pressure cooker

Abstract

A pressure cooker is provided comprising: a base including a bottom, at least one sidewall extending from a periphery of the bottom, and a base flange extending around a periphery of the at least one sidewall opposite the bottom, the bottom and the at least one sidewall at least partially defining an interior of the base; and a lid hinged to the base, the lid movable between an open position allowing access to the interior of the base and a closed position preventing access to the interior of the base, the lid including a lid flange around its periphery. The pressure cooker further comprises one or more of a pressure release assembly, a spring loaded hinge assembly, or a clamp assembly.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Various embodiments relate to a pressure cooker, a pressure release assembly (e.g., a pressure release assembly for a pressure cooker), a spring loaded hinge assembly (e.g., a spring loaded hinge assembly for a pressure cooker), and / or a clamp assembly (e.g., a clamp assembly for a pressure cooker). [Background technology]

[0002] A pressure cooker uses high-temperature, high-pressure steam to cook food within a cooking pot (or cooking cavity). A lid is fastened to the base of the pressure cooker to maintain high-temperature, high-pressure steam within the cooking pot during use. Additionally, a pressure release valve may be used to release excess pressure from within the cooking pot during use. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,869,829 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0332994 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Various embodiments provide a pressure cooker including at least one of a pressure release assembly, a spring-loaded hinge assembly, or a clamp assembly. Various embodiments provide a pressure release assembly that can be incorporated into, for example, a pressure cooker. Various embodiments provide a spring-loaded hinge assembly that can be incorporated into, for example, a pressure cooker. Various embodiments provide a pivotable clamp assembly that can be incorporated into, for example, a pressure cooker. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a pressure cooker. In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure cooker comprises a base and a lid.

[0006] In one exemplary embodiment, the base includes a bottom and at least one sidewall extending from a periphery of the bottom. The base further includes a base flange extending around the periphery of the at least one sidewall opposite the bottom. The bottom and the at least one sidewall at least partially define an interior of the base.

[0007] In one exemplary embodiment, the lid is hingedly connected to the base, the lid being movable between an open position that allows access to the interior of the base and a closed position that prevents access to the interior of the base. The lid includes a lid flange around its periphery.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure cooker further comprises one or more of a pressure release assembly, a spring loaded hinge assembly, or a clamp assembly.

[0009] In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure release assembly includes: an intake tube communicating with the interior of the base when the lid is in the closed position; a pressure outlet tube communicating with the intake tube at a first end thereof and having a pressure outlet port at a second end thereof, the first end opposing the second end; an inner pressure release case configured to be connected to the pressure outlet port and including a spring case and a plunger cavity; a valve plunger including a shaft portion and a chamfered valve end, the chamfered valve end being aligned with the opening of the pressure outlet port when the valve plunger is positioned in the plunger cavity; a coil spring disposed within the spring case and coupled to the valve plunger at a first spring end; and an outer pressure release case coupled to a second spring end of the coil spring and disposed outside the inner pressure release casing, the outer pressure release case and the inner pressure release case being coupled to each other via respective interlocking threads.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment, the spring loaded hinge assembly includes at least one first bracket coupled to the at least one sidewall and including a first tension adjustment bar; a spring axle coupled to the at least one first bracket; and at least two hinge springs, each of the at least two hinge springs including a respective coil of material defining a respective central opening, the respective coil of material having a first coil end and a second coil end, the first coil end and the second coil end extending from the coil of material, the at least two hinge springs including a spring axle extending through a respective central opening of each of the at least two hinge springs, the first coil end of the first hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs and the second coil end of the at least two hinge springs. and at least one second bracket coupled to an outer surface of the lid and pivotally connected to the at least one first bracket via a spring shaft, wherein the at least one second bracket and the lid coupled thereto are movable between an open position and a closed position, the at least one second bracket comprising a second tension bar, and the at least two hinge springs are arranged such that the second coil end of a first hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs and the second coil end of a second hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs abut against the second tension bar at a distance from each other.

[0011] In one exemplary embodiment, the clamp assembly includes a clamp bracket coupled to at least one sidewall of the base. The clamp bracket has a through hole that defines a through axis and an extension axis. The shape of the through hole in a plane perpendicular to the through axis includes a wide portion and a narrow portion, and the wide portion and the narrow portion are aligned along the extension axis. The clamp bracket, a clamp shaft extending in a first direction substantially parallel to the through axis. The cross-section of the clamp shaft taken perpendicular to the first direction has a first dimension (D1) and a second dimension (D2), and the second dimension is smaller than the first dimension (D2 < D1). When the clamp shaft is disposed within the through hole of the clamp bracket, the clamp shaft can rotate when it is disposed within the wide portion of the through hole, and the clamp shaft cannot rotate when it is disposed within the narrow portion of the through hole. The clamp shaft, a C-shaped bracket coupled to the clamp bracket by the clamp shaft. The C-shaped bracket is rotatably engaged with the clamp bracket when the clamp shaft is disposed within the wide portion of the through hole, and is non-rotatably engaged with the clamp bracket when the clamp shaft is disposed within the narrow portion of the through hole. The C-shaped bracket, an engagement element configured to engage the surface of the lid flange. The engagement element is selectively movable. The engagement element causes the C-shaped bracket to be positioned such that the clamp shaft is disposed within the narrow portion of the through hole, thereby placing the clamp assembly in a locked position, and enables the C-shaped bracket to be positioned such that the clamp shaft is disposed within the wide portion of the through hole, thereby placing the clamp assembly in an unlocked or released position. The engagement element, comprises.

[0012] In one exemplary embodiment, the narrow portion of the through hole of the clamp bracket extends a height A along the extension axis, and the lid flange and the base flange define a total height B along the extension axis, and the total height B is greater than the height A.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment, the engagement element includes a user engagement portion, an adjustment component, and a toggle pad, wherein the user engagement portion is coupled to a first end of the adjustment component, the second end of the adjustment component is a rounded end, the rounded end is disposed within a receiving chamber of the toggle pad, and the receiving chamber has curved or angled walls.

[0014] In one exemplary embodiment, the rounded end includes one or more pegs extending outwardly therefrom.

[0015] In one exemplary embodiment, the receiving chamber includes one or more peg holes, each configured to receive a respective one of the one or more pegs therein.

