structure extending inward in the radial direction. The inner end of the protruding structure is used to contact the inner pot, and the protruding structure forms the barrier mechanism.

[0024] According to this application, the barrier mechanism can be formed on the side heating assembly.

[0025] Optionally, the pot body further includes a bottom heating assembly for heating at least the bottom of the inner pot, the side heating assembly being located above the bottom heating assembly, and the barrier mechanism being disposed on top of the bottom heating assembly.

[0026] Furthermore, the bottom heating assembly includes:

[0027] A bottom heating element, wherein the bottom heating element is used to perform the heating function; and

[0028] A bottom support component supports the bottom heating component. The bottom support component is located at the bottom of the pot body. The top of the bottom support component is provided with a protruding structure for contacting the inner pot. The protruding structure forms the barrier mechanism.

[0029] According to this application, the barrier mechanism can be formed in the bottom heating assembly.

[0030] Optionally,

[0031] The protruding structure extends upward in the axial direction, and its upper end is used to contact the inner pot; or...

[0032] The protruding structure extends radially toward the center of the inner pot, and the inner end of the protruding structure is used to contact the inner pot.

[0033] According to this application, the barrier mechanism can be flexibly formed in the bottom heating assembly.

[0034] Optionally, the outer surface of the inner pot is provided with a radially outwardly extending annular protrusion structure, the protrusion structure being used to contact the pot body, and the protrusion structure forming the barrier mechanism.

[0035] According to this application, the barrier mechanism can be formed on the outer surface of the pot.

[0036] Optionally, the pot body includes a bottom heating assembly for heating at least the bottom of the inner pot, the side heating assembly is located above the bottom heating assembly, and the protruding structure is used to contact the side heating assembly or the bottom heating assembly.

[0037] According to this application, the barrier mechanism installed in the boiler can be flexibly constructed.

[0038] Optionally, the barrier mechanism includes multiple annular ribs.

[0039] According to this application, the heat insulation and air leakage prevention effects of multiple raised ribs are better.

[0040] Optionally, at least a portion of the barrier mechanism is formed on the outer surface of the pot.

[0041] According to this application, constructing a barrier mechanism on the outer surface of the boiler can effectively block the airflow channel.

[0042] Optionally, the cooking appliance further includes an additional temperature sensor disposed on the side heating assembly for sensing the temperature of the side heating assembly or the temperature of the side of the inner pot; and / or

[0043] The side heating assembly is equipped with a temperature control switch and / or a thermal fuse.

[0044] According to this application, an additional temperature sensor helps to accurately control the temperature of the side of the pot. A temperature control switch and / or thermal fuse ensure the safety of side heating.

[0045] Optionally, the height dimension occupied by all the side heating components is greater than or equal to 30 mm.

[0046] According to this application, the side heating element can cover more of the pot's sidewall, which is beneficial for even heating of the side.

[0047] Optionally, the side heating assembly includes a plurality of side heating elements arranged in a vertical direction.

[0048] According to this application, multi-point heating on the side is beneficial for uniform side temperature.

[0049] Optionally, the side heating assembly includes an annular body surrounding the outer periphery of the side of the pot, forming the airflow channel between the annular body and the side of the pot. An airflow generating device is disposed on the outer periphery of the annular body. The annular body has a return air inlet and an air outlet, at least one of the return air inlet and the air outlet being connected to the airflow generating device.

[0050] According to this application, the airflow generating device can easily form an airflow in the airflow channel.

[0051] The airflow generating device includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel. The annular main body is provided with a return air inlet connected to the air inlet channel and an air outlet connected to the air outlet channel.

[0052] According to this application, the hot air flows between the airflow channel and the airflow generating device, that is, it flows inside the cooking appliance, which helps to maintain the hot air at a high temperature and improve heating efficiency.

[0053] Optionally, the airflow generating device includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel, the annular body is provided with an air outlet corresponding to and connected to the air outlet channel, and the air inlet channel and the air return channel are configured to communicate with the external environment.

[0054] According to this application, the airflow can pass through the external environment and then return to the airflow channel.

[0055] Optionally, in a horizontal cross-section of the cooking appliance through the air outlet channel, the acute angle formed between the extending direction of the air outlet channel and the air outlet is less than or equal to 45°.

[0056] According to this application, the channel wall of the air outlet channel guides the airflow along the circumferential direction of the airflow channel, which helps the airflow to flow unidirectionally in the annular path in the airflow channel, thereby making the air temperature uniform in the airflow.

[0057] Optionally, the airflow generating device includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel, the annular body is provided with a return air port corresponding to the air inlet channel, and the air outlet channel and the air outlet are configured to communicate with the external environment.

[0058] According to this application, the airflow can pass through the external environment and then return to the airflow channel.

[0059] Optionally, in the vertical projection of the cooking appliance, the outer shell of the pot body is substantially rectangular or rounded rectangular, and the airflow generating device is located at the corner of the rectangular or rounded rectangular shape.

[0060] According to this application, the airflow generating device is located at the corner of the pot body, making full use of the internal space of the pot body, and the cooking appliance has a compact structure.

[0061] Optionally, the side heating component is disposed in the air inlet channel and / or air outlet channel of the airflow generating device.

[0062] According to this application, the airflow generating device can directly blow hot air, which is beneficial to the uniformity of air temperature in the airflow channel, and the side heating component has a more compact structure.

[0063] Optionally, the annular body is integrally constructed as a heating coil, which is the side heating component.

[0064] According to this application, the heating coil is beneficial for uniform temperature in the airflow channel.

[0065] Optionally, the annular body further includes a side support component, which surrounds the inner pot and forms the airflow channel between the side support component and the inner pot. The side heating component is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the side support component, and the airflow generating device is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the side support component.

[0066] According to this application, the side heating element is mounted on the side support element, thereby allowing the side heating element to employ different heating principles.

[0067] Optionally, the side heating element is a heating element.

[0068] According to this application, the side heating component is inexpensive, has stable performance, and is readily available.

[0069] Optionally,

[0070] The two ends of the heating element are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the annular body, and the airflow generating device is located in the gap between the two ends of the heating element; or

[0071] The airflow generating device is located at the middle part of the heating element along the circumferential direction of the annular body.

[0072] According to this application, the airflow generator and the heating element are staggered, which can prevent the airflow generator from being subjected to high temperatures for a long time, thus affecting its service life. The middle part of the heating element is the part with the highest temperature. Placing the airflow generator at this location can quickly increase the temperature of the air in the airflow channel, thereby improving thermal efficiency.

[0073] Optionally,

[0074] The two ends of the side heating element are close together along the circumferential direction of the annular body, such that the side heating element substantially surrounds the entire circumference of the side of the pot; and / or

[0075] The airflow generating device also includes a baffle plate, which is disposed between the air outlet and the air return port to prevent airflow from flowing between the air outlet and the air return port.

[0076] According to this application, the side heating element can generate heat throughout the entire circumference, which is beneficial for uniform temperature distribution on the sides of the pot. The baffle prevents air flowing out of the air outlet from being immediately drawn back into the air return vent, thus facilitating airflow within the airflow channel.

[0077] Optionally,

[0078] The air outlet is located at the top of the annular body; and / or

[0079] The return air vent is located at the bottom of the annular body.

[0080] Hot air, with its lower density, is located at the top of the airflow channel, while cold air, with its higher density, is located at the bottom. Positioning the air outlet at the top helps the airflow disperse the hot air, which, due to its increased temperature and decreased density, rises and accumulates at the top, to other cooler areas. This contributes to improved temperature uniformity in the side heating system. The return air vent, located at the bottom of the airflow channel, facilitates the diffusion of hot air within the channel, ensuring a more uniform temperature throughout the airflow.

