Cooker

Abstract

To provide a cooker capable of increasing airtightness of a container.SOLUTION: A cooker includes: a container; a body for housing the container; a heating device for heating the container; a decompression device for decompressing the inside of the container; a passage part for communicating the decompression device with the container; a packing provided in the passage part for sealing a space between the decompression part and the container; and a spring for energizing the packing against the container. The container or the passage part can be lifted or lowered with respect to the body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooking device that performs reduced pressure cooking. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a cooking device that performs reduced pressure cooking using a pressure reducing device that reduces the pressure inside a container is known. Patent Document 1 discloses such a cooking device in which a packing is provided in a passage that connects the container and the pressure reducing device to improve the sealing of the container when the pressure is reduced. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-009224 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional cooking devices including Patent Document 1, the inner lid of the container is attached to the outer lid by inserting the claws of the inner lid into the grooves of the outer lid and then engaging a convex portion provided opposite the claws of the inner lid with an engagement portion provided opposite the groove of the outer lid. At this time, the inner lid is attached by rotating with the claws as a fulcrum from a state in which the claws are inserted into the grooves of the outer lid and tilted obliquely relative to the outer lid. Therefore, the inner lid of the container does not contact the packing directly, but contacts the packing obliquely. At this time, depending on the part of the packing, the stress with which the inner lid presses the packing is biased, and the packing is not pressed evenly, so that the sealing of the container may not be sufficiently ensured.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the problems in the conventional technology described above, and aims to provide a cooking device that can improve the airtightness of the container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The cooking device of the present disclosure comprises a container, a main body for accommodating the container, a heating device for heating the container, a pressure reducing device for reducing the pressure inside the container, a passage connecting the pressure reducing device and the container, a gasket provided in the passage for sealing the space between the pressure reducing device and the container, and a spring for biasing the gasket against the container, and the container or the passage can be raised and lowered relative to the main body. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present disclosure, either the container or the passage can be raised and lowered relative to the main body. Therefore, the cooking device can bring the container and the packing into close contact with each other, thereby improving the airtightness of the container. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a cooking device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a placement section and a side section of a main body according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the periphery of a tube according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a lifting device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a cooking device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a cooking device according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a placement section and a side section of a main body according to a second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a cooking device according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a cooking device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a placement section and a side section of a main body according to a second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a heating cooker according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a placement section and a side section of a main body according to a third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a heating cooker according to a modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a heating cooker according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a heating cooker according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a heating cooker according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device according to a fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The shape, size, and arrangement of the configurations shown in each drawing may be changed as appropriate within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure includes all combinations of configurations that can be combined among the configurations shown in the following embodiments. In addition, in each drawing, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or equivalent objects, and this is common throughout the entire specification.

[0010] Embodiment 1 The cooking device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the cooking device 1 according to the first embodiment. In the following description, when directions are given, they are based on the cooking device 1 installed in a usable state. In addition, the X direction shown in each drawing corresponds to the right direction, the Y direction corresponds to the depth direction, and the Z direction corresponds to the upward direction. FIG. 1 is a view of the cooking device 1 as seen from the front. The cooking device 1 according to the first embodiment is a beverage production device whose main function is a beverage production function for producing beverages in which ingredients are extracted in a solvent. The cooking device 1 according to the first embodiment can make various types of beverages by changing the solvent and ingredients.

[0011] The beverages produced by the cooking device 1 include, for example, coffee made from coffee beans. The cooking device 1 also produces cola made from spices (e.g., cloves and cardamom) made from plant leaves, buds, seeds, etc., lemon, and sugar, as well as green tea or black tea made from tea leaves. When producing these beverages, the solvent is, for example, water.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the cooking device 1 has a main body 2 and a container 3. The main body 2 houses the container 3 and produces a beverage inside the container 3 by heating the container 3 and the solvent and ingredients housed therein and reducing the pressure inside the container 3. The main body 2 has a mounting portion 21 for mounting the container 3. The mounting portion 21 is formed, for example, in the lower part of the main body 2. A mounting surface 21a is formed on the upper surface of the mounting portion 21. The outer shell of the main body 2 is made of, for example, resin.

[0013] The container 3 stores the solvent and the material. The container 3 is a square tube or a cylinder with the upper and lower surfaces formed horizontally. The material of the container 3 is a metal such as carbon or stainless steel, glass, ceramic, or heat-resistant resin, etc., and is determined by the heating method of the heating device 23 described later. For example, if the heating device 23 is a heater type, the material of the container 3 may be glass, ceramic, or heat-resistant resin, etc. If the heating device 23 is an induction heating type, the material of the container 3 may be a magnetic material that generates heat by induction heating. The upper surface of the container 3 is formed as an openable and closable lid. An opening (not shown) to which a tube 26 is connected is formed on the upper surface of the container 3 so that the pressure can be reduced by the pressure reducing device 25 described later. The upper surface of the container 3 is formed as a smooth surface without any unevenness.