[0016] In one exemplary embodiment, each of the one or more peg holes is larger than a respective one of the one or more pegs, allowing the adjustment component and toggle pad to rotate or pivot within a particular angular range relative to one another.

[0017] In one exemplary embodiment, the engagement element comprises an adjustment component coupled to a toggle pad, the toggle pad being capable of pivoting and / or rotating relative to the adjustment component.

[0018] In one exemplary embodiment, the adjustment component is a threaded rod.

[0019] In one exemplary embodiment, the adjustment component is at least partially disposed within an arm hole of an arm of the C-bracket, the arm hole having a threaded inner surface configured to mate with the threads of the adjustment component.

[0020] In one exemplary embodiment, to transition the clamp assembly between the locked and unlocked and / or released configurations, the adjustment component is rotated relative to the C-shaped bracket to adjust the length of the adjustment component disposed between the arm of the C-shaped clamp bracket and the lid flange.

[0021] In one exemplary embodiment, the toggle pad includes an engagement surface configured to engage an exterior surface of the lid, the engagement surface having a concave configuration.

[0022] In one exemplary embodiment, the configuration of the engagement surface is configured to change from a concave configuration when the engagement surface is not engaged with the outer surface of the lid to a planar configuration when the engagement surface is engaged with the outer surface of the lid.

[0023] In one exemplary embodiment, the spring-loaded hinge assembly further includes a partition disposed between a first coil end of a first hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs and a first coil end of a second hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs.

[0024] In one exemplary embodiment, a first coil end of a first hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs and a first coil end of a second hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs abut opposing surfaces of the partition.

[0025] In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure release assembly is configured to release pressure from the interior of the base when the pressure therein exceeds a threshold pressure, the threshold pressure being determined based on the relative position of the outer pressure release case with respect to the inner pressure release case.

[0026] In one exemplary embodiment, changing the relative position of the outer pressure release case with respect to the inner pressure release case causes the coil spring to be compressed or extended, and the force applied to the valve plunger by the coil spring is changed in an amount proportional to the change in the relative position of the outer pressure release case with respect to the inner pressure release case substantially parallel to the axis of the plunger cavity.

[0027] In one exemplary embodiment, a surface of the inner pressure release case comprises a series of indicia, and one or more of the series of indicia at least partially exposed by the outer pressure release case indicate a threshold pressure.

[0028] In one exemplary embodiment, one or more indicia of the display that intersect a plane defined by the display surface of the outer pressure release case correspond to a threshold pressure.

[0029] In one exemplary embodiment, rotation of the outer pressure release case relative to the lid and inner pressure release case results in a change in the relative position of the outer pressure release case relative to the inner pressure release case substantially parallel to the axis of the plunger cavity.

[0030] In one exemplary embodiment, the second spring end of the coil spring is coupled to an outer pressure release case (either directly or via the outer pressure release case being coupled to the valve plunger and the valve plunger being coupled to the second spring end), and rotating the outer pressure release case via their respective mating threads causes the compression or extension of the coil spring to be changed.

[0031] Having thus broadly described the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary pressure cooker with the lid in a closed position, according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a side view of the exemplary pressure cooker shown in FIG. 1A with the lid in an open position according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary spring-loaded hinge assembly, according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a front view of another exemplary spring-loaded hinge assembly, according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the exemplary spring-loaded hinge assembly shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6A]FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary clamping assembly in a locked configuration, according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 6B] 6B is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary clamping assembly shown in FIG. 6A in an unlocked position, according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 6C] 6B is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary clamping assembly shown in FIG. 6A in a released position according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 6D] 6B-6C illustrate various views of portions of the exemplary clamp assembly shown in FIG. 6A according to one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded cross-sectional view of an exemplary clamping assembly according to one exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] Detailed Description Various embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments are shown. Indeed, these embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0034] Pressure cookers are used to cook food and / or perform other processes in a high-temperature, high-pressure environment. Various embodiments described herein provide a pressure release assembly configured to release excess steam and / or pressure from within the pressure cooker. Various embodiments provide a spring-loaded hinge assembly configured to assist a user in opening the pressure cooker (e.g., moving the lid from a closed position to an open position) after the pressure cooker has cooled (which may result in the pressure within the pressure cooker being less than the ambient pressure outside the pressure cooker). Various embodiments provide a rotatable clamp assembly configured to maintain the lid of the pressure cooker in a closed position even when the pressure within the pressure cooker is high.

[0035] FIG. 1A provides a side view of pressure cooker 100 with lid 20 in closed position 120. FIG. 1B provides a side view of pressure cooker 100 with lid 20 in open position 110. The pressure cooker comprises a base 10 and a lid 20. Base 10 comprises a bottom 12 and at least one sidewall 14 extending substantially upward from a perimeter 13 of bottom 12. At least one sidewall 14 and bottom 12 at least partially define an interior 18 of base 10. For example, interior 18 of base 10 is a cavity or void in which food is placed for cooking. For example, in one illustrative embodiment, base 10 is the cooking pot of pressure cooker 100.

[0036] Base 10 further includes a base flange 16 that extends around an upper perimeter 15 of at least one sidewall 14. Upper perimeter 15 of at least one sidewall is disposed opposite a portion of at least one sidewall 14 that is disposed adjacent bottom 12. For example, base flange 16 is spaced from perimeter 13 of bottom 12 by at least one sidewall 14.

[0037] In various embodiments, at least one side wall 14 can consist of one side wall that forms a circular or elliptical cross section in a horizontal plane (e.g., the base 12 can be made circular or elliptical). In various embodiments, at least one side wall 14 can consist of multiple side walls (e.g., four side walls) that form a polygonal cross section (e.g., a square or rectangle) in a horizontal plane (e.g., the base 12 can be made polygonal). Various other shapes of the base 12 or cross sections of the at least one side wall 14 in a horizontal plane can be used in various other embodiments.

[0038] In various embodiments, the bottom 12, at least one sidewall 14, and / or base flange 16 are made of metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, etc.), although other embodiments may use a variety of other materials.