[0081] Optionally, the airflow generating device further includes:

[0082] A housing assembly disposed on the outer peripheral side of the annular body;

[0083] An impeller is disposed on the side of the housing assembly facing the annular body; and

[0084] A motor is located on the side of the housing assembly facing away from the annular body, and is used to drive the impeller to rotate.

[0085] According to this application, the motor is located outside the hot air duct, which can prevent the motor from failing at high temperatures.

[0086] Optionally,

[0087] A heat insulation component is provided between the airflow generating device and the side heating component.

[0088] According to this application, the heat insulation component can prevent the airflow generating device from being subjected to high temperatures for a long time, thus affecting its service life. Attached Figure Description

[0089] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this application, are provided for understanding the application. The drawings illustrate representative embodiments of the application and are used to explain the principles of the application, not to limit it.

[0090] In the attached image:

[0091] Figure 1 This is a side cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to the first embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first example of the inner pot and side heating assembly;

[0093] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A top view of the side heating assembly shown;

[0094] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the side support component;

[0095] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the airflow generating device in the diagram;

[0096] Figure 6 and Figure 7 for Figure 5 The diagram shows an exploded three-dimensional view of the airflow generating device.

[0097] Figure 8 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the additional temperature sensor in the circuit;

[0098] Figure 9 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a second example of the inner pot and the side heating assembly;

[0099] Figure 10 This is a top view schematic diagram of the internal structure of the pot body of a cooking appliance according to a specific embodiment of this application;

[0100] Figure 11 and Figure 12 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a third example of a side heating assembly;

[0101] Figure 13 and Figure 14 for Figure 11 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the airflow generating device in the diagram;

[0102] Figure 15 for Figure 11 3D exploded view of the airflow generating device;

[0103] Figure 16 and Figure 17 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a fourth example of a side heating assembly;

[0104] Figure 18 for Figure 1 A top view of a portion of the structure of a cooking appliance, showing the side heating assembly and bottom heating assembly of the fifth example;

[0105] Figure 19 for Figure 1 A top view of a portion of the structure of a cooking appliance, showing the side heating assembly and bottom heating assembly of the sixth example;

[0106] Figure 20 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the sealing ring in the middle;

[0107] Figure 21 This is a side cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to the first embodiment of this application;

[0108] Figure 22 for Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the side support component of the side heating assembly;

[0109] Figure 23 This is a side cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to the third embodiment of this application;

[0110] Figure 24 for Figure 23 A side sectional view of the bottom heating assembly;

[0111] Figure 25 This is a side cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to the fourth embodiment of this application;

[0112] Figure 26 for Figure 25 A side sectional view of the bottom heating assembly;

[0113] Figure 27 for Figure 26 An enlarged diagram of the X portion;

[0114] Figure 28 for Figure 25 A side sectional view of a partial structure of the bottom heating assembly;

[0115] Figure 29 This is a side cross-sectional view of a cooking appliance according to the fifth embodiment of this application;

[0116] Figure 30 for Figure 29 A side view of the first example of the inner pot in the pot;

[0117] Figure 31 for Figure 29 A side view of the second example of the inner pot;

[0118] Figures 32 to 34 This is a side view of the inner pot of a cooking appliance according to a specific embodiment of this application;

[0119] Figure 35 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a cooking appliance according to a specific embodiment of the present application, showing the inner pot, side heating assembly, and bottom heating assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0120] 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.

[0121] To fully understand this application, a detailed description will be provided in the following description. 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. Obviously, the implementation of the 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, in addition to these detailed descriptions, this application may have other embodiments.

[0122] 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.” The use of words such as “first,” “second,” and “third” does not indicate any order and can be interpreted as names.

[0123] It should be noted that the terms “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0124] In this document, terms such as “equal” and “same” are not strict mathematical and / or geometric limitations, but also include errors that are understandable to those skilled in the art and permissible in manufacturing or use.

[0125] Unless otherwise stated, the numerical ranges in this document include not only the entire range within its two endpoints, but also the subranges contained therein.

[0126] This application discloses a cooking utensil.

[0127] Exemplary embodiments according to this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] like Figure 1As shown, in a specific embodiment, the cooking appliance 100 according to this application may include a pot body 12 and a lid 11. Typically, the pot body 12 is used to heat the inner pot 20, which is a cooking container for holding food. The internal space of the inner pot 20 is a cooking cavity. The pot body 12 may have a cylindrical (or other shaped) receiving cavity 14, from which the inner pot 20 can be freely placed or removed for easy cleaning. The inner pot 20 is made of metal and constructed as a rotating body with an opening and an inner cavity formed by the pot wall; that is, the inner pot 20 is constructed as a rotating body shape with an axis PA extending in the vertical direction as its axis (the inner pot wall is formed by rotating a fixed-shape generatrix around the axis PA by 360 degrees). The inner surface of the inner pot 20 has no coating, such as a non-stick coating. The capacity of the inner pot 20 is typically less than 6L; for example, the capacity of the inner pot 20 may be 2L or 4L, etc. The lid 11 is pivotally connected to the pot body 12 via a pivot shaft for covering the pot body 12.

[0129] The pot body 12 has a heating element 40 for performing cooking heating. The heating element 40 is disposed around the periphery of the inner pot 20 for heating the inner pot 20. The heating element 40 is electrically connected to a control device (not shown) for heating the inner pot 20 under the control of the control device, thereby realizing the cooking function. The control device is configured, for example, as a MCU chip. The control device has built-in control program software.

[0130] The cooking appliance 100 also includes a temperature sensing device for sensing the cooking temperature. The temperature sensing device is electrically connected to a control device, allowing the control device to obtain cooking temperature information and control the heating element 40 to operate based on that information. The temperature sensing device may include, for example, at least a top temperature sensor 18 and a bottom temperature sensor 19. The top temperature sensor 18, for example, is disposed in the lid 11 and senses the cooking temperature at the top of the cooking cavity. The bottom temperature sensor 19, for example, is disposed in the pot body 12 and contacts the bottom of the inner pot 20 to sense the cooking temperature at the bottom of the cooking container. The temperature sensing device may also include temperature sensors disposed in other locations.

[0131] Understandably, the cooking appliance 100 is controlled by a control device.

[0132] The inner pot 20 has an inner pot wall including a bottom 21 (bottom wall) and a side portion 24 (side wall) located above the bottom 21. The heating assembly 40 includes, for example, a bottom heating assembly 41 and a side heating assembly 44. The bottom heating assembly 41 is located at the bottom of the pot body 12, corresponding to the bottom 21 of the inner pot, and is positioned below the inner pot 20, for heating the bottom 21. The side heating assembly 44 is positioned corresponding to the side portion 24 of the inner pot, and surrounds the outer periphery of the side portion 24 for heating the side portion 24. Preferably, as... Figure 2 As shown, the side heating assembly 44 is configured as a hot air convection heating device, for example, including an airflow generating device 30. The annular gap between the side heating assembly 44 and the pot liner 20 forms an airflow channel 13. The airflow generating device 30 is used to generate airflow in the airflow channel 13. The airflow makes the air temperature in the airflow channel 13 uniformly distributed, so that the side 24 of the pot liner can be heated evenly.

