Steam valve, cover and cooking appliance

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of steam valve, cover body and cooking utensil.Cooking utensil includes cooking space.Steam valve includes shell assembly, first fan and centrifugal fan.The inside of shell assembly is formed with first chamber and second chamber spaced apart from each other.Shell assembly is provided with steam inlet for communicating cooking space and first chamber.Shell assembly is provided with steam outlet for communicating first chamber and external environment.Shell assembly is provided with air inlet for communicating external environment and second chamber.Shell assembly is provided with air outlet for making air exhaust to the outside of steam valve.Air outlet and second chamber communicate.Centrifugal fan is arranged in second chamber.Centrifugal fan is connected with first fan and can rotate following first fan.According to the steam valve of the utility model, steam valve absorbs air from external environment and steam exhaust to external environment do not affect each other, few parts, low in cost, and good effect of anti-overflow and cooling.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model generally relates to the technical field of kitchen household appliances, and more specifically to a steam valve, a cover, and a cooking utensil. Background Technology

[0002] Existing cooking appliances often use impeller rotation to break bubbles in order to minimize steam exhaust and prevent overflow. Although cold air is used to draw in the bubbles, the two impellers in existing cooking appliances are located in the same cavity. The upward pressure of hot cooking steam is greater than the pressure of cold air entering the cavity, making it difficult or impossible for cold air to be drawn into the cavity for bubble breaking and overflow prevention.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to provide a steam valve, a lid, and a cooking appliance to at least partially solve the above problems. 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, the first aspect of this utility model provides a steam valve for a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance including a cooking space, the steam valve comprising: The housing assembly has a first chamber and a second chamber spaced apart from each other inside. The housing assembly is provided with a steam inlet for connecting the cooking space and the first chamber, a steam outlet for connecting the first chamber and the external environment, an air inlet for connecting the external environment and the second chamber, and an air outlet for discharging air to the outside of the steam valve. The air outlet is connected to the second chamber. A first fan is disposed in the first chamber; and A centrifugal fan is disposed in the second chamber, and the centrifugal fan is connected to the first fan and can rotate with the first fan.

[0006] According to the steam valve in this design, the first fan and the centrifugal fan are located in two separate chambers. Cooking steam drives the first fan and subsequently the centrifugal fan, eliminating the need for additional drive components. Furthermore, the steam valve's absorption of air from the external environment and its discharge of steam to the external environment are independent, ensuring a cooling effect and achieving the technical objectives of preventing overflow and providing cooling. This steam valve has few components, low cost, and excellent overflow prevention and cooling performance.

[0007] Optionally, the steam valve includes an air inlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber. The end of the air inlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air inlet. The extension direction of the air inlet pipe is generally parallel to the axial direction of the rotation shaft of the centrifugal fan.

[0008] According to this solution, ambient air is drawn into the second chamber by the rotation of the centrifugal fan, ensuring that the airflow enters the fan blades smoothly and evenly, significantly reducing eddies and pressure loss at the air inlet, thereby improving air intake efficiency, reducing operating noise, and avoiding performance degradation and vibration of the centrifugal fan caused by uneven air intake.

[0009] Optionally, the steam valve includes an air outlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber, the end of the air outlet pipe away from the second chamber being the air outlet, and the air outlet pipe extending generally along the tangent of the circle defined by the outermost circumference of the centrifugal fan blades as they rotate.

[0010] According to this solution, the airflow can be naturally discharged along the inertia of the centrifugal fan's rotation, which can maximize the use of the kinetic energy generated by centrifugal force and "throw" the air out of the second chamber at high speed and smoothly, significantly reducing turbulence and energy loss in the outer casing assembly, thereby further improving the wind pressure at the air outlet, enhancing the air delivery efficiency and reducing the operating noise of the centrifugal fan.

[0011] Optionally, the bottom of the first chamber is provided with at least one first groove, and the sum of the volumes of all the first grooves is V1, 150 mm. 3 ≤V1≤3000mm 3 .

[0012] According to this solution, condensate formed by the liquefaction of cooking steam can be effectively collected without affecting the overall size design of the outer casing.

[0013] Optionally, the bottom of the second chamber is provided with at least one second groove, and the sum of the volumes of all the second grooves is V2. Among them, 150mm 3 ≤V2≤3000mm 3 .

[0014] According to this solution, cooking steam flowing into the second chamber can be effectively collected and condensed into water without affecting the overall size design of the outer casing.

[0015] Optionally, V2 ≤ V1.

[0016] According to this scheme, less condensate is formed in the second chamber, reducing the space occupied by the second groove in the second chamber.

[0017] Optionally, the steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe communicating with the first chamber. The end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber is the steam inlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet is S1.7 mm². 2 ≤S1≤180mm 2 .

[0018] According to this scheme, sufficient cooking steam can enter the first chamber and have a sufficient flow rate when entering the first chamber.

[0019] Optionally, the steam valve includes an air outlet pipe communicating with the second chamber. The end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air outlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4.7 mm². 2 ≤S4≤180mm 2 .

[0020] According to this solution, air can be discharged to the outside of the steam valve with sufficient flow rate.