[0014] The main body 2 has an operation display device 22, a heating device 23, a temperature detection device 24, a pressure reducing device 25, a tube 26, an alarm device 27, and a pressure detection device 28. The operation display device 22 has a display unit 22a and an operation unit 22b. The display unit 22a displays information related to the beverage production function of the cooking device 1. Specifically, the cooking target, the current container temperature, the current pressure inside the container, the current cooking time, the remaining cooking time, and the number of the process being performed are displayed. The cooking menu indicates the type of beverage to be produced. The process number is a number for identifying a heating control process described later. The operation unit 22b inputs a user's instruction to the cooking device 1. Specifically, the user gives instructions to start and end the beverage production, and selects the cooking target. The cooking target is information indicating the type of beverage to be produced. The cooking target is selected from a plurality of beverages that can be cooked by the cooking device 1, which are displayed on the display unit 22a as the cooking menu. As cooking menu items, for example, "craft cola," "coffee," "green tea," or "black tea" is displayed on the display unit 22a.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the placement part 21 and the main body side part 2a according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the cooking device 1 of FIG. 1 cut along the AA section. The main body side part 2a is a part of the main body 2 facing the side of the container 3. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the heating device 23 is provided inside the placement part 21 of the main body 2 and heats the container 3 placed on the placement surface 21a. The placement surface 21a is a horizontal surface formed on the upper part of the placement part 21. The heating device 23 is, for example, an induction heating type provided with a heating coil. Alternatively, the heating device 23 is a heater type in which a sheath heater is cast into the placement surface 21a or a cord heater is provided. The heating device 23 is, for example, formed in a ring shape. In addition, when the heating device 23 is an induction heating type, a magnetic shield plate (not shown) may be provided on the part not facing the container 3, i.e., on the side and lower part of the heating coil. The magnetic shield is intended to suppress the effects of magnetic flux on magnetic parts existing around the heating device 23, excluding the container 3, and on the circuits in the electronic boards of the control device 70 and the operation display device 22. Providing the magnetic shield prevents parts other than the container 3 from generating heat and prevents the circuits from malfunctioning.

[0016] The temperature detection device 24 is a sensor that is provided in contact with the container 3 and detects the temperature of the container 3. The temperature detection device 24 is, for example, a thermistor. The temperature detection device 24 is disposed, for example, on the back side of the mounting surface 21a, inside the heating device 23 that is formed in an annular shape. The temperature detection device 24 is connected to the control device 70 wirelessly or by wire, and transmits a signal indicating the detected container temperature to the control device 70.

[0017] Returning to FIG. 1, the pressure reducing device 25 is a pump provided inside the main body 2, which sucks air in the container 3 and discharges it to the outside of the main body 2. The pressure reducing device 25 is connected to the tube 26 through a communication passage 25a formed inside the main body 2. The tube 26 is a component for connecting the pressure reducing device 25 and the container 3, and is provided on the upper part of the main body 2. The tube 26 is hollow inside, and the air sucked by the pressure reducing device 25 passes through it. The tube 26 corresponds to the "passage section" of the present disclosure. The pressure reducing device 25 has a valve body (not shown) therein that covers an opening (not shown) through which the exhaust gas from the pressure reducing device 25 passes. The valve body can be switched between a closed state and an open state. The pressure reducing device 25 closes the valve body to prevent air from circulating between the space inside the container 3 and the space outside the main body 2. In other words, the container 3 is sealed. The pressure reducing device 25 also opens the valve body to allow air to circulate between the space inside the container 3 and the space outside the main body 2. The pressure reducing device 25 opens the valve body to suck the air from inside the container 3, and when the suction of the air from inside the container 3 is completed, closes the valve body to hermetically seal the container 3.

[0018] The configuration of the tube 26 and its surroundings will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the tube 26 and its surroundings according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the tube 26 is provided with a packing 26a and a spring 26b. The packing 26a is for sealing the gap between the pressure reducing device 25 and the container 3, and is provided at the tip of the tube 26. The packing 26a is formed to be hollow, the tube 26 is inserted through the upper surface, and an opening (not shown) facing the opening formed on the upper surface of the container 3 is formed on the lower surface. The tip of the tube 26 is located in the hollow part of the packing 26a. The tube 26 and the upper surface of the packing 26a are bonded together to maintain airtightness. The details will be described later, but the packing 26a is formed in a bellows shape so that the portion compressed between the spring 26b and the container 3, that is, the pressing margin against the container 3, is secured. The lower surface of the packing 26a is formed horizontally so as to face the upper surface of the container 3.

[0019] The spring 26b is provided so as to wind the tube 26. The spring 26b contacts the upper surface of the packing 26a and urges the packing 26a against the upper surface of the container 3. Note that a thin plate-like member may be interposed between the spring 26b and the packing 26a so that the spring 26b can urge the packing 26a uniformly.

[0020] When the packing 26a comes into contact with the upper part of the container 3 formed with a smooth surface, the gap between the tube 26 and the container 3 is blocked, and air is prevented from passing between the tube 26 and the container 3. At this time, the pressure reducing device 25 becomes able to suck the air inside the container 3.

[0021] Returning to Fig. 1, the notification device 27 is, for example, a buzzer, and is provided in the main body 2. The notification device 27 issues a sound to notify that the production of a beverage has been completed, based on an instruction from the control device 70. The notification device 27 may be a speaker that issues a voice notification.

[0022] The pressure detection device 28 is a sensor provided inside the container 3 and detects the pressure inside the container 3. The pressure detection device 28 is connected to the control device 70 wirelessly or via a waterproofed wire, and transmits a signal indicating the detected internal container pressure to the control device 70.

