Electric cooking appliance equipped with a cooking vessel

Abstract

An electric cooking appliance (1) for cooking food, comprising a lower heating structure (2) comprising a cooking vessel (5) having a maximum depth that is greater than 40 mm; an upper heating structure (13) having a cooking plate (16); a pivot connection (15) connecting the upper heating structure (13) to the lower heating structure (2) and configured to allow pivoting of the upper heating structure (13) between a closed position in which the lower heating structure (2) and the upper heating structure (13) delimit a cooking volume (19) in which a food is able to be cooked, and a maximum-opening position in which each of the cooking vessel (5) and the cooking plate (16) is able to support and cook a respective food.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Electric cooking appliance equipped with a cooking tank

[0003] The present invention relates generally to an electric cooking appliance for cooking food products.

[0004] State of the

[0005] As is known, an electric cooking appliance for cooking food comprises:

[0006] - a lower heating structure comprising a cooking tank provided with a base and a peripheral wall,

[0007] - an upper heating structure comprising a cooking plate provided with a cooking surface, and

[0008] - a pivot connection connecting the upper heating structure to the lower heating structure and configured to allow pivoting of the upper heating structure relative to the lower heating structure about a pivot axis and between a closed position in which the upper heating structure prevents access to the cooking tank and in which the lower heating structure and the upper heating structure delimit a cooking volume in which a food item is capable of being cooked, and a maximum open position in which the lower heating structure and the upper heating structure have a maximum spacing when the cooking appliance rests on a support surface and in which each of the cooking tank and the cooking plate is capable of supporting and cooking a respective food item.

[0009] Such an electric cooking appliance allows, for example, the cooking of meat, fish or vegetables on the hob when the upper heating structure is in the maximum open position, and the cooking of more complex recipes in the cooking volume when the upper heating structure is in the closed position.

[0010] However, it is not possible to cook, with such an electric cooking appliance, large dishes such as quiches or cakes, or to cook recipes requiring a large quantity of liquid, such as pasta or rice. Summary of the invention

[0011] The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks.

[0012] The technical problem underlying the invention consists in particular in providing an electric cooking appliance which is compact and multifunctional, while allowing the cooking of numerous and varied recipes, and in particular cooking in water and the cooking of quiches and cakes.

[0013] To this end, the present invention relates to an electric cooking appliance for cooking food, the electric cooking appliance comprising:

[0014] - a lower heating structure comprising a cooking tank provided with a base and a peripheral wall,

[0015] - an upper heating structure comprising a cooking plate provided with a cooking surface,

[0016] - a pivot connection connecting the upper heating structure to the lower heating structure and configured to allow pivoting of the upper heating structure relative to the lower heating structure about a pivot axis and between a closed position in which the upper heating structure prevents access to the cooking tank and in which the lower heating structure and the upper heating structure, and more particularly the cooking tank and the cooking plate, delimit a cooking volume in which a food item is capable of being cooked, and a maximum open position in which the lower heating structure and the upper heating structure have a maximum spacing when the cooking appliance rests on a support surface and in which each of the cooking tank and the cooking plate is capable of supporting and cooking a respective food item.

[0017] The cooking tank has a maximum depth which is greater than 40 mm, advantageously between 45 and 70 mm, and for example between 50 and 60 mm.

[0018] Such a configuration of the cooking tank ensures a significant separation distance between the bottom of the cooking tank and the cooking surface of the cooking plate when the upper heating structure occupies the closed position, and therefore makes it possible to cook a quiche or a cake in the cooking volume without the upper part of the food being able to come into contact with the cooking plate.

[0019] In addition, such a configuration of the cooking tank allows cooking in water in the cooking tank, and in particular cooking pasta or rice. Thus, the electric cooking appliance according to the present invention allows the cooking of numerous and varied recipes, and in particular cooking in water and cooking quiches and cakes.