[0021] Optionally, the steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe communicating with the first chamber, the end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber being the steam inlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet being S1; the steam valve also includes a steam outlet pipe communicating with the first chamber, the end of the steam outlet pipe furthest from the first chamber being the steam outlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam outlet being S2. Where S1 > S2.

[0022] According to this plan, cooking steam can be discharged from the first chamber to the outside environment.

[0023] Optionally, S1 ≥ 1.2S2.

[0024] According to this solution, cooking steam is more easily released into the external environment.

[0025] Optionally, the steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe that communicates with the first chamber. The end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber is the steam inlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet is S1. The steam inlet pipe includes a steam inlet pipe connecting section. The steam inlet pipe connecting section is constructed such that, along the extension direction of the steam inlet pipe, the closer it is to the first chamber, the smaller the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the steam inlet pipe connecting section is, so that the cross-sectional area S6 of the internal channel of the portion of the steam inlet pipe located between the steam inlet pipe connecting section and the first chamber is less than S1.

[0026] According to this scheme, as the cooking steam flows from the steam inlet to the first chamber, the pipe narrows, which increases the flow rate and ensures that the cooking steam can drive the first fan to rotate at a sufficient speed after entering the first chamber. This allows the first fan to drive the centrifugal fan to rotate at a sufficient speed so that the centrifugal fan can draw in a sufficient amount of cold air.

[0027] Optionally, S6 ≤ 1.2S1.

[0028] According to this scheme, the cooking steam is ensured to drive the first fan to rotate at a sufficient speed after entering the interior of the first chamber, thereby enabling the first fan to drive the centrifugal fan to rotate at a sufficient speed.

[0029] Optionally, the steam valve further includes: An air outlet pipe, which communicates with the second chamber, wherein the end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air outlet; and An additional pipe is provided, one end of which is connected to the portion of the steam inlet pipe located between the connection section of the steam inlet pipe and the first chamber, and the other end of which is connected to the air outlet pipe.

[0030] According to this scheme, based on Bernoulli's principle, the increase in flow rate leads to a decrease in pressure, and a pressure difference can be formed between the air outlet pipe and the steam inlet pipe, thereby creating a greater suction force, making it easier for air to be discharged from the second chamber through the air outlet pipe to the outside of the steam valve.

[0031] Optionally, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal passage of the additional pipe is S5, where S5 < S4.

[0032] According to this scheme, the passage of the additional pipe is narrower than the air outlet, which facilitates the exhaust of air from the wider air outlet to the outside of the steam valve.

[0033] Optionally, the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal passage of the additional pipe is S5, where S5 < S6.

[0034] According to this solution, the passage of the auxiliary pipe is narrower than that of the steam inlet pipe, and the steam tends to choose the wider steam inlet pipe, which can prevent cooking steam from entering the interior of the auxiliary pipe.

[0035] Optionally, the steam valve satisfies: 1 / 4 ≤ S5 / S4 ≤ 3 / 4.

[0036] According to this plan, air can flow normally through the air outlet pipe and the air volume at the air outlet is sufficient, which has the ability to break bubbles or cool down.

[0037] Optionally, the steam valve satisfies: 1 / 4 ≤ S6 / S1 ≤ 3 / 4.

[0038] According to this solution, the cooking steam can increase its flow rate sufficiently as it flows from the cooking space to the first chamber. This not only creates sufficient suction for the air in the auxiliary pipe, but also enables the steam to drive the first fan to rotate at a sufficient speed after entering the first chamber, thereby driving the centrifugal fan to rotate at a sufficient speed.

[0039] Optionally, the steam valve satisfies: 1 / 4 ≤ S5 / S6 ≤ 3 / 4.

[0040] According to this plan, cooking steam will not enter the interior of the auxiliary pipe, ensuring that steam enters the first chamber normally.

[0041] Optionally, the steam valve includes an air outlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber. The end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air outlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4. The air outlet pipe includes The air outlet pipe connection section is constructed such that, along the extension direction of the air outlet pipe, the closer it is to the air outlet, the smaller the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the air outlet pipe connection section, so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the portion of the air outlet pipe located between the air outlet pipe connection section and the second chamber is greater than S4.

[0042] According to this design, the air velocity increases as it flows from the second chamber to the air outlet, ensuring that steam is properly discharged to the outside of the steam valve, for example, it can be more easily injected into the cooking chamber.

[0043] Optionally, S3 ≥ 1.2S4.

[0044] According to this scheme, air can be normally discharged to the outside of the steam valve and has a certain ejection speed.

[0045] Optionally, the first fan and the centrifugal fan are coaxially connected.

[0046] According to this solution, the transmission between the first fan and the centrifugal fan is simpler and more convenient, and the number of parts between the first fan and the centrifugal fan is reduced, making assembly simple.

[0047] Optionally, the housing assembly includes: Shell core; A first cover, which is connected to the core and encloses the first chamber; and The second cover is connected to the core and encloses it to form the second chamber.

[0048] This design ensures that the first and second chambers are isolated from each other, thus preventing the flow of air and cooking steam from interfering with each other. It also makes the assembly and disassembly of the first fan and the centrifugal fan easier.