[0023] The lifting device 50 is provided, for example, at the bottom of the main body 2, and lifts and lowers the placement unit 21 and the container 3 placed on the placement unit 21. The lifting device 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the lifting device 50 according to the first embodiment. The lifting device 50 has a handle 50a, a gear 50b, and a shaft 50c. The handle 50a is a handle operated by a user and can be rotated up and down. The gear 50b is a mechanism connected to the handle 50a and the shaft 50c and transmits the movement of the handle 50a to the shaft 50c. The shaft 50c is an axial mechanism having a groove formed on the side thereof that engages with the teeth of the gear 50b and an upper portion connected to the placement unit 21. The shaft 50c moves up and down with the rotation of the gear 50b.

[0024] In the lifting device 50 configured as described above, when the handle 50a is turned upward (in the direction of D1 in FIG. 4), the gear 50b rotates right, and the shaft 50c and the mounting portion 21 move downward. When the mounting portion 21 moves downward, a distance is created between the mounting portion 21 and the packing 26a, and the container 3 can be placed on it. When the container 3 is placed on the mounting portion 21, the container 3 moves downward relative to the main body 2, and a distance is created between the upper surface of the container 3 and the packing 26a, and the container 3 can be removed from the mounting portion 21. Conversely, when the handle 50a is turned downward (in the direction of D2 in FIG. 4), the gear 50b rotates left, and the shaft 50c and the mounting portion 21 move upward. When the mounting portion 21 moves upward with the container 3 placed on the mounting portion 21, the container 3 moves upward relative to the main body 2, and the upper surface of the container 3 comes into close contact with the packing 26a. At this time, the packing 26a is urged against the container 3 while being deformed by the above-mentioned spring 26b so as to be compressed between the container 3. Therefore, the packing 26a reliably closes the gap between the tube 26 and the container 3, and the airtightness of the container 3 can be further improved. In addition, since the packing 26a has a sufficient pressing margin against the container 3, the gap between the tube 26 and the container 3 can be closed without strictly adjusting the distance by which the placement portion 21 is moved. Therefore, the container 3 can be easily set in the main body 2, and the usability of the cooking appliance 1 is improved.

[0025] Here, the placement part 21 moves up and down along the vertical direction. Therefore, when the placement part 21 moves upward, the container 3 moves straight up from a state where the packing 26a and the upper surface of the container 3 face each other, so that the placement part 21 comes into uniform contact with the upper surface of the container 3. Therefore, the packing 26a does not twist and comes into contact with the container 3 without any gaps, so that the gap between the container 3 and the packing 26a can be reliably closed. The handle 50a may be limited in its downward rotation angle so that the packing 26a does not come into excessively strong contact with the upper surface of the container 3 and break the packing 26a. Depending on the size of the container 3 and the main body 2, the placement part 21 can be adjusted up and down by, for example, about 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0026] The main body 2 has a control device 70. The control device 70 is configured by executing software on a calculation device such as a microcomputer to realize various functions, or by hardware such as a circuit device that realizes various functions. The control device 70 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the heating cooker 1 according to the first embodiment. When the control device 70 receives a selection of a cooking object and an instruction to start beverage production from the operation unit 22b, the control device 70 controls the pressure reducing device 25 and the heating device 23 based on a cooking sequence pre-stored for each type of beverage to perform a beverage production function. The control device 70 controls the heating device 23 so that the container temperature detected by the temperature detection device 24 becomes the target temperature determined by the cooking sequence. The control device 70 controls the pressure reducing device 25 so that the pressure inside the container detected by the pressure detection device 28 becomes the target pressure determined by the cooking sequence.

[0027] The control device 70 causes the display unit 22a of the operation and display device 22 to display information related to the beverage preparation function of the cooking device 1. When all steps defined by the cooking sequence are completed, the control device 70 causes the notification device 27 to notify that the beverage is ready.

[0028] Here, a method for producing craft cola will be described as an example of craft drinks that have recently been attracting attention as household beverages. The main ingredients used in craft cola are spices with a distinctive flavor, lemons that add a refreshing flavor, and sweeteners such as sugar. In addition, water is used as a solvent. As a preliminary preparation, the spices are cut or crushed to make cracks so that aroma components, flavor components, and nutrients can be easily extracted from the surface or inside of the seeds or leaves of plants. The lemon is cut into rings. When the preliminary preparation is completed, the lid on the top of the container 3 is opened, and the spices, lemon, sugar, and water are placed in the container 3, and the lid on the top of the container 3 is closed. Then, the container 3 is placed on the placement part 21 of the cooking device 1. Next, the handle 50a is operated to move the container 3 upward to block the gap between the container 3 and the tube 26. This makes it possible to reduce the pressure in the container 3. Then, the cooking menu "craft cola" displayed on the display part 22a is selected via the operation part 22b, and an instruction to start cooking is given.

[0029] Upon receiving the instruction to start cooking, the control device 70 executes the beverage preparation function by calling up a control sequence corresponding to "craft cola" that is stored in advance in the storage unit. When all steps of the beverage preparation function are completed, the control device 70 sounds the alarm device 27 to notify the user that cooking is completed.

