US20230110059A1 - Steam generating system - Google Patents
Steam generating system Download PDFInfo
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- US20230110059A1 US20230110059A1 US18/079,199 US202218079199A US2023110059A1 US 20230110059 A1 US20230110059 A1 US 20230110059A1 US 202218079199 A US202218079199 A US 202218079199A US 2023110059 A1 US2023110059 A1 US 2023110059A1
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 325
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Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C15/00—Details
- F24C15/32—Arrangements of ducts for hot gases, e.g. in or around baking ovens
- F24C15/322—Arrangements of ducts for hot gases, e.g. in or around baking ovens with forced circulation
- F24C15/327—Arrangements of ducts for hot gases, e.g. in or around baking ovens with forced circulation with air moisturising
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C13/00—Stoves or ranges with additional provisions for heating water
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C15/00—Details
- F24C15/32—Arrangements of ducts for hot gases, e.g. in or around baking ovens
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J27/00—Cooking-vessels
- A47J27/04—Cooking-vessels for cooking food in steam; Devices for extracting fruit juice by means of steam ; Vacuum cooking vessels
- A47J2027/043—Cooking-vessels for cooking food in steam; Devices for extracting fruit juice by means of steam ; Vacuum cooking vessels for cooking food in steam
Definitions
- the present device generally relates to an oven having a steam generating system, and more specifically, to an oven having a steam generating system that is not plumbed, but rather uses an inlet system to fill water tanks disposed on the oven chassis.
- a steam generating system for an oven includes a first tank positioned at a first vertical position and having an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet.
- a second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank.
- a first hose is coupled to the upper water outlet of the first tank and further coupled to a first inlet of the second tank.
- a second hose is coupled to the lower water outlet of the first tank and further coupled to a second water inlet of the second tank.
- a valve assembly is positioned along the second hose and operable between open and closed conditions.
- An inlet pump is coupled to the first tank and an outlet pump is coupled to the second tank to provide and discharge water from the system.
- a boiler is coupled between the second tank and a phase separator, and a water connecting system coupled to the inlet pump to introduce water to the system.
- a steam generating system for an appliance in another aspect, includes a first tank positioned at a first vertical position.
- the first tank includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet vertically offset from one another.
- a second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank.
- the upper water outlet of the first tank that is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a first interconnecting member.
- the lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a second interconnecting member.
- a valve assembly is disposed along the second interconnecting member and is operable between open and closed conditions to selectively provide access between the first tank and the second tank via the second interconnecting member.
- an appliance in another aspect, includes a chassis having an upper wall and a rear wall. A cooking cavity is at least partially surrounded by the chassis.
- a first tank is mounted on the upper wall of the chassis and includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet.
- a second tank is mounted on the rear wall of the chassis in a position that is vertically lower than a position of the first tank. The second tank includes first and second water inlets. The upper water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank. The lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- a steam generating system for an appliance includes a first tank disposed at a first vertical position.
- the first tank includes a cavity with a first water outlet and a second water outlet.
- the second water outlet is positioned vertically below the first water outlet.
- a valve assembly is operable between open and closed conditions.
- a second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank.
- the second tank includes first and second water inlets.
- the first water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank.
