Steam valve and cooking appliance

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of steam valve and cooking utensil, and cooking utensil includes cooking cavity.The steam valve includes the pressure relief hole for making the inside of steam valve with outside environment communication, the air inlet passage for being communicated with cooking cavity, spacer and valve structure.Spacer is provided with multiple micropores being communicated with air inlet passage, micropore has the length dimension of hole itself and the width dimension of hole itself, width dimension size is D1, 0.01mm≤D1≤1mm, alternatively, the sectional area of micropore is S1, 0.7×10 ‑4 mm 2 ≤S1≤100mm 2 In the case where valve structure opens, pressure relief hole is communicated with air inlet passage;in the case where valve structure closes, pressure relief hole is cut off with air inlet passage.According to the steam valve of the utility model, during cooking utensil cooking, steam in cooking cavity forms water film in micropore, can reduce cooking cavity water loss, solve food surface layer dry problem.Steam in cooking cavity can also be discharged through pressure relief hole, improve the safety of cooking.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Rice cooker steam valves are generally open and cannot be sealed. This means that after cooking, the moisture inside the cooking cavity cannot be locked in, resulting in the rice on the surface of the rice being too dry. Current rice cookers use a steam cup inside the cooker to spray steam to replenish moisture in order to solve this problem, but this method is energy-intensive, complex, and costly.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to provide a steam valve and 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 chamber, the steam valve comprising:

[0006] A pressure relief port is used to connect the interior of the steam valve with the external environment;

[0007] An air intake channel is provided for communication with the cooking cavity;

[0008] The spacer includes an exposed surface exposed to the external environment, the exposed surface having a plurality of micropores communicating with an air intake channel. On the surface of the exposed surface, each micropore has a length dimension and a width dimension, the width dimension being D1, 0.01mm ≤ D1 ≤ 1mm, or the cross-sectional area of ​​the micropore is S1, 0.7 × 10⁻⁶. -4 mm 2 ≤S1≤100mm 2 ;and

[0009] The valve structure has an open state and a closed state. When the valve structure is in the open state, the pressure relief hole is connected to the air intake channel; when the valve structure is in the closed state, the pressure relief hole is isolated from the air intake channel.

[0010] According to this design, the spacer is connected to the outlet of the steam channel, which connects to the outside. The exposed surface of the spacer is exposed to the environment. During cooking, the external ambient temperature is lower than the temperature of the steam exiting the steam channel. When the steam passes through the micropores, it condenses into small water droplets due to the temperature difference. These droplets then form a water film within the micropores due to surface tension. When a water film forms in most or all of the micropores, it creates a seal around the cooking cavity, reducing moisture loss and preventing the surface of food (such as rice) from becoming too dry. The water film also prevents the food from oxidizing too quickly, thus preserving its freshness. Furthermore, the steam in the cooking cavity can be released through the pressure relief vent, providing double protection for the appliance's venting function and enhancing cooking safety.

[0011] Optionally, the steam valve includes:

[0012] A first steam passage, which is connected to the micropores and the air inlet passage; and

[0013] The second steam passage is connected to the pressure relief hole;

[0014] The valve structure is designed to open under the pressure of cooking steam in the cooking chamber, thereby connecting the second steam passage to the cooking chamber.

[0015] According to this solution, the micropores are always connected to the cooking chamber. The steam in the cooking chamber can flow through the first steam channel to the micropores and be discharged, forming a water film at the micropores. When the exhaust volume of the micropores is insufficient to relieve pressure, the valve structure can be opened under the pressure of the cooking steam, so that the steam can be discharged through the pressure relief hole, ensuring the exhaust function of the cooking appliance.

[0016] Optionally, the valve structure is disposed on the channel wall shared by the first steam channel and the second steam channel.

[0017] According to this solution, once the valve structure is opened, the first steam passage and the second steam passage can be connected immediately, ensuring that the cooking appliance can quickly release gas and pressure.

[0018] Optionally, the valve structure is disposed on the channel wall shared by the air inlet channel and the second steam channel.

[0019] According to this scheme, the valve structure will not affect the position and structure of the first steam channel, ensuring that the first steam channel can continuously and effectively connect the micropores and the air inlet channel.

[0020] Optionally, the valve structure is disposed on the channel wall shared by the first steam channel and the second steam channel and is constructed as an elastic sealing ring.

[0021] According to this solution, the opening and closing of the valve structure can be achieved by the deformation of the elastic sealing ring, which simplifies the valve structure design and makes the opening and closing process of the valve structure more convenient.

[0022] Optionally, the second steam passage surrounds the outer periphery of the first steam passage, such that the annular sidewall of the first steam passage forms the inner periphery of the second steam passage, and the sealing ring forms a portion of the annular sidewall of the first steam passage.

[0023] According to this solution, the connection between the first steam channel and the second steam channel is faster; when the micropores cannot continuously and effectively exhaust gas, the steam in the cooking cavity or the first steam channel can quickly flow to the second steam channel and be discharged to the external environment through the pressure relief hole, ensuring that the cooking appliance can quickly release pressure and improving the safety of cooking.

[0024] Optionally, the valve structure is disposed on the channel wall shared by the air inlet channel and the second steam channel, and the valve structure is constructed as a gravity float or an elastic diaphragm.

[0025] According to this solution, the valve structure is easy to obtain and replace, reducing the maintenance difficulty and cost of steam valves.

[0026] Optionally, the spacer and the air intake passage are located at opposite ends of the first steam passage.

[0027] According to this solution, the path of steam flowing from the air intake channel to the micropores is more clearly defined. The setting of the first steam channel extends this flow path, preventing food from overflowing from the micropores.

[0028] Optionally, the valve structure is constructed as a gravity float or an elastic diaphragm.

[0029] According to this solution, the valve structure is easy to obtain and replace, reducing the maintenance difficulty and cost of steam valves.

[0030] Optionally, 0.1mm ≤ D1 ≤ 0.5mm; or,

[0031] When the micropores are centrally symmetrical, regularly shaped micropores, 7.85 × 10 -3 mm 2 ≤S1≤0.2mm 2 ;or,

[0032] When the micropore itself has an elongated shape, similar to a micropore, 7.85 × 10 -3 mm 2 ≤S1≤50mm 2 .

[0033] According to this scheme, the size of the micropores is easy to process and easy to form a water film. When the micropores themselves are elongated micropores, such as elongated rectangular pores, the size of the pores in their own length dimension can be up to 100 mm, thus allowing for a relatively large cross-sectional area.

[0034] Optionally, the micropores on the exposed surface may be circular, elliptical, polygonal, rectangular, fan-shaped, or S-shaped.

[0035] Optionally, in a cross-section passing through the axis of the micropore:

[0036] The micropore structure is a columnar pore of uniform thickness; or

[0037] The micropores include multiple columnar pores with inconsistent radial dimensions, and the multiple columnar pores are arranged along the axial direction of the micropores; or

[0038] The micropores include a funnel-shaped structure with varying diameters.

[0039] According to this scheme, the form of the micropores can be flexibly set.

[0040] Optionally, the exposed surface is planar; or,

[0041] The exposed surface is constructed as a convex surface that protrudes towards the external environment relative to the steam passage; or,

[0042] The exposed surface is constructed as a concave surface that is recessed relative to the external environment and faces the steam passage.

[0043] According to this plan, the form of the exposed surface can be flexibly set.

[0044] Optionally, the wall thickness h of the region of the spacer with micropores is 0.15mm≤h≤0.3mm.

[0045] According to this solution, micropores are easy to manufacture and can ensure that the structural strength of the spacer meets the requirements for use.

[0046] Optionally, the micropores are circular, the pore diameter is 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm, and the number of micropores is less than or equal to 50.

[0047] According to this scheme, the micropores are easy to process, the quantity is appropriate, and a water film can be formed at the micropores.

[0048] Optionally, the area of ​​the exposed surface exposed to the external environment is S2,3 mm. 2 ≤S2≤8000mm 2 .

[0049] Optionally, 19mm2 ≤S2≤2000mm 2 .

[0050] Optionally, the exposed surface is circular, and the diameter of the exposed surface is D2, where 2mm≤D2≤100mm.

[0051] Optionally, 5mm≤D2≤50mm.

[0052] According to this scheme, the area of ​​the exposed surface is sufficient to accommodate an appropriate number of micropores.

[0053] Optionally, the exposed surface is made of metal.

[0054] According to this solution, the metal material has good strength, so the spacer can have a small thickness, which facilitates the processing of micropores.

[0055] Optionally, the spacer is provided with a hydrophobic coating or the spacer is made of a hydrophobic material.

[0056] According to this scheme, hydrophobic coatings and hydrophobic materials are beneficial for the formation of water films.

[0057] Optionally, the spacer is constructed as a single component.

[0058] According to this solution, the spacers are easy to manufacture and the processing technology is simplified.

[0059] Optionally, the spacer includes a connecting portion and a mesh plate, the mesh plate being disposed at the center of the connecting portion, the micropores being the mesh openings of the mesh plate, and the connecting portion being used to connect to the cooking appliance.

[0060] According to this solution, the micropores do not require additional processing, and the mesh is easy to obtain and replace, reducing the maintenance cost of the spacers.