[0049] Optionally, the shaft of the first fan and / or the shaft of the centrifugal fan may be made of metal, nylon, or POM.

[0050] According to this design, the surface roughness of the shaft is low, which reduces the friction between the shaft and the housing assembly, thus facilitating the rotation of the first fan and / or the centrifugal fan.

[0051] Optionally, the end of the connection between the shaft of the first fan and / or the shaft of the centrifugal fan and the housing assembly is constructed as a hemispherical structure.

[0052] According to this solution, the rotation of the first fan and / or centrifugal fan is smoother, reducing friction and avoiding jamming.

[0053] The second aspect of this utility model provides a cover, which includes the steam valve described in the first aspect of this utility model.

[0054] According to the cover design, the first fan and the centrifugal fan are located in two separate chambers. The cooking steam can drive the first fan to rotate and in turn drive the centrifugal fan to rotate, eliminating the need for additional drive components. The steam valve has a simple structure, few parts, and good anti-overflow and cooling effects.

[0055] A third aspect of this utility model provides a cooking utensil, the cooking utensil comprising: The pot body; and According to the second aspect of the present invention, the lid is closable and connectable to the pot body. When the lid covers the pot body, the lid and the pot body enclose the cooking space, and the steam inlet is connected to the cooking space.

[0056] According to the cooking appliance of this solution, the steam valve uses the energy of the steam to drive the centrifugal fan to rotate while venting steam, thereby introducing cold air. The cooking steam and air do not interfere with each other in the flow of the steam valve, and the cooking appliance has a good effect of breaking bubbles, preventing overflow and cooling.

[0057] Optionally, the steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe communicating with the first chamber, the end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber being the steam inlet. The steam valve also includes an air outlet pipe communicating with the second chamber, the end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber being the air outlet. The air outlet is used to communicate with the cooking space; or, the cover includes a removable cover, the air outlet is located inside the cover, and the air outlet is used to blow air to the removable cover.

[0058] According to this solution, the flow of cooking steam and air in the steam valve does not interfere with each other, and the air can provide a good cooling effect to the cooking space or the removable lid.

[0059] Optionally, the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet is S1, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4, and both the air outlet and the steam inlet are used to communicate with the cooking space, wherein S1 > S4.

[0060] According to this scheme, cold air is directly introduced into the cooking space, and the size of the steam inlet is larger than the size of the air outlet. As a result, the steam tends to choose the larger, less resistant steam inlet, and the steam flow channel and the air flow channel do not interfere with each other.

[0061] Optionally, S1 ≥ 1.5S4.

[0062] According to this design, cooking steam can enter the first chamber more effectively without backflow at the air outlet, reducing the loss of cooking steam and allowing it to better serve the first fan. Attached Figure Description

[0063] The following drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present invention, are incorporated herein as part of the present invention for understanding the invention. The drawings show embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the present invention. In the drawings, Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking utensil according to a specific embodiment of the present invention, wherein the cross-sectional plane is perpendicular to the front-back direction of the cooking utensil. Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of the lid of the cooking utensil shown; Figure 3 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a steam valve according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 for Figure 3 An exploded view of the steam valve shown. Figure 5 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a steam valve, where the cutting plane is perpendicular to the horizontal direction. Figure 6 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the steam valve from another perspective, illustrating the direction of steam flow. Figure 7 for Figure 3The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the steam valve from another perspective, illustrating the direction of airflow. Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a cooking utensil according to another specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a cooking utensil according to another specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a steam valve according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the steam valve shown in Figure 10, wherein the cutting plane is perpendicular to the second horizontal direction; Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the steam valve shown in Figure 10 from another perspective, wherein the cutting plane is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction; Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the steam valve shown in Figure 10 from another perspective, wherein the cutting plane is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction. Figure 14 A partial schematic diagram of the installation of the steam valve and cooking appliance shown in Figure 10, wherein the steam inlet and air outlet are located in different cavities; Figure 15 A partial schematic diagram of the installation of the steam valve and cooking appliance shown in Figure 10, wherein the steam inlet and air outlet are located in the same cavity; and Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a steam valve according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the cutting plane is perpendicular to the horizontal direction. Detailed Implementation

[0064] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well-known in the art have not been described in order to avoid confusion with embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] To fully understand the embodiments of this utility model, a detailed structure will be presented in the following description. Obviously, the implementation of the embodiments of this utility model is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0066] It should be understood that the terminology used herein is intended only to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. When the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0067] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" used in this utility model are merely identifiers and do not have any other meaning, such as a specific order. Furthermore, for example, the term "first component" does not imply the existence of a "second component," and the term "second component" does not imply the existence of a "first component." It should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," and similar expressions used in this utility model are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0068] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show representative embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0069] This utility model provides a steam valve, a cover, and a cooking appliance.

[0070] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cooking appliance 100 includes a lid 110 and a pot body 120. The lid 110 is closable and connectable to the pot body 120. The pot body 120 has, for example, a cylindrical inner pot storage section 121. The inner pot 122 can be fixedly disposed in the inner pot storage section 121, or can be freely placed into or removed from the inner pot storage section 121 for easy cleaning. The inner pot 122 is typically made of metal and has a circular opening for holding food to be heated, such as rice or soup. The pot body 120 includes a heating element (e.g., a coil) for heating the inner pot 122.