[0030] When the user knows that cooking is complete, he or she opens the container 3 and removes the heat by leaving the container 3 in the cooking device 1 or by transferring the ingredients and solvent in the container 3 to a separate glass storage container or the like. Once cooled to a temperature suitable for storage in the refrigerator, the container 3 or a separate storage container is placed in the refrigerator for storage. The aroma and nutrients of the ingredients are further extracted while stored in the refrigerator. After the storage period in the refrigerator has elapsed, the contents of the container 3 are filtered through a filter such as a tea strainer to remove ingredients such as spices and lemon, and the craft cola syrup is completed. The craft cola syrup is appropriately diluted with carbonated water or water and drunk as cola.

[0031] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the container 3 can be raised and lowered relative to the main body 2. Therefore, in the cooking device 1, the container 3 and the packing 26a can be brought into close contact with each other, thereby improving the airtightness of the container 3.

[0032] In addition, when the heating device 23 is an induction heating type, the container 3 itself generates heat to heat the object to be heated contained in the container 3, so the object to be heated can be heated more efficiently than with a heater type. This allows the heating speed to be improved. This allows aroma components, flavor components, nutrients, etc. to be effectively extracted in a short time, improving the finished cooking. Also, compared to a heater type in which the heating device 23 itself generates heat, it is easier to take measures to insulate the main body 2, so the main body 2 can be made smaller and its design can be improved.

[0033] (First Modification of First Embodiment) FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a cooking device 1A according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the placement unit 21 is connected to the shaft 50c and moves up and down. However, the shaft 50c may be connected to a lifting platform 50d, and the placement unit 21 may be disposed on the lifting platform 50d. The lifting platform 50d is plate-shaped and has a horizontal shape substantially equal to that of the placement unit 21. In this case, when a failure or the like occurs in the heating device 23 provided inside the placement unit 21, the heating device 23 can be easily removed from the lifting device 50. Therefore, the cooking device 1A has improved maintainability.

[0034] (Modification 2 of the First Embodiment) FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the placement part 21 and the main body side part 2a according to the second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the heating cooker 1B according to the second modification of the first embodiment, cut along the cross section corresponding to the AA cross section in FIG. 1. In the first modification of the first embodiment, the horizontal shape of the lifting platform 50d is substantially the same as that of the placement part 21, but the shape of the lifting platform is not limited to this case. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, an opening penetrating in the vertical direction is provided in the approximate center of the placement part 21, and the lifting platform 50e is shaped like a pin inserted into the opening. The lifting platform 50e here has a cylindrical shape with a diameter of 10 mm. In this case, the lifting platform 50e moves up and down in response to the operation of the handle 50a. When the upper end of the lifting platform 50e moves above the placement surface 21a, the container 3 can be pushed up above the placement surface 21a and fixed between the packing 26a. The upper end of the lift platform 50e is located below the placement surface 21a at least when the handle 50a is rotated to the highest angle. At this time, the container 3 is placed on the placement surface 21a. The temperature detector 24 is preferably provided at a position where it does not interfere with the lift platform 50e.

[0035] According to the second modification of the first embodiment, since the placement portion 21 having the heating device 23 does not move up and down, the wiring for supplying power to the heating device 23 does not displace, and the load on the wiring and the connection points of the wiring can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to suppress deterioration due to pinching and wear of the wiring. This improves the reliability of the cooking appliance 1B. In addition, it is possible to reduce the risk of breakdowns, etc., even when inexpensive parts are used.

[0036] (Third Modification of First Embodiment) FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a cooking device 1C according to the third modification of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the tube 26 has a pull-out portion 26c that can be pulled out from inside the main body 2. The pull-out portion 26c is stored inside the communication passage 25a of the main body 2, and when the user holds the tube 26 and pulls it downward, the pull-out portion 26c of the tube 26 is pulled out from the main body 2. In this way, the tube 26 descends relative to the main body 2. When the tube 26 is pulled out from the main body 2, that is, when the tube 26 is moved downward relative to the main body 2, the container 3 can be fixed between the placement portion 21 and the tube 26. When the pull-out portion 26c of the tube 26 is stored in the main body 2, that is, when the tube 26 is moved upward relative to the main body 2, a distance is opened between the placement portion 21 and the tube 26, and the container 3 can be placed thereon. In this case, the lifting device 50 may be omitted.

[0037] Embodiment 2 Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a cooking device 1D according to embodiment 2. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a placement portion 21 and a main body side portion 2a according to embodiment 2. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of cooking device 1D according to embodiment 2 cut along a cross section corresponding to cross section AA in Fig. 1. As shown in Figs. 9 and 10, cooking device 1D according to embodiment 2 differs from embodiment 1 in that cooking device 1D has a side heating device 41 instead of heating device 23. Below, differences from embodiment 1 will be described, and commonalities will not be described.

[0038] The cooking device 1D does not have the heating device 23, but has a side heating device 41 instead. The side heating device 41 is provided on the main body side 2a. The main body side 2a is a portion of the main body 2 facing the side of the container 3. The width of the main body side 2a may be appropriately determined in consideration of the size and shape of the container 3 and ease of removal, but in the second embodiment, the angle from the center of the container 3 is within a range of 45 degrees to about 90 degrees at most. Note that, although FIG. 9 shows the side heating device 41 being provided so as to face the entire height of the container 3, and FIG. 10 shows the side heating device 41 being provided so as to face the entire width of the container 3, the side heating device 41 may face at least a part of the container 3.