[0039] The pressure cooker 100 further includes a lid 20. The lid 20 is hingedly coupled to the base 10, and the lid 20 is movable between an open position 110 (which allows access to the interior 18 of the base 10) and a closed position 120 (which prevents access to the interior 18 of the base 10). The lid includes a lid flange 26 around its periphery. In various embodiments, the shape of the lid 20 is configured such that the lid flange 26 is similar and / or substantially identical in size and shape to the base flange 16. For example, the lid flange 26 and the base flange 16 are configured to engage with each other (in various embodiments, providing at least a semi-flexible and / or semi-resilient seal therebetween) to seal the interior 18 of the base 10 when the lid 20 is in the closed position 120.

[0040] In various embodiments, the lid 20 is hinged to the base 10 by a spring-loaded hinge assembly 40. In various embodiments, the pressure release assembly 30 is at least partially disposed within the lid 20. In various embodiments, a clamp assembly 50 is used to secure the lid 20 in the closed position 120. Exemplary Pressure Relief Assembly A user may use a pressure cooker to cook a variety of foods (in succession) and / or to perform a variety of high-temperature, high-pressure processes. Different foods and / or different high-temperature, high-pressure processes may require different pressures (e.g., different maximum pressures inside the pressure cooker). Accordingly, pressure cooker 100 may be configured to allow a user to set, select, and / or configure a threshold pressure and / or a threshold pressure range so that excess pressure is released if the pressure inside the pressure cooker exceeds the threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range. Thus, a technical challenge exists regarding how to allow a user to set, select, and / or configure the threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range in an easy-to-use manner and to enable the user to repeatedly select an appropriate threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range. In particular, a technical challenge exists regarding providing a user-friendly user interface that is reliable and provides an accurate indication of the set, selected, and / or configured threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range.

[0041] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide technical solutions to the above-mentioned technical problems. In particular, the user interface of the pressure release assembly includes an outer pressure release case that is rotated to allow a user to set, select, and / or configure a pressure threshold and / or pressure threshold range, and multiple clearly distinguishable indicia, so that a user may easily and repeatedly set, select, and / or configure a pressure threshold and / or pressure threshold range as needed and / or desired. For example, in various embodiments, the size and configuration of the outer pressure release case and inner pressure release case allow a user to easily and reliably set, select, and / or configure a pressure threshold and / or pressure threshold range as needed and / or desired.

[0042] In various embodiments, the pressure relief assembly 30 is configured to release excess pressure and / or steam from the interior 18 of the base 10. In various embodiments, the pressure relief assembly 30 is configured so that a user may set a pressure threshold through interaction with an outer pressure release case of the pressure relief assembly 30. For example, in various embodiments, the pressure threshold is a user-settable pressure threshold. When the pressure within the interior 18 exceeds the pressure threshold, the excess pressure is released such that the pressure within the interior 18 drops to and / or below the pressure threshold. In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure relief assembly 30 is similar to that described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0129997, issued October 28, 2014, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure relief assembly 30 is similar to that described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0129997, filed May 17, 2018, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0043] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly 30 according to one exemplary embodiment. The pressure relief assembly 30 is coupled to the lid 20 such that a pressure outlet tube 320 passes through an opening 28 in the lid 20.

[0044] The filter cap 390 is disposed on the underside of the lid 20 (e.g., a surface configured to face the interior 18 of the base 10 when the lid 20 is in the closed position 120). The filter cap 390 is configured to prevent food from clogging the inlet conduit 310 and / or the pressure outlet conduit 320. In various embodiments, the filter cap 390 is made of a food-grade material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, or the like. In various embodiments, the filter cap 390 includes a mesh 392 configured to substantially prevent food particles from passing through the mesh 392 while allowing steam to move substantially freely through the mesh 392. In one exemplary embodiment, the filter cap 390 is generally inverted dome-shaped and forms a substantially food particle-free region 394 around the opening of the inlet conduit 310.

[0045] An intake conduit 310 is also disposed on the underside of the lid 20. The intake conduit 310 is in fluid communication with the interior 18 of the base 10 when the lid 20 is in the closed position 120. For example, in various embodiments, the intake conduit 310 is in fluid communication with a region 394 formed by the filter cap 390 and substantially free of food particles.

[0046] The inlet tube 310 is also in fluid communication with a pressure outlet tube 320 that extends through the opening 28 in the lid 20. A first end 322 of the pressure outlet tube 320 is in fluid communication with the inlet tube 310. A pressure outlet section 330 is disposed at a second end 324 of the pressure outlet tube 320. The second end 324 of the pressure outlet tube 320 is opposite the first end 322 of the pressure outlet tube 320. In one exemplary embodiment, the locking key 396 is configured to secure the inlet tube 310 and / or the pressure outlet tube 320 relative to the lid 20 (e.g., such that the pressure outlet tube 320 is at least partially secured within the opening 28).

[0047] In various embodiments, pressure outlet 330 comprises a pressure opening 332 configured to be selectively sealed by a valve plunger 350. As shown in FIG. 2 , inner pressure release case 340 is configured to be connected to pressure outlet 330. In various embodiments, inner pressure release case 340 comprises a spring case 342 and a plunger cavity 344. In various embodiments, valve plunger 350 is disposed within plunger cavity 344.

[0048] In various embodiments, the valve plunger 350 includes a shaft portion 352 and a chamfered valve end 354. The plunger cavity 344 and the valve plunger 350 are configured such that the chamfered valve end 354 aligns with the opening 332 of the pressure outlet 330 when the valve plunger 350 is disposed within the plunger cavity 344. The chamfered valve end 354 is configured to seal the opening 332 of the pressure outlet 330 when sufficient force is applied thereto such that a portion of the chamfered valve end 354 seats around the opening 332. In various embodiments, the chamfered valve end 354 is made of a flexible and / or resilient material such that the chamfered valve end 354 can form an airtight seal with the opening 332 when an appropriate force is applied thereto. In one exemplary embodiment, the force applied thereto is a spring force provided by a coil spring 360 disposed within a spring case 342 and coupled to the valve plunger 350 .