[0071] It is understood that the cooking appliance 100 of this utility model can be a rice cooker, an electric slow cooker or other cooking appliances, and the cooking appliance 100 can have various functions such as cooking porridge and making soup in addition to cooking rice.

[0072] The lid 110 is closably connected to the pot body 120. The lid 110 has a shape substantially corresponding to the pot body 120. The lid 110 is closably mounted on the pot body 120. Those skilled in the art will understand that, to facilitate opening the lid 110, the cooking appliance 100 may also be provided with a first pivot and a torsion spring. Specifically, the first pivot is located on the pot body 120, and the lid 110 is pivotally connected to the pot body 120 around the first pivot. The torsion spring is sleeved on the first pivot, with its two arms abutting against the lid 110 and the pot body 120 respectively. With this configuration, when the user operates to open the lid, the lid 110 can autonomously pivot to the open position under the elastic force of the torsion spring, making the opening operation of the cooking appliance 100 more convenient and effortless.

[0073] When the lid 110 is placed on the pot body 120, it covers the inner pot 122, and the space between the lid 110 and the inner pot 122 forms a cooking space 123 for heating food. In other words, the pot body 120 has a cooking space 123 for holding and heating food. In other words, when the lid 110 is placed on the pot body 120, the lid 110 and the pot body 120 enclose and form the cooking space 123.

[0074] To improve the sealing performance of the lid 110 and the pot body 120 after they are closed, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cooking utensil 100 is also provided with a pot opening sealing ring 116. After the lid 110 is closed, the pot opening sealing ring 116 is located between the lid 110 and the inner pot 122, so that the pot opening of the inner pot 122 is sealed.

[0075] It should be noted that the directional terms used in this article to describe the various parts and components of the cooking appliance 100, such as "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "facing upward," and "facing downward," are relative to the cooking appliance 100 in a horizontal and upright position when the lid 110 is covering the pot body 120. Unless otherwise specified, in the directional terms "inward," "outward," "towards," "inner side," and "outer side," "inner" refers to the area near the center of the cooking appliance 100, and "outer" refers to the area away from the center of the cooking appliance 100.

[0076] Please continue reading. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The lid 110 may include an inner liner 115, a removable lid 114, and a top cover 111. The top cover 111 is the outer shell of the lid 110, and the inner liner 115 is connected to the lower inner side of the top cover 111 and is wrapped by the top cover 111. The removable lid 114 is detachably disposed on the lower surface of the inner liner 115. The removable lid 114 located on the inner liner 115 is used to cover the opening on the upper surface of the inner pot 122 to form a relatively sealed cooking space 123. A pot opening sealing ring 116 is disposed, for example, on the removable lid 114.

[0077] The lid 110 also includes a gas path integration device, such as a steam valve 130. When the lid 110 closes the pot body 120, the steam valve 130 connects to the cooking space 123 to achieve functions such as steam release, or to provide a channel for steam release. In other words, the lid 110 includes a steam valve 130.

[0078] First Implementation Method Please see now Figure 3 and Figure 4 The steam valve 130 includes a housing assembly 119, a first fan 160, and a centrifugal fan 170. The housing assembly 119 has a first chamber 148 and a second chamber 149 spaced apart from each other. The housing assembly 119 has a steam inlet 134 for connecting the cooking space 123 and the first chamber 148. The housing assembly 119 has a steam outlet 135 for connecting the first chamber 148 and the external environment. The housing assembly 119 has an air inlet 136 for connecting the external environment and the second chamber 149. The housing assembly 119 has an air outlet 137 for discharging air to the outside of the steam valve 130. The air outlet 137 communicates with the second chamber 149. The first fan 160 is disposed in the first chamber 148. The centrifugal fan 170 is disposed in the second chamber 149. The centrifugal fan 170 is connected to the first fan 160 and can rotate with the first fan 160.

[0079] According to this design, the steam inlet 134, the first chamber 148, and the steam outlet 135 constitute a passage for steam to be discharged to the external environment. When cooking steam is discharged, it drives the first fan 160 to rotate, which in turn drives the centrifugal fan 170 to rotate, thus forming an air intake path through the air inlet 136, the second chamber 149, and the air outlet 137. The steam valve 130 utilizes the energy of the steam to drive the centrifugal fan 170, eliminating the need for additional drive components. When the centrifugal fan 170 rotates, it can introduce external cold air, achieving cooling and bubble breaking. Furthermore, the first chamber 148 and the second chamber 149 are located in two separate chambers, ensuring that the air intake path and the steam exhaust path do not interfere with each other, guaranteeing a cooling effect and achieving the technical objectives of preventing overflow and cooling. This steam valve 130 has few components, low cost, and good overflow prevention and cooling effects.

[0080] Preferably, the first fan 160 and the centrifugal fan 170 are coaxially connected. The first fan 160 can be configured as an impeller fan. Those skilled in the art will understand that the advantages of impeller fans are large air volume, high efficiency, and low cost. The advantages of centrifugal fans are that they can generate higher air pressure, overcome greater resistance, provide concentrated and stable airflow, and are suitable for delivering air within the relatively compact housing assembly 129. It is understandable that the higher the rotational speed of the first fan 160, the higher the rotational speed of the centrifugal fan 170, the more air the centrifugal fan 170 draws in, and the better the cooling and bubble-breaking effects.