[0039] When the side heating device 41 is an induction heating type, a flatly wound heating coil is disposed inside the outer periphery of the main body side 2a. In other words, the side heating device 41 and the container 3 face each other with the outer periphery of the main body side 2a in between. In this way, the side heating device 41 heats the opposing side of the container 3 made of a magnetic material by induction heating. When the container 3 is cylindrical, the main body side 2a may be shaped to fit the outer shape of the side of the container 3, for example by making the main body side 2a a smooth concave surface.

[0040] When the side heating device 41 is a heater type, a hot plate with a sheathed heater cast in it is placed outside the outer casing of the main body side part 2a. In other words, the hot plate is provided so as to be exposed on the surface of the main body 2. The hot plate directly faces the side of the container 3. By bringing the hot plate close to the container 3, the heat generated by the hot plate is conducted to the solution in the container 3 to heat it. In the case of the heater type, it is desirable that the dimensions of the container 3 and the main body 2 are adjusted so that the container 3 and the hot plate are in contact with each other. In the case of the heater type, since the hot plate is exposed on the surface of the main body 2 of the cooking device 1D, sufficient consideration must be given to safety so as not to cause burns, etc. For this reason, for example, when the temperature of the hot plate or the container 3 is high, it is advisable to display "Caution: High Temperature" on the display unit 22a or turn on a lamp. In addition, a mechanism may be adopted in which the container 3 cannot be removed unless the temperature drops to a level where the user will not be burned even if he touches it, and the hot plate is not exposed when it is not in a high temperature state.

[0041] Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device 1D according to embodiment 2. A control device 70 controls a side heating device 41 so that the container temperature detected by a temperature detection device 24 becomes a target temperature determined by a cooking sequence.

[0042] According to the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the heating device 23 of the mounting unit 21 is not configured to move up and down, so that it is possible to reduce the load on the wiring of the heating device 23 and the connection points of the wiring. Also, it is possible to suppress deterioration due to pinching and wear of the wiring.

[0043] According to the second embodiment, if the shape of the container 3 is such that the area of ​​the side surface facing the main body side portion 2a is larger than the bottom area, the side heating device 41 can be used instead of the heating device 23 to increase the heat transfer area and improve the heating rate. This allows the aroma components, flavor components, nutrients, etc. to be extracted effectively in a short time, improving the finished cooking.

[0044] Embodiment 3 Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a cooking device 1E according to embodiment 3. Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a placement portion 21 and a main body side portion 2a according to embodiment 3. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of cooking device 1E according to embodiment 3 cut along a cross section corresponding to cross section AA in Fig. 1. As shown in Figs. 12 and 13, cooking device 1E according to embodiment 3 differs from embodiment 2 in that it has a fixed heating device 44 and a movable heating device 45. Below, the differences with embodiment 2 will be described, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0045] The main body 2 of the cooking device 1E has a fixed cover 42 and a movable cover 43. The fixed cover 42 is provided so as to protrude leftward from the main body side 2a, and is a cover that covers a part of the container 3. Two fixed covers 42 are provided on the front side and the back side, sandwiching the placement part 21. The fixed cover 42 faces a part of the side of the container 3 that is different from the part facing the main body side 2a. The main body side 2a and the fixed cover 42 cover approximately half of the side of the container 3. A fixed heating device 44 is provided inside the fixed cover 42. The fixed heating device 44 is, for example, an induction heating type with a heating coil. Alternatively, the heating device 23 is a heater type in which a sheath heater is cast into a hot plate or a cord heater is provided. The fixed heating device 44 is provided over approximately the entire height and width of the fixed cover 42. The fixed heating device 44 is electrically connected to the side heating device 41.

[0046] The movable cover 43 is provided on the fixed cover 42 and covers a part of the container 3. The movable cover 43 is connected to the fixed cover 42 via a hinge 46 and functions as a door that can be opened and closed. When the movable cover 43 is in a closed state, an end face of the movable cover 43 and an end face of the fixed cover 42 come into contact with each other, and the movable cover 43 faces a part of the side of the container 3 that is different from the part facing the main body side part 2a and the fixed cover 42. The main body side part 2a, the fixed cover 42, and the movable cover 43 cover the entire periphery of the side of the container 3. When the movable cover 43 is in an open state, the space surrounded by the main body side part 2a, the fixed cover 42, and the movable cover 43 is opened, and the container 3 can be placed on the placement part 21. A movable heating device 45 is provided inside the movable cover 43. The movable heating device 45 is, for example, an induction heating type provided with a heating coil. Alternatively, the heating device 23 may be a heater type in which a sheath heater is cast into a hot plate, or a cord heater is provided. The movable heating device 45 is provided over substantially the entire height and width of the movable cover 43. The movable heating device 45 is electrically connected to the fixed heating device 44.

[0047] When the movable cover 43 is closed, almost the entire circumference of the side surface of the container 3 is faced by any one of the side heating device 41, the fixed heating device 44, and the movable heating device 45. In other words, the side surface of the container 3 is covered by a heating means formed into a cylindrical shape as a whole. Note that it is sufficient that the fixed heating device 44 and the movable heating device 45 face at least a part of the side surface of the container 3.

[0048] Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device 1E according to embodiment 3. A control device 70 controls the side heating device 41, the fixed heating device 44, and the movable heating device 45 so that the container temperature detected by the temperature detection device 24 becomes a target temperature determined by the cooking sequence.