[0049] In various embodiments, a coil spring 360 is disposed within the spring case 342. A first spring end 362 of the coil spring 360 is coupled to the valve plunger 350. In one exemplary embodiment, the first spring end 362 of the coil spring 360 is coupled to the valve plunger near the chamfered valve end 354. For example, by coupling the first spring end 362 of the coil spring 360 to the valve plunger 350, the coil spring 360 is configured to apply a force to the valve plunger 350 that maintains the chamfered valve end 354 in a sealing position against the opening 332 of the pressure outlet 330. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the coil spring 360 is configured to apply a downward force substantially equal to the product of a (user-settable) threshold pressure and the area of ​​the sealing surface 356 of the chamfered valve end 354. The area of ​​the sealing surface 356 is determined at least in part based on the area of ​​the surface of the chamfered valve end 354 that is exposed to the (upward) pressure that exists within the confines of the opening 332 when the chamfered valve end 354 seals the opening 332.

[0050] The coil spring 360 further includes a second spring end 364 opposite the first spring end 362. In one exemplary embodiment, the second spring end 364 is coupled to an outer pressure release case 370. In one exemplary embodiment, the second spring end 364 is coupled to the valve plunger 350.

[0051] In various embodiments, the outer pressure release case 370 extends around at least a portion of the inner pressure release case 340. For example, the outer pressure release case 370 is external to the inner pressure release case 340. For example, in various embodiments, the outer pressure release case 370 is at least partially annular in cross-sectional shape in a horizontal plane and / or is otherwise configured such that the inner pressure release case 340 is partially disposed within the outer pressure release case 340. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer pressure release case 370 is movable (e.g., rotationally movable) relative to the inner pressure release case 340. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the inner surface of the outer pressure release case 370 includes threads 376 configured to mate with threads 346 on the outer surface of the inner pressure release case 340, such that the relative (vertical) positions of the outer pressure release case 370 and the inner pressure release case 340 can be changed by rotating the outer pressure release case 370 relative to the inner pressure release case 340.

[0052] In various embodiments, changing the relative (vertical) positions of the outer pressure release case 370 and the inner pressure release case 340 causes the coil spring 360 to be compressed and / or elongated (relative to its spring length prior to (vertical) movement of the outer pressure release case 370 relative to the inner pressure release case 340). For example, the valve plunger 350 is coupled to the outer pressure release case 370 such that when the position of the outer pressure release case 370 is changed relative to the inner pressure release case 340, the position of the valve plunger 350 relative to the outer pressure release case 370 also changes. Because the coil spring 360 is coupled to the valve plunger 350, a change in the position of the valve plunger 350 causes the coil spring 360 to be compressed and / or elongated (relative to its spring length prior to (vertical) movement of the outer pressure release case 370 relative to the inner pressure release case 340).

[0053] Compression and / or expansion of the coil spring 360 increases and / or decreases the force that the coil spring 360 applies to the valve plunger 350 (relative to the force applied by the coil spring 360 to the valve plunger 350 prior to the (vertical) movement of the outer pressure release case 370 relative to the inner pressure release case 340). Thus, a user can change the relative (vertical) position of the outer pressure release case 370 with respect to the inner pressure release case 340 (e.g., by rotating the outer pressure release case 370 with respect to the inner pressure release case 340, thereby moving the outer pressure release case 370 along the path defined by the respective mating threads 376, 346) to change the (user-settable) threshold pressure.

[0054] In various embodiments, a surface of the inner pressure release case 340 includes indicia 380 (e.g., 380A, 380B, 380C) configured to indicate to a user the set, user-selected, and / or user-configured threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range. For example, based on which indicia 380 are revealed by the outer pressure release case 370 and / or which indicia 380 intersect with a plane defined by the display surface 372 and / or that is substantially flush with the display surface 372 of the outer pressure release case 370, the user may determine and / or infer the set, user-selected, and / or user-configured threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, first indicator 380A corresponds to a first threshold pressure and / or first threshold pressure range, second indicator 380A corresponds to a second threshold pressure and / or second threshold pressure range, and third indicator 380C corresponds to a third threshold pressure and / or third threshold pressure range. The plane defined by display surface 372 intersects third indicator 380C, indicating that the current, set, user-selected, and / or user-configured threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range is the third threshold pressure and / or third threshold pressure range. In various embodiments, display surface 372 is one of the top and bottom surfaces of outer pressure release case 370. Exemplary Spring-Loaded Hinge Assembly As the pressure cooker cools, the pressure in the interior 18 of the pressure cooker may drop below the ambient pressure of the environment surrounding the pressure cooker. This may make it difficult to move the lid 20 from the closed position 120 to the open position 110 (e.g., due to a slight vacuum effect). Therefore, in such cases, a technical challenge exists as to how to allow a user to easily move the lid between the closed position 120 and the open position 110 without preventing the lid 20 from being easily moved from the open position 110 to the closed position 120.

[0055] Various embodiments provide technical solutions to these technical problems. In particular, in various embodiments, the pressure cooker includes a spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 configured to allow a user to move the lid 20 between the closed position 120 and the open position 110 without using excessive force, while leaving the movement of the lid 20 from the closed position 120 to the open position 110 substantially unimpeded.

[0056] 3 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of a spring-loaded hinge assembly 40. In various embodiments, the spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 is configured to hinge the lid 20 to the base 10. In various embodiments, the spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 is configured to reduce the amount of force a user must apply to move the lid 20 from the closed position 120 to the open position 110, and to not substantially impede a user from moving the lid 20 from the open position 110 to the closed position 120.

[0057] In various embodiments, the spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 includes at least one first bracket 410. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the spring-loaded hinge assembly includes two first brackets 410. Various embodiments may include two or more or only one first bracket 410. Each of the first brackets 410 is coupled and / or secured to at least one side wall 14 of the base 10. For example, the first bracket couples and / or secures the spring-loaded hinge assembly to the base 10. In various embodiments, the at least one first bracket 410 is coupled and / or secured to the at least one side wall 14 by one or more fasteners, welding, being integrally formed with the at least one side wall 14, etc. In one exemplary embodiment, the at least one first bracket 410 includes a first tension bar 412. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first tension bar 412 extends between two first brackets 410 and is coupled and / or secured to each first bracket 410 .