[0020] The electric cooking appliance may further have one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper heating structure is configured to close an upper opening, delimited by an upper peripheral edge of the peripheral wall of the cooking tank, when the upper heating structure occupies the closed position.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking tank has a depth before overflow which is greater than 40 mm, advantageously between 40 and 60 mm, and for example approximately 50 mm.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the invention, when the upper heating structure occupies the closed position, a separation distance between the cooking surface of the cooking plate and the bottom of the cooking tank is greater than 45 mm, advantageously between 45 and 65 mm, and for example approximately 55 mm. Such a value of the separation distance makes it possible to cook, in the cooking volume, a quiche or a cake of significant thickness without the upper part of the food being able to come into contact with the cooking plate.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking tank is removable, which makes it easier to clean the cooking tank and to transfer the food cooked in the latter to a dish or other container.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the invention, the lower heating structure comprises a lower frame and a locking mechanism configured to reversibly lock the cooking vessel onto the lower frame. These arrangements ensure that the cooking vessel is kept in an optimal position on the lower frame, during the preparation of a recipe and also during a movement of the upper heating structure towards the maximum opening position.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the locking mechanism comprises at least one locking member, which may for example comprise a locking finger, provided on the cooking vessel or the lower frame, and at least one locking element, such as a locking housing, provided on the lower frame or the cooking vessel, the at least one locking member being movable between a locking position in which the at least one locking member is configured to cooperate with the at least one locking element so as to lock the cooking vessel on the lower frame, and an unlocking position in which the at least one locking member is configured to release the locking element so as to allow removal of the cooking vessel from the lower frame.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking vessel comprises two gripping parts which are diametrically opposed and which are for example fixed to the peripheral wall of the cooking vessel. The presence of the two gripping parts makes it easier for a user to handle the cooking vessel, while limiting the risk of burning the latter.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the gripping parts of the cooking tank is equipped with a locking member. The positioning of the at least one locking member on at least one of the gripping parts makes it easy for a user to lock or unlock the cooking tank.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric cooking appliance further comprises a collection tray configured to collect cooking juices and condensates from the cooking plate, in particular when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position or occupies the maximum open position. The presence of such a collection tray limits the risks of soiling the electric cooking appliance or the support on which the latter rests when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position, and also reduces smoke emissions when cooking food on the cooking plate (when the upper heating structure occupies the maximum open position).