[0049] According to the third embodiment, the container 3 can be heated from the entire side, thereby improving the heating speed. This allows aroma components, flavor components, nutrients, etc. to be effectively extracted in a short time, improving the finished cooking.

[0050] Furthermore, according to the third embodiment, the space in which the container 3 is housed can be covered by closing the movable cover 43, so that the main body 2 as a whole can have a shape with few projections and recesses and an excellent design.

[0051] (Modification of the third embodiment) FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a cooking device 1F according to a modified example of the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the cooking device 1F is provided with three heating means, an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage, which correspond to the side heating device 41, the fixed heating device 44, and the movable heating device 45 described in the third embodiment, and which differ only in length and arrangement in the upper and lower stages. The upper stage side heating device 41a provided at the upper part of the main body side part 2a, the upper stage fixed heating device 44a provided at the upper part of the fixed cover 42, and the upper stage movable heating device 45a provided at the upper part of the movable cover 43 are electrically connected to heat the entire circumference of approximately 1 / 3 of the upper part of the side of the container 3. The upper stage side heating device 41a, the upper stage fixed heating device 44a, and the upper stage movable heating device 45a are collectively referred to as the upper stage heating device.

[0052] The middle-stage side heating device 41b provided in the center of the main body side portion 2a, the middle-stage fixed heating device 44b provided in the center of the fixed cover 42, and the middle-stage movable heating device 45b provided in the center of the movable cover 43 are electrically connected to heat the entire circumference of approximately 1 / 3 of the center area of ​​the side of the container 3. The middle-stage side heating device 41b, the middle-stage fixed heating device 44b, and the middle-stage movable heating device 45b are collectively referred to as the middle-stage heating device.

[0053] The lower side surface heating device 41c provided at the bottom of the main body side portion 2a, the lower fixed heating device 44c provided at the bottom of the fixed cover 42, and the lower movable heating device 45c provided at the bottom of the movable cover 43 are electrically connected to heat the entire circumference of approximately 1 / 3 of the lower area of ​​the side surface of the container 3. The lower side surface heating device 41c, the lower fixed heating device 44c, and the lower movable heating device 45c are collectively referred to as the lower heating device.

[0054] The control device 70 controls the upper heating device, the middle heating device, and the lower heating device individually. For example, the control device 70 selects one or two of the upper heating device, the middle heating device, and the lower heating device, or operates all of them. Here, as a general control of an induction heating type heating device, a duty ratio control is known in which a cycle consisting of a first ON period during which rated power is supplied and a second OFF period during which no power is supplied is repeated. For example, the first period is 10 seconds, and the second period is 6 seconds. Also, an inverter control that continuously changes the output power is known. In the inverter control, the output power is continuously changed from a heating stop state, such as 25%, 50%, and rated power. The control device 70 may adopt any of these control methods. Also, different control methods may be adopted for each of the upper heating device, the middle heating device, and the lower heating device.

[0055] For example, the control device 70 operates the heating device at a position according to the volume of the liquid in the container 3. Specifically, when the solvent in the container 3 is only filled up to the middle level, only the lower heating device and the middle heating device are operated. The volume of the liquid may be set by the user, or may be estimated by providing a sensor for measuring the weight of the container 3 on the placement unit 21. In addition, in the early stages of the cooking process when the temperature of the solvent is low, all the heating coils may be operated with the power duty control. This allows the temperature of the solvent to be rapidly increased while generating a large convection in the container 3 and suppressing temperature unevenness. Furthermore, when the solvent in the container 3 is to be maintained at a temperature below the boiling temperature, the middle heating device and the lower heating device may be operated at about 25% of the rated power.

[0056] In addition, the operation of the heating device is controlled based on the cooking target selected by the user from the cooking menu. For example, the heating device may be operated in a region where the ingredients in the solvent are present. The region where the ingredients are present may be registered by determining in advance whether the ingredients and the solvent used for each cooking target float in the solvent or not, and linked to the cooking target. For example, since many ingredients such as spices used in craft cola float in the solvent water, only the upper heating device is operated. In addition, in the case of a cooking menu that includes ingredients that are prone to sinking and burning, such as sugar, the heating may be stopped or the heating may be weakened in order from the lower heating device to suppress the occurrence of burning. In addition, in the case of a cooking menu that includes both ingredients that float in the solvent and ingredients that sink in the solvent, the heating device to be operated may be switched over time.

[0057] According to the modification of the third embodiment, the optimum heating device can be selected according to the depth of the container 3, the volume of the object to be heated contained in the container 3, and the cooking menu, so that deterioration of the cooking finish due to uneven heating and temperature difference can be suppressed. In addition, it is possible to activate the noteworthy aroma components, taste components, and nutrients. Furthermore, it is possible to promote convection and suppress separation of components.

[0058] Embodiment 4 Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing a cooking device 1G according to embodiment 4. Cooking device 1G according to embodiment 4 differs from embodiment 1 in that it includes an immersion device 29. Below, the differences with embodiment 1 will be described, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0059] The immersion device 29 immerses the solid material contained in the container 3 in the solvent, which is a liquid, and is composed of a mesh part 29a, a position adjustment part 29b, and a motor 29c. The mesh part 29a is shaped like a sieve with a slight depression in the center, and its diameter is preferably equal to the inner diameter of the container 3. The position adjustment part 29b is an axial member that connects the mesh part 29a and the motor 29c. The position adjustment part 29b moves up and down by the motor 29c, and accordingly moves the position of the mesh part 29a up and down. The motor 29c has a waterproof function and is provided, for example, at the upper part in the container 3. The motor 29c is wirelessly connected to the control device 70 and receives power by non-contact power supply. The position adjustment part 29b moves up and down as the motor 29c operates. There is no particular limitation on the specific mechanism for moving the position adjustment part 29b up and down.