[0058] In various embodiments, the spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 further comprises at least one second bracket 440. The illustrated embodiment includes two second brackets 440. Various embodiments may include additional second brackets 440 and / or only one second bracket 440. Each of the second brackets 420 is coupled to and / or secured to the lid 20. For example, the second bracket 440 couples and / or secures the spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 to the lid 20 (e.g., the exterior surface 22 of the lid 20). In various embodiments, the at least one second bracket 440 is coupled to and / or secured to the lid 20 by one or more fasteners, welding, being integrally formed with the lid 20, etc. In one exemplary embodiment, the at least one second bracket 440 comprises a second tension bar 442. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the second tension bar 442 extends between two second brackets 440 and is coupled and / or secured to each second bracket 440 .

[0059] In various embodiments, the spring axle 420 is configured to hinge and / or hinge-connect the at least one first bracket 410 to the at least one second bracket 440. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the spring axle 420 is fixedly coupled to the at least one first bracket 410. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the spring axle 420 extends between two first brackets 410 and passes through a respective axle opening in each second bracket 440, such that each second bracket can rotate relative to the spring axle 420. In another embodiment, the spring axle can be fixedly coupled and / or fixed to the at least one second bracket 440 and rotationally coupled to the at least one first bracket 410. In particular, since at least one first bracket 410 is (fixedly) coupled to the base 410 and at least one second bracket 440 is (fixedly) coupled to the lid 20, the fixed coupling of the spring shaft 420 to one of the at least one first bracket 410 or the second bracket 440 and the rotatable coupling to the other of the at least one second bracket 440 or the first bracket 410 results in the lid 20 being hingedly coupled to the base 10, such that the lid 20 is movable between the open position 110 and the closed position 120 (and vice versa).

[0060] The spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 further includes at least two hinge springs 430 (e.g., a first hinge spring 430A and a second hinge spring 430B). Each hinge spring 430 includes a respective coil material 432 that defines a respective central opening 433. In various embodiments, the central openings 433 extend along a spring axis and have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the spring axis. Each of the at least two hinge springs 430 is positioned such that the spring axis 420 passes through the respective central opening 433 and extends along the respective spring axis. For example, the coil material 432 of the hinge spring 430 is wound around the spring axis 420.

[0061] Each hinge spring 430 includes a respective first coil end 434 (e.g., 434A, 434B) and a respective second coil end 436 (e.g., 436A, 436B). The respective first coil end 434 of each hinge spring 430 abuts against and / or engages with the first tension bar 412. For example, the first coil end 434A of the first hinge spring 430A abuts against and / or engages with the first tension bar 412, and the first coil end 434B of the second hinge spring 430B abuts against and / or engages with the first tension bar 412. The respective second coil end 436 of each hinge spring abuts and / or engages with the second tension bar 442. For example, the second coil end 436A of the first hinge spring 430A abuts and / or engages with the second tension bar 442, and the second coil end 436B of the second hinge spring 430B abuts and / or engages with the second tension bar 442. The first and second tension bars 412, 442 are configured such that when the lid 20 is in the closed position 120, the first and second coil ends 434, 436 of each hinge spring 430 form an angle θ therebetween. In various embodiments, when the lid 20 is in the closed position 120, the angle θ is between 180 degrees and 90 degrees. In various embodiments, when the lid 20 is in the closed position 120, the angle θ is between 150 degrees and 100 degrees (e.g., about 130 degrees to 110 degrees, about 120 degrees, etc.).

[0062] In various embodiments, the first and second hinge springs 430A, 430B are arranged such that the first coil ends 434A, 434B are positioned proximate to one another and the second coil ends 436A, 436B are spaced apart from one another (e.g., over the combined length of the first and second hinge springs 430A, 430B). For example, the first hinge spring 430A and the second hinge spring 430B are mirror symmetrical and / or have reflection symmetry with respect to a plane taken perpendicular to the spring axis 420 and disposed between the first hinge spring 430A and the second hinge spring 430B.

[0063] 4 and 5 show various views of another exemplary embodiment of the spring-loaded hinge assembly 40, in which a partition 450 is disposed between the first hinge spring 430A and the second hinge spring 430B. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first end 434A of the first hinge spring 430a and the first end 434B of the second hinge spring 430B are separated by the partition 450. In one exemplary embodiment, first end 434A of first hinge spring 430A engages, abuts, and / or physically contacts both first tension bar 412 and a respective surface of divider 450, and first end 434B of second hinge spring 430B engages, abuts, and / or physically contacts both first tension bar 412 and a respective surface of divider 450. In various embodiments, divider 450 provides additional support to first tension bar 412 and first bracket 410. In various embodiments, the divider is approximately 10 mm-60 mm wide. For example, in various embodiments, the distance between the first end 434A of the first hinge spring 430A and the first end 434B of the second hinge spring 430B, which is primarily filled by the partition 450, is in the range of approximately 10 mm-60 mm.

[0064] In various embodiments, at least one first bracket 410, at least one second bracket 440, spring shaft 420, first tension bar 412, second tension bar 442, and / or divider 450 are formed of metal and / or some other rigid material that can withstand temperatures typically experienced by pressure cooker 100 and / or other cooking appliances.

[0065] In various embodiments, the hinge spring 430 applies a force to the first tension bar 412 and the second tension bar 442, which, with the aid of a force applied to the lid by a user, moves the lid 20 between the closed position 120 and the open position 110. In various embodiments, the force applied to the first tension bar 412 and the second tension bar 442 is not sufficient to move the lid 20 between the closed position 120 and the open position 110 without additional force being applied (e.g., by a user). However, in one exemplary embodiment, the force applied by the first and second hinge springs 430A, 430B to the first tension bar 412 and the second tension bar 442 is approximately equal to the force required to open the lid 20, such that a user can apply minimal force that results in the lid moving between the closed position 120 and the open position 110. Thus, the spring-loaded hinge assembly 40 assists a user in opening the lid 20 without substantially preventing the user from closing the lid 20 . Exemplary Clamp Assembly When the pressure in the interior 18 of the pressure cooker 100 is utilized for cooking food and / or performing other processes under high temperatures and pressures, the pressure in the interior 18 of the pressure cooker 100 increases above the ambient pressure of the environment surrounding the pressure cooker 100. This increase in pressure in the interior 18 of the pressure cooker 100 causes the lid 20 to experience a force (e.g., a force from the increased pressure within the interior 18 of the pressure cooker 100) that, if not counteracted, would cause the lid 20 to move from the closed position 120 to the open position 110. Thus, a technical challenge exists as to how to maintain the lid 20 in the closed position 120 when the pressure cooker 100 is utilized for cooking food and / or performing other processes under high temperatures and pressures.