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the collection tray is arranged in a rear portion of the lower heating structure. Such positioning of the collection tray makes it possible to collect cooking juices and condensates at a distance from a user located in front of the electric cooking appliance. The collection tray may, for example, be centered relative to the median longitudinal plane of the electric cooking appliance.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the invention, the collection bin is removable, so as to facilitate its emptying and cleaning.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking plate comprises a discharge portion which is configured to be located vertically in line with the collection tray when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position, the discharge portion being configured to allow a flow by gravity of cooking juices or condensates, coming from the cooking plate, into the collection tray when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position. Such a configuration of the electric cooking appliance according to the present invention further limits the risks of soiling the electric cooking appliance or the support on which the latter rests when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pouring portion is a pouring spout or a pouring orifice.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the discharge portion is configured to be located vertically in line with the collection tray when the upper heating structure is in the maximum open position, so as to allow a flow by gravity of cooking juices or condensates, coming from the cooking plate, into the collection tray when the upper heating structure occupies the maximum open position.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking plate is configured to be inclined towards the collection tray, and for example downwards and forwards, when the electric cooking appliance rests on a horizontal surface and the upper heating structure is in the maximum open position. These arrangements promote a flow of cooking juices or condensates, present on the cooking plate, towards the collection tray when the electric cooking appliance rests on a horizontal surface and is used in the second mode of use. Such a configuration of the cooking plate thus prevents the food products, cooked on the cooking plate, from being immersed in cooking juices and / or condensates.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking plate comprises a peripheral rib extending over at least a portion of the periphery of the cooking surface, the peripheral rib being configured to guide at least a portion of the cooking juices or condensates present on the cooking plate towards the spillage portion, when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position. The presence of such a peripheral rib further limits the risks of soiling the electric cooking appliance or the support on which the latter rests when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pouring portion comprises two lateral guide edges configured to guide cooking juices or condensates, coming from the cooking plate, towards the collection tray, the peripheral rib having a height greater than the height of the lateral guide edges, and for example greater than substantially twice the height of the lateral guide edges.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the invention, the peripheral rib has a height greater than 10 mm, and for example approximately 15 mm. Such a configuration of the peripheral rib considerably limits the risks of overflow of condensates, present on the cooking plate, above the upper peripheral edge of the peripheral rib when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the peripheral rib is interrupted only at the spill portion. In other words, the peripheral rib has a first end edge and a second end edge which are spaced apart from each other and which partially delimit the spill portion.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking plate comprises support ribs provided on the cooking surface, the support ribs being configured to support food placed on the cooking plate and to guide at least a portion of the cooking juices and / or condensates, present on the cooking plate, towards the spillage portion. The presence of such support ribs further limits the risks of overflow of the condensates, present on the cooking plate, above the upper peripheral edge of the peripheral rib when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, the support ribs comprise a central support rib extending towards the spill portion.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the invention, the central support rib extends substantially in a median longitudinal plane of the electric cooking appliance.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the invention, the support ribs comprise first lateral support ribs and second lateral support ribs which are arranged on either side of the median longitudinal plane of the electric cooking appliance, each of the first and second lateral support ribs is inclined relative to a reference axis passing through a geometric center of the pouring portion and a geometric center of the cooking plate. Preferably, the reference axis is contained in an extension plane of the cooking plate.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second lateral support ribs are configured to guide at least a portion of the cooking juices or condensates present on the cooking plate towards the median longitudinal plane of the electric cooking appliance, when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position. Advantageously, the first and second lateral support ribs are configured to be inclined relative to the median longitudinal plane of the electric cooking appliance.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first lateral support ribs and the second lateral support ribs are arranged on either side of a diametrical zone of the cooking plate.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first lateral support ribs and the second lateral support ribs are arranged on either side of the central support rib. Advantageously, the first and second lateral support ribs are configured to guide at least a portion of the cooking juices or condensates present on the cooking plate towards the central support rib, when the upper heating structure is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first lateral support ribs is inclined relative to the central support rib (and is therefore inclined relative to the direction of extension of the central support rib) such that the distance between said first lateral support rib and the central support rib decreases towards the spill portion, and each of the second lateral support ribs is inclined relative to the central support rib (and is therefore inclined relative to the direction of extension of the central support rib) such that the distance between said second lateral support rib and the central support rib decreases towards the spill portion.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first lateral support ribs delimit first flow channels configured to guide and direct at least a portion of the cooking juices and / or condensates, present on the cooking plate, towards the central support rib, and the second lateral support ribs delimit second flow channels configured to guide and direct at least a portion of the cooking juices and / or condensates, present on the cooking plate, towards the central support rib.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first lateral support ribs and the central support rib delimit a first collection channel configured to collect cooking juices and / or condensates flowing in the first flow channels and to guide and direct said collected cooking juices and / or condensates towards the discharge portion, and the second lateral support ribs and the central support rib delimit a second collection channel configured to collect cooking juices and / or condensates flowing in the second flow channels and to guide and direct said collected cooking juices and / or condensates towards the discharge portion.