[0133] Understandably, the airflow channel 13 between the side heating assembly 44 and the side of the inner pot 20 is part of the receiving cavity 14 and extends downwards. Airflow in the airflow channel 13 flows downwards. To better heat the side 24 of the inner pot within the airflow channel 13, the cooking appliance 100 further includes a blocking mechanism 51. The blocking mechanism 51 is located at the bottom of the airflow channel 13. The blocking mechanism 51 contacts both the pot body 12 and the inner pot 20, forming the airflow channel 13 with the pot body 12 and the inner pot 20. The blocking mechanism 51 blocks the airflow channel 13, preventing the airflow from flowing downwards. The blocking mechanism 51 allows airflow to flow along the side of the inner pot 20 without leaking to the bottom 21, which facilitates precise temperature control of the side 24 of the inner pot.

[0134] The side heating assembly 44 also includes an annular body 49, which surrounds the outer periphery of the pot side 24, making the airflow channel 13 annular. The annular body 49 includes a side heating element 62 for achieving the heating function. The side heating element 62 is used, for example, to heat the pot side 24, or to heat the air in the airflow channel 13, or simultaneously to heat both the pot side 24 and the airflow channel 13. An airflow generating device 30 is connected, for example, to the outer periphery of the annular body 49. Figure 3 As shown, the airflow generating device 30 has an airflow inlet 34 and an airflow outlet 35. (As indicated...) Figure 4As shown, the annular body 49 is provided with a return air inlet 66 corresponding to the airflow inlet 34 and an air outlet 67 corresponding to the airflow outlet 35. When the airflow generating device 30 is working, the airflow flows out from the airflow outlet 35 of the airflow generating device 30, enters the airflow channel 13 through the air outlet 67, flows through the airflow channel 13 once, and then flows out of the airflow channel 13 from the return air inlet 66, and then returns to the airflow generating device 30 from the airflow inlet 34 (see...). Figure 3 (The red arrow in the image).

[0135] The side heating assembly 44 may include multiple side heating elements 62 arranged along the axial direction DB (vertical direction) of the annular body 49, thereby providing multi-point heating in this direction and promoting uniform side temperature. The multiple side heating elements 62 are distributed, for example, at equal intervals. The total dimension occupied by all the side heating elements 62 along the axial direction DB of the annular body 49 is greater than or equal to 30 mm, thus ensuring sufficient heating of the pot inner side 24. The axial direction DB of the annular body 49 is also the axial direction of the pot inner 20.

[0136] On the other hand, the control device can be configured to control the number of side heating elements 62 used for heating according to the amount of food. Specifically, the more food there is, the more side heating elements 62 are used for heating, and the side heating elements 62 located at the bottom are preferentially heated.

[0137] For example, the side heating assembly 44 includes N side heating elements 62 arranged vertically for heating, with the N elements numbered sequentially from bottom to top as 1, 2...N. The control device is further configured to divide the amount of food to be cooked into N consecutive food quantity ranges based on the quantity of food. The smaller the number of the food quantity range, the less food is in that range. Specifically, when the actual amount of food to be cooked falls into the Mth food quantity range, the control device heats the first to the Mth side heating elements 62.

[0138] Alternatively, the control device calculates the height of the ingredients based on the quantity, then determines one of the multiple heating elements corresponding to the ingredient height (e.g., the horizontal plane at the ingredient height passes through this heating element), and activates this heating element and the heating elements below it. The height of the ingredients varies with the quantity. The side heating element 44 heats the side of the inner pot 20; the side heating height varies depending on the height of the heating element. The side heating height adjusts with the quantity of ingredients; the more ingredients, the higher the heating height, and the less ingredients, the lower the heating height. This avoids energy waste and prevents the rice from becoming dry and hard on the surface.

[0139] like Figures 2 to 4As shown, the annular body 49 also includes an annular side support member 61 (also called an annular support member). The side support member 61 is, for example, constructed in an annular shape and used to surround the outer periphery of the pot side 24. A side heating member 62, a return air vent 66, and an air outlet 67 are all disposed on the annular support member 61. The annular support member 61 is, for example, constructed as a heat insulation ring 63. The side heating member 62 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the annular support member 61.

[0140] The side heating element 62 is constructed, for example, as a heating element 64. The heating element 64 has the function of self-heating after being energized, thus heating the air in the side portion 24 of the pot and the airflow channel 13 through thermal radiation. The heating element 64 surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the side support member 61. The side heating element 62 can also be constructed as an electromagnetic heating coil, thus making the side heating assembly an electromagnetic heating device. The electromagnetic heating coil generates eddy currents inside the pot wall through a magnetic field, thus generating heat. The heat from the side heating element 62 and / or the heat from the pot wall can heat the air in the airflow channel. The airflow generating device 30 causes the air in the airflow channel 13 to flow and mix, thereby making the temperature of the air in the airflow channel 13 uniform. This air also exchanges heat with the pot wall, which is beneficial to the uniform temperature of the pot wall. The side heating assembly 44 can achieve the heating function through the side heating element 62, and the airflow generating device 30 adds the function of convection heating to the side heating assembly 44, making the temperature of the side portion of the pot more uniform.

[0141] like Figure 3 As shown, the airflow inlet 34 and airflow outlet 35 of the airflow generating device 30 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the pot liner 20. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, preferably, the airflow generating device 30 includes a baffle plate 39 disposed between the airflow inlet 34 and the airflow outlet 35 to prevent airflow from flowing between the airflow inlet 34 and the airflow outlet 35. Thus, air flowing out of the airflow outlet 35 is not immediately drawn back into the airflow inlet 34. The baffle plate 39 extends generally in the vertical direction and contacts the side wall of the pot 20 when the pot liner 20 is placed in the pot body 12. The edge shape of the baffle plate 39 is adapted to the outer surface shape of the pot liner 20 to fit against the outer surface of the pot liner 20. Thus, the baffle plate 39 forms a partition in the airflow channel 13, causing the annular airflow in the airflow channel 13 to flow unidirectionally around the pot liner, thereby promoting temperature uniformity in the airflow channel 13.

[0142] like Figure 4As shown, the side support member 61 has a through groove 69 at the position corresponding to the baffle plate 39 of the airflow generator 30, allowing the baffle plate 39 to pass through and contact the pot liner 20. The airflow generator 30 fits against the outer surface of the side support member 61 to minimize air leakage at the airflow inlet 34 and the airflow outlet 35. Thus, airflow enters the airflow channel 13 from the airflow outlet 35 through the air outlet 67 and flows unidirectionally under the action of the baffle plate 39. After circling the pot liner 20 once, the airflow passes through the return air inlet 66 and enters the airflow inlet 34, returning to the airflow generator 30. The airflow inlet 34 and the airflow outlet 35 are kept as close as possible to each other.

[0143] Understandably, the baffle 39 is also positioned between the return air inlet 66 and the air outlet 67 to prevent airflow between them.

[0144] Specifically, such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the airflow generating device 30 includes a housing assembly 31, an impeller 37, and a motor 38. The housing assembly 31 is connected to the side support member 61. The housing assembly includes a mounting cavity 36, an airflow inlet 34, and an airflow outlet 35, both of which communicate with the mounting cavity 36. The impeller 37 is disposed in the mounting cavity 36 and is used to generate airflow when rotating. The motor 38 drives the impeller 37 to rotate, forming a fan. Of course, the airflow generating device 30 can also use other components to generate airflow, such as an air pump.