- the second water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the valve assembly that is further fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- FIG. 1 is a front top perspective view of an oven having a steam generating system according to one embodiment
- FIG. 2 is a rear top perspective view of the oven of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a rear top perspective view of components of the steam generating system of FIG. 2 as removed from the oven;
- FIG. 4 is a rear top perspective view of the components of FIG. 3 showing interconnections between the components;
- FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of an upper tank
- FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a lower tank, boiler and phase separator
- FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of portions of the phase separator and the lower tank of
- FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a cover of the phase separator
- FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the oven of FIG. 1 with the door removed to reveal a cooking cavity having a steam inlet;
- FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the oven of FIG. 1 having a quick connect water inlet disposed thereon;
- FIG. 11 is a partial top plan view of a steam generating system according to another embodiment disposed on an upper portion of a chassis;
- FIG. 12 A is a side elevational view a steam generating system according to another embodiment of the present concept with a quick connect water inlet system;
- FIG. 12 B is a front perspective view of the quick connect water inlet system of FIG. 12 A ;
- FIG. 12 C is a front elevational view of a quick connect inlet stem
- FIG. 12 D is a front perspective view of the quick connect inlet stem of FIG. 12 C ;
- FIG. 12 E is a partial cross-sectional view of a quick connect water inlet system having the quick connect inlet stem of FIG. 12 C installed therein;
- FIG. 12 F is a front perspective view of a hose extension exploded away from an externally accessible end of a quick connect inlet stem mounted on the chassis;
- FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of an oven having a retractable hose water connecting system showing the retractable hose in a retracted position;
- FIG. 14 A is a front elevational view of the oven of FIG. 13 showing the retractable hose in an extended position with a water reservoir supported on an oven rack;
- FIG. 14 B is a front elevational view of the oven of FIG. 14 A with a water reservoir supported on an open door of the oven;
- FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of the retractable hose water connecting system showing the retractable hose in a retracted position from a first side;
- FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of the retractable hose water connecting system of FIG. 15 shown from a second side;
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the retractable hose system of FIG. 15 with the retractable hose shown in an extended position;
- FIG. 18 is a close-up view of a push-push connection system of FIG. 17 as incorporated into the retractable hose water connecting system;
- FIG. 19 A is a top perspective view of a push-push connector housing
- FIG. 19 B is a bottom perspective view of the push-push connector housing of FIG. 19 A ;
- FIG. 20 A is a side elevation view of a push-push connector device
- FIG. 20 B is a top perspective view of the push-push connector device of FIG. 20 A ;
- FIG. 21 is bottom perspective view of a spacer assembly
- FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of a first portion of a striker assembly
- FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of a second portion of a striker assembly
- FIG. 24 is a side elevation view of a wire assembly
- FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of a pulley assembly
- FIG. 26 is a side elevation view of a mounting member
- FIG. 27 is a top perspective view of a shoulder member
- FIG. 28 is a top perspective view of a guide member
- FIG. 29 is a flow chart diagram illustrating a method of filling a steam generating system and generating steam
- FIG. 30 is a flow chart diagram illustrating a method of connecting a steam generating system to a water source.
- FIG. 31 is a flow chart diagram illustrating another method of connecting a steam generating system to a water source.
- the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the device as oriented in FIG. 1 .
- the device may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary.
- the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
- an oven 2 includes a door 4 which selectively provides access to a cooking cavity 6 .
- the oven 2 is shown as having a user interface panel 8 disposed above the oven door 4 for allowing a user to control the parameters of a cooking procedure.
- the oven 2 further includes a steam generating system 10 which is disposed on a chassis 12 of the oven 2 that surrounds, or partially surrounds, the cooking cavity 6 . In this way, the steam generating system 10 is disposed outside of the cooking cavity 6 along various portions of the chassis 12 , yet in communication with the cooking cavity 6 to provide steam thereto during a steam cooking procedure.
- the chassis 12 includes an upper wall 14 and a rear wall 16 .
- Components of the steam generating system 10 are contemplated to be disposed along the upper wall 14 and rear wall 16 of the chassis 12 , however, it is further contemplated that the components of the steam generating system 10 may be located along any portion of the oven 2 outside of the cooking cavity 6 .
- a pump housing 18 is shown containing one or more pumps, as further described below.
- An upper tank 20 is also disposed on the upper wall 14 of the chassis 12 and is configured to receive water for use in a steam generating procedure, as further described below.
- an oven is shown in FIG. 1 and used throughout this disclosure, an oven is only an exemplary appliance upon which the steam generating system 10 can be used.
- Other appliances contemplated for use with the present concept may include a toaster oven, a microwave, a slow cooker, or any other appliance that may include a steam generating feature.
- the rear wall 16 of the chassis 12 is shown having a lower tank 22 disposed thereon which is fluidically coupled to the upper tank 20 for the transfer of water therebetween, as further described below.
- the lower tank 22 is coupled to the rear wall 16 of the chassis 12 at a vertical position that is lower than a vertical position of the upper tank 20 . In this way, water can be gravitationally fed from the upper tank 20 to the lower tank 22 using the conduits disposed therebetween.
- a valve assembly 24 is shown coupled to the rear wall 16 of the chassis 12 and is contemplated to be an electrovalve assembly configured to selectively control the introduction of water from the upper tank 20 into the lower tank 22 , as further described below.