[0061] Optionally, when the spacer is provided with a hydrophobic coating and / or the spacer is made of a hydrophobic material, the size of the micropore relative to D1 is D1', and D1' is a size greater than D1 by 0.22 mm to 0.72 mm.

[0062] According to this scheme, the hydrophobic coating and hydrophobic material are conducive to the formation of a water film, so the micropores can be slightly larger to facilitate processing.

[0063] The second aspect of this utility model provides a cooking appliance, which includes a cooking cavity and a steam valve according to the first aspect of this utility model. The steam valve is detachably or fixedly disposed in the cooking appliance, and the air inlet channel is used to communicate with the cooking cavity.

[0064] According to the cooking appliance described in this solution, when the appliance, such as a rice cooker, is cooking rice or other ingredients, a spacer with several micropores is installed between the steam channel and the external environment. When steam overflows, a water film forms at the micropores of the spacer. This water film isolates the cooking cavity from the external environment, achieving a sealing and moisture-locking effect or preserving freshness. Furthermore, when the micropores cannot continuously and effectively discharge steam, the steam in the cooking cavity can also be discharged through the pressure relief vent, thus providing double protection for the appliance's venting function and improving cooking safety. Attached Figure Description

[0065] 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,

[0066] Figure 1A A perspective view of a cooking utensil according to a specific embodiment of the present utility model;

[0067] Figure 1B This is a top view of the cooking appliance shown in Figure 1;

[0068] Figure 2 This is a side sectional view of the cooking utensil shown in Figure 1;

[0069] Figure 3 A perspective view of a steam valve according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the shape of the micropores on the exposed surface;

[0071] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A side sectional view of the steam valve shown.

[0072] Figure 6A and Figure 6B for Figure 5 The diagram shows a side view of the steam valve.

[0073] Figure 7 for Figure 5 A side view of the valve cover of the steam valve shown.

[0074] Figure 8 for Figure 5 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a first example of the lower valve cover of the steam valve shown;

[0075] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shows a top view of the valve cover.

[0076] Figure 10 for Figure 5 A perspective view of a second example of the lower valve cover of the steam valve shown;

[0077] Figure 11 for Figure 5 A top view of the first valve core body of the steam valve shown;

[0078] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A bottom view of the first valve core body shown;

[0079] Figure 13 for Figure 5 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the second valve core component of the steam valve shown;

[0080] Figure 14 for Figure 13 A top view schematic diagram of the second valve core component shown;

[0081] Figure 15 and Figure 16 for Figure 5 A side sectional view of a specific example of the second valve core assembly of the steam valve shown;

[0082] Figure 17 and Figure 18 for Figure 5 The schematic diagram of a partial structure of the steam valve shown illustrates the microporous structure under different implementations;

[0083] Figure 19 for Figure 5 A side sectional view of a portion of the exposed structure of the steam valve shown.

[0084] Figure 20 The figure shows a side sectional view of a steam valve according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 21 for Figure 20 A bottom perspective three-dimensional schematic diagram of the first valve core body of the steam valve shown;

[0086] Figure 22 A side sectional view of a steam valve according to the third embodiment of the present invention; and

[0087] Figure 23 This is a side sectional view of a steam valve according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] This utility model provides a steam valve and a cooking appliance.

[0094] Please see Figures 1A to 2In the first embodiment, 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 portion 128 with an upward-facing opening. The inner pot 129 can be fixedly disposed in the inner pot storage portion 128, or can be freely placed into or removed from the inner pot storage portion 128 for easy cleaning. That is, the inner pot 129 is detachably connected to the inner pot storage portion 128. The inner pot 129 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 device 131 (e.g., a coil) for heating the inner pot 129.

[0095] It is understood that the cooking appliance 100 of this utility model can be a rice cooker, and in addition to the function of cooking rice, the cooking appliance 100 can also have various functions such as cooking porridge. The cooking appliance 100 can also be a small household electric heating appliance such as an electric steamer, a soy milk maker, or a blender.

[0096] 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 119 and a torsion spring. Specifically, the first pivot 119 is located on the pot body 120, and the lid 110 is pivotally connected to the pot body 120 around the first pivot 119. The torsion spring is sleeved on the first pivot 119, 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.

[0097] The cooking appliance 100 also includes a lid-opening assembly, which is, for example, disposed on the pot body 120. The lid-opening assembly is used to open the lid 110 when it is closed to the pot body 120, under the user's operation. The aforementioned first pivot 119 and the lid-opening assembly are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the pot body 120. When the user operates the lid-opening assembly on one side of the pot body 120, the lid 110 automatically pivots to the open position under the action of a torsion spring, making the operation of the cooking appliance 100 more convenient and effortless. Furthermore, the cooking appliance 100 also includes a lid-closing component 127. The lid-opening assembly is connected to the lid-closing component 127 to open and close the pot body 120 with the lid 110.

[0098] The lid-opening assembly may include an operating member and a connecting member 126. The operating member is for user operation and is movably connected to the pot body 120, for example, along a first horizontal direction between an initial position and an operating position. The connecting member 126 is pivotally connected to the pot body 120 about an axis extending along a second horizontal direction. The second horizontal direction is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction. The first horizontal direction is, for example, the front-rear direction of the pot body 120, and the second horizontal direction is the left-right direction of the pot body 120. One end (e.g., the lower end) of the connecting member 126 is connected to the operating member for rotation driven by the operating member. The other end (e.g., the upper end) of the connecting member 126 is used to connect to the lid-closing member 127. In the open state, the operating member is in the operating position, and the connecting member 126 is separated from the lid-closing member 127. The operating member, exposed outside the housing 121, may be configured as a lid-opening button 125. The connecting member 126 and the lid-closing member 127 may be configured as cooperating hooks. It is easy to imagine that the operating component can automatically return to its initial position after the pressing pressure is removed. Therefore, the pot body 120 is also provided with an elastic component, for example. Alternatively, the lid opening assembly also includes an elastic component, which is located between the operating component and the middle plate 122. The elastic component is used to drive the operating component to return from the applied position to the initial position.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, when opening the lid, the user pushes the operating component to the right in the figure, positioning it in the active position. Specifically, the upper end of the connecting component 126 deflects to the left, separating from the lid-closing component 127, and the lid 110 opens automatically under the action of a torsion spring. The lid 110 is also equipped with multiple function buttons 133 and corresponding indicator lights 137 for the user to operate and view different stages of cooking.

[0100] When the lid 110 is placed on the pot body 120, it covers the inner pot 129, forming a cooking cavity 130 for heating food. Alternatively, the pot body 120 has a cooking cavity 130 for holding and heating food. The pot body 120 may include a base 123, a housing 121 connected to the base 123, and a middle plate 122 disposed inside the housing 121. In a side view, the middle plate 122 is generally T-shaped (see...). Figure 2 The horizontal portion of the middle plate 122 corresponding to the T-shape is located above the outer shell 121. The outer shell 121 is located between the middle plate 122 and the base 123 and can connect the outer periphery of the middle plate 122 and the outer periphery of the base 123 together, so that the middle plate 122, the outer shell 121, and the base 123 together constitute the surface of the pot body 120. The vertical portion of the middle plate 122 corresponding to the T-shape has a hollow structure, forming the inner pot storage part 128. The middle plate 122 can also be connected to the base 123 by fasteners such as screws. The lower part of the base 123 is provided with feet 124 to facilitate the placement of cooking utensils 100. To improve the sealing performance of the lid 110 and the pot body 120 after they are closed, please refer to... Figure 2 The cooking utensil 100 is also provided with a pot opening sealing ring 113. After the lid 110 is closed, the pot opening sealing ring 113 is located between the lid 110 and the inner pot 129, so that the upper edge of the outer periphery of the inner pot 129 is sealed.

[0101] 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.

[0102] Please continue reading. Figures 1A to 2 The lid 110 may include an inner liner 112, 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 112 is connected to the lower inner side of the top cover 111 and is wrapped by the top cover 111. The lid 110 also includes a circuit board assembly disposed in the inner liner 112 for establishing wiring connections inside the lid 110. The cooking appliance 100 is also provided with a temperature measuring device, which may include a first temperature measuring device 115 and a second temperature measuring device 135. For example, the first temperature measuring device 115 is disposed inside the lid 110 for sensing the steam temperature inside the cooking cavity 130. The second temperature measuring device 135 is disposed inside the pot body 120. The second temperature measuring device 135 (e.g., a thermistor) is disposed near the heating device 131 and can directly monitor the bottom temperature of the inner pot 129 to prevent dry burning or overheating. The removable lid 114 is detachably disposed on the lower surface of the inner liner 112. A removable cover 114 located on the inner liner 112 is used to cover the opening on the upper surface of the inner pot 129 to form a relatively sealed cooking space. Furthermore, the removable cover 114 has an exhaust port 118 communicating with the cooking cavity 130, and an exhaust port sealing ring 117 is provided at the exhaust port 118. The exhaust port sealing ring 117 is fixed to the inner liner 112 by a fixing member 116. An exhaust channel 132 communicating with the cooking cavity 130 is formed above the exhaust port 118. The exhaust channel 132 is formed in the inner liner 112. A first temperature measuring device 115 can monitor the temperature of the steam located at the exhaust channel 132. The volume of the inner pot 129 is greater than or equal to 3L, such as 3L, 4L, 5L, 6L, etc., which can cook sufficient ingredients and facilitates monitoring of steam changes within the cooking cavity 130 at different cooking stages. The rated power of the heating device 131 is P1, where 1300W ≤ P1 and or P1 ≤ 1500W. Preferably, 1300W≤P1≤1500W, under which condition the heating power of the inner pot 129 can be guaranteed to be sufficient.