[0145] The housing assembly 31 includes, for example, a first housing 32 and a second housing 33. The first housing 32 is used to connect to the side support member 61, and both the airflow inlet 34 and the airflow outlet 35 are formed in the first housing 32. The second housing 33, together with the first housing 32, encloses a mounting cavity 36. The second housing 33 is provided with a through hole 33A. A motor 38 is connected to the side of the second housing 33 facing away from the mounting cavity 36, and the output shaft of the motor 38 extends through the through hole 33A to enter the mounting cavity 36 and connect to an impeller 37. The mounting cavity 36 forms an air inlet channel. The impeller 37 is located on the side of the housing assembly 31 facing the annular body 49. The motor 38 is located on the side of the housing assembly 31 facing away from the annular body 49. The motor 38 is located outside the hot air duct to prevent the motor 38 from failing at high temperatures.

[0146] The first housing 32 also includes, for example, a through cavity 32A. The opening at one end of the through cavity 32A is covered by the second housing 33, so that the internal space of the through cavity 32A forms a mounting cavity 36, in which the impeller 37 is placed. The opening at the other end of the through cavity 32A forms an airflow inlet 34. The axial direction of the impeller 37 is also the axial direction of the mounting cavity 36, and thus the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A. The airflow inlet 34 is, for example, coaxially arranged with the impeller 37, while the axis of the airflow outlet 35 is offset from the axis of the impeller 37.

[0147] The first housing 32 includes a first side 32E and a second side 32F spaced apart along the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A, wherein the first side 32E faces the side support member 61. An airflow inlet 34 and an airflow outlet 35 both face (or are located on) the first side 32E. The shape of the contact edge 32J of the first side 32E is adapted to the outer surface shape of the side support member 61 to fit against it. It should be noted that the contact edge 32J is at least a portion of the entire edge of the airflow generating device 30 on the first side 32E, and is the portion of the airflow generating device 30 used to contact the side support member 61. In the projection of the first housing 32 along the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A, both the airflow inlet 34 and the airflow outlet 35 are located within the contact edge 32J of the first side 32E.

[0148] The side support member 61 is constructed in a cylindrical or annular shape to surround the outer periphery of the pot 20. Therefore, the contact edge 32J of the first side 32E extends in a cylindrical surface to fit against the side support member 61, the axis of which is the axis of the side support member 61. The axial direction DF of this cylindrical surface is perpendicular to the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A. The axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A is also the axial direction of the impeller 37. The axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A is generally the radial direction of the side support member 61. Alternatively, the axis of the through cavity 32A passes through the side support member 61. The first housing 32 also includes a third side 32M and a fourth side 32N spaced apart along a second direction DS, wherein the second direction DS is perpendicular to the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A and the axial direction DF of the cylindrical surface of the side support member 61. The second direction DS generally corresponds to the circumferential direction of the side support member 61. The contact edge 32J of the first side 32E includes, for example, a first edge 32P and a second edge 32Q spaced apart along the axial direction DF, and a third edge 32R and a fourth edge 32S spaced apart along the second direction DS. The first edge 32P and the second edge 32Q extend along an arc parallel to the second direction DS, the center of which lies on the axis of the side support member 61. The first edge 32P and the second edge 32Q are generally parallel to each other. The first edge 32P is below, and the second edge 32Q is above. The third edge 32R and the fourth edge 32S extend in a straight line along the axial direction DF of the cylindrical surface of the side support member 61. Thus, the contact edge 32J of the first side 32E extends in a vertical cylindrical surface, allowing it to fit well against the cylindrical surface of the outer surface of the side support member 61.

[0149] like Figure 5As shown, the through cavity 32A is positioned near the fourth side 32N, and the airflow outlet 35 is positioned near the third side 32M, such that the airflow inlet 34 and the airflow outlet 35 are spaced apart along the second direction DS. The third side 32M of the first housing 32 has a first dimension in the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A. The fourth side 32N of the first housing 32 has a second dimension in the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A. The first dimension is smaller than the second dimension. This allows sufficient space within the through cavity 32A to accommodate the impeller 37.

[0150] The first housing 32 is also provided with an air outlet duct 32D. For example... Figure 5 and 6 As shown, one end of the air outlet 32D forms an airflow outlet 35. The air outlet 32D is connected to the airflow inlet 34, and guides the airflow from the airflow outlet 35 to move in a direction surrounding the outer surface of the pot liner 20. Figure 7 As shown, the port at the other end of the air outlet duct 32D is located on the side wall of the through cavity 32A, for example, near the second side 32F on the side wall of 32A. The duct wall of the air outlet duct 32D includes a guide wall 32G that provides a portion of the outer surface of the first housing 32. The guide wall 32G extends from the side wall of the through cavity 32A to the third edge 32R. At any two points on the inner surface of the guide wall 32G, the point closer to the third edge 32R along the second direction DS is also closer to the first edge 32P along the axial direction of the through cavity 32A. Thus, the guide wall 32G gradually approaches the first edge 32P, and with the first dimension being smaller than the second dimension, the air outlet duct 32D extends generally along the tangent of the side support member 61 at the airflow outlet 35, so that the airflow enters the airflow channel 13 tangentially, which is beneficial for the airflow to flow unidirectionally in the annular path.

[0151] The guide wall 32G intersects the first edge 32P at the third edge 32R, forming a sharp angle at the third edge 32R. Preferably, in the vertical projection of the cooking appliance 100, the angle of this sharp angle is less than or equal to 45°. Alternatively, the air outlet duct 32D is inclined relative to the side support member 61, and in the axial direction of the cylindrical surface of the side support member 61, the acute angle formed between the channel wall of the air outlet duct 32D and the edge of the housing assembly 31 on the first side 32E is less than or equal to 45°. That is, the acute angle formed between the extending direction of the air outlet duct 32D and the air outlet 67 is less than or equal to 45°. To better guide the airflow and reduce airflow disturbance at the air outlet 35, this angle can be selected as one of 10°, 15°, 20°, or 25°.

[0152] The airflow outlet 35 is formed, for example, at the contact edge 32J on the first side 32E, and is defined, for example, by the first edge 32P, the second edge 32Q, the third edge 32R, and the baffle 39. The airflow inlet 34 is recessed inward from the contact edge 32J on the first side 32E, so that the sidewall of the through cavity 32A is a generally regular cylindrical surface, which is beneficial for the impeller 37 to generate a stable airflow.

[0153] Because the second side 32F is thicker, the first housing 32 also has a space on the second side 32F for mounting an additional temperature sensor 17 (see [reference]). Figure 8 The mounting slot 32B is used for the auxiliary temperature sensor 17. The opening of the mounting slot 32B faces upwards, meaning the auxiliary temperature sensor 17 is inserted into the mounting slot 32B from above. The temperature-sensing part 73 of the auxiliary temperature sensor 17 extends from the opening to contact the side heating element 62, thereby allowing the auxiliary temperature sensor 17 to sense the temperature of the side heating element 62. The auxiliary temperature sensor 17 can also be configured to sense the temperature of the pot inner side 24 or the temperature of the insulation ring 63. Alternatively, the auxiliary temperature sensor 17 can be directly mounted on the side support member 61.

[0154] The outer surface of the first side 32E of the first housing 32 includes a limiting surface 32H. The limiting surface 32H is closer to the second side 32F of the housing assembly 31 than the edge of the first side 32E extending in the cylindrical surface. Thus, the limiting surface 32H is directed toward the second side 32F away from the contact edge 32J and the mounting groove 32B of the first side 32E along the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A. In the projection of the first housing 32 along the axial direction DA of the through cavity 32A, at least a portion of the limiting surface 32H is higher than the contact edge 32J (specifically, the second edge 32Q) and the mounting groove 32B of the first side 32E. Thus, when the contact edge 32J of the first side 32E is in contact with the outer surface of the side support member 61, a gap space is formed between the limiting surface 32H and the outer surface of the side support member 61, which is used to accommodate the side heating member 62 (e.g., a heating element) and the temperature sensing part 73 of the additional temperature sensor 17. That is, the side heating element 62 is located between the limiting surface 32H and the side support element 61. The temperature sensing element 73 is sandwiched between the side heating element 62 and the side support element 61.