- the steam generating system 10 includes a two-tank or dual-tank system having the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 , wherein the upper tank 20 is further connected to a water inlet system, as further described below.
- the upper tank 20 is contemplated to be a completely sealed tank to avoid any water overflow to the chassis 12 or any steam traveling up from the lower tank 22 to the upper tank 20 and then to the chassis 12 .
- the lower tank 22 is a sealed tank that is operably coupled to the cooking cavity 6 ( FIG. 1 ). In this way, both the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 are void of openings to the chassis 12 thereby increasing the efficiency of the steam generating system 10 and reducing the risk of condensation or water spillage on electrical components disposed on the chassis 12 .
- a boiler 26 is positioned in communication with the lower tank 22 at a first end thereof, and in communication with a phase separator 28 at a second end thereof.
- the boiler 26 is contemplated to include a heating element used to heat water provided from the lower tank 22 . Heating the water provides a water and steam mixture which is introduced into the phase separator 28 from the boiler 26 .
- the phase separator 28 is configured in fluid communication with the boiler 26 , the lower tank 22 , and the cooking cavity 6 ( FIG. 1 ). The water and steam mixture provided from the boiler 26 is separated at the phase separator 28 into steam, which is directed toward the cooking cavity 6 during a steam cooking procedure, and water, which is directed toward the lower tank 22 for re-entry into the steam generating procedure.
- the steam generating system 10 is shown as removed from the chassis 12 to better identify the individual components and the interconnections between those components.
- the pump housing 18 is shown having a base 31 and a cover 30 that may be pivotally coupled to the base to cover two pumps 32 , 34 shown in FIG. 4 .
- the pumps 32 , 34 are enclosed within the pump housing 18 to reduce noise and protect the electronics from possible water leakage.
- the pumps 32 , 34 are fluidically coupled to hoses and interconnecting members and are used for supplying water and discharging water to and from the steam generating system 10 . In the configuration shown in FIG.
- pump 32 is used to provide water to the upper tank 20 , and may be referred to herein as a supply pump or inlet pump.
- the pump 32 includes an inlet 32 A and an outlet 32 B, wherein the inlet 32 A is coupled to a water connecting system 40 by an interconnecting hose 36 .
- the water outlet 32 B is coupled to the upper tank 20 by an interconnecting hose 38 .
- the pump 34 is contemplated to remove or discharge water from the steam generating system 10 and includes an inlet 34 A and an outlet 34 B, wherein the inlet 34 A is coupled to the lower tank 22 and the outlet 34 B is coupled to the water connecting system 40 .
- the pump 34 may be referred to herein as a discharge pump or an outlet pump.
- the water connecting system 40 is coupled to both the supply pump 32 and the discharge pump 34 for allowing a user to both supply and discharge water to and from the steam generating system 10 at a single location.
- the water connecting system 40 may take various forms that are further described below.
- the upper tank 20 includes a base 41 and a cover 42 ( FIG. 3 ).
- the cover 42 is removed in FIG. 4 to reveal a cavity 20 A of the upper tank 20 defined by the base 41 .
- the cavity 20 A of the upper tank 20 is filled via the supply pump 32 as interconnected to the upper tank 20 via interconnecting hose 38 .
- the upper tank 20 includes a side wall 44 having an upper water outlet 46 and a lower water outlet 48 that are vertically offset from one another. It is contemplated that the upper and lower water outlets 46 , 48 may be positioned on other side walls than side wall 44 of the upper tank 20 without departing from the spirit of the present concept.
- the upper and lower water outlets 46 , 48 are positioned at different vertical positions on the side wall 44 of the upper tank 20 to allow for controlled filling of the lower tank 22 from the upper tank 20 . Filling of the lower tank 22 from the upper tank 20 , is further described below.
- the upper water outlet 46 is interconnected to the lower tank 22 via an interconnecting hose 50 .
- the lower water outlet 48 of the upper tank 20 is interconnected with a first side 24 A of the electrovalve 24 via an interconnecting hose 52 .
- the electrovalve 24 further includes a second side 24 B which is interconnected to an upper portion of the lower tank 22 via an interconnecting hose 54 .
- the upper tank 20 is shown as a single tank, but may comprise multiple tanks that cooperate to define an upper tank system.
- the lower tank 22 is shown as a single tank, but may comprise multiple tanks that cooperate to define a lower tank system.