[0103] Understandably, the cooking appliance 100 also includes a control device (not shown) for controlling the cooking process. This control device could be, for example, a microcontroller unit (MCU), which coordinates the orderly operation of the various components of the cooking appliance 100. For instance, temperature sensors (i.e., the first temperature sensor 115 and the second temperature sensor 135) and the heating element 131 are both electrically connected to the control device. The temperature sensors send signals back to the control device, which processes the signals and then controls the heating element 131 to operate in an orderly manner. In other words, the cooking appliance 100 monitors the temperature of the inner pot 129 in real time through temperature sensors on the pot body 120 and the lid 110, and feeds the data back to the control device. The control device compares this data with a preset cooking program and precisely controls the temperature by adjusting the power of the heating element 131. When an abnormal temperature is detected (such as a risk of dry burning or overflow), the system automatically reduces the power or cuts off the power, forming a closed-loop feedback regulation to ensure the safety of the cooking process and the optimal taste of the food. The control device and the electrical components in the cover 110 are all electrically connected to the circuit board assembly, so that the control device controls the electrical control components in the cover 110 through the circuit board assembly.

[0104] The lid 110 also includes a gas path integration device, such as a steam valve 140. When the lid 110 closes the pot body 120, the gas path integration device connects to the cooking cavity 130 to facilitate steam release. During cooking, if the internal pressure of the cooking cavity 130 exceeds a set value, the gas path integration device automatically opens its channel to release steam, thereby reducing the pressure in the cooking cavity 130 and preventing accidents such as explosions. Alternatively, the steam valve 140 can simply provide a steam release channel.

[0105] Cooking appliance 100 can perform at least one cooking process. The cooking process of cooking appliance 100 includes, for example, a preheating process, a water absorption process, a heating process, a boiling process, a rice-cooking process, and a heat-keeping process (each process is also a stage). The preheating process is used to initially heat the ingredients. In the water absorption process, the ingredients are soaked in warm water at 35-50°C before boiling to fully absorb water and improve the texture of the rice. In the heating process, the ingredients are gradually heated to near-boiling or boiling temperature using high heat, and then maintained at boiling in the boiling process to ensure the ingredients are basically cooked. The rice-cooking process further dries out any remaining free moisture after the ingredients have boiled, further cooking the ingredients. Finally, the heat-keeping process keeps the food warm so that the user can eat hot food. The heat-keeping temperature is, for example, 60-80°C.

[0106] Please see now Figures 3 to 6BThe steam valve 140 includes a housing assembly 159 and a spacer 169. Specifically, a steam passage 172 for communicating with the cooking chamber 130 is formed inside the housing assembly 159. The spacer 169 is connected to the housing assembly 159 and is located between the steam passage 172 and the external environment. The spacer 169 has at least an exposed surface 171 exposed to the external environment. That is, the spacer 169 is used to be disposed between the steam passage 172 and the external environment and has an exposed surface 171 exposed to the external environment. At least a portion of the exposed surface 171 is provided with a plurality of micropores 161 communicating with the steam passage 172 and the external environment. In other words, the steam valve 140 has a steam passage 172 inside, which communicates with the cooking chamber 130 of the cooking appliance 100. It can be understood that the steam valve 140 is part of the cover 110. Therefore, it can also be said that the cover 110 has a steam passage 172 inside, which is used to communicate with the cooking cavity 130 of the cooking appliance 100. The cover 110 includes the steam valve 140, which is detachably or fixedly installed on the cover 110. In other words, the steam valve 140 is detachably or fixedly installed on the cooking appliance 100.

[0107] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 As shown, on the surface where the exposed surface 171 is located, the microhole 161 has a length dimension L1 and a width dimension L2, where the length dimension L1 is greater than or equal to the width dimension L2. The width dimension L2 of the microhole 161 is D1, where 0.01 mm ≤ D1 ≤ 1 mm. Alternatively, the cross-sectional area of ​​the microhole 161 is S1, 0.7 × 10⁻⁶. -4 mm 2 ≤S1≤100mm 2 Alternatively, the width dimension L2 of the irregularly shaped micro-holes 161 on the exposed surface 171 can be at its widest point, with a dimension D1 of 0.01 mm ≤ D1 ≤ 1 mm. It should be noted that the aforementioned width dimension L2 can be the inner diameter of the micro-holes 161, that is, the dimension in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the micro-holes 161.

[0108] According to the spacer 169 in this solution, the spacer 169 is connected to the outlet of the steam channel 172 that communicates with the outside. The exposed surface 171 of the spacer 169 is exposed to the environment. During cooking, the temperature of the external environment is lower than the temperature of the steam discharged from the steam channel 172. When the steam passes through the micropores 161, it condenses into small water droplets at the micropores 161 due to the temperature difference. Then, due to the surface tension, the small water droplets at the micropores 161 form a water film inside the micropores 161. When most or all of the micropores 161 have formed a water film, these water films provide a certain sealing effect on the cooking cavity 130, which can reduce the loss of moisture in the pot body 120 and solve the problem of the surface of food (such as rice) being too dry. The water film also prevents the food in the pot body 120 from being oxidized too quickly, thus achieving a preservation effect.

[0109] The shape and structure of the micropore 161 will now be described. For example, on the surface of the exposed surface 171, the shape of the micropore 161 can be any suitable shape such as circular, elliptical, polygonal (e.g., triangular, quadrilateral, etc.), fan-shaped, or S-shaped. Figure 4 In (a), the micropore 161 is circular. Figure 4 In (b), the micropore 161 is elliptical. Figure 4 In (c), the micropore 161 is square. Figure 4 In (d), micropore 161 is rectangular. Figure 4 In (e), the micropore 161 is trapezoidal. Figure 4 In (f), the micropore 161 is triangular. Figure 4 In (g), the micropores 161 are fan-shaped. Figure 4 In (h), micropore 161 is irregular in shape.

[0110] In the cross section through the axis of the micro-hole 161, the micro-hole 161 can be constructed as a columnar hole of uniform thickness. For example, the cross section of the micro-hole 161 is the aforementioned circular, elliptical, polygonal, fan-shaped, or S-shaped shape, and the size of the cross section is consistent. It directly penetrates the aforementioned spacer 169, thereby forming a columnar hole of uniform thickness (i.e., a cylindrical hole, an elliptical cylindrical hole, a prism hole, a fan-shaped columnar hole, or an S-shaped columnar hole).

[0111] The spacer 169 is detachably or fixedly disposed on the steam valve 140. The spacer 169 is detachably or fixedly disposed between the steam passage 172 and the external environment. In other words, the steam valve 140 includes the spacer 169, which is detachably or fixedly disposed between the steam passage 172 and the external environment. Alternatively, the cover 110 includes the spacer 169, which is detachably or fixedly disposed between the steam passage 172 and the external environment.

[0112] Steam passage 172 includes a first steam passage 173. Housing assembly 159 is also provided with an air inlet 146, which communicates with both the cooking cavity 130 and the first steam passage 173. For example, steam valve 140 also includes an air inlet passage 145, which is disposed in housing assembly 159 and communicates with the cooking cavity 130. The air inlet passage 145 may be connected to the downstream end of the airflow of the aforementioned exhaust passage 132, or directly inserted into the exhaust passage 132. The first steam passage 173 is connected to the downstream end of the air inlet passage 145 and is connected to and communicates with the airflow of the first steam passage 173. The connection point between the first steam passage 173 and the air inlet passage 145 is the air inlet 146. Thus, steam in the cooking cavity 130 enters the first steam channel 173 through the exhaust port 118, exhaust passage 132, air inlet passage 145, and air inlet 146, and can then be discharged to the external environment through the micropores 161. It can be understood that the first steam channel 173 is connected to the micropores 161 and the air inlet passage 145. The spacer 169 and the air inlet passage 145 are located at opposite ends of the first steam channel 173.

[0113] It should be explained that the exposed surface 171 is directly exposed to the environment, and its temperature will be lower than the temperature of the cooking cavity 130. In at least one step of the cooking process, when the temperature T inside the cooking cavity 130... 腔 When the temperature reaches 50℃, for example, around 60℃~80℃, such as T 腔 When the temperature is ≥70℃, the water vapor generated by cooking heating in the cooking cavity 130 flows through the steam channel 172 and through the micropores 161. A significant temperature difference (e.g., exceeding 10℃) exists between the water vapor and the exposed surface 171, causing condensation. Due to the small pore size of the micropores, the condensed water forms a water film adhering to the micropores 161 under surface tension. For example, the water film formed during the heat preservation process can provide a certain degree of sealing to the cooking cavity 130, reducing moisture loss and preventing the food surface from drying out. The sealing effect of the water film also prevents the food from oxidizing too quickly, thus preserving freshness. Water films can also be formed during the low-temperature water absorption process, the first half of the heating process, and the rice-cooking process, achieving the function of sealing and locking in moisture or preserving freshness in the cooking cavity 130.