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second lateral support ribs converge, two by two, substantially in the direction of the discharge portion. Such a configuration of the first and second lateral support ribs promotes a flow of condensates, present on the cooking plate, towards the discharge portion, and therefore ensures optimal collection of the condensates by the collection tray.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first and second lateral support ribs comprises a first inner edge located less than 20 mm from the central support rib and a second outer edge located less than 20 mm from the peripheral rib.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second lateral support ribs are configured to converge, two by two, downwards when the upper heating structure occupies a stable intermediate opening position.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second lateral support ribs define, in pairs, chevron shapes which are configured to be oriented downwards when the upper heating structure occupies an intermediate open position.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first lateral support ribs are substantially parallel to each other, and the second lateral support ribs are substantially parallel to each other.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second lateral support ribs are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane of the electric cooking appliance.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second lateral support ribs are rectilinear. According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking tank comprises an overflow portion which is configured to be located vertically in line with the collection tray. Thus, in the event of overflow of a liquid contained in the cooking tank during a recipe, this overflowed liquid is collected by the collection tray. The overflow portion may for example be located in a rear portion of the cooking tank.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric cooking appliance is configured such that the lower heating structure and the upper heating structure define an angle of inclination of between 150 and 200°, advantageously between 170 and 190° and for example approximately 180°, when the upper heating structure occupies the maximum opening position.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot axis defined by the pivot connection is substantially horizontal when the electric cooking appliance rests on a horizontal surface.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper heating structure is capable of occupying a stable intermediate opening position which is located between the closed position and the maximum opening position.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the invention, the discharge portion is configured to be located vertically in line with the collection bin when the upper heating structure is in the stable intermediate opening position.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric cooking appliance is configured such that the lower heating structure and the upper heating structure define an angle of inclination of between 90 and 120°, and for example of approximately 105°, when the upper heating structure occupies the stable intermediate opening position.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cooking plate has a generally circular shape.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper heating structure comprises a gripping handle configured to be manipulated by a user.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the invention, the grip handle is arranged on a front portion of the upper heating structure. According to one embodiment of the invention, the grip handle is located at a distance from a front edge of the upper heating structure. Such an arrangement of the grip handle makes it possible to position a user's hand at a minimum distance from any possible steam escape when moving the upper heating structure to the maximum open position, which greatly limits the risk of burns to a user when handling the grip handle.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping handle is movable, and for example pivotally mounted about a pivot axis, between a gripping position in which the gripping handle is capable of being grasped and manipulated by a user when the upper heating structure occupies the closed position, and a standing position in which, when the lower heating structure rests on a horizontal surface and the upper heating structure occupies the maximum open position, the gripping handle is in contact with said horizontal surface. Such a configuration of the gripping handle ensures stable positioning of the upper heating structure when it occupies the maximum open position, while conferring great compactness to the electric cooking appliance when the upper heating structure occupies the closed position.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric cooking appliance comprises a biasing member, such as a biasing spring, configured to bias the gripping handle towards the base position.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric cooking appliance comprises a locking mechanism configured to reversibly lock the gripping handle in the gripping position. Such a locking mechanism ensures secure handling of the gripping handle when the user wishes to move the upper heating structure to an intermediate opening position in order, for example, to access the cooking tank to check the cooking of the food.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, the locking mechanism comprises a locking member, such as a locking button, mounted movably, and for example mounted pivotally about a pivot axis, on the upper heating structure between a locking position in which the locking member is configured to cooperate with the gripping handle so as to immobilize the gripping handle in the gripping position, and a release position in which the locking member is configured to release the gripping handle so as to allow movement of the gripping handle towards the base position. According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot axis of the locking member is configured to extend substantially horizontally when the electric cooking appliance rests on a horizontal surface.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the invention, the locking member comprises a locking rib configured to cooperate with a locking notch, provided on the gripping handle, when the locking member occupies the locking position.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, the locking mechanism comprises a return element, such as a return spring, configured to bias the locking member towards the locking position. These arrangements ensure automatic locking of the gripping handle in the gripping position when the upper heating structure reaches the closed position.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the invention, the locking member is located at least partly below the grip handle. Such an arrangement of the locking member ensures a thermal break between the grip handle and the upper frame of the upper heating structure, and makes it possible to reduce the temperature, under operating conditions of the electric cooking appliance, at the grip handle.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric cooking appliance comprises a lower heating device which is provided in the lower heating structure and which is configured to heat the cooking tank, and an upper heating device which is provided in the upper heating structure and which is configured to heat the cooking plate.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the invention, the lower heating device is arranged under the cooking tank.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the lower heating device comprises a lower resistive heating element.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper heating device is configured to be arranged above the cooking plate when the upper heating structure occupies the closed position.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper heating device comprises an upper resistive heating element.