[0155] like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the wall of the mounting slot 32B has a wire hole 32K for the wire 74 of the additional temperature sensor 17 to pass through.

[0156] After the side heating assembly 44 is installed in the pot body 12, the axial direction DA and the second direction DS of the through cavity 32A are horizontal, and the axial direction DF of the side support component 61 is vertical. The axial direction DF of the side support component 61 is also the axial direction of the annular body 49.

[0157] like Figure 9 As shown, the side heating assembly 44 may also be equipped with a temperature control switch 75. The temperature control switch 75, for example, contacts the heating element 64, thereby sensing the temperature of the side heating component 62. The temperature control switch 75 is connected in series with the side heating component 62. When the temperature of the side heating component 62 is too high, the temperature control switch 75 disconnects, preventing the side heating assembly from operating and thus avoiding excessively high temperatures on the side of the pot, which could cause the rice to become dry and hard in certain areas, and also ensuring safety during use. The side heating assembly 44 may also be equipped with a thermal fuse 76. The thermal fuse 76 is connected in series with the side heating component 62. The thermal fuse 76 contacts or is close to the insulation ring 63, so that when the heating element 64 causes the insulation ring 63 to become too hot, the thermal fuse 76 melts, also preventing the side heating assembly from operating.

[0158] Because of the thermal resistance between the temperature control switch 75 and the heat source, the temperature control switch 75 exhibits a lag in detecting the heat source's temperature. When the actual temperature of the heat source reaches the trigger temperature of the temperature control switch 75, but the actual temperature of the temperature control switch 75 has not yet reached its trigger temperature, the heating element 64 continues to heat until the actual temperature of the temperature control switch 75 reaches its trigger temperature. Therefore, using the temperature control switch 75 for temperature control will always result in temperature spikes and control lag. The insulation ring 63, for example, can be a metal component with a thin wall thickness, high thermal resistance, and a certain heat capacity, so the temperature fluctuation is more gradual and temperature spikes are avoided. The thermal fuse 76 is installed in the insulation ring 63 to prevent the thermal fuse 76 from accidentally melting due to temperature spikes.

[0159] like Figure 10 As shown, in the vertical projection of the cooking appliance 100, the outer shell of the pot body 12 is substantially rectangular or rounded rectangular. Preferably, the airflow generating device 30 is located at the corner of the rectangle or rounded rectangle, thereby making full use of the internal space of the pot body 12. For example, the receiving cavity 14 has a first axis of symmetry SP1 extending in the left-right direction and a second axis of symmetry SP2 extending in the front-back direction, which divides the pot body 12 into four parts, each of which includes a corner of the rectangle or rounded rectangle. Figure 10 Line L1 is a straight line rotated 10 degrees relative to the first axis of symmetry SP1 toward a corner, and line L2 is a straight line rotated 10 degrees relative to the second axis of symmetry SP2 toward the same corner. Preferably, the airflow generating device 30 is located between line L1 and line L2.

[0160] like Figure 2 As shown, in order to avoid the airflow generating device 30, the side heating component 62 does not wrap around the circumference of the annular body 49.

[0161] exist Figures 11 to 17In the illustrated embodiment, the air outlet 67 is located near the top (upper end) of the annular body 49. Within the airflow channel 13, the air is not absolutely isothermal; hot air with lower density is located in the upper part of the airflow channel 13, while cold air with higher density is located in the lower part. Positioning the air outlet 67 at the top helps the airflow disperse the hot air, which rises and accumulates at the top due to its decreased density caused by temperature rise, to other low-temperature areas. This contributes to improving the temperature uniformity of the side heating.

[0162] The air outlet 67 and the return air outlet 66 are respectively located at both ends of the annular body 49 along the axial direction, which can increase the flow of high-temperature air and low-temperature air at both ends and promote the air temperature balance in the airflow channel 13. Alternatively, the return air outlet 66 is located at the bottom of the annular body 49 (the lower end of the annular body), so as not to interfere with the airflow blown out of the air outlet 67 as much as possible and to help the heat diffuse.

[0163] In such an embodiment, optionally, the temperature control switch 75 and the thermal fuse 76 are mounted on the housing assembly 31 of the airflow generator 130. For example, the mounting groove 32B of the first housing 32 is used to mount the temperature control switch 75. The first housing 32 is also provided with a mounting position 32T for mounting the thermal fuse 76. The thermal fuse 76 includes a thermal fuse element 76A and a sleeve 76B. The thermal fuse element 76A is connected in series with the side heating element 62 and melts when the temperature exceeds the limit. The sleeve 76B is fitted over the thermal fuse element 76A to protect it.

[0164] exist Figures 11 to 15 In the illustrated embodiment, the side heating element 62 is configured, for example, as a heating element 64, with its two ends approaching each other along the circumferential direction DC of the annular body 49, such that the heating element 64 substantially surrounds the side support element 61 for a full circumference. The two ends of the heating element 64 are connected by fasteners 65. The heating element 64 can provide heat throughout the circumference, but this makes it difficult for the airflow generating device 30 to avoid the heating element 64. To address this, a heat insulation element 77 is also provided on the outer surface of the housing assembly 31 of the airflow generating device 130 on the first side 32E. The heat insulation element 77 is made, for example, of silicone, to prevent the housing assembly 31 from deforming at high temperatures. The heat insulation element 77 is used to contact the side heating element 62, so that the side heating element 62 can surround the annular body 49 for a full circumference along the circumferential direction DC without having to avoid the airflow generating device 130. This allows the side heating element 44 to generate heat throughout the circumference, which is beneficial for uniform air temperature in the airflow channel 13.

[0165] For example, heat insulation members 77 are provided on the outer surfaces of the straight edges 32R and 32S of the first side 32E of the housing assembly 31 of the airflow generating device 130. The two heat insulation members 77 are attached to the cylindrical surfaces of the outer periphery of the annular body 49 with the arcuate edges 32P and 32Q. For example, the first edge 32P and the second edge 32Q are attached to the side support member 61, the two ends of the two heat insulation members 77 are attached to the side support member 61, and the middle part of the two heat insulation members 77 is attached to the side heating member 62.

[0166] exist Figures 11 to 15 In the illustrated embodiment, the airflow generating device 130 is located at the middle part of the heating element 64 along the circumferential direction DC of the annular body 49. The middle part of the heating element 64 is the part with the highest temperature. The placement of the airflow generating device 130 at this location facilitates rapid heat transfer and quickly increases the air temperature in the airflow channel 13.

[0167] contrast Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the two ends of the heating element 64 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction DC of the annular body 49. The airflow generating device 30 is located in the gap between the two ends of the heating element 64. The airflow generating device 30 and the heating element 64 are offset along the circumferential direction DC of the annular body 49, so that the airflow generating device 30 can be directly attached to the side support member 61, avoiding the heating element 64, and thus the airflow generating device 30 does not need to be provided with a heat insulation member 77. Of course, the airflow generating device 30 can also be offset from the heating element 64 along the axial direction DB of the annular body 49.

[0168] exist Figure 16 and Figure 17 In the illustrated embodiment, the annular body 49 is integrally constructed as a heating coil 48. The heating coil 48 heats up itself after being energized. That is, the annular body 49 is a single heating component, and the side support component 61 and the side heating component 62 are integrated into one. The edge of the first side 32E of the airflow generating device 230 is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the heating coil 48. It is understood that a heat insulation component 77 is provided on the edge of the first side 32E of the airflow generating device 230. A temperature control switch 75 for connecting in series with and contacting the heating coil 48 can be installed on the airflow generating device 230. A thermal fuse 76 for connecting in series with the heating coil 48 can also be installed on the airflow generating device 230.