[0114] In other words, at lower temperatures, when 0.01mm ≤ D1 ≤ 1mm or 0.7 × 10⁻⁶ mm, the optimal temperature range is 0.01mm ≤ D1 ≤ 1mm. -4 mm 2 ≤S1≤100mm 2 In this condition, the steam generated inside the cooking cavity 130 easily forms a water film at the micropores 161, which adheres to the inside of the micropores 161 and can form a certain seal for the cooking cavity 130. This can reduce the loss of moisture inside the pot body 120 and also prevent the food inside the pot body 120 from being oxidized too quickly, thus achieving a preservation effect.

[0115] When the cooking appliance 100 is in the water absorption, heating, steaming, or heat preservation stage, the temperature inside the cooking cavity 130 is approximately 50–70°C. When the water vapor generated inside the cooking cavity 130 passes through the micropores 161, condensation occurs due to the temperature difference, and the condensate adheres to the pores, forming a water film. Under the action of this water film, the pressure inside the cooking cavity 130 can be approximately 350 Pa–400 Pa higher than one standard atmosphere (ambient pressure). In the initial stage of cooking, the cooking appliance 100 is in a heating state, gradually generating water vapor. Initially, the water vapor forms a water film when passing through the micropores 161, creating a certain seal and a slight pressure effect in the cooking cavity 130. As heating continues, the temperature of the cooking cavity 130 increases (the temperature of the steam valve 140 also increases), and the steam pressure increases. The steam will eventually break through the water film and escape from the micropores 161, thus releasing the steam.

[0116] As mentioned above, 0.01mm ≤ D1 ≤ 1mm, for example, D1 can be 0.01mm, 0.05mm, 0.1mm, 0.3mm, 0.5mm, 0.7mm, 0.9mm, or 1mm. When D1 ≥ 0.01mm, the pore size of the micropore 161 allows air and water vapor to pass through. If D1 > 1mm, it is difficult to form a water film, making it impossible to keep the food moist during the heat preservation stage. Preferably, 0.1mm ≤ D1 ≤ 0.5mm. When the micropore 161 is a circular pore, D1 is the radial dimension of the micropore 161.

[0117] Similarly, in S1≥0.7×10 -4 mm 2 Under these conditions, micropores 161 allow air and water vapor to pass through. When S1 > 0.8 mm 2 At this time, it is difficult to form a water film, making it impossible to keep the food moist during the heat preservation stage. Preferably, when the micropores 161 are centrally symmetrical regular-shaped micropores (e.g., round holes, rectangular holes, regular polygonal holes, elliptical holes, etc.), 7.85×10 -3 mm 2 ≤S1≤0.2mm 2 Alternatively, when the micropore 161 itself has an elongated, slender shape similar to a micropore, 7.85 × 10 -3 mm 2 ≤S1≤50mm 2 When the micropore 161 is elongated in shape, such as an elongated rectangular pore, the maximum length dimension of the micropore 161 can be 100 mm, but the width dimension of the micropore 161 is very small, and the micropore 161 can have a relatively large cross-sectional area.

[0118] This invention does not specifically limit the shape of the micropore 161, as long as it satisfies the requirement of forming a water film at the micropore 161. Those skilled in the art can design the micropore 161 into any shape by referring to the above-described dimensions and area of ​​the micropore.

[0119] Preferably, the wall thickness h of the area of ​​the spacer 169 with micropores 161 satisfies: 0.15mm ≤ h ≤ 0.3mm. Preferably, the micropores 161 are circular, the pore diameter D1 satisfies: 0.2mm ≤ D1 ≤ 0.3mm, and the number of micropores n ≤ 50. Because the micropores 161 are small, they are easily clogged, which affects the steam release function after the food boils. When the amount of steam entering the steam channel 172 is much greater than the amount of steam exiting the steam channel 172, the pressure in the cooking cavity 130 will increase, potentially causing a safety hazard. Therefore, please refer to... Figures 5 to 8 The steam valve 140 also includes a pressure relief port 147, which is disposed on the housing assembly 159. The pressure relief port 147 allows the cooking chamber 130 to communicate with the external environment, and its radial dimension is larger than that of the micro-orifice 161. The radial dimension at the narrowest point of the pressure relief port 147 is greater than or equal to 2 mm. Due to its large diameter, the pressure relief port 147 is less prone to clogging. The cooking appliance 100 is configured such that after the food boils, venting can occur through the pressure relief port 147, thus providing double protection for the venting function.

[0120] Specifically, please refer to Figure 5 The steam valve 140 also includes a valve structure 186, which has an open state and a closed state. It should be noted that when the valve structure 186 is in the open state, the pressure relief hole 147 is connected to the air intake passage 145; for example, the pressure relief hole 147 is connected to the first steam passage 173, thereby connecting to the air intake passage 145. When the valve structure 186 is in the closed state, the pressure relief hole 147 and the air intake passage 145 are separated; for example, the pressure relief hole 147 is separated from the first steam passage 173, thereby connecting to the air intake passage 145. For example, the pressure relief hole 147 is located outside the first steam passage 173.

[0121] Furthermore, the aforementioned valve structure 186 is configured such that when the pressure it bears (i.e., the steam pressure) is less than a preset pressure P2, the valve structure 186 is in a closed state; when the pressure it bears is greater than or equal to P2, the valve structure 186 is in an open state. Specifically, 0.05 kPa ≤ P2 ≤ 4 kPa. This is because, when P2 < 0.05 kPa, the steam valve 140 can normally exhaust air through the micro-orifice 161, meaning the exhaust capacity of the micro-orifice 161 is sufficient, posing no safety hazard, and the cooking appliance 100 can operate normally without special pressure relief. When P2 > 4 kPa, the cooking appliance 100 poses a significant safety hazard, therefore the pressure in the cooking chamber cannot exceed 4 kPa, and rapid pressure relief is necessary. Preferably, 0.05 kPa ≤ P2 ≤ 1.8 kPa. P2 is the pressure in the cooking chamber 130. Figure 5 In this process, valve structure 186 is installed in the channel wall of the first steam channel 173. The operating mechanism of valve structure 186 will be further described below.

[0122] Please continue reading. Figures 5 to 6B The steam valve 140 also includes a second valve core assembly 160, which is disposed in the housing assembly 159 and forms at least a portion of the passage wall of the first steam passage 173. A valve structure 186 is formed in the second valve core assembly 160.

[0123] like Figures 5 to 12 As shown, the housing assembly 159 includes a valve upper cover 141, a valve lower cover 142, and a first valve core assembly 150. The first valve core assembly 150 includes a first valve core body 151, a second sealing ring 152, and a third sealing ring 153. The first valve core assembly 150 is disposed within the valve cavity 190. When the valve upper cover 141 is connected to the valve lower cover 142, the first valve core assembly 150 is confined between the valve upper cover 141 and the valve lower cover 142. The valve lower cover 142 is provided with an air inlet 146 and an air inlet channel 145 for communicating with the cooking cavity 130.

[0124] Specifically, the first valve core body 151 is disposed in the valve cavity 190 formed by the lower valve cover 142 and the upper valve cover 141. The first valve core body 151 is constructed as a hollow annular structure, and the central cavity provides a second steam passage 174 for communication with the cooking cavity 130. The second steam passage 174 is part of the steam passage 172. The second valve core assembly 160 is disposed in the second steam passage 174. Furthermore, the second steam passage 174 surrounds the outer periphery of the first steam passage 173, such that the annular sidewall of the first steam passage 173 forms the inner periphery of the second steam passage 174. Figure 5 In this process, the first sealing ring 163 forms part of the annular sidewall of the first steam passage 173.

[0125] The axial direction of the first valve core body 151 is a first direction DD1. The first direction DD1 is, for example, the vertical direction. The opening at the upper end of the cavity of the first valve core body 151 is a first through hole 144. The spacer 169 is exposed to the environment through the first through hole 144. The first valve core body 151 is provided with a pressure relief hole 147, which communicates with the second steam passage 174 and is also connected to the external environment. The top of the valve cover 141 is provided with a cover through hole 199, through which the first through hole 144 and the pressure relief hole 147 are exposed.

[0126] The specific structure of the second valve core assembly 160 is described below.

[0127] The second valve core assembly 160 includes a main body 167 and the aforementioned spacer 169. Specifically, the main body 167 is cylindrical, and its axial direction is a first direction DD1. The main body 167 includes a first end 187 and a second end 188 disposed opposite to each other in the axial direction. An air inlet 146 communicates with the inner cavity of the main body 167, thereby the inner cavity of the main body 167 serves as at least a portion of the first steam passage 173. The outer peripheral edge of the spacer 169 is connected to the second end 188 of the main body and blocks the opening of the second end 188. The spacer 169 is provided with micropores 161. The side of the second valve core assembly 160 opposite to the spacer 169 is used to fit the housing assembly 159. When the side of the second valve core assembly 160 opposite to the spacer 169 is fitted with the housing assembly 159, the pressure relief hole 147 is not in communication with the inner cavity of the main body 167.