[0060] Fig. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device 1G according to embodiment 4. The control device 70 operates the immersion device 29 at a timing determined by the cooking sequence for each cooking object, to immerse the material in the solvent.

[0061] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, even a material having a low specific gravity or containing air can be immersed in a solvent.

[0062] (Modification of the fourth embodiment) FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a cooking device 1H according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18, the position adjustment unit 29b and the motor 29c may be omitted from the immersion device 29, and a plurality of hooks 29d may be provided on the inner surface of the container 3. The hooks 29d are for hooking and fixing the net portion 29a of the immersion device 29. In this case, as in the fourth embodiment, even a material having a low specific gravity or containing air can be immersed in the solvent. When a plurality of hooks 29d are provided, the vertical installation position of the net portion 29a can be adjusted according to the amount of the solvent.

[0063] Embodiment 5. Fig. 19 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a cooking device 1I according to embodiment 5. Cooking device 1I according to embodiment 5 differs from embodiment 1 in that cooking device 1I according to embodiment 5 includes a stirring device 30. Below, the differences with embodiment 1 will be described, and a description of commonalities will be omitted.

[0064] The stirring device 30 stirs the material and the solvent, which are objects to be heated, contained in the container 3, and has a blade portion 30a, a shaft portion 30b, and a motor 30c. The blade portion 30a is a blade-shaped member that rotates and stirs the material and the solvent. The shaft portion 30b connects the blade portion 30a and the motor 30c, and transmits the rotation of the motor 30c to the blade portion 30a. The motor 30c has a waterproof function and is provided, for example, at the upper portion in the container 3. The motor 30c is wirelessly connected to the control device 70 and receives power by non-contact power supply. When the motor 30c operates, the shaft portion 30b and the blade portion 30a rotate.

[0065] Fig. 20 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cooking device 1I according to embodiment 5. The control device 70 operates the stirring device 30 to stir the contents of the container 3 at a timing determined by a cooking sequence for each cooking object.

[0066] With this configuration, as in the previous paragraph, the problem of solid objects to be heated that are light or contain air not being immersed in the liquid but floating to the top, resulting in poor cooking results, is eliminated.

[0067] As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, it is possible to eliminate the situation where a material with a low specific gravity or containing air floats on the surface of the solvent. In addition, it is possible to prevent ingredients such as sugar, which are prone to settling and burning, from burning. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent bumping from occurring even in the case of a cooking menu with high viscosity.

[0068] Although the first to fifth embodiments have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the first to fifth embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the gist of the present disclosure. For example, the configurations described in the first to fifth embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0069] In the first embodiment, the handle 50a is provided on the lifting device 50 and the handle 50a is operated by the user. However, the gear 50b of the lifting device 50 may be rotated by an actuator such as a motor controlled by the control device 70. For example, the placement unit 21 may be provided with a sensor that measures the weight of the container 3, so that the control device 70 can detect that the container 3 has been placed on the placement surface 21a and operate the lifting device 50.

[0070] However, the lifting device 50 may not be configured to move the mounting portion 21 up and down via the gear 50b and the shaft 50c, but may be configured to connect the main body 2 and the mounting portion 21 by a screw and move the mounting portion 21 up and down by rotating the screw.

[0071] In addition, in the third modification of the first embodiment, a configuration in which the tube 26 can be pulled out has been described, but the portion of the main body 2 including the pressure reducing device 25 and the communication passage 25a may be configured as an independent structure from the main body 2 and may be provided so as to be slidable up and down relative to the main body 2. In this case as well, the tube 26 connected to the pressure reducing device 25 and the communication passage 25a can be moved up and down.

[0072] In the third embodiment, the movable cover 43 that functions as a door has been described, but the movable cover 43 may not be configured to be openable and closable, and may be formed integrally with the fixed cover 42. In this case, the vertical length of the fixed cover 42 and the movable cover 43 may be made sufficiently short with respect to the main body 2 so that the container 3 can be set by sliding it from below. Also, a part of the main body 2 located below the placement portion 21 and the container 3 may be configured as an attachment that is removable from the main body 2. In this case, the container 3 is set in the main body 2 by attaching the attachment to the main body 2 while the container 3 is held in the area surrounded by the main body side portion 2a, the fixed cover 42, and the movable cover 43.

[0073] In the fourth embodiment, the immersion device 29 is configured such that the mesh part 29a moves up and down by the motor 29c, but the motor 29c may be omitted and the position of the mesh part 29a may be manually adjusted. For example, the mesh part 29a may be provided with a convex part corresponding to the screw groove, and the position adjustment part 29b, which is attached to the inner surface of the container and has a screw groove, may be provided with the mesh part 29a, and the position fixed to the position adjustment part 29b may be adjusted by rotating the mesh part 29a.

[0074] When combining the configurations according to the modified example of the fourth embodiment and the third embodiment, the area where the net portion 29a of the soaking device 29 is located may be heated intensively. This allows the material submerged in the soaking device 29 to be heated, and aroma components, flavor components, and nutrients to be extracted more effectively.