[0169] Understandable, Figures 1 to 17 In this embodiment, the side heating assembly 44 also has a heating function even without an airflow generating device, such as by means of thermal radiation or electromagnetic heating. The airflow generating device adds a convection heating function to the side heating assembly 44. Convection heating is achieved by uniformizing the temperature of the air in the airflow channel 13 (i.e., the air around the side of the pot liner 24), and then uniformly heating the side of the pot liner 24 by using uniformly heated air.

[0170] exist Figure 18 and Figure 19 In the illustrated embodiment, a side heating element 62 for generating heat upon energization is disposed in the airflow channel of the airflow generator (330 or 430), allowing the airflow generator to directly blow out hot air. The side heating element 62 is, for example, constructed as a heating wire 78. The side heating assembly 44 includes a side support element 61 and an airflow generator. The side support element 61 (also called an annular support element) surrounds the outer periphery of the pot side 24, and the airflow generator is connected to the outer periphery of the side support element 61. The side support element 61 is, for example, constructed as a heat-insulating ring. The side support element 61 is configured with a return air inlet 66, an air outlet 67, and structures for cooperating with the airflow generator. Figure 18 As shown, the heating wire 78 can be placed in the air outlet duct 32D. Or, as... Figure 19 As shown, the heating wire 78 can be installed in the mounting cavity 36 (air inlet channel). Since the heating wire cannot generate large-area heat radiation to the inner pot 20, but is mainly used to heat the air, the side heating assembly 44 basically only has the function of hot air convection heating.

[0171] Of course, in Figure 18 and Figure 19 In the illustrated embodiment, similar to the previous embodiment, the airflow generating devices 330 and 430 are used to add hot air convection heating function to the side heating assembly 44 (for example, the side heating assembly 44 also has a heating element or electromagnetic heating coil), and the airflow generating devices 330 and 430 increase the power of the side heating assembly 44 due to the built-in heating wire 78, especially in rapidly increasing the heating temperature of the side 24 of the pot.

[0172] As previously mentioned, the cooking appliance 100 prevents air from leaking from the airflow channel 13 to the bottom 21 of the inner pot through the barrier mechanism 51. Figure 1 and Figure 20 As shown, the blocking mechanism 51 is constructed as a sealing ring 16. For example, the sealing ring 16 is used to surround the outer periphery of the pot 20, the outer peripheral side 16A of the sealing ring 16 is used to contact the pot body 12, and the inner peripheral side 16B of the sealing ring 16 is used to contact the pot 20 to block the bottom of the airflow channel 13.

[0173] Alternatively, the sealing ring 16 is generally constructed as a cylinder with the axial direction in the up-down direction, with its lower side installed on the bottom support component 45 and its upper side used to contact the outer surface of the pot liner 20.

[0174] exist Figure 21 and Figure 22In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier mechanism 51 is disposed at the bottom of the side heating assembly 44. For example, the barrier mechanism 51 is formed at the bottom of the side support member 61. For example, the bottom of the side support member 61 is provided with an annular second protrusion structure 68 extending inward in the radial direction. The second protrusion structure 68 is used to contact the inner pot 20, thereby forming the barrier mechanism 51. The second protrusion structure 68 can be formed, for example, by constructing a flange or rib at the axial end of the side support member 61.

[0175] exist Figures 23 to 28 In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier mechanism 51 is disposed on the top of the bottom heating assembly 41. For example, it is disposed on the top of the bottom support member 45. For example, the top of the bottom support member 45 is provided with an annular first protrusion structure 47, which is used to contact the inner pot 20, thereby forming the barrier mechanism 51.

[0176] exist Figure 11 In the example, the first protrusion 47 is an annular rib extending radially inward (to the center of the pot liner 20) from the bottom support member 45, with its inner circumferential end contacting the pot liner 20. The first protrusion 47 can be integrally formed with the bottom support member 45. Figure 13 In the example, the first protrusion structure 47 is an annular rib provided on the upper surface of the bottom support member 45. The annular rib extends upward in the axial direction and the upper end of the annular rib contacts the inner pot 20.

[0177] In other embodiments not shown, the barrier mechanism may be a separately formed annular retaining ring structure with a central opening to accommodate the inner pot 20. The outer periphery of the annular retaining ring abuts against either the side heating assembly 44 or the bottom heating assembly 41 to separate them vertically. The annular retaining ring can be freely removed by the user. Alternatively, the barrier mechanism may be an annular baffle structure fixed in the pot body, held between the bottom heating assembly 41 and the side heating assembly 44, and is not limited to one embodiment.

[0178] In addition, it is understood that the first protrusion structure 47 should be provided at least on the outer periphery of the bottom heating component 46, so that the pot liner 20, the bottom support component 45 and the first protrusion structure 47 form a bottom heating area, thereby preventing the side heating component 44 from transferring heat to the bottom heating area, and at the same time, it plays a role in heat preservation for the bottom 21 of the pot liner, preventing heat from being lost to the outside.

[0179] The barrier mechanism 51 should be located on the outside (external side) of the heating element to separate the heating area corresponding to the heating element from other areas. Similarly, the second protruding structure 68 can be located not only at the lower end of the side support member 61, but also in the middle area of ​​the side support member 61, but should at least be located below the side heating element 62. The second protruding structure 68, the side support member 61, and the pot liner 20 form a side heating area, which can reduce the heat generated by the side heating element 62 from being transferred to the bottom 21 of the pot liner, thereby reducing the excessively high temperature of the bottom of the pot liner caused by side heat transfer, thus preventing sticking.

[0180] The barrier mechanism 51 may include a high thermal resistance material. For example, the barrier mechanism 51 may also include a high thermal resistance layer insulation sleeve 89 (e.g., a silicone sleeve, see [link]) disposed on the outer surface of the first protrusion structure 47 or the second protrusion structure 68. Figure 27 and Figure 28 This further prevents heat from the sides from being conducted to the bottom. The barrier mechanism 51 may also include a reflective material or have a reflective coating, for example, a reflective material or reflective coating is provided on the first protrusion structure 47 or the second protrusion structure 68, which can also prevent heat from the sides from being conducted to the bottom.

[0181] exist Figures 29 to 31 In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface of the inner pot 20 is provided with a radially outwardly extending annular inner pot protrusion structure 25. The inner pot protrusion structure 25 is used to contact the pot body 12, for example, to contact the bottom support member 45, thereby forming a barrier mechanism 51. The inner pot protrusion structure 25 can also be used to contact the side heating assembly 44.

[0182] The barrier mechanism 51 is located between the side heating component 62 and the bottom heating component 46, which prevents heat from the side from leaking to the bottom and heat from the bottom from leaking to the side, thus facilitating independent temperature control of the side and the bottom.

[0183] The aforementioned first protrusion structure 47, second protrusion structure 68, and inner pot protrusion structure 25 can also be used in combination. Alternatively, a portion of the barrier mechanism 51 can be formed on the outer surface of the inner pot 20, and another portion can be formed on the pot body 12, with the two portions joining at the junction. Alternatively, the barrier mechanism 51 can include multiple annular ribs, with the outer periphery of each rib contacting the pot body 12 and the inner periphery of each rib contacting the inner pot 20. Multiple ribs provide better heat insulation and leak-proof performance. For example, Figure 28 In the example, the bottom heating assembly 41 is provided with two first protruding structures 47A and 47B, which is a specific example of heat insulation using multiple ribs. The multiple ribs can be all located in the pot body 12, all in the inner pot 20, or partially in the pot body 12 and partially in the inner pot 20. The multiple ribs can be spaced apart in the radial and / or axial directions.