[0128] Furthermore, the second valve core assembly 160 also includes a limiting portion 168, which is annular in shape, with its inner peripheral edge connected to the first end 187 of the main body. The housing assembly 159 has a first through hole 144, the axial direction of which is a first direction DD1. At least one portion of the spacer 169 with micropores 161 is exposed to the external environment through the first through hole 144. The main body 167 is adapted to the first through hole 144, for example, the radial dimension of the main body 167 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the first through hole 144. At least one portion of the main body 167 near the second end 188 of the main body is located in the first through hole 144, so that the spacer 169 is completely exposed to the external environment through the first through hole 144. The radial dimension of the limiting portion 168 is larger than the inner diameter of the first through hole 144. Therefore, the second valve core assembly 160 will not slip out of the housing assembly 159 from the first through hole 144.

[0129] The second valve core assembly 160 also includes a first sealing ring 163, which is detachably connected to the limiting portion 168. The axial direction of the first sealing ring 163 is the same as the axial direction of the main body 167. At least a portion of the first sealing ring 163 is located on the side of the limiting portion 168 facing away from the spacer 169. Specifically, one of the first sealing ring 163 and the limiting portion 168 is provided with a first groove 164, and the other of the first sealing ring 163 and the limiting portion 168 is provided with a third flange 170, which is received in the first groove 164. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sealing ring 163 is provided with the first groove 164, and the limiting portion 168 is provided with the third flange 170, thereby facilitating the assembly and disassembly / replacement of the first sealing ring 163 and the limiting portion 168.

[0130] Furthermore, the first sealing ring 163 includes a first engaging portion 175 and a first sealing portion 165. The first sealing portion 165 is detachably connected to the limiting portion 168, and is connected to the first engaging portion 175, located on the side of the limiting portion 168 opposite to the spacer 169. The first sealing portion 165 is capable of elastic deformation. The first sealing portion 165 includes a pleated structure 166, which extends along the axial direction of the main body 167 and is concave and convex in the radial direction of the main body 167. For example... Figure 6A and Figure 6B In this structure, the radial dimension of the pleated structure 166 continuously changes along the axial direction. Preferably, the main body 167, the limiting part 168, and the spacer 169 are constructed as an integral component (see...). Figure 15 and Figure 16 This reduces the difficulty of manufacturing the components while ensuring that the components have good structural strength.

[0131] Please see now Figures 6A to 8 Furthermore, the housing assembly 159 has an annular boss 180 inside, the axial direction of which is the aforementioned first direction DD1. The annular boss 180 is located on the lower valve cover 142. The air inlet 146 is located in the area of ​​the housing assembly 159 surrounded by the annular boss 180 (see...). Figure 10 When a first sealing ring 163 is connected at the limiting portion 168, the portion of the first sealing ring 163 located on the side of the limiting portion 168 facing away from the spacer 169 (for example, the first sealing portion 165) is used to contact the annular boss 180 (see...). Figure 5 and Figure 8 That is, the side of the second valve core assembly 160 opposite to the spacer 169 is used to fit the annular boss 180.

[0132] Please see now Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8When the second valve core assembly 160 is in contact with the annular boss 180, the portion of the second valve core assembly 160, the annular boss 180, and the outer shell assembly 159 surrounded by the annular boss 180 forms the first steam channel 173. That is, the portion of the second valve core assembly 160, the annular boss 180, and the outer shell assembly 159 surrounded by the annular boss 180 forms the channel wall of the first steam channel 173. The air inlet 146 is located on the channel wall of the first steam channel 173. As the food heats up, the steam pressure increases. The steam acts on the first sealing part 165 of the first sealing ring 163, causing the first sealing part 165 to deform and separate from the annular boss 180. The channel wall of the first steam channel 173 cracks, allowing the first steam channel 173 to connect with the second steam channel 174, and subsequently with the pressure relief hole 147. At this time, the cooking chamber 130 can quickly release pressure through the pressure relief hole 147. When the air pressure in the cooking chamber 130 drops, the first sealing part 165 can use its elasticity to recover and re-engage with the annular boss 180, thus blocking the air intake passage 145 and the second steam passage 174 again. The mechanism of the first sealing part 165 and the annular boss 180 engaging and disengaging is the working mechanism of the valve structure 186. Therefore, the valve structure 186 can be repeatedly opened and closed.

[0133] The boiling point of water in the environment where cooking appliances 100 are located is T. 沸 The cooking process of the cooking appliance 100 includes at least one boiling step, during which the temperature T inside the cooking chamber 130 is... 腔 Satisfy: T 腔 =T 沸 +(0~1)℃. The cooking steam in the cooking chamber 130 flows through the steam channel 172 and through several micro-holes 161 of the spacer 169 to the external environment. During the boiling process, the steam pressure in the cooking chamber 130 increases, which can open the valve structure 186.

[0134] For example, when insufficient steam pressure causes valve structure 186 to open, the first sealing part 165 of the second valve core assembly 160 fits against the annular boss 180, and valve structure 186 closes. During the cooking stage, when a water film forms at the micropores 161, the pressure inside the cooking chamber 130 rises. During the boiling process, steam causes the first sealing part 165 to deform. After the first sealing part 165 deforms and moves away from the annular boss 180, valve structure 186 opens, and steam is rapidly released from the larger pressure relief hole 147, causing the air pressure in the first steam channel 173 to drop, and the first sealing part 165 to reset. This causes the air pressure in the first steam channel 173 to rise again, and the first sealing part 165 deforms again. Therefore, after the food boils, valve structure 186 repeatedly opens and closes, creating a dynamic pressure relief effect. When valve structure 186 is closed, the inside of the cooking chamber 130 is under low pressure, which can improve the soft and tender texture of the cooked food.

[0135] Please see Figure 13 and Figure 14 The exposed surface 171 is planar, which facilitates manufacturing and prevents the water film from slipping off the spacer 169. It is understood that, to facilitate water film formation, the exposed surface 171 may be provided with a hydrophobic coating; or, the exposed surface 171 (or spacer 169) may be made of a hydrophobic material. When the spacer 169 is provided with a hydrophobic coating and / or the spacer 169 is made of a hydrophobic material, the size of the micropore 161 corresponding to D1 is D1', where D1' > D1. The size of D1' being greater than D1 can be from 0.22 mm to 0.72 mm. It is understood that the hydrophobic coating or hydrophobic material makes it easier for condensate to form droplets and adhere to the micropore 161, therefore the size of the micropore 161 can be relatively slightly larger, making the micropore 161 easier to manufacture. Preferably, the exposed surface 171 is constructed of a metallic material, or in other words, the exposed surface 171 is made of a metallic material. Metals are resistant to high temperatures, and most metals are rust-proof or can be coated with rust-proof coatings, thus making them less prone to damage and ensuring that the water film can form for a long time.

[0136] After the food boils, the steam release from the food in the cooking chamber 130 increases, leading to a rise in steam pressure within the chamber. During this stage, some steam is released to the external environment through several micro-holes 161. To achieve a certain micro-pressure within the cooking chamber 130 at the second valve core assembly 160, the total cross-sectional area of ​​the micro-holes 161 needs to be limited, meaning the micro-holes 161 cannot provide sufficient steam release capacity, thereby creating a certain micro-pressure within the cooking chamber 130 of the cooking appliance 100. For example, the sum of the cross-sectional areas of all the micro-holes 161 is less than 5 mm². 2 Preferably, the sum of the cross-sectional areas of all micropores 161 is less than 3 mm². 2 Preferably, when the micropore 161 is a circular hole, the pore diameter D1 satisfies: 0.1mm ≤ D1 ≤ 0.5mm. More preferably, the pore diameter D1 of the micropore 161 satisfies: 0.2mm ≤ D1 ≤ 0.3mm. Preferably, the number of micropores 161 n ≤ 50. When the release capacity of the micropore 161 is insufficient, the gas pressure in the cooking cavity 130 gradually increases, causing the valve structure 186 to open, thereby venting steam through the pressure relief hole 147. Based on this, it can be understood that with the pressure relief hole 147 provided, even if all the micropores 161 are blocked, there is no need to worry about safety hazards caused by steam pressure, and the food can also be kept moist during the heat preservation process (the steam pressure in the heat preservation process is insufficient to open the valve structure 186). Therefore, the steam valve 140 may also not be provided with micropores 161.

[0137] To ensure that the micropores 161 have an appropriate number (i.e., an appropriate cross-sectional area), the area of ​​the exposed surface 171 exposed to the external environment is S2.3 mm. 2≤S2≤8000mm 2 Preferably, 19mm 2 ≤S2≤2000mm 2 . Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the figure, the exposed surface 171 is circular, and the diameter of the exposed surface 171 is D2, where 2mm≤D2≤100mm; preferably, 5mm≤D2≤50mm.

[0138] The mechanism by which the steam pressure acts on the second valve core assembly 160 is also the operating mechanism of the aforementioned valve structure 186. In other words, the valve structure 186 is used to open under the pressure of cooking steam in the cooking chamber 130, so that the second steam passage 174 communicates with the cooking chamber 130. Figure 5 In this configuration, valve structure 186 is disposed on the channel wall shared by the first steam channel 173 and the second steam channel 174. Specifically, valve structure 186 is configured as the first sealing portion 165 of the first sealing ring 163. That is, valve structure 186 is configured as an elastic sealing ring.