[0081] Specifically, please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The first fan 160 includes a first fan body 161 and a first shaft 164 connected to each other. The first fan body 161 includes first fan blades 162 and a first connecting portion 163 connected to each other, with a plurality of first fan blades 162 evenly distributed on the outer periphery of the first connecting portion 163. The centrifugal fan 170 includes a centrifugal fan body 171 and a second shaft 174 connected to each other. The centrifugal fan body 171 includes second fan blades 172 and a second connecting portion 173 connected to each other, with a plurality of second fan blades 172 evenly distributed on the outer periphery of the second connecting portion 173. (See also...) Figure 4 As can be seen, the first fan blade 162 extends straight, while the second fan blade 172 is roughly an arc-shaped surface. The second connecting part 173 is provided with a receiving groove 175 for accommodating the first connecting part 163, so that the first fan 160 and the centrifugal fan 170 can be assembled and connected to each other.

[0082] Understandably, to ensure smoother fan rotation and prevent jamming during operation, the shaft of the first fan 160 (i.e., the first shaft 164) and / or the shaft of the centrifugal fan 170 (i.e., the second shaft 174) are preferably made of metal (e.g., stainless steel), nylon, or POM (Polyoxymethylene). Furthermore, the ends of the connections between the shafts of the first fan 160 and / or the centrifugal fan 170 and the housing assembly 119 are hemispherical. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this design, the first shaft 164 and the second shaft 174 are made of metal, nylon, or POM. The ends of the connection points between the first shaft 164 and the second shaft 174 and the housing assembly 119 are hemispherical. The first shaft 164 and the first fan body 161 are integrally molded. The second shaft 174 and the centrifugal fan body 171 are integrally molded.

[0083] Furthermore, please refer to Figures 3 to 5The outer casing assembly 119 includes a core 131, a first cover 132, and a second cover 133. The first cover 132 is connected to the core 131 and encloses it to form a first chamber 148. The second cover 133 is connected to the core 131 and encloses it to form a second chamber 149. It should be noted that the axial direction of the first fan 160 and the centrifugal fan 170 is a first direction DD1, and the first chamber 148 and the second chamber 149 are arranged and spaced apart along the first direction DD1. The first cover 132 and the second cover 133 are respectively connected to both sides of the core 131 along the first direction DD1. Thus, removing the first cover 132 allows for easy disassembly and assembly of the first fan 160, and removing the second cover 133 allows for easy disassembly and assembly of the centrifugal fan 170. The first direction DD1 is, for example, constructed as a vertical direction DH.

[0084] Specifically, the first cover 132 includes a first cover periphery 145 and a first limiting portion 142 connected to each other. The outer diameter of the first limiting portion 142 is larger than the diameter of the opening for assembling the shell core 131 with the first cover 132. The first cover periphery 145 is provided with a first mounting groove 138 that is recessed radially inward, and the shell core 131 is provided with a first mounting protrusion 141 adapted to the first mounting groove 138. The first cover 132 is snapped onto the shell core 131 and rotated to achieve the assembly connection between the first cover 132 and the shell core 131. Correspondingly, the second cover 133 includes a second cover lower periphery 144 and a second limiting portion 143 connected to each other. The outer diameter of the second limiting portion 143 is larger than the diameter of the opening for assembling the shell core 131 with the second cover 133. The lower circumference 144 of the second cover is provided with a second mounting groove 139 that is recessed radially inward, and the shell core 131 is provided with a second mounting protrusion 124 that is adapted to the second mounting groove 139. The assembly connection between the second cover 133 and the shell core 131 can be achieved by snapping the second cover 133 onto the shell core 131 and rotating the second cover 133. Figure 5 In the middle, the first cover 132 is provided with a first mounting position 146 (for the end of the hemispherical structure) to accommodate the first shaft 164, and the second cover 133 is provided with a second mounting position 147 (for the end of the hemispherical structure) to accommodate the second shaft 174.

[0085] Please see now Figures 3 to 7 The steam valve 130 includes a steam inlet pipe 140, which communicates with the first chamber 148. The end of the steam inlet pipe 140 furthest from the first chamber 148 is the steam inlet 134. The steam valve 130 also includes a steam outlet pipe 125, which communicates with the first chamber 148. The end of the steam outlet pipe 125 furthest from the first chamber 148 is the steam outlet 135. The cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet 134 is S1, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam outlet 135 is S2. Optionally, 7mm... 2 ≤S1≤180mm 2Optionally, S1 > S2. Preferably, S1 ≥ 1.2S2, so that the cooking steam can be discharged more smoothly to the outside environment.