- the principle operation of the steam generating system remains the same, in that the upper tank system is to be positioned vertically above the lower tank system, and multiple separate connections between the upper and lower tank systems should be present.
- the upper tank 20 is contemplated to be disposed at a first vertical position, while the lower tank 22 is disposed at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the upper tank 20 .
- the position of the upper and lower tanks 20 , 22 are generally disposed on the chassis 12 of the oven 2 .
- the phase separator 28 is shown having a base portion 60 and a cover portion 62 .
- the phase separator 28 is contemplated to be connected to the cooking cavity 6 ( FIG. 9 ) via an interconnecting steam supply tube 64 .
- the steam supply tube 64 is contemplated to be comprised of a metallic material, such as a woven stainless steel, to ensure that the steam supply tube 64 can handle the increased temperatures of the cooking cavity 6 of the oven 2 , even when a steam cooking feature is not being used.
- the lower tank 22 is shown having a cover 72 disposed on a base portion 70 to define a cavity 22 A therebetween.
- the base portion 70 includes water inlets 74 , 76 ( FIG.
- the water inlets 74 , 76 may be referred to herein as first and second water inlets, respectively.
- Water inlet 74 interconnects with the electrovalve 24 via interconnecting hose 54 .
- the water inlet 76 is best shown in FIG. 7 and is coupled to the upper tank 20 via interconnecting hose 50 .
- this connection between the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 is unencumbered for free fluidic communication between the tanks 20 , 22 .
- the base portion 70 of the lower tank 22 further includes a water outlet 78 disposed at a lower-most portion of the lower tank 22 which is used to interconnect with the discharge pump 34 via interconnecting hose 80 which connects to the water inlet 34 A of the discharge pump 34 .
- the water outlet 34 B of the discharge pump 34 is interconnected to the water connecting system 40 via interconnecting hose 82 .
- outlet pump 34 will pump water out of the lower tank 22 and discharge the water through the water connecting system 40 .
- the position of the water outlet 78 at the lower-most portion of the lower tank 22 ensures that all the water disposed in the lower tank 22 will be discharged during a water discharge cycle.
- the boiler 26 is coupled to the lower-most portion of the lower tank 22 at a first end 26 A, and further coupled to the phase separator 28 at a second end 26 B.
- the boiler 26 is an upright member positioned such that the second end 26 B is disposed over the first end 26 A, which provides for the phase separator 28 to be disposed over the second tank 22 in assembly.
- a water level sensor 90 is disposed within the lower tank 22 within the cavity 22 A thereof and includes a plurality of sensors P 1 -P 4 which are used to detect various water levels within the cavity 22 A of the lower tank 22 .
- the boiler 26 is configured to heat water in the steam generating system 10 to convert the water into steam.
- the boiler 26 is connected to the lower tank 22 and is in a vertical configuration having a height that is approximate the height of the lower tank 22 .
- the boiler 26 is configured to deliver a steam and water mixture produced therein to the phase separator 28 .
- the water level sensor 90 is configured to monitor water levels within the lower tank 22 during a filling cycle and a steam generating cycle of the steam generating system 10 to ensure that proper water levels are maintained.
- the present concept is able to provide a filling sequence which fills the upper and lower tanks 20 , 22 sequentially and in a balanced manner with regards to water and air pressure within a sealed system.
- Other systems may incorporate pressure relief apertures in the tanks to stabilize pressures inside the system and ensure proper water flow inside the tanks and interconnecting hoses. These systems are often compromised when water level sensors fail or pumps fail in an “ON” position as floods to the oven chassis can occur causing electrical hazards.
- the sealed upper and lower tanks 20 , 22 are interconnected by the interconnecting hose 50 shown in FIG. 4 and the interconnecting hoses 52 , 54 having the valve assembly 24 disposed therebetween.
- water is supplied from the inlet pump 32 from the water connecting system 40 and pumped into the cavity 20 A of the upper tank 20 .
- the upper tank 20 may be filled via a water inlet 47 disposed on a front portion thereof.
- the various water inlets and outlets of the upper and lower tanks 20 , 22 and other system components may be shared inlets and outlets that are used to both supply and discharge water from a system component using interconnecting hoses having multiple connections, as known in the art.