[0139] During the water absorption and heating stage, when the water temperature is 50-60℃, the water vapor generated in the cooking cavity 130 passes through the micropores 161 and condenses due to the temperature difference. The condensate adheres to the pores, forming a water film. At this time, the maximum pressure the water film can withstand is approximately 383 Pa. The pressure during the heat preservation stage when the water film is sealed is the same as during the water absorption and heating stage. During the boiling stage, the maximum pressure inside the cooking cavity 130 is approximately 1.6 kPa. Preferably, during the boiling process, the pressure value P_cavity inside the cooking cavity 130 satisfies: 0.05 kPa ≤ P_cavity. 腔 ≤1.8kPa, more preferably, 0.6kPa≤P 腔 ≤1.6kPa. One standard atmosphere is approximately 100kPa. The pressure value inside the cooking cavity 130 is the actual pressure value minus one standard atmosphere, which is also the positive pressure value higher than the ambient air pressure.

[0140] In the projection of the second valve core assembly 160 along the axial direction of the main body 167, the area enclosed by the outer peripheral edge of the limiting portion 168 is 50 mm. 2 Up to 3000mm 2 Therefore, the size of the limiting part 168 is appropriate.

[0141] When steam exits from the pressure relief port 147, it carries foam. To prevent overflow, the steam valve 140 is constructed to maximize the steam flow path, which facilitates foam breaking. For example, a line connecting any point on the wall of the pressure relief port 147 to any point on the periphery of the air inlet 146 can pass through the second valve core assembly 160, meaning the steam must bypass the second valve core assembly 160 to reach the pressure relief port 147. Furthermore, when the valve structure 186 is open, the gap between the first sealing ring 163 and the annular boss 180 is not directly aligned with the pressure relief port 147 to prevent direct steam injection. For example, the pressure relief port 147 is located on the outer periphery of the first through hole 144. (See also...) Figure 5 In the projection of the steam valve 140 along the first direction DD1, the pressure relief hole 147 is located in the region of the limiting part 168 (the pressure relief hole 147 is located directly above the limiting part 168). Thus, after steam flows out from the gap between the first sealing ring 163 and the annular boss 180, it can only enter the pressure relief hole 147 after bypassing the first sealing ring 163 and the limiting part 168.

[0142] To stabilize the position of the second valve core assembly 160, the steam valve 140 further includes at least one first limiting structure 181 disposed in the first steam passage 173. The first limiting structure 181 contacts a downward side of the second valve core assembly 160. Specifically, the first limiting structure 181 contacts a downward side of a limiting portion 168. The first limiting structure 181 is disposed in the area of ​​the housing assembly 159 surrounded by the annular boss 180. The first limiting structure 181 extends upward beyond the annular boss 180. The steam valve 140 is configured such that the air inlet 146 communicates with the space between the first limiting structure 181 and the annular boss 180. The first limiting structure 181 supports the limiting portion 168, for example, below it.

[0143] More specifically, the annular boss 180 and the limiting portion 168 generally share a common central axis P3. In the projection of the steam valve 140 along the first direction DD1, the first limiting structure 181 is distributed on a circle with the central axis as its circle and a radius of the first radius (see...). Figure 8 and Figure 9 The closest distance between the edge of the air inlet 146 and the central axis is less than the first radius, and the maximum distance between the edge of the air inlet 146 and the central axis is greater than the first radius. Thus, a portion of the air inlet 146 is located within the circle of the first limiting structure 181, and a portion is located between the circle of the first limiting structure 181 and the annular boss 180. Therefore, steam can always act on the first sealing ring 163.

[0144] The number of first limiting structures 181 can be one (see...). Figure 9The first limiting structure 181 extends from both ends of the annular boss 180 in the circumferential direction to the edge of the air inlet 146. Alternatively, there may be multiple first limiting structures 281, with a gap between adjacent first limiting structures 181 (see...). Figure 10 ),Right now Figure 10 The gap 182 in the middle. It can be understood that the first limiting structure 181 can be constructed as a supporting rib.

[0145] For further information, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 5 The steam valve 140 also includes at least one second limiting structure 158 for restricting upward movement of the second valve core assembly 160. The second limiting structure 158 is disposed inside the housing assembly 159 and located on the outer periphery of the main body portion 167. The second limiting structure 158 extends downward beyond the pressure relief hole 147. The second limiting structure 158 is used to contact the upward side of the limiting portion 168.

[0146] Along the radial direction of the second valve core assembly 160, the pressure relief hole 147 is located between the second limiting structure 158 and the main body 167; or, the second limiting structure 158 is located between the pressure relief hole 147 and the main body 167. Figure 12 In this embodiment, there are multiple second limiting structures 158, with gaps between adjacent second limiting structures 158. Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, there is only one second limiting structure, which has a notch or through hole; or, there is only one second limiting structure that extends less than one full circle along the circumferential direction of the main body 167. The second limiting structure 158 can be configured as a blocking rib or a protrusion (e.g., a rib or rib sheet). The aforementioned central axis P3 is also the central axis between the main body 167 and the first through hole 144, and the pressure relief hole 147 and the second limiting structure 158 can also be alternately distributed on the circumference with the dot on the central axis P3.

[0147] An inner upper wall 177 is formed in the first valve core body 151, and the second limiting structure 158 is at least one protrusion extending downward from the inner upper wall 177.

[0148] Of course, the second limiting structure 158 can also be configured as a protruding rib provided on the side (upper side) of the limiting part 168 facing the spacer 169.

[0149] In other words, since the steam valve 140 can be manually disassembled for easy cleaning, the steam valve 140 limits the limiting part 168 by setting the first limiting structure 181 and the second limiting structure 158, so that the second valve core assembly 160 can be in a stable position relative to the outer shell assembly 159, ensuring that the pressure relief hole 147 can effectively switch on and off with the cooking cavity 130.

[0150] See Figure 15The exposed surface 271 is constructed as a convex surface that protrudes towards the external environment relative to the housing assembly 159. With the exposed surface 271 constructed as a convex surface, the water film formed at the micropores 161 can be dispersed from the center outwards along the radial direction of the spacer 269, ensuring that a water film can form in most of the micropores, thus guaranteeing a sealing and moisturizing effect. Alternatively, see... Figure 16 The exposed surface 371 is constructed as a concave surface that is recessed relative to the outer casing assembly 159 toward the first vapor passage 173. When the exposed surface 371 is constructed as a concave surface, the water film formed at the micropores 161 can slide down from the circumferential edge to the center along the radial direction of the spacer 369, so that water films can be formed in most of the micropores, ensuring a sealing and moisturizing effect.

[0151] Alternatively, in a cross-section along the axis of micro-orifice 261, micro-orifice 261 includes a flared structure of varying diameters. For example... Figure 17 In the micropore 261, there are a first part 262 and a second part 263 arranged sequentially and connected to each other along the axial direction of the micropore 261. The first part 262 is constructed as a columnar hole with a uniform diameter, and the second part 263 is constructed such that the radial dimension of the second part 263 is smaller the closer it is to the first part 262. Figure 17 In (a), the first part 262 is located above the second part 263. Figure 17 In (b), the second part 263 is located above the first part 262. Alternatively, in a cross-section along the axis of the microvia 361, the microvia 361 comprises a plurality of columnar holes with inconsistent radial dimensions, arranged along the axial direction of the microvia 361. For example... Figure 18 In the micropore 361, there are a first part 362 and a second part 363 arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the micropore 361. The radial dimension of the first part 362 is smaller than the radial dimension of the second part 363. Figure 18 In (a), the first part 362 is located above the second part 363. Figure 18 In (b), the second part 363 is located above the first part 362.

[0152] In similar Figure 17 and Figure 18 In embodiments where the pore diameter is inconsistent along the axial direction, the aforementioned limitation on the size of the micropore 161 specifically refers to the narrowest point of the pore diameter, because the water film forms at the narrowest point of the pore diameter.

[0153] Alternatively, see Figure 19The spacer 269 includes a connecting portion 189 and a mesh plate 184. The outer peripheral edge of the connecting portion 189 is connected to the second end 188 of the main body (in other embodiments, the outer peripheral edge of the connecting portion 189 may be connected to other components of the cooking appliance), and a first opening 183 is provided at the center of the connecting portion 189, extending through the connecting portion 189 in the axial direction of the main body 167. The mesh plate 184 is disposed at and covers the first opening 183, and the micro-holes 161 are the mesh openings of the mesh plate 184. The portion of the spacer 169 with at least the micro-holes 161 is made of a metal material. For example, the aforementioned exposed surface 171, or the mesh plate 184, is made of a metal material. It can also be understood that the spacer can be a single component or an assembly.