[0184] In the vertical projection of the cooking appliance 100, if there is a heating element inside the bottom 21 of the inner pot, then the heating element is considered to correspond to the position of the bottom 21 of the inner pot, and this heating element is the bottom heating element 41. In the horizontal projection of the cooking appliance 100, if there is a heating element inside the side 24 of the inner pot, then the heating element is considered to correspond to the position of the side 24 of the inner pot, and this heating element is the side heating element 44.

[0185] This application provides heat to the food by setting a hot air convection heating component on the side, while improving the uniformity of the side temperature, so that the rice does not stick to the pot and has better quality.

[0186] On the one hand, the flow of hot air along the sides of the pot increases the convective heat transfer coefficient, resulting in higher heat transfer efficiency; and on the other hand, the flow of hot air expands the heating surface of the inner pot, making the temperature of the inner pot more uniform along the axial direction of the side wall, providing more heat transfer paths, and enabling more heat to be transferred to the center of the rice. Figure 35 As shown, the angle range of all heat transfer paths from side-mounted hot air convection heating to any point in the center of the rice is θ1, while the angle range of the heat transfer paths in pure side-mounted radiation heating is θ2. θ1 > θ2, thus increasing the number of heat transfer paths and allowing more heat to be transferred to the center of the food, resulting in more gelatinized rice and improved viscosity, thus achieving efficient heating. Taking the viscosity of the rice (a higher value indicates better viscosity) as an example, experiments show that under side-mounted hot air convection heating, the rice viscosity can reach 328 g·sec, which is grade A; while under the condition of maintaining the same inner surface temperature of the pot side, the viscosity of rice heated by side-mounted radiation is only 244 g·sec, which is grade B. Therefore, the viscosity of rice heated by side-mounted hot air convection is better than that heated by side-mounted radiation.

[0187] On the other hand, the flow of hot air along the sides of the pot results in a more uniform temperature distribution around the inner pot, which effectively improves the moisture content deviation of the rice (an indicator of uniformity; the lower the value, the better and more uniform the moisture content deviation). Experiments show that under side hot air convection heating, the moisture content deviation of the rice can reach 3.91, while the moisture content deviation of rice heated by side thermal radiation is 4.36. Relatively speaking, side hot air convection heating has a better moisture content deviation than side thermal radiation heating, meaning that side hot air convection heating makes the rice more uniform.

[0188] In addition, the airflow on the side of the inner pot accelerates the condensation of steam at the top of the pot, moistening the side wall of the inner pot 20 and solving the problem of the rice being too dry in the side wall area caused by the high temperature of the side wall.

[0189] In addition to the basic technical effects mentioned above, convection internal circulation heating also has the following advantages: It has wider applicability, can be adapted to various pot types, and ensures uniform temperature distribution on the sides of the pot's inner liner. It is suitable for both straight-walled pots (benfu) and non-straight-walled pots (spherical pots). Especially for spherical pots, achieving uniform heating is more difficult due to the irregular shape of the inner liner. Heat = heat flux density * heat transfer area. Because the inner liner of a spherical pot has a larger side area, i.e., a larger heat transfer area, it helps to increase the heat conduction path and transfer more heat to the rice inside the pot. In this case, using a hot air circulation heating device, because the hot air circulates on the side of the spherical pot's inner liner, effectively increases the convective heat transfer coefficient, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency and achieving high-efficiency heating.

[0190] For example, such as Figure 32 As shown, in the cross-section of the inner pot 20 passing through the axis PA (this cross-section is in a vertical plane), the tangent at any point on the inner surface of the inner pot 20 forms a first angle with the horizontal line, which is on one side of the outer surface of the inner pot 20 and above the horizontal line. The inner pot wall with the first angle less than or equal to 31 degrees forms the bottom 21 of the inner pot, and the inner pot wall with the first angle greater than 31 degrees forms the side 24 of the inner pot. For example, the tangent LA at point A on the inner surface of the inner pot 20 intersects the horizontal line LH, and the two form a first angle α, which is on one side of the outer surface of the inner pot 20 and above the horizontal line LH. Angle α is less than 31 degrees, thus the area at point A is the bottom 21 of the inner pot. Similarly, the tangent LB at point B on the inner surface of the inner pot 20 intersects the horizontal line LH, and the two form a first angle β, which is on one side of the outer surface of the inner pot 20 and above the horizontal line LH. Angle β is greater than 31 degrees, thus the area at point B is the side 24 of the inner pot.

[0191] exist Figure 33 and Figure 34 In the example shown, the first included angle of the points on the inner surface of the pot liner 20 does not change continuously. Therefore, the horizontal line extending 2 cm upward from the lowest point of the inner surface of the pot liner 20 is defined as the bottom boundary line LD. The pot wall not higher than the bottom boundary line LD is the bottom of the pot liner 21, and the pot wall higher than the bottom boundary line LD is the side of the pot liner 24. That is, the portion whose height difference with the lowest point of the inner surface of the pot liner 20 does not exceed 2 cm forms the bottom of the pot liner 21.

[0192] In the illustrated embodiment, inside the cooking appliance 100, the airflow inlet 34 and airflow outlet 35 of the airflow generator 30 are both connected to the airflow channel 13. Therefore, almost all the airflow generated by the airflow generator 30 flows between the airflow channel 13 and the airflow generator 30, that is, it flows entirely inside the cooking appliance 100, forming an internal circulation system.

[0193] In other embodiments, one of the airflow inlet 34 and airflow outlet 35 of the airflow generating device 30 is connected to the airflow channel 13, and the other is connected to the external environment. Correspondingly, one of the return air inlet 66 or air outlet 67 located on the annular body 49 of the airflow channel 13 is connected to the airflow generating device 30, that is, to the one of the airflow inlet 34 and airflow outlet 35 connected to the airflow channel 13, while the other of the return air inlet 66 and air outlet 67 is connected to the external environment. Thus, the airflow generated by the airflow generating device 30 flows between the airflow channel 13, the external environment, and the airflow generating device 30, that is, a portion flows outside the cooking appliance 100, forming an external circulation pattern. For example, the return air inlet 66 or air outlet 67 connects to the outside of the cooking appliance 100 through the internal space (flow channel) of the cooking appliance 100. The airflow inlet 34 or airflow outlet 35 connects to the outside of the cooking appliance 100 through the internal space (flow channel) of the cooking appliance 100. In the external circulation mode, the airflow generator 30 is still used to drive the air in the airflow channel 13 to flow around the side 24 of the pot. Compared with the internal circulation implementation, the structure of one of the airflow inlet 34 (air intake channel) and airflow outlet 35 (air outlet channel 34D) that was previously connected to the environment is changed to be connected to the outside of the cooking appliance 100, but not to the airflow channel 13; the structure of one of the return air vent 66 and air outlet 67 that was previously connected to the external environment is changed to be connected to the outside of the cooking appliance 100, but not to the airflow channel 13. Apart from these two changes, other designs in the external circulation implementation can refer to the designs in the internal circulation implementation.