[0075] Brief Description of the Figures The present invention will be better understood with the aid of the following description with reference to the appended figures, in which identical reference signs correspond to structurally and / or functionally identical or similar elements.

[0076] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of an electric cooking appliance according to the invention, showing an upper heating structure in a closed position;

[0077] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1;

[0078] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1, showing the upper heating structure in an intermediate open position;

[0079] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1, showing the upper heating structure in a fully open position;

[0080] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a collection bin belonging to the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1;

[0081] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1, in which the collection tray has been deposited;

[0082] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1;

[0083] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of a cooking vessel belonging to the cooking apparatus of Figure 1;

[0084] Figure 9 is a top perspective view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1, showing a grip handle in the standing position;

[0085] Figure 10 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1, showing the gripping handle in the gripping position;

[0086] Figure 11 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of the electric cooking appliance of Figure 1, showing the grip handle in the standing position.

[0087] Detailed description

[0088] Figures 1 to 11 show an electric cooking appliance 1 for cooking food, such as meat, fish, vegetables, rice, cakes, quiches or the like. The electric cooking appliance 1 comprises a lower heating structure 2 comprising a lower chassis 3 provided with feet 4 configured to rest on a flat support, such as a worktop.

[0089] The lower heating structure 2 further comprises a cooking tank 5 configured to receive food to be cooked. As shown in particular in FIG. 8, the cooking tank 5 is provided with a bottom 5.1 and a peripheral wall 5.2. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the peripheral wall 5.2 of the cooking tank 5 is circular in shape. However, the peripheral wall 5.2 could have a completely different shape, for example square or rectangular.

[0090] The cooking tank 5 has a maximum depth which is greater than 40 mm, and for example between 50 and 60 mm. Advantageously, the cooking tank 5 has a depth before overflow P1 which is greater than 40 mm, advantageously between 40 and 60 mm, and for example approximately 50 mm.

[0091] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the cooking tank 5 is removably mounted on the lower frame 3, and comprises two gripping parts 6 which are diametrically opposed and which facilitate gripping of the cooking tank 5, for example for cleaning it or transferring the cooked food to a dish or other container.

[0092] Advantageously, the lower heating structure 2 comprises a locking mechanism 7 configured to reversibly lock the cooking tank 5 on the lower chassis 3. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the locking mechanism 7 comprises two locking members 8 mounted respectively on the two gripping parts 6 of the cooking tank 5, and two locking elements 9, such as locking housings, provided on the lower chassis 3 and configured to cooperate respectively with the locking members 8.

[0093] Each locking member 8 more particularly comprises a locking finger 11, and is movable, and for example slidably mounted, between a locking position in which the locking finger 11 provided on said locking member 8 is configured to cooperate with the respective locking element 9 so as to lock the cooking tank 5 on the lower chassis 3, and an unlocking position in which the locking finger 11 is configured to release the respective locking element 9 so as to allow removal of the cooking tank 5 from the lower chassis 3.Advantageously, the locking mechanism 7 may comprise two return devices, such as return springs, configured to return the two locking members 8 respectively to the locking position, and each locking finger 11 may be equipped with an inclined surface capable of cooperating with the lower frame 3 so as to cause an automatic movement of the respective locking member 8 to the unlocking position when the cooking tank 5 is inserted into the lower frame 3.

[0094] The lower heating structure 2 further comprises a lower heating device 12 which is provided in the lower frame 3 and which is configured to heat the cooking tank 5. The lower heating device 12 is advantageously arranged under the cooking tank 5, and comprises for example a lower resistive heating element.

[0095] The electric cooking appliance 1 further comprises an upper heating structure 13 comprising an upper frame 14 mounted articulated relative to the lower heating structure 2 by means of a pivot connection 15 defining a pivot axis A1 which is substantially horizontal when the electric cooking appliance 1 rests on a horizontal surface.

[0096] The upper heating structure 13 further comprises a cooking plate 16 provided with a cooking surface 17. Advantageously, the cooking plate 16 has a generally circular shape.

[0097] The upper heating structure 13 also comprises an upper heating device 18 which is provided in the upper frame 14 and which is configured to heat the cooking plate 16. The upper heating device 18 comprises for example an upper resistive heating element.

[0098] The pivot connection 15 is more particularly configured to allow pivoting of the upper heating structure 13 relative to the lower heating structure 2 about the pivot axis A1 and between a closed position (see figures 1 and 7) in which the upper heating structure 13 covers the cooking tank 5 and in particular in which the lower heating structure 2 and the upper heating structure 13 delimit a cooking volume 19, and a maximum open position (see figure 4) in which the lower heating structure 2 and the upper heating structure 13 have a maximum spacing when the cooking appliance rests on a support surface, and in particular in which the lower heating structure 2 and the upper heating structure 13 define an angle of inclination of between 150 and 200°, advantageously between 170 and 190° and for example approximately 180°.Advantageously, the upper heating structure 13 is configured to close an upper opening, delimited by an upper peripheral edge of the peripheral wall 5.2 of the cooking tank 5, when the upper heating structure 13 occupies the closed position, and the upper heating device 18 is configured to be arranged above the cooking plate 16 when the upper heating structure 13.