[0154] Please see Figure 20 and Figure 21 Compared to steam valve 140, the first sealing portion 465 of the first sealing ring 463 of steam valve 440 has an increased axial dimension (or an increased pleated structure). When the first sealing portion 465 does not undergo elastic deformation, it forms part of the cavity wall of the first steam passage 173. When the first sealing portion 465 undergoes elastic deformation, a gap is formed between the first sealing portion 465 and the cavity wall of the first steam passage 173, allowing the first steam passage 173 to communicate with the pressure relief hole 147. In this embodiment, due to the increased size of the first sealing portion 465, in the assembled state, the first sealing ring 463 almost fills the height between the annular boss 180 and the inner upper wall 177, thus allowing the second valve core assembly 160 to be in a stable position within the steam valve 440 without the need for the first limiting structure 181 and the second limiting structure 158. The first sealing portion 465 of the first sealing ring 463 is a valve structure 286.

[0155] In the steam valve 440, the housing assembly 159 includes an inner upper wall 177 located on the side of the limiting portion 168 facing the spacer 169. Both the first through hole 144 and the pressure relief hole 147 are disposed on the inner upper wall 177. The first engagement portion 175 of the first sealing ring 163 is fitted onto the outer periphery of the limiting portion 168, such that a portion of the first engagement portion 175 protrudes above the limiting portion 168. The first engagement portion 175 is more likely to contact the inner upper wall 177 than the limiting portion 168, thus preventing steam from entering the pressure relief hole 147. For this purpose, at least one first groove 258 is also formed on the inner surface of the inner upper wall 177, extending radially along the main body 167 and located on the outer periphery of the first through hole 144. It should be noted that in the projection of the steam valve 440 along the first direction DD1, the end of the first groove 258 near the first through hole 144 is located on the inner circumferential side of the first joint 175, and the end of the first groove 258 away from the first through hole 144 is located on the outer circumferential side of the first joint 175. Figure 21In the middle, there are multiple first grooves 258, and the multiple first grooves 258 are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction of the main body 167.

[0156] An inner upper wall 177 is formed in the first valve core body 251. A first groove 258 is provided in the first valve core body 251.

[0157] Of course, the steam valve 440 may also be provided with a first limiting structure 181. For example, when the valve structure 286 is open, if the second valve core assembly 160 is subjected to an abnormal downward external force, the first limiting structure 181 can support the limiting part 168 from below, ensuring that the first sealing part 465 is separated from the annular boss 180.

[0158] See Figure 22 In the steam valve 340, the valve structure 486 can be installed on the channel wall of the air inlet channel 145, thus eliminating the need for the valve structure 186 on the channel wall of the first steam channel 173. In other words, the valve structure 486 is installed on the channel wall shared by the air inlet channel 145 and the second steam channel 174. This is understandable. Figure 22 In the process, when the steam pressure is greater than or equal to the preset pressure P2, the valve structure 486 (e.g., a gravity ball, gravity float, etc.) floats upward, opening the valve and connecting the air intake passage 145 with the pressure relief port 147; when the steam pressure is less than P2, the valve structure 486 falls back to its initial position due to its own gravity, closing the valve and thus disconnecting the air intake passage 145 from the pressure relief port 147. Specifically, Figure 22 In the middle, valve structure 486 is constructed as a gravity ball. Alternatively, in Figure 23 In this design, valve structure 586 is constructed as an elastic diaphragm. It can be understood that the elastic diaphragm utilizes a pressure difference to drive the deformation of an elastic film, thereby achieving the opening and closing of valve structure 586.

[0159] exist Figure 22 and Figure 23 In the example shown, the second valve core assembly 160 is not provided, and the first through hole 144 of the housing assembly can be lengthened and directly constructed as the first steam passage 173. The valve structure can still be set in the passage wall shared by the first steam passage 173 and the second steam passage 174, and the valve structure can still be constructed, for example, by a sealing ring.

[0160] In embodiments not shown in this utility model, the lid or cooking appliance does not have a detachable steam valve (this can also be understood as the steam valve being fixed and non-detachable), meaning its steam passage is integrally formed inside the lid or cooking appliance and is not detachable. A spacer is detachably or fixedly located at the outlet of the steam passage of the lid or cooking appliance that communicates with the outside. Alternatively, the steam valve is detachably connected to the lid or cooking appliance, and the spacer is located on the steam valve, thus being detachably connected to the lid or cooking appliance along with the steam valve. The spacer may also be detachably located on the steam valve.

[0161] The following provides a supplementary description of the specific structure of steam valve 140.

[0162] Please see now Figures 5 to 12 As previously described, the housing assembly 159 includes a valve upper cover 141, a valve lower cover 142, and a first valve core assembly 150. The first valve core assembly 150 includes a first valve core body 151, a second sealing ring 152, and a third sealing ring 153.

[0163] The second sealing ring 152 is disposed between the upper valve cover 141 and the first valve core body 151. The third sealing ring 153 is disposed between the lower valve cover 142 and the first valve core body 151. Thus, the upper valve cover 141 and the lower valve cover 142 form the first outer shell of the steam valve 140, and the first valve core body 151 forms the second outer shell of the steam valve 140. The double-layer shell is more conducive to ensuring the sealing of the steam valve.

[0164] Furthermore, one of the valve upper cover 141 and the valve lower cover 142 is provided with a second groove 148, and the other of the valve upper cover 141 and the valve lower cover 142 is provided with a first flange 149, which is accommodated in the second groove 148. Figure 6B In the middle, the upper valve cover 141 is provided with a second groove 148, and the lower valve cover 142 is provided with a first flange 149.

[0165] Furthermore, the second sealing ring 152 is detachably connected to the first valve core body 151, and the axial direction of the second sealing ring 152 is the same as the axial direction of the first valve core body 151. Specifically, at least one of the inner surface of the valve cover 141 and the outer surface of the first valve core body 151 is provided with a first receiving groove 154 for accommodating the second sealing ring 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the first receiving groove 154 is provided on the outer surface of the first valve core body 151. The axial direction of the aforementioned annular structure (of the first valve core body 151) is vertical, and the first receiving groove 154 is constructed to be recessed downward along the axial direction of the first valve core body 151, and the second sealing ring 152 is accommodated in the first receiving groove 154. In the assembled state of the steam valve 140, the second sealing ring 152 is sandwiched between the valve cover 141 and the first receiving groove 154. The inner surface of the valve cover 141 is provided with a downward protruding rib 136. When the steam valve 140 is assembled, the second sealing ring 152 is sandwiched between the rib 136 and the first receiving groove 154.

[0166] A third sealing ring 153 is detachably connected to a first valve core body 151, and the axial direction of the third sealing ring 153 is the same as that of the first valve core body 151. At least a portion of the third sealing ring 153 is located on the side of the first valve core body 151 facing the lower valve cover 142. One of the first valve core body 151 and the third sealing ring 153 is provided with a second receiving groove 155, and the other of the first valve core body 151 and the third sealing ring 153 is provided with a second flange 156, which is received in the second receiving groove 155. In the illustrated embodiment, the third sealing ring 153 is provided in the second receiving groove 155, and the first valve core body 151 is provided with the second flange 156; in the assembled state of the steam valve 140, a portion of the groove wall of the second receiving groove 155 is sandwiched between the second flange 156 and the lower valve cover 142. The second flange 156 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the first valve core body 151. In the assembled state of the steam valve 140, the lower side of the groove wall of the second receiving groove 155 is sandwiched between the second flange 156 and the valve lower cover 142.

[0167] See Figures 5 to 6B In the first embodiment, the steam valve 140 includes an upper valve cover 141, a lower valve cover 142, a first valve core assembly 140, and a second valve core assembly 160. Preferably, the steam valve 140 is essentially a rotating body structure with a central axis P3 as its axis. Preferably, the first valve core assembly 140 and the second valve core assembly 160 are rotating bodies with a central axis P3 as their axis.

[0168] The second valve core assembly 160 is disposed within the inner cavity of the first valve core body 151, meaning the first valve core assembly 150 is located on the outer periphery of the second valve core assembly 160. The portion of the valve cavity 190 located between the second valve core assembly 160 and the first valve core assembly 150 forms a second steam passage 174. The second steam passage 174 is located on the outer periphery of the first steam passage 173. The valve structure is used to control the opening and closing of the connection between the first steam passage 173 and the second steam passage 174.

[0169] The lower valve cover 142 is connected to the second valve core assembly 160 and forms a first steam passage 173 between them, which is part of the steam passage 172. The spacer 169 is detachably or integrally disposed in the second valve core assembly 160.

[0170] The spacer 169, the main body 167, and the limiting part 168 constitute the second valve core component 162 (see...). Figure 15 and Figure 16 The second valve core component 162 can be a one-piece metal part. The second valve core assembly 160 includes the second valve core component 162 and the first sealing ring 163. The second valve core component 162 is generally in the shape of an inverted cup, so that the second valve core assembly 160 is generally in the shape of an inverted cup.

[0171] The second valve core assembly 160 has a second lower circumferential edge 192, and the lower valve cover 142 has a lower cover inner bottom 193. The second lower circumferential edge 192 is used to contact the lower cover inner bottom 193. The second lower circumferential edge 192 may be the lower circumferential edge of the second valve core member 162, wherein the limiting portion 168 provides the lower circumferential edge of the second valve core member 162. An elastic seal (e.g., a first sealing ring 163) is provided between the second lower circumferential edge 192 and the lower cover inner bottom 193. An annular boss 180 is provided in the lower cover inner bottom 193, and the second lower circumferential edge 192 is used to contact the annular boss 180. An elastic seal is provided between the second lower circumferential edge 192 and the annular boss 180. The lower cover inner bottom 193 also has a first limiting structure 181 protruding toward the second valve core assembly 160.