[0086] Furthermore, the steam valve 130 also includes an air inlet pipe 126, which communicates with the second chamber 149. The end of the air inlet pipe 126 furthest from the second chamber 149 is designated as an air inlet 136. The direction of extension of the air inlet pipe 126 is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the centrifugal fan 170. The steam valve 130 also includes an air outlet pipe 150, which communicates with the second chamber 149. The end of the air outlet pipe 150 furthest from the second chamber 149 is designated as an air outlet 137. Figures 3 to 7 In this configuration, the extension direction of the air outlet 150 is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the centrifugal fan 170. The cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet 137 is S4, optionally 7mm². 2 ≤S4≤180mm 2 .

[0087] Preferably, the aforementioned steam inlet pipe 140, steam outlet pipe 125, air inlet pipe 126 and air outlet pipe 150 are all constructed as straight pipes, thereby reducing resistance and ensuring smooth gas flow.

[0088] During the cooking process in the cooking appliance 100, cooking steam condenses to form condensate. To collect and store the condensate, at least one first recess 165 is provided at the bottom of the first chamber 148. The sum of the volumes of all the first recesses 165 is V1, optionally 150 mm. 3 ≤V1≤3000mm 3 .

[0089] As mentioned above, steam inlet 134 is connected to cooking space 123. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 8 Air outlet 137 may be located inside the cover 110. Air outlet 137 is used to blow air to the removable cover 114 so that steam is cooled when it comes into contact with the removable cover 114. Alternatively, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 9 Air outlet 137 is used to communicate with cooking space 123, directly introducing cold air into cooking space 123. As shown in the figure, air outlet 137 is located at the top of cooking space 123, so the cold air only cools the steam when it is about to exit cooking space 123, without affecting the cooking heating effect of cooking space 123. When both air outlet 137 and steam inlet 134 are used to communicate with cooking space 123, S1 > S4; preferably, S1 ≥ 1.5S4. This ensures that cooking steam enters the first chamber 148 through steam inlet 134, and does not enter the second chamber 149 through air outlet 137.

[0090] Second Implementation Method Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 Compared to the first embodiment, the steam valve 230 has the following differences.

[0091] The steam valve 230 includes a housing assembly 219, in which a first cover 232, a core 231, and a second cover 233 are arranged sequentially along a first direction DD1. The first direction DD1 is configured as a first horizontal direction D1. The core 231 is connected to both the first cover 232 and the second cover 233.

[0092] Steam valve 230 includes a steam inlet pipe 240 extending in the vertical direction DH, with the end of the steam inlet pipe 240 away from the first chamber 248 serving as a steam inlet 234. Steam valve 230 also includes a steam outlet pipe 225 extending in a second horizontal direction D2 perpendicular to the first horizontal direction D1, with the end of the steam outlet pipe 225 away from the first chamber 248 serving as a steam outlet 235. Steam valve 230 further includes an air inlet pipe 226 extending in the first horizontal direction D1, with the end of the air inlet pipe 226 away from the second chamber 249 serving as an air inlet 236. Finally, steam valve 230 includes an air outlet pipe 250 extending in the vertical direction DH, with the end of the air outlet pipe 250 away from the second chamber 249 serving as an air outlet 237. It should be noted that the air outlet pipe 250 generally extends along the tangent of the circle defined by the outermost circumference of the centrifugal fan 270 when the fan blades rotate.

[0093] Please continue reading. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The first fan 260 includes a first fan body 261 and a first shaft 264 connected to each other. The centrifugal fan 270 includes a centrifugal fan body 271 and a second shaft 274 connected to each other. It is understood that the first fan body 261 includes a first fan blade 262 and a first connecting portion 263 connected to each other. The centrifugal fan body 271 includes a second fan blade 272 and a second connecting portion 273 connected to each other. The first connecting portion 263, the first shaft 264, the second connecting portion 273, and the second shaft 274 all extend along a first horizontal direction D1. The second connecting portion 273 is provided with a receiving groove 275 for accommodating the first connecting portion 263. The first cover 232 is provided with a first mounting position 246 for accommodating the first shaft 264. The second cover 233 is provided with a second mounting position 247 for accommodating the second shaft 274.

[0094] Furthermore, the first fan body 261 and the first shaft 264 are constructed as separate units. Similarly, the centrifugal fan body 271 and the second shaft 274 are constructed as separate units. Specifically, a first shaft mounting position 267 is provided at the end of the first connecting portion 263 away from the centrifugal fan 270, and the end of the first shaft 264 away from the housing assembly 219 is assembled and connected to the first shaft mounting position 267. For example, the first connecting portion 263 and the first shaft 264 are connected by an interference fit. A second shaft mounting position 276 is provided at the end of the second connecting portion 273 away from the first fan 160, and the end of the second shaft 274 away from the housing assembly 219 is assembled and connected to the second shaft mounting position 276. For example, the second connecting portion 273 and the second shaft 274 are connected by an interference fit.

[0095] The bottom of the second chamber 249 is provided with at least one second groove 266, and the sum of the volumes of all the second grooves 266 is V2, optionally 150mm. 3 ≤V2≤3000mm 3 Since the amount of condensate at the second chamber 249 is relatively small, preferably, V2 ≤ V1.