- inlet 47 is contemplated to be positioned at a vertical level on the upper tank 20 that is substantially the same as the vertical position of upper outlet 46 .
- a water level WL is shown as rising in the direction as indicated by arrow 92 during a filling cycle.
- the water level WL will rise within the cavity 20 A so long as the valve assembly 24 is in a closed position.
- the valve assembly 24 will be closed during a system filling cycle.
- the filling cycle incorporates both the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 .
- the water level WL will eventually reach the upper outlet 46 when the valve assembly 24 is closed.
- the upper water outlet 46 is interconnected to the water inlet 76 ( FIG. 7 ) of the lower tank 22 via an interconnecting hose 50 .
- the overflow water will freely travel from the upper tank 20 to the lower tank 22 via the open line of interconnecting hose 50 , as there is no valve assembly disposed along interconnecting hose 50 between the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 .
- water is used to sequentially fill the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 , wherein the lower tank 22 does not begin filling until the upper tank 20 is filled with the water level WL having reached the upper water outlet 46 of the upper tank 20 .
- the inlet 47 and outlets 46 , 48 of the upper tank 20 are shown in exemplary positions on the upper tank 20 . It is contemplated that other positions for the inlet 47 and outlets 46 , 48 can be used without departing from the spirit of the present concept.
- inlet 47 and outlet 46 are positioned on an upper portion of the upper tank 20 .
- Outlet 48 is positioned below outlet 46 and is generally disposed on a lower portion of the upper tank 20 , such that the full volume of the cavity 20 A ( FIG. 4 ) of the upper tank 20 can be utilized to hold water at the onset of a steam cooking procedure.
- the upper tank 20 includes a plurality of mounting brackets 94 that support the upper tank 20 in an up-right position and are used to fixedly coupled the upper tank 20 to a portion of the chassis 12 ( FIG. 1 ) of the oven 2 , such as the upper wall 14 .
- the upper tank 20 will gravitationally feed the overflow water from the upper tank 20 to the lower tank 22 through water outlet 46 via the open pathway of interconnecting hose 50 ( FIG. 4 ) during a system filling sequence.
- the lower tank 22 is shown with the cover 72 removed to reveal the cavity 22 A having a lower-most portion 22 B. Adjacent to the lower-most portion 22 B of the cavity 22 A, the water outlet 78 is disposed, which interconnects to the outlet pump 34 via interconnecting hose 80 . In this way, the entire cavity 22 A of the lower tank 22 can be emptied after a steam cooking procedure, as the lower tank 22 is designed to drain water towards the lower-most portion 22 B in use.
- the lower-most portion 22 B of the cavity 22 A is coupled to the first end 26 A of the boiler 26 via an interconnecting hose 95 .
- the second end 26 B of the boiler 26 is coupled to the phase separator 28 via an interconnecting hose 96 .
- the boiler 26 further includes thermal limiters 98 to protect the boiler 26 from a potential overheating failure.
- the lower tank 22 includes one or more mounting brackets 99 that are used to couple the lower tank 22 securely to the chassis 12 of the oven 2 at a lower vertical position relative to the upper tank 20 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , the lower tank 22 is coupled to the rear wall 16 of the chassis 12 of the oven 2 .
- the water level sensor 90 extends into the cavity 22 A of the lower tank 22 .
- the water level sensor 90 includes an interface portion 91 that is externally accessible for connecting the water level sensor 90 to a power source or a controller, as further described below.
- the water level sensor 90 further includes multiple probes P 1 -P 4 disposed at varying lengths and extending downwardly from the interface portion 91 .
- the probes P 1 -P 4 are configured to measure and monitor a water level within the cavity 22 A of the lower tank 22 at various fill levels.
- the water level sensor 90 is coupled to an upper portion 22 C of the lower tank 22 , adjacent the water inlets 74 , 76 .
- the water inlet 74 is contemplated to provide a connection between the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 through interconnecting hoses 52 , 54 having the valve assembly 24 disposed therebetween.
- the valve assembly 24 ( FIG. 4 ) is contemplated to be a valve assembly having open and closed conditions that are controlled in an electric manner, thereby making the valve assembly 24 an electrovalve. In the open condition, the valve assembly 24 allows for water to move freely from the upper tank 20 to the lower tank 22 through the interconnecting hoses 52 , 54 . Specifically, water stored in the upper tank 20 will exit the lower water outlet 48 ( FIG. 5 ) and enter the lower tank 22 via water inlet 74 , when the valve assembly 24 is in the open condition.