[0075] The contents of the present disclosure are also applicable to so-called vacuum low-temperature cookers (also called electric cooking pots) that cook rice or side dishes. In the case of these vacuum low-temperature cookers, a packing is provided in the passage that communicates between the vacuum pump and the inside of the inner pot. The inner pot corresponds to the "container" of the present disclosure, and the passage that communicates between the vacuum pump and the inside of the inner pot corresponds to the "passage section" of the present disclosure. For this reason, for example, a spring may be provided to bias the packing against the lid of the inner pot, and a lifting device may be provided in the container body to lift and lower the coil base of the heating coil of these vacuum low-temperature cookers toward the inner pot. This allows the container and the packing to be in close contact with each other, as in the embodiment, and therefore the airtightness of the container can be improved.

[0076] Various aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below as appendices.

[0077] (Appendix 1) A container; A body that houses the container; A heating device for heating the container; A pressure reducing device for reducing the pressure inside the container; a passage portion communicating between the pressure reducing device and the container; a packing provided in the passage portion to seal between the pressure reducing device and the container; a spring that biases the packing against the container, The container or the passage portion is movable up and down relative to the main body. Heating cooker. (Appendix 2) A lifting device is provided for lifting and lowering the container. 2. A cooking device as described in appendix 1. (Appendix 3) The body includes: A mounting portion on which the container is mounted, The lifting device lifts and lowers the placement unit. 3. A heating cooker as described in appendix 2. (Appendix 4) The heating device is provided on the placement section. 4. A cooking device as described in appendix 3. (Appendix 5) The body includes: A side portion of the main body facing the side surface of the container, The heating device is provided on the side of the main body. A cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. (Appendix 6) The main body has a cover that covers a side surface of the container, The heating device is provided on the cover. 6. A cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. (Appendix 7) A plurality of heating devices are provided at different positions in the vertical direction of the container. 7. The cooking device according to claim 5 or 6. (Appendix 8) The container is magnetic, The heating device heats the container by induction heating. A cooking device according to any one of appendices 1 to 7. (Appendix 9) The container contains a solvent and a material; The method further includes a dipping device for pressing the material in the container and dipping the material in the solvent. A cooking device according to any one of appendices 1 to 8. (Appendix 10) The container contains a solvent and a material; The method further includes a stirring device for stirring the material and the solvent in the container. A cooking device according to any one of appendices 1 to 9. (Appendix 11) and a control device that controls the pressure reducing device and the heating device to perform a beverage production function of producing a beverage in which ingredients of a material are extracted into a solvent. A cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 10. (Appendix 12) The passage portion has a drawer portion that can be drawn out from inside the main body. Attachment 12: A cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 11. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 1, 1A to 1I cooking device, 2 main body, 2a main body side, 3 container, 21 placement portion, 21a placement surface, 22 operation display device, 22a display portion, 22b operation portion, 23 heating device, 24 temperature detection device, 25 pressure reducing device, 25a communication passage, 26 tube, 26a packing, 26b spring, 26c drawer portion, 27 alarm device, 28 pressure detection device, 29 immersion device, 29a mesh portion, 29b position adjustment portion, 29c motor, 29d hook, 30 stirring device, 30a blade portion, 30b shaft portion, 30c motor, 41 side heating device, 41a upper side heating device, 41b middle side heating device, 41c lower side heating device, 42 fixed cover, 43 movable cover, 44 Fixed heating device, 44a upper stage fixed heating device, 44b middle stage fixed heating device, 44c lower stage fixed heating device, 45 movable heating device, 45a upper stage movable heating device, 45b middle stage movable heating device, 45c lower stage movable heating device, 46 hinge, 50 lifting device, 50a handle, 50b gear, 50c shaft, 50d lifting platform, 50e lifting platform, 70 control device.

Claims

1. A container; A body that houses the container; A heating device for heating the container; A pressure reducing device for reducing the pressure inside the container; a passage portion communicating between the pressure reducing device and the container; a packing provided in the passage portion to seal between the pressure reducing device and the container; a spring that biases the packing against the container, The container or the passage portion is movable up and down relative to the main body. Heating cooker.

2. A lifting device is provided for lifting and lowering the container. The cooking device according to claim 1 .

3. The body includes: A mounting portion on which the container is mounted, The lifting device lifts and lowers the placement unit. The cooking device according to claim 2 .

4. The heating device is provided on the placement section. The cooking device according to claim 3.

5. The body includes: A side portion of the main body facing the side surface of the container, The heating device is provided on the side of the main body. The cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The main body has a cover that covers a side surface of the container, The heating device is provided on the cover. The cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. A plurality of heating devices are provided at different positions in the vertical direction of the container. The cooking device according to claim 6.

8. The container is magnetic, The heating device heats the container by induction heating. The cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

9. The container contains a solvent and a material; The method further includes a dipping device for pressing the material in the container and dipping the material in the solvent. The cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

10. The container contains a solvent and a material; The method further includes a stirring device for stirring the material and the solvent in the container. The cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. and a control device that controls the pressure reducing device and the heating device to perform a beverage production function of producing a beverage in which ingredients of a material are extracted into a solvent. The cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. The passage portion has a drawer portion that can be drawn out from inside the main body. The cooking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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