[0099] The electric cooking appliance 1 thus has a first mode of use in which the upper heating structure 13 occupies the closed position and food is able to be cooked in the cooking volume 19 delimited by the lower heating structure 2 and the upper heating structure 13, and a second mode of use in which the upper heating structure 13 occupies the maximum open position and each of the cooking tank 5 and the cooking plate 16 is able to support and cook a respective food.

[0100] The upper heating structure 13 is also capable of occupying a plurality of intermediate opening positions which are located between the closed position and the maximum opening position, and in particular a stable intermediate opening position (see figure 3) in which the lower heating structure 2 and the upper heating structure 13 define an angle of inclination of between 90 and 120°, and for example of approximately 105°.

[0101] As shown in Figure 7, when the upper heating structure 13 occupies the closed position, a separation distance D between the cooking surface 17 of the cooking plate 16 and the bottom 5.1 of the cooking tank 5 is greater than 45 mm, advantageously between 45 and 65 mm, and for example approximately 55 mm.

[0102] The electric cooking appliance 1 further comprises a collection tray 21 (see figures 2 and 5) configured to collect cooking juices and condensates from the cooking plate 16. Advantageously, the collection tray 21 is arranged in a rear part of the lower heating structure 2, and is removable.

[0103] The cooking plate 16 more particularly comprises a discharge portion 22 which is configured to be located vertically in line with the collection tray 21 when the upper heating structure 13 is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position, and in particular when the upper heating structure 13 occupies the stable intermediate opening position and when the upper heating structure 13 occupies the maximum open position. The discharge portion 22 is thus configured to allow a flow by gravity of the cooking juices or condensates, coming from the cooking plate 16, into the collection tray 21 when the upper heating structure 13 is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position, and occupies for example the stable intermediate opening position or the maximum open position.

[0104] In order to promote a flow by gravity of the cooking juices or condensates, coming from the cooking plate 16, into the collection tray 21 when the upper heating structure 13 occupies the maximum open position, the cooking plate 16 is advantageously configured to be inclined towards the collection tray 21, and therefore downwards and forwards, when the electric cooking appliance 1 rests on a horizontal surface and the upper heating structure is in the maximum open position.

[0105] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the pouring portion 22 is formed by a pouring spout, also called a pouring spout. However, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the pouring portion 22 could be formed by a simple pouring orifice.

[0106] As shown in particular in Figures 3 and 4, the cooking plate 16 comprises a peripheral rib 23 which extends over a portion of the contour of the cooking surface 17 and which is configured to guide cooking juices or condensates, present on the cooking plate 16, towards the pouring portion 22, when the upper heating structure 13 is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position. The peripheral rib 23 is interrupted only at the pouring portion 22. In other words, the peripheral rib 23 comprises a first end edge and a second end edge which are spaced from each other and which partly delimit the pouring portion 22. Advantageously, the peripheral rib 23 has a height greater than 10 mm, and for example approximately 15 mm.

[0107] Advantageously, the discharge portion 22 comprises two lateral guide edges 22.1 configured to guide cooking juices or condensates, coming from the cooking plate 16, towards the collection tray 21, and the peripheral rib 23 has a height greater than the height of the lateral guide edges 22.1, and for example greater than substantially twice the height of the lateral guide edges 22.1.

[0108] The cooking plate 16 further comprises support ribs 24 provided on the cooking surface 17. The support ribs 24 are configured to support food placed on the cooking plate 16 when the latter is in the maximum open position and to guide at least a portion of the cooking juices and / or condensates, present on the cooking plate 16, towards the spill portion 22.

[0109] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the support ribs 24 comprise a central support rib 25 extending substantially in a median longitudinal plane P of the electric cooking appliance 1, and first lateral support ribs 26 and second lateral support ribs 27 which are arranged on either side of the median longitudinal plane P of the electric cooking appliance 1, and more particularly on either side of the central support rib 25. As shown in Figure 3, each of the first and second lateral support ribs 26, 27 is inclined relative to a reference axis A passing through a geometric center of the pouring portion 22 and a geometric center of the cooking plate 16.