[0096] Please see Figures 12 to 15 The steam inlet pipe 240 includes a steam inlet pipe end 243, a steam inlet pipe connecting section 242, and a steam inlet pipe body 241 arranged sequentially along the flow direction of cooking steam. The steam inlet pipe connecting section 242 is connected to both the steam inlet pipe body 241 and the steam inlet pipe end 243. The steam inlet pipe connecting section 242 is configured such that, along the extension direction of the steam inlet pipe 240, the closer it is to the first chamber 248, the smaller the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the steam inlet pipe connecting section 242. This results in the cross-sectional area S6 of the internal channel of the portion of the steam inlet pipe 240 located between the steam inlet pipe connecting section 242 and the first chamber 248 (i.e., the steam inlet pipe body 241) being less than S1. It can be understood that, due to the narrowing of the pipe, the flow velocity of the cooking steam increases as it flows from the cooking space 123 to the first chamber 248, thus providing sufficient steam velocity to drive the first fan 260 to rotate. Preferably, S6 ≤ 1.2S1.

[0097] It should be noted that the above-described structure of the steam inlet pipe is also applicable to the steam inlet pipe 140 of the first embodiment.

[0098] Please continue reading. Figures 12 to 15The air outlet pipe 250 includes an air outlet pipe body 251, an air outlet pipe connecting section 252, and an air outlet pipe end 253 arranged sequentially along the air flow direction. The air outlet pipe connecting section 252 is connected to both the air outlet pipe body 251 and the air outlet pipe end 253. The air outlet pipe connecting section 252 is constructed such that, along the extension direction of the air outlet pipe 250, the closer it is to the air outlet 237, the smaller the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the air outlet pipe connecting section 252. This results in the cross-sectional area S3 of the internal channel of the portion of the air outlet pipe 250 located between the air outlet pipe connecting section 252 and the second chamber 249 (i.e., the air outlet pipe body 251) being greater than S4. It can be understood that during the air flow from the second chamber 249 to the air outlet 237, the air velocity increases due to the narrowing of the pipe, ensuring that the air is smoothly sprayed onto the removable cover 114 or into the cooking space 123. Preferably, S3 ≥ 1.2S4.

[0099] It should be noted that the structure of the air outlet pipe 250 described above is also applicable to the air outlet pipe 150 of the first embodiment.

[0100] For the parts not described in the second embodiment, please refer to the first embodiment, which will not be detailed here.

[0101] Third Implementation Method Please see Figure 16 Compared to the aforementioned embodiments, the steam valve 330 differs in that it also includes an auxiliary pipe 280. One end of the auxiliary pipe 280 is connected to the portion of the steam inlet pipe 240 located between the steam inlet pipe connection section 242 and the first chamber 248 (i.e., the steam inlet pipe body 241), and the other end is connected to the air outlet pipe 150. The cross-sectional area of ​​the internal passage of the auxiliary pipe 280 is S5.

[0102] During steam flow, the flow velocity increases due to the reduced cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet pipe 240. According to Bernoulli's principle, the steam pressure in the main body 241 of the steam inlet pipe decreases, causing the gas in the auxiliary pipe 280 to flow from the air outlet pipe 150 to the main body 241 of the steam inlet pipe. This facilitates the flow of air from the second chamber 249 to the air outlet pipe 150, promoting the exhaust of air from the air inlet 136. To ensure a high flow velocity of the cooking steam, preferably, 1 / 4 ≤ S6 / S1 ≤ 3 / 4. It should be noted that if this ratio is too small, the flow resistance of the cooking steam will be high, which may have an adverse effect on cooking; if this ratio is too large, the increase in the flow velocity of the cooking steam will be insufficient, resulting in insufficient suction force on the air.

[0103] Preferably, S5 < S6, so that almost no steam in the steam inlet pipe 240 enters the additional duct 280, ensuring that sufficient steam enters the first chamber 248. Preferably, 1 / 4 ≤ S5 / S6 ≤ 3 / 4, which can make the resistance at the internal passage of the additional duct 280 greater than the gas resistance at the internal passage of the steam inlet pipe 240, preventing cooking steam from flowing into the interior of the additional duct 280.

[0104] Further, S5 < S4, so that a large amount of air is discharged from the air outlet 137. Preferably, 1 / 4 ≤ S5 / S4 ≤ 3 / 4. It should be noted that if this ratio is too small, the resistance to air flow will be high, making air flow difficult; if this ratio is too large, the air volume at the air outlet 137 will be insufficient, failing to achieve the purpose of foam breaking or cooling.

[0105] For the non-described parts of the third embodiment, reference may be made to the first embodiment and the second embodiment, which will not be elaborated herein.

[0106] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the technical field of the present utility model. The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments, and are not intended to limit the present utility model. Terms such as "disposed" appearing herein may mean that one component is directly attached to another component, or that one component is attached to another component via an intermediate member. The features described in one embodiment herein may be applied to another embodiment alone or in combination with other features, unless the feature is not applicable to that other embodiment or otherwise specified.

[0107] The present utility model has been described through the above embodiments, but it should be understood that the above embodiments are only for the purpose of illustration and description, and are not intended to limit the present utility model to the scope of the described embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various variations and modifications can be made according to the teachings of the present utility model, and all such variations and modifications fall within the scope of the present utility model as claimed.