[0066] Various embodiments provide technical solutions to these technical challenges by providing a clamping mechanism configured to maintain the lid 20 in a closed position when the clamping assembly 50 engages, causing the lid 20 and base 10 to form a seal therebetween, such that the pressure within the interior 18 of the pressure cooker 100 can be increased to at least a threshold pressure and / or threshold pressure range. Additionally, various embodiments provide a clamping assembly that includes a pivotable toggle pad, providing an easier way for a user to tighten the clamping assembly into the locked configuration. Furthermore, various embodiments provide the advantage of allowing the lid 20 to be secured to the base 10 using an engagement element that extends perpendicular to the lid flange but that can be moved to not prevent the lid 20 from opening when in the unlocked configuration.

[0067] 6A shows an example clamp assembly 50 in a locked configuration 52, in which the clamp assembly 50 maintains the lid 20 in a closed position 120. When in the locked configuration 52, the clamp assembly 50 is configured to prevent the lid 20 from moving from the closed position 120 to the open position 110, even if the pressure within the interior 18 of the pressure cooker 100 increases significantly relative to the ambient pressure of the environment surrounding the pressure cooker 100. FIG. 6B shows the example clamp assembly 50 in an unlocked configuration 54, and FIG. 6C shows the example clamp assembly 50 in a released configuration 56.

[0068] In various embodiments, when the clamp assembly 50 is in the locked configuration 52, the clamp assembly 50 is configured to engage the lid flange 26 and press the lid flange 26 against the base flange 16 so that a seal is formed therebetween. In various embodiments, a sealing element (e.g., a rubber, elastic, and / or other deformable and / or resilient sealing element) and / or a sealing groove 24 may be implemented and / or included as part of the lid flange 26 and / or the base flange 16 to enhance the sealing ability of the lid flange 26 against the base flange 16 and maintain elevated pressure within the interior 18 of the pressure cooker 100. In various embodiments, the combined height B of the lid flange 26 and the base flange 16 is greater than the height A of the narrow portion 516 of the through-hole 512, and both the combined height B and the height A are measured in a direction substantially parallel to the extension axis 515.

[0069] In various embodiments, the clamping assembly 50 includes a clamping bracket 510 coupled to at least one side wall 14 of the base 10 of the pressure cooker 100. The clamping bracket includes a through bore 512 defining a through axis 513 and an extension axis 515. In the illustrated embodiment, the through axis 513 is perpendicular to the plane in which the cross-sectional views shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C were taken. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension axis 515 is in the plane in which the cross-sectional views shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C were taken (e.g., the extension axis 515 is perpendicular to the through axis 513). In a cross-section of the through bore 512 taken in a plane perpendicular to the through axis 513, the through bore 512 includes a wide portion 514 and a narrow portion 516 aligned along the extension axis 515.

[0070] In one exemplary embodiment, the clamping bracket 510 includes a slot 518 within which the first arm 521 of the C-shaped bracket 520 is disposed. For example, the slot 518 lies in a plane substantially parallel to the plane in which the cross sections shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C are taken. In one exemplary embodiment, the slot 518 has a width substantially the same as the width of the first arm 521 of the C-shaped bracket 520. In various embodiments, the width of the slot 518 (e.g., its width in a direction defined by the through axis) is at least as wide as the first arm 521 of the C-shaped bracket 520, but is not more than 10 mm wider than the width of the first arm 521 of the C-shaped bracket 520. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the clamping bracket 510 includes two wings 511 extending from at least one side wall 14 and including the slot 518 therebetween.

[0071] In various embodiments, the clamp assembly 50 further includes a C-shaped bracket 520. The C-shaped bracket 520 includes a first arm 521 coupled to and / or integrally formed with a first end of a bracket spine 522, the bracket spine 522, and a second arm 523 coupled to and / or integrally formed with a second end of the bracket spine 522. The first arm 521 is configured to be mounted within the slot 518 of the clamp bracket 510 via a clamp axle 524. For example, a central portion 584 of the clamp axle 524 can be fixed within an axle shaft 529 via the first arm 521 of the C-shaped bracket 520. In one exemplary embodiment, the clamp axle 524 is fixed within the axle shaft 529, preventing the clamp axle 524 from rotating relative to the C-shaped bracket 520. When the C-shaped bracket 520 is coupled to the clamp bracket 510 via the clamp axle 524 , the axle shaft 529 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the through-axis 513 .

[0072] In various embodiments, the clamping shaft 524 selectively rotationally couples the C-shaped bracket 520 to the clamping bracket 510. In particular, the clamping shaft 524 extends a length L in a direction substantially parallel to the through axis 513, the length being long enough to extend through the first wing 511, through the first arm 521, and through the second wing 511, thereby coupling the C-shaped bracket 520 to the clamping bracket 510.

[0073] 6D , a cross-section of the clamping shaft 524 taken in a plane perpendicular to the through axis 513 defines a first dimension D1 and a second dimension D2 in that plane, with the first dimension being greater than the second dimension. Notably, the first and second dimensions are configured such that when the clamping shaft 524 is disposed within the wide portion 514 of the through hole 512, the clamping shaft 524 can rotate. However, when the clamping shaft 524 is disposed within the narrow portion 516 of the through hole 512, the clamping shaft cannot rotate. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the second dimension D2 is substantially the same as and / or up to a few millimeters smaller than the width of the narrow portion 516 of the through hole 512 (measured in a direction perpendicular to both the through axis 513 and the extension axis 515), and the first dimension D1 is greater than the width of the narrow portion 516. However, the first dimension D1 and the second dimension D2 are substantially equal to or less than the width of the wide portion 514 of the through hole (measured in a direction perpendicular to both the through axis 513 and the extension axis 515).

[0074] In various embodiments, the cross section of the clamping shaft 524 can have various shapes. For example, the cross section of the clamping shaft 524 can be square, triangular, hexagonal, and / or other polygonal, where the corners of the square, triangular, hexagonal, and / or other polygonal shape prevent rotation of the clamping shaft 524 when the clamping shaft 524 is disposed within the narrow portion 516 of the through-hole 512, but the width of the wide portion 514 is sufficient to allow rotation of the clamping shaft 524.