[0172] The first valve core assembly 150 has a first lower circumferential edge 191, which is located on the outer periphery of a second lower circumferential edge 192, and there is a distance between them. The outer periphery of the annular boss 180 abuts against the inner periphery of the first lower circumferential edge 191. The first lower circumferential edge 191 may be the lower edge of the first valve core body 151. A third sealing ring 153 is connected to the lower edge of the first valve core body 151. The first lower circumferential edge 191 may also be formed by the third sealing ring 153. Alternatively, the first lower circumferential edge 191 may be formed by the third sealing ring 153 and the lower edge of the first valve core body 151.

[0173] The approximate path of steam flowing from the cooking chamber 130 to the micropore 161 is: cooking chamber 130 - exhaust channel 132 - air intake channel 145 - air inlet 146 - first steam channel 173 - micropore 161. That is, under normal circumstances, the micropore 161 and the cooking chamber 130 are in constant communication. When the pressure relief hole 147 is connected to the cooking chamber 130, the approximate path of steam flowing from the cooking chamber 130 to the pressure relief hole 147 is: cooking chamber 130 - exhaust channel 132 - air intake channel 145 - air inlet 146 - first steam channel 173 - second steam channel 174 - pressure relief hole 147.

[0174] The second valve core assembly 160 is disposed in the second steam passage 174. It is understood that when the valve structure 186 is open, the second steam passage 174 connects the pressure relief hole 147 and the cooking chamber 130. Steam inside the cooking chamber 130 is distributed along the flow path of the second steam passage 174 on both sides of the limiting portion 168 in the axial direction (first direction DD1) of the second valve core assembly 160. Compared to steam being directly injected from the cooking chamber 130 to the pressure relief hole 147, this extends the steam flow path and prevents food from overflowing from the pressure relief hole 147. This is because, along the first direction DD1, the second valve core assembly 160 is partially (e.g., the limiting portion 168) located between the air inlet 146 and the pressure relief hole 147. When the valve structure 186 is open, steam inside the cooking chamber 130 must flow from the air inlet 146 around the second valve core assembly 160 to the pressure relief hole 147.

[0175] The aforementioned shape and structure of the exposed surface 171 can also be described as follows: the portion of the second valve core assembly 160 at least provided with micropores 161 is planar (see...). Figure 15 and Figure 16 Alternatively, at least the portion of the second valve core assembly 160 provided with micropores 161 is configured as a convex surface protruding towards the external environment relative to the valve cover 141 (see...). Figure 17 Alternatively, the portion of the second valve core assembly 160 at least provided with micropores 161 is configured as a concave surface recessed relative to the upper valve cover 141 toward the lower valve cover 142 (see...). Figure 18 The aforementioned concave and convex surfaces can be curved surfaces or other suitable curved surface structures. The shape of the exposed surface 171 is designed by the design engineer according to the product design requirements, and can be a plane, a curved surface, or an irregular surface, etc.

[0176] The first steam passage 173 and the second steam passage 174 are both part of the valve chamber 190. The direction extending from the central axis of the steam valve as a whole to the periphery perpendicular to the central axis is "outside", and the opposite is "inside".

[0177] In this invention, the steam channel is a steam flow channel connecting the cooking cavity 130 of the cooking appliance 100 with the external environment. This invention does not limit its specific form or structure. The steam channel can be directly disposed in the cooking appliance 100, or formed in or disposed in the cover 110. When the cooking appliance 100 is equipped with a steam valve, the steam channel can be formed inside the steam valve. That is, the cooking appliance 100 includes a cooking cavity 130, a steam channel communicating with the cooking cavity 130, and the aforementioned spacer, the spacer being detachably or fixedly disposed in the cooking appliance 100; or, the cooking appliance 100 includes a cooking cavity 130 and the aforementioned steam valve, the steam valve being detachably or fixedly disposed in the cooking appliance 100; or, the cooking appliance 100 includes a cooking cavity 130 and the aforementioned cover 110, the cover being provided with a steam channel and a spacer.

[0178] The steam valve and spacer according to this utility model can be applied not only to electric cooking appliances, but also to open flame products, such as open flame steamers and open flame pressure cookers.

[0179] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Terms such as “set” appearing herein can refer to either a component being directly attached to another component or a component being attached to another component via an intermediary. A feature 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.

[0180] This utility model 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 utility model to the described embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this utility model, and all such variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

Claims

1. A steam valve for a cooking appliance, the cooking appliance comprising a cooking chamber, characterized in that, The steam valve includes: A pressure relief port is used to connect the interior of the steam valve with the external environment; An air intake channel is provided for communication with the cooking cavity; The spacer includes an exposed surface exposed to the external environment, the exposed surface having a plurality of micropores communicating with an air intake channel. On the surface of the exposed surface, each micropore has a length dimension and a width dimension, the width dimension being D1, 0.01mm ≤ D1 ≤ 1mm, or the cross-sectional area of ​​the micropore is S1, 0.7 × 10⁻⁶. -4 mm 2 ≤S1≤100mm 2 ;and The valve structure has an open state and a closed state. When the valve structure is in the open state, the pressure relief hole is connected to the air intake channel; when the valve structure is in the closed state, the pressure relief hole is isolated from the air intake channel.

2. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam valve includes: A first steam passage, which is connected to the micropores and the air inlet passage; and The second steam passage is connected to the pressure relief hole; The valve structure is designed to open under the pressure of cooking steam in the cooking chamber, thereby connecting the second steam passage to the cooking chamber.

3. The steam valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The valve structure is installed on the channel wall shared by the first steam channel and the second steam channel; or, The valve structure is installed on the channel wall shared by the air inlet channel and the second steam channel.

4. The steam valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve structure is installed on the channel wall shared by the first steam channel and the second steam channel and is constructed as an elastic sealing ring.

5. The steam valve according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second steam passage surrounds the outer periphery of the first steam passage, such that the annular sidewall of the first steam passage forms the inner periphery of the second steam passage, and the sealing ring forms a part of the annular sidewall of the first steam passage.

6. The steam valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve structure is installed on the channel wall shared by the air inlet channel and the second steam channel, and the valve structure is constructed as a gravity float or an elastic diaphragm.

7. The steam valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The spacer and the air intake passage are located at opposite ends of the first steam passage.

8. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve structure is constructed as a gravity float or an elastic diaphragm.

9. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, 0.1mm≤D1≤0.5mm; or, When the micropores are centrally symmetrical, regularly shaped micropores, 7.85 × 10 -3 mm 2 ≤S1≤0.2mm 2 ;or, When the micropore itself has an elongated shape, similar to a micropore, 7.85 × 10 -3 mm 2 ≤S1≤50mm 2 .

10. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The micropores on the exposed surface can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, rectangular, fan-shaped, or S-shaped.

11. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, On a cross-section passing through the axis of the micropore: The micropore structure is a columnar pore of uniform thickness; or The micropores include multiple columnar pores with inconsistent radial dimensions, and the multiple columnar pores are arranged along the axial direction of the micropores; or The micropores include a funnel-shaped structure with varying diameters.

12. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The exposed surface is planar; or... The exposed surface is constructed as a convex surface that protrudes towards the external environment relative to the steam passage; or, The exposed surface is constructed as a concave surface that is recessed relative to the external environment and faces the steam passage.

13. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The wall thickness h of the perforated region of the spacer is 0.15 mm ≤ h ≤ 0.3 mm; and / or, The micropores are circular, with a diameter of 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm, and the number of micropores is less than or equal to 50.

14. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The area of ​​the exposed surface exposed to the external environment is S2, 3 mm. 2 ≤S2≤8000mm 2 .

15. The steam valve according to claim 14, characterized in that, 19mm 2 ≤S2≤2000mm 2 。 16. The steam valve according to claim 14, characterized in that, The exposed surface is circular, and the diameter of the exposed surface is D2, where 2mm ≤ D2 ≤ 100mm.

17. The steam valve according to claim 16, characterized in that, 5mm≤D2≤50mm.

18. The steam valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The exposed surface is made of metal; and / or The spacer is provided with a hydrophobic coating or the spacer is made of a hydrophobic material.

19. The steam valve according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The spacer is constructed as a single component; or... The spacer includes a connecting part and a mesh plate, the mesh plate being disposed at the center of the connecting part, the micropores being the mesh openings of the mesh plate, and the connecting part being used to connect to the cooking appliance.

20. The steam valve according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, When the spacer is provided with a hydrophobic coating and / or the spacer is made of a hydrophobic material, the size of the micropore relative to D1 is D1', and D1' is a size greater than D1 by 0.22 mm to 0.72 mm.

21. A cooking utensil, characterized in that, The cooking appliance includes a cooking chamber and a steam valve according to any one of claims 1 to 20, the steam valve being detachably or fixedly disposed in the cooking appliance, and the air inlet channel being used to communicate with the cooking chamber.

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