[0110] Advantageously, each of the first lateral support ribs 26 is inclined relative to the central support rib 25 such that the distance between said first lateral support rib 26 and the central support rib 25 decreases towards the spill portion 22, and each of the second lateral support ribs 27 is inclined relative to the central support rib 25 such that the distance between said second lateral support rib 27 and the central support rib 25 decreases towards the spill portion 22. Advantageously, the first and second lateral support ribs 26, 27 converge, two by two, substantially towards the spill portion 22.In particular, the first and second lateral support ribs 26, 27 delimit, two by two, chevron shapes which are configured to be oriented downwards when the upper heating structure 13 occupies an intermediate open position.

[0111] The first lateral support ribs 26 more particularly delimit first flow channels 26.1 configured to guide and direct at least a portion of the cooking juices and / or condensates, present on the cooking plate 16, towards the central support rib 25, and the second lateral support ribs 27 more particularly delimit second flow channels 27.1 configured to guide and direct at least a portion of the cooking juices and / or condensates, present on the cooking plate 16, towards the central support rib 25. In addition, the first lateral support ribs 26 and the central support rib 25 delimit a first collection channel 26.2 configured to collect cooking juices and / or condensates flowing in the first flow channels 26.1 and to guide and direct said cooking juices and / or collected condensates towards the discharge portion 22, and the second lateral support ribs 27 and the central support rib 25 delimit a second collection channel 27.2 configured to collect cooking juices and / or condensates flowing in the second flow channels 27.1 and to guide and direct said cooking juices and / or collected condensates towards the discharge portion 22.

[0112] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first and second lateral support ribs 26, 27 are rectilinear and are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the electric cooking appliance 1. Advantageously, the first lateral support ribs 26 are parallel to each other, and the second lateral support ribs 27 are parallel to each other.

[0113] As shown in Figure 8, the cooking tank 5 comprises an overflow portion 28 which is configured to be located vertically in line with the collection tray 21. Thus, in the event of overflow of a liquid contained in the cooking tank 5 during a recipe, this overflowed liquid is collected by the collection tray 21. The overflow portion 28 may for example be located in a rear portion of the cooking tank 5.

[0114] The upper heating structure 13 further comprises a gripping handle 29 configured to be manipulated by a user in order to allow movement of the upper heating structure 13 between the closed position and the maximum open position. Advantageously, the gripping handle 29 is arranged on a front portion of the upper heating structure 13, and is located at a distance from a front edge of the upper heating structure 13.

[0115] The gripping handle 29 is more particularly mounted to be mobile, and for example mounted to pivot about a pivot axis, between a gripping position (see figures 1 and 10) in which the gripping handle 29 is able to be grasped and manipulated by a user when the upper heating structure 13 occupies the closed position, and a standing position (see figures 4, 9 and 11) in which, when the lower heating structure 2 rests on a horizontal surface and the upper heating structure 13 occupies the maximum open position, the gripping handle 29 is in contact with and rests on said horizontal surface.The electric cooking appliance 1 is configured such that, when the gripping handle 29 is moved from the gripping position to the standing position, the gripping handle 29, and more particularly a gripping portion of the gripping handle 29, moves away from the upper frame 14 of the upper heating structure 13, and more particularly from an upper face of the upper frame 14.

[0116] Advantageously, the pivot axis of the gripping handle 29 extends horizontally when the electric cooking appliance 1 rests on a horizontal surface, and the electric cooking appliance 1 comprises a biasing member 31, such as a torsion spring, configured to bias the gripping handle 29 towards the standing position.

[0117] The electric cooking appliance 1 further comprises a locking mechanism 32 configured to reversibly lock the gripping handle 29 in the gripping position. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the locking mechanism 32 comprises a locking member 33, such as a locking button, mounted movably, and for example pivotally mounted about a pivot axis, on the upper frame 14 of the upper heating structure 13 between a locking position (see FIG. 10) in which the locking member 33 is configured to cooperate with the gripping handle 29 so as to immobilize the gripping handle 29 in the gripping position, and a release position (see FIG. 11) in which the locking member 33 is configured to release the gripping handle 29 so as to allow movement of the gripping handle 29 towards the base position.

[0118] Advantageously, the pivot axis of the locking member 33 is parallel to the pivot axis of the gripping handle 29, and the locking mechanism 32 comprises a return element 34, such as a helical spring, configured to urge the locking member 33 towards the locking position.

[0119] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the locking member 33 more particularly comprises a locking rib 35 configured to cooperate with a locking notch 36, provided on the gripping handle 29, when the locking member 33 occupies the locking position.