[0194] Preferably, the cooking appliance 100 is configured such that the airflow generated by the airflow generating device 30 flows around the side 24 of the inner pot. For this purpose, the distance between the return air vent 66 and the air outlet 67 along the circumferential direction of the inner pot 20 is minimized. For example, the return air vent 66 and the air outlet 67 are arranged vertically, or closely (adjacently), so that their circumferential positions are as consistent as possible. For example, the interval between the closest edges of the return air vent 66 and the air outlet 67 along the circumferential direction of the inner pot 20 does not exceed 10 degrees. Furthermore, a baffle is provided between the return air vent 66 and the air outlet 67 to prevent airflow between them.

[0195] The processes and steps described in all the preferred embodiments above are merely examples. Unless adverse effects occur, various processing operations can be performed in a different order than those described above. The order of steps in the above process can also be added, combined, or deleted according to actual needs.

[0196] In understanding the scope of this application, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of a described feature, element, component, group, whole, and / or step, but do not exclude the presence of other undescribed features, elements, components, groups, wholes, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising," "having," and their derivatives.

[0197] The term "attached" or "joined" as used herein includes: a construction in which one element is directly fixed to another element by fixing it directly to another element; a construction in which one element is indirectly fixed to another element by fixing it to an intermediate member, which in turn is fixed to another element; and a construction in which one element is integral with another element, that is, one element is substantially part of another element. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "connect," "joint," "couple," "install," "adhere," "fix," and their derivatives. Finally, degree terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately" as used herein indicate the amount of deviation from which modifications to the terminology do not significantly alter the final result.

[0198] 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 this 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.

[0199] This application has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit this application to the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that this application is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this application, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

Claims

1. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes: The pot body includes a side heating assembly; and The inner pot is removably installed in the pot body, and the interior of the inner pot forms a cooking cavity for holding food. The inner pot includes a bottom and a side. The side heating assembly heats the side of the pot, and the side heating assembly includes an airflow generating device and at least one side heating component. An annular airflow channel is formed between the side heating assembly and the side of the pot, and the airflow generating device is used to drive the air in the airflow channel to flow around the side of the pot.

2. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes an additional temperature sensor disposed on the side heating assembly for sensing the temperature of the side heating assembly or the temperature of the side of the inner pot; and / or The side heating assembly is equipped with a temperature control switch and / or a thermal fuse.

3. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height dimension occupied by all the side heating components is greater than or equal to 30 mm; and / or The side heating assembly includes a plurality of side heating components arranged in a vertical direction.

4. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side heating assembly includes an annular body surrounding the outer periphery of the side of the pot, forming the airflow channel between the annular body and the side of the pot, and an airflow generating device disposed on the outer periphery of the annular body. The annular body is provided with a return air inlet and an air outlet, and at least one of the return air inlet and the air outlet is connected to the airflow generating device.

5. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The airflow generating device includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel, and the annular main body is provided with a return air inlet corresponding to the air inlet channel and an air outlet corresponding to the air outlet channel; or The airflow generating device includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel. The annular main body is provided with an air outlet that is connected to the air outlet channel. The air inlet channel and the air outlet are configured to communicate with the external environment.

6. The cooking utensil according to claim 5, characterized in that, In the horizontal cross-section of the cooking appliance through the air outlet channel, the acute angle formed between the extending direction of the air outlet channel and the air outlet is less than or equal to 45°.

7. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The airflow generating device includes an air inlet channel and an air outlet channel. The annular main body is provided with a return air port that is connected to the air inlet channel. The air outlet channel and the air outlet are configured to communicate with the external environment.

8. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the vertical projection of the cooking appliance, the outer shell of the pot body is substantially rectangular or rounded-corner rectangular, and the airflow generating device is located at the corner of the rectangle or rounded-corner rectangle; and / or The side heating component is disposed in the air inlet channel and / or air outlet channel of the airflow generating device.

9. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The annular main body is constructed as a heating coil, which is the side heating component.

10. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The annular body also includes a side support component, which surrounds the inner pot and forms the airflow channel between the side support component and the inner pot. The side heating component is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the side support component, and the airflow generating device is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the side support component.

11. The cooking utensil according to claim 10, characterized in that, The side heating element is a heating element.

12. The cooking utensil according to claim 11, characterized in that, The two ends of the heating element are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the annular body, and the airflow generating device is located in the gap between the two ends of the heating element; or The airflow generating device is located at the middle part of the heating element along the circumferential direction of the annular body.

13. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The two ends of the side heating element are close together along the circumferential direction of the annular body, such that the side heating element substantially surrounds the entire circumference of the side of the pot; and / or The airflow generating device also includes a baffle plate, which is disposed between the air outlet and the air return port to prevent airflow from flowing between the air outlet and the air return port.

14. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The air outlet is located at the top of the annular body; and / or The return air vent is located at the bottom of the annular body.

15. The cooking utensil according to claim 4, characterized in that, The airflow generating device further includes: A housing assembly disposed on the outer peripheral side of the annular body; An impeller is disposed on the side of the housing assembly facing the annular body; and A motor is located on the side of the housing assembly facing away from the annular body, and is used to drive the impeller to rotate.

16. The cooking utensil according to claim 1, characterized in that, A heat insulation component is provided between the airflow generating device and the side heating component.

17. The cooking utensil according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that, The cooking appliance also includes a barrier mechanism located at the bottom of the airflow channel. The barrier mechanism is in contact with the pot body and the inner pot, and the barrier mechanism, the pot body, and the inner pot form the airflow channel.

18. The cooking utensil according to claim 17, characterized in that, The barrier mechanism is constructed as a sealing ring.

19. The cooking utensil according to claim 18, characterized in that, The sealing ring is used to surround the outer periphery of the inner pot, the outer periphery of the sealing ring is used to contact the pot body, and the inner periphery of the sealing ring is used to contact the inner pot.

20. The cooking utensil according to claim 17, characterized in that, The barrier mechanism is located at the bottom of the side heating assembly.

21. The cooking utensil according to claim 20, characterized in that, The side heating assembly includes: At least one of the side heating elements, the side heating element being used to perform the heating function; and A side support component supports the side heating component and surrounds the inner pot. The bottom of the side support component is provided with a protruding structure extending inward in the radial direction. The inner end of the protruding structure is used to contact the inner pot, and the protruding structure forms the barrier mechanism.

22. The cooking utensil according to claim 17, characterized in that, The pot body also includes a bottom heating assembly for heating at least the bottom of the inner pot, the side heating assembly is located above the bottom heating assembly, and the barrier mechanism is disposed on top of the bottom heating assembly.

23. The cooking utensil according to claim 22, characterized in that, The bottom heating component includes: A bottom heating element, wherein the bottom heating element is used to perform the heating function; and A bottom support component supports the bottom heating component. The bottom support component is located at the bottom of the pot body. The top of the bottom support component is provided with a protruding structure for contacting the inner pot. The protruding structure forms the barrier mechanism.

24. The cooking utensil according to claim 23, characterized in that, The protruding structure extends upward in the axial direction, and its upper end is used to contact the inner pot; or... The protruding structure extends radially toward the center of the inner pot, and the inner end of the protruding structure is used to contact the inner pot.

25. The cooking utensil according to claim 17, characterized in that, The outer surface of the inner pot is provided with a radially outwardly extending annular protrusion structure, which is used to contact the pot body and forms the barrier mechanism.

26. The cooking utensil according to claim 25, characterized in that, The pot body includes a bottom heating assembly for heating at least the bottom of the inner pot, a side heating assembly located above the bottom heating assembly, and a protruding structure for contacting the side heating assembly or the bottom heating assembly.

27. The cooking utensil according to claim 17, characterized in that, The blocking mechanism includes multiple annular ribs; and / or At least a portion of the barrier mechanism is formed on the outer surface of the pot.

Images