Claims

1. A steam valve for a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance including a cooking space, characterized in that, The steam valve includes: The housing assembly has a first chamber and a second chamber spaced apart from each other inside. The housing assembly is provided with a steam inlet for connecting the cooking space and the first chamber, a steam outlet for connecting the first chamber and the external environment, an air inlet for connecting the external environment and the second chamber, and an air outlet for discharging air to the outside of the steam valve. The air outlet is connected to the second chamber. A first fan is disposed in the first chamber; and A centrifugal fan is disposed in the second chamber, and the centrifugal fan is connected to the first fan and can rotate with the first fan.

2. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam valve includes an air inlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber. The end of the air inlet pipe furthest from the second chamber serves as the air inlet. The extension direction of the air inlet pipe is substantially parallel to the axial direction of the centrifugal fan's rotation axis; and / or The steam valve includes an air outlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber. The end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air outlet. The air outlet pipe extends generally along the tangent of the circle defined by the outermost circumference of the centrifugal fan blades as they rotate.

3. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the first chamber is provided with at least one first groove, and the sum of the volumes of all the first grooves is V1 = 150 mm. 3 ≤V1≤3000mm 3 .

4. The steam valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The bottom of the second chamber is provided with at least one second groove, and the sum of the volumes of all the second grooves is V2, wherein, 150mm 3 ≤V2≤3000mm 3 And / or V2≤V1.

5. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe that communicates with the first chamber. The end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber is the steam inlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet is S1.7 mm². 2 ≤S1≤180mm 2 And / or The steam valve includes an air outlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber. The end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air outlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4.7 mm². 2 ≤S4≤180mm 2 .

6. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe connected to the first chamber, with the end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber serving as the steam inlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet being S1. The steam valve also includes a steam outlet pipe connected to the first chamber, with the end of the steam outlet pipe furthest from the first chamber serving as the steam outlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam outlet being S2. S1 > S2, or S1 ≥ 1.2S2.

7. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe that communicates with the first chamber. The end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber is the steam inlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet is S1. The steam inlet pipe includes a steam inlet pipe connecting section. The steam inlet pipe connecting section is constructed such that, along the extension direction of the steam inlet pipe, the closer it is to the first chamber, the smaller the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the steam inlet pipe connecting section is, so that the cross-sectional area S6 of the internal channel of the portion of the steam inlet pipe located between the steam inlet pipe connecting section and the first chamber is less than S1.

8. The steam valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, S6≤1.2S1.

9. The steam valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The steam valve also includes: An air outlet pipe, which communicates with the second chamber, wherein the end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air outlet; and An additional pipe is provided, one end of which is connected to the portion of the steam inlet pipe located between the connection section of the steam inlet pipe and the first chamber, and the other end of which is connected to the air outlet pipe.

10. The steam valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal passage of the additional duct is S5, where S5 < S4; and / or The cross-sectional area of ​​the internal passage of the additional pipe is S5, where S5 < S6.

11. The steam valve according to claim 10, characterized in that, The steam valve satisfies at least one of the following conditions: 1 / 4 ≤ S5 / S4 ≤ 3 / 4; 1 / 4 ≤ S6 / S1 ≤ 3 / 4; and 1 / 4 ≤ S5 / S6 ≤ 3 / 4.

12. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam valve includes an air outlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber. The end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber is the air outlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4. The air outlet pipe includes an air outlet pipe connecting section. The air outlet pipe connecting section is constructed such that, along the extension direction of the air outlet pipe, the closer it is to the air outlet, the smaller the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the air outlet pipe connecting section is, such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal channel of the portion of the air outlet pipe located between the air outlet pipe connecting section and the second chamber is greater than S4.

13. The steam valve according to claim 12, characterized in that, S3≥1.2S4.

14. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first fan and the centrifugal fan are coaxially connected.

15. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing assembly includes: Shell core; A first cover, which is connected to the core and encloses the first chamber; and The second cover is connected to the core and encloses it to form the second chamber.

16. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shaft of the first fan and / or the shaft of the centrifugal fan are made of metal, nylon, or POM; and / or The end of the connection between the shaft of the first fan and / or the shaft of the centrifugal fan and the housing assembly is constructed as a hemispherical structure.

17. A cover, characterized in that, The cover includes a steam valve according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes: The pot body; and According to claim 17, the lid is closably connected to the pot body, and when the lid covers the pot body, the lid and the pot body enclose the cooking space, and the steam inlet communicates with the cooking space.

19. The cooking utensil according to claim 18, characterized in that, The steam valve includes a steam inlet pipe that communicates with the first chamber, with the end of the steam inlet pipe furthest from the first chamber serving as the steam inlet. The steam valve also includes an air outlet pipe that communicates with the second chamber, with the end of the air outlet pipe furthest from the second chamber serving as the air outlet. The air outlet is used to communicate with the cooking space; or, the cover includes a removable cover, the air outlet is located inside the cover, and the air outlet is used to blow air to the removable cover.

20. The cooking utensil according to claim 19, characterized in that, The cross-sectional area of ​​the steam inlet is S1, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is S4. Both the air outlet and the steam inlet are used to communicate with the cooking space, wherein... S1 > S4 or S1 ≥ 1.5S4.

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