[0075] 6D , the clamping shaft 524 comprises a first end 582A, a central portion 584, and a second end 582B. The central portion 584 has a circular and / or elliptical cross-section, and the cross-sections of the first end 582A and the second end 582B are truncated circular or elliptical, characterized by a first dimension D1, which is the diameter of the circular cross-section of the central portion 584 or the major / minor axis of the elliptical cross-section of the central portion 584, and a second dimension D2, which is smaller than the diameter of the circular cross-section of the central portion 584 or the major axis of the elliptical cross-section of the central portion 584.

[0076] 6A , when the clamp assembly 50 is in the locked configuration 52, the clamp shaft 524 is disposed within the narrow portion 516 of the through-hole 512, and the C-shaped bracket 520 cannot rotate relative to the lid 20 and / or base 10. For example, in the locked configuration 52, the C-shaped bracket is fixedly coupled and / or non-rotatably engaged to the clamp bracket 510 and the base 10 and / or lid 20. As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C , when the clamp assembly 50 is in the unlocked configuration 54 and the released configuration 56, the clamp shaft 524 is disposed within the wide portion 514 of the through-hole 512, and the C-shaped bracket 520 is freely rotatable relative to the lid 20 and / or base 10. For example, when in the unlocked configuration 54 and the released configuration 56, the C-shaped bracket 520 is rotatably coupled and / or rotatably engaged to the clamp bracket 510, and the C-shaped bracket 520 can rotate between the unlocked configuration 54 and the released configuration 56.

[0077] Generally, the unlocked and released configurations 54 and 56 are similar, except that in the released configuration 56, the C-shaped bracket 520 is rotated so that the engaging element 530 does not interfere with movement of the lid 20 between the closed position 120 and the open position 110, and vice versa. In the unlocked configuration 54, the C-shaped bracket and / or the engaging element 530 may interfere with movement of the lid 20 between the closed position 120 and the open position 110, and vice versa. In various embodiments, the unlocked configuration 54 is an intermediate configuration through which the clamp assembly 50 passes when adjusted from the released configuration 56 to the locked configuration 52, and vice versa.

[0078] In various embodiments, clamp assembly 50 includes an engagement element 530. In various embodiments, engagement element 530 is coupled to second arm 523 of C-shaped bracket 520. In various embodiments, engagement element 530 includes a user engagement portion 532, an adjustment component 534, and a toggle pad 536.

[0079] In various embodiments, the second arm 523 of the C-shaped bracket 520 includes an arm hole 526. The adjustment component 534 extends through the arm hole 526, with a user-engaging portion 532 secured to a first end of the adjustment component 534 disposed on one side of the second arm 523 and a toggle pad 536 secured to a second end of the adjustment component 534 disposed on a second side of the second arm 523. In various embodiments, the arm hole 526 is configured to control passage of the adjustment component 534 through the arm hole 526. For example, the adjustment component 534 may include threads that mate with corresponding threads within the arm hole 526. For example, in various embodiments, the adjustment component 534 is a threaded rod or a bolt. In another example, the adjustment component 534 may include a ratchet notch, and the interior of the arm hole 526 may include a ratchet mechanism configured to engage the ratchet notch.

[0080] In various embodiments, a user may interact with (e.g., rotate) the user engagement portion 532 to adjust the length of an adjustment component 534 disposed between the second arm 523 and the lid flange 26. For example, a user may interact with the user engagement portion 532 to cause controlled movement of the adjustment component 534 through the arm hole 526. For example, in various embodiments, the user engagement portion 532 comprises a handle.

[0081] In various embodiments, the toggle pad 536 is configured to engage and apply a downward force to the lid flange 26, and when the clamp assembly 50 is in the locked configuration 52, the toggle pad 536 engages the lid flange 26, preventing the lid 20 from moving between the closed position 120 and the open position 110. When the toggle pad 536 engages the lid flange 26 and the length of the adjustment component 534 disposed between the second arm 523 and the lid flange 26 is further increased, the C-shaped bracket 520 is pulled upward, causing the clamp shaft 524 to retract into the narrow portion 516 of the through hole 512, such that the clamp assembly 50 is in the sealed configuration. When the length of the adjustment component 534 is decreased, the clamp shaft 524 can return into the wide portion 514 of the through hole 512, and the clamp assembly 50 is in the unlocked configuration 54 and can be rotated to the released configuration 56.

[0082] FIG. 7 shows an exploded view of an exemplary engagement element 630 including a pivotable toggle pad. The engagement element 630 includes a user-engagement portion and / or handle 632 coupled to one end of an adjustment component 634. A second end of the adjustment component 634 includes a rounded end 636. The engagement element 630 further includes a toggle pad 640. The toggle pad 640 includes an engagement surface 644 and a receiving chamber 642. The receiving chamber 642 includes angled and / or curved walls 646. The receiving chamber 642 is configured to receive and / or retain at least a portion of the rounded end 636 of the adjustment component 634 therein. The angled and / or curved walls 646 of the receiving chamber 642 allow the rounded end 636 to pivot, rotate, etc. within the receiving chamber.

[0083] In embodiments in which the adjustment component 634 is a threaded rod or bolt, when a user rotates the user engagement portion 632, resulting in an increase in the length of the adjustment component 634 disposed between the second arm 523 and the lid flange 26, the toggle pad 640 does not have to move or rotate relative to the lid flange 26. For example, in addition to the force required to rotate the adjustment component 634 through the arm hole 526, the user does not also have to apply force to the user engagement portion 632 to overcome friction between the engagement surface 644 of the toggle pad 640. This may also result in less wear on the engagement surface 644 of the toggle pad 640.

[0084] Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment of the exemplary engagement element 630, the toggle pad 640 is pivotable relative to the user engagement portion 632 and / or adjustment component 634 to accommodate changes in the angle of the lid 20 and / or lid flange 26 during transition between the locked and unlocked configurations 52 and 54, or vice versa.

[0085] In one exemplary embodiment, the toggle pad 640 is configured to couple to the threaded adjustment component 634 via threads on the adjustment component and corresponding threads on the coupling mechanism of the toggle pad 640 .