[0120] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the locking member 33 is located at least partly below the gripping handle 29. Such an arrangement of the locking member 33 ensures a thermal break between the gripping handle 29 and the upper frame 14 of the upper heating structure 13, and makes it possible to reduce the temperature, under operating conditions of the electric cooking appliance 1, at the gripping handle 29.

[0121] Of course, the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiment described and illustrated, which has been given only as an example. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Electric cooking appliance (1) for cooking food, the electric cooking appliance (1) comprising: a lower heating structure (2) comprising a cooking tank (5) provided with a bottom (5.1) and a peripheral wall (5.2), an upper heating structure (13) comprising a cooking plate (16) provided with a cooking surface (17), a pivot connection (15) connecting the upper heating structure (13) to the lower heating structure (2) and configured to allow pivoting of the upper heating structure (13) relative to the lower heating structure (2) about a pivot axis (A1) and between a closed position in which the upper heating structure (13) prevents access to the cooking tank (5) and in which the lower heating structure (2) and the upper heating structure (13) delimit a cooking volume (19) in which a food is capable of being cooked,and a maximum opening position in which the lower heating structure (2) and the upper heating structure (13) have a maximum spacing when the cooking appliance rests on a support surface and in which each of the cooking tank (5) and the cooking plate (16) is capable of supporting and cooking a respective food, characterized in that the cooking tank (5) has a maximum depth which is greater than 40 mm., 2. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 1, wherein, when the upper heating structure (13) occupies the closed position, a separation distance (D) between the cooking surface (17) of the cooking plate (16) and the bottom (5.1) of the cooking tank (5) is greater than 45 mm.

3. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cooking tank (5) is removable.

4. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 3, wherein the lower heating structure (2) comprises a lower frame (3) and a locking mechanism (7) configured to reversibly lock the cooking tank (5) on the lower frame (3).

5. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which further comprises a collection tray (21) configured to collect cooking juices and condensates from the cooking plate (16).

6. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 5, wherein the cooking plate (16) comprises a discharge portion (22) which is configured to be located vertically in line with the collection tray (21) when the upper heating structure (13) is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position, the discharge portion (22) being configured to allow a flow by gravity of cooking juices or condensates, coming from the cooking plate (16), into the collection tray (21) when the upper heating structure (13) is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position.

7. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 6, wherein the cooking plate (16) comprises a peripheral rib (23) extending over at least a portion of the periphery of the cooking surface (17), the peripheral rib (23) being configured to guide at least a portion of the cooking juices or condensates, present on the cooking plate (16), towards the spillage portion (22), when the upper heating structure (13) is moved between the closed position and the maximum open position.

8. An electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the cooking plate comprises support ribs (24) provided on the cooking surface (17), the support ribs (24) being configured to support food placed on the cooking plate (16) and to guide at least a portion of the cooking juices and / or condensates, present on the cooking plate (16), towards the spill portion (22).

9. An electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 8, wherein the support ribs (24) comprise a central support rib (25) extending towards the pouring portion (22).

10. An electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the support ribs (24) comprise first lateral support ribs (26) and second lateral support ribs (27) which are arranged on either side of a median longitudinal plane (P) of the electric cooking appliance (1), each of the first and second lateral support ribs (26, 27) is inclined relative to a reference axis (A) passing through a geometric center of the spill portion (22) and a geometric center of the cooking plate (16).

11. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the upper heating structure (13) is capable of occupying a stable intermediate opening position which is located between the closed position and the maximum opening position.

12. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the upper heating structure (13) comprises a grip handle (29) configured to be manipulated by a user.

13. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 12, wherein the gripping handle (29) is movable between a gripping position in which the gripping handle (29) is capable of being grasped and manipulated by a user when the upper heating structure (13) occupies the closed position, and a standing position in which, when the lower heating structure (2) rests on a horizontal surface and the upper heating structure (13) occupies the maximum open position, the gripping handle (29) is in contact with said horizontal surface.

14. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 13, which comprises a biasing member (31) configured to bias the gripping handle (29) towards the base position.

15. Electric cooking appliance (1) according to claim 13 or 14, which comprises a locking mechanism (32) configured to reversibly lock the gripping handle (29) in the gripping position.

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