[0086] In various embodiments, the engagement surface 644 of the toggle pad 640 of the engagement element 630 is flat. In various embodiments, the engagement surface 644 of the toggle pad 640 of the engagement element 630 is concave. In one exemplary embodiment, the engagement surface 644 of the toggle pad 640 comprises an at least partially flexible and / or resilient material (e.g., a soft and / or deformable plastic, polymer, rubbery polymer, rubber, etc.). In embodiments in which the engagement surface 644 of the toggle pad 640 comprises an at least partially flexible and / or resilient material and the engagement surface 644 is concave (when not engaged with the lid 20), the configuration of the engagement surface 644 may change to a flatter and / or less concave configuration when the engagement element 630 transitions from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

[0087] In one exemplary embodiment, the ability of toggle pad 640 to pivot and / or rotate relative to adjustment component 634 is limited to a predetermined toggle range. In one exemplary embodiment, the predetermined toggle range is approximately 5-20 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the predetermined toggle range is approximately 5 to 10 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, rounded end 636 of adjustment component 634 includes one or more pegs extending therefrom, which are disposed within corresponding recesses and / or cutouts in toggle pad 640 (e.g., in wall 646 of receiving chamber 642). In various embodiments, the one or more pegs and one or more recesses and / or cutouts are configured to limit the pivoting and / or rotation of toggle pad 640 relative to adjustment component 634 within the predetermined toggle range.

[0088] Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains and having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. It is to be understood, therefore, that the embodiments are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A pressure cooker, comprising: a base comprising a bottom, at least one sidewall extending from a periphery of the bottom, and a base flange extending around a periphery of the at least one sidewall opposite the bottom, wherein the bottom and the at least one sidewall at least partially define an interior of the base; a lid hinged to the base, the lid movable between an open position allowing access to the interior of the base and a closed position preventing access to the interior of the base, the lid including a lid flange around its periphery; The pressure cooker further comprises a pressure release assembly; The pressure relief assembly includes: an intake conduit communicating with the interior of the base when the lid is in the closed position; a pressure outlet pipe communicating with the suction pipe at a first end thereof and having a pressure outlet portion at a second end thereof, the first end facing the second end; an inner pressure release case configured to be connected to the pressure outlet and including a spring case and a plunger cavity; a valve plunger including a shaft portion and a chamfered valve end, the chamfered valve end being aligned with an opening of the pressure outlet when the valve plunger is disposed within the plunger cavity; a coil spring disposed within the spring case and coupled at a first spring end to the valve plunger; and an outer pressure release case connected to a second spring end of the coil spring and disposed outside the inner pressure release case, the outer pressure release case and the inner pressure release case being connected to each other via their respective interlocking threads.

2. 10. The pressure cooker of claim 1, further comprising a clamp assembly, the clamp assembly comprising: a clamping bracket coupled to the at least one side wall of the base, the clamping bracket including a through hole defining a through axis and an extension axis, the through hole having a shape in a plane perpendicular to the through axis including a wide portion and a narrow portion, the wide portion and the narrow portion being aligned along the extension axis; a clamp shaft extending in a first direction substantially parallel to the through axis, a cross section of the clamp shaft taken perpendicular to the first direction having a first dimension and a second dimension, the second dimension being smaller than the first dimension, and when the clamp shaft is disposed within the through hole of the clamp bracket, the clamp shaft is rotatable when disposed within a wide portion of the through hole and is not rotatable when disposed within a narrow portion of the through hole; a C-shaped bracket coupled to the clamp bracket by the clamp shaft, the C-shaped bracket rotatably engaging with the clamp bracket when the clamp shaft is positioned within the wide portion of the through hole and non-rotatably engaging with the clamp bracket when the clamp shaft is positioned within the narrow portion of the through hole; an engaging element configured to engage a surface of the lid flange, the engaging element being selectively movable to cause a C-shaped bracket to be positioned so that the clamp shaft is disposed in the narrow portion of the through hole, thereby allowing the clamp assembly to be in a locked configuration, and to allow the C-shaped bracket to be positioned so that the clamp shaft is disposed in the wide portion of the through hole, thereby allowing the clamp assembly to be in an unlocked or released configuration; the narrow portion of the through hole of the clamp bracket extends a height A along the extension axis, the lid flange and the base flange define a total height B along the extension axis, the total height B being greater than the height A; The engagement element comprises a user engagement portion, an adjustment component, and a toggle pad, the user engagement portion being coupled to a first end of the adjustment component, the second end of the adjustment component being a rounded end, the rounded end being positioned within a receiving chamber of the toggle pad, and the receiving chamber having curved or angled walls.

3. 2. The pressure cooker according to claim 1, the pressure release assembly is configured to release pressure from the interior of the base when the pressure in the interior exceeds a threshold pressure, the threshold pressure being determined based on a relative position of the outer pressure release case with respect to the inner pressure release case, changing the relative position of the outer pressure release case with respect to the inner pressure release case causes a coil spring to be compressed or extended, and the force applied to the valve plunger by the coil spring is changed in an amount proportional to a change in the relative position of the outer pressure release case with respect to the inner pressure release case substantially parallel to an axis of the plunger cavity, the surface of the inner pressure release case comprising a series of indicia, and one or more of the series of indicia at least partially exposed by the outer pressure release case indicating a threshold pressure.

4. The pressure cooker of claim 1, further comprising a spring-loaded hinge assembly, the spring-loaded hinge assembly comprising: at least one first bracket coupled to the at least one side wall and including a first tension bar; a spring shaft coupled to the at least one first bracket; at least two hinge springs, each of the at least two hinge springs comprising a respective coil material defining a respective central opening, each of the coil material having a first coil end and a second coil end, the first coil end and the second coil end extending from the coil material, the at least two hinge springs positioned such that the spring axis extends through a respective central opening of each of the at least two hinge springs, and the first coil end of a first hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs and the first coil end of a second hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs abut closely against each other against the first tension bar; and at least one second bracket coupled to an outer surface of the lid and pivotally connected to the at least one first bracket via the spring shaft, wherein the at least one second bracket and the lid coupled thereto are movable between the open position and the closed position, the at least one second bracket having a second tension bar, and the at least two hinge springs are arranged such that the second coil end of a first hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs and the second coil end of a second hinge spring of the at least two hinge springs abut against the second tension bar while being spaced apart from each other.

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