- valve assembly 24 regulates the flow of water between the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 .
- the valve assembly 24 is closed, such that water is introduced into the cavity 22 A of the lower tank 22 via water inlet 76 ( FIG. 7 ).
- overflow water exits the upper tank 20 via upper water outlet 46 .
- the electrovalve 24 is contemplated to be selectively opened and closed as necessary to regulate a water level within the lower tank 22 as measured by the water level sensor 90 .
- the water level sensor 90 and the valve assembly 24 are contemplated to be in communication with one another through an overall steam generating program that is contemplated to be controlled by a controller to control the amount of water available in the lower tank 22 during a steam cooking process using both the valve assembly 24 and the water level sensor 90 .
- a controller 84 is shown operably coupled to the interface portion 91 of the water level sensor 90 via lead 86 , such that data regarding a water level in the lower tank 22 can be electronically transmitted (or otherwise provided) to the controller 84 from the water level sensor 90 .
- the controller 84 is further shown as being coupled to the valve assembly 24 via lead 88 .
- the controller 84 is electronically coupled to and in communication with the valve assembly 24 and the water level sensor 90 for controlling the operations of the valve assembly 24 between open and closed conditions, as well as monitoring the water level within the lower tank 22 .
- the controller 84 can open and close the valve assembly 24 based on water level data received from the water level sensor 90 when certain threshold water levels are detected by the water level sensor 90 .
- the controller 84 is in communication with the user interface 8 of the oven 2 for controlling specific steam generating programs selected by a user.
- the controller 84 may be in communication with the inlet pump 32 and outlet pump 34 of the oven 2 for controlling specific filling sequences and draining sequences of the steam generating system 10 .
- the upper tank air pressure and lower tank air pressure can be kept at the same pressure level during a steam generating cycle so that water stored in the upper tank 20 can reach the lower tank 22 once the electrovalve 24 is opened without unwanted vacuum effects disrupting flow within the sealed system.
- a water level sensor is not needed in the upper tank 20 . This is unlike other systems which must monitor the water level in all tanks where apertures may be disposed in the tanks to relieve imbalanced pressure.
- the sealed system between the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 provides for the lower tank 22 being the only tank that needs a water level sensor 90 to monitor water levels during filling and steam generating cycles, as the upper tank 20 is self-regulating via vertically offset outlets 46 , 48 .
- the phase separator 28 is shown having the base portion 60 and the cover 62 coupled together to define a cavity 28 A therebetween.
- the cover 62 of the phase separator 28 includes an inlet 100 and an outlet 102 .
- the inlet 100 is configured to receive a water and steam mixture from the heated water of the boiler 26 during a steam generating cycle.
- the outlet 102 is positioned at a raised position relative to the inlet 100 , such that steam produced by the boiler 26 rises toward the outlet 102 that is interconnected to the cooking cavity 6 via steam supply tube 64 ( FIG. 3 ).
- the outlet 102 may be referred to herein as a steam outlet 102 .
- the lower tank 22 further includes a water inlet 104 that interconnects with a water outlet 106 of the phase separator 28 as best shown in FIG. 7 .
- the cover 62 of the phase separator 28 has been removed to reveal the base portion 60 having a mounting bracket 108 used to couple the phase separator 28 to the chassis 12 of the oven 2 .
- a clip mechanism 110 is used to couple the cover 62 ( FIG. 6 ) to the base 60 of the phase separator 28 .
- the base portion 60 includes the water outlet 106 to interconnect with water inlet 104 of the lower tank 22 , such that water that is not converted into steam can re-enter in the lower tank 22 for further processing during a steam generating cycle. It is contemplated that the base portion 60 of the phase separator 28 and the base portion 70 of the lower tank 22 may be a unitary part.
- the base portion 70 of the lower tank 22 includes a water outlet 112 that is an upwardly opening water outlet that is used to interconnect the lower tank 22 with the boiler 26 .
- the upper portion 22 C of the lower tank 22 is shown having an oblong aperture 114 surrounded by a mounting bracket 116 that is used to introduce and couple the water level sensor 90 to the lower tank 22 .
- water inlet 76 is shown disposed on the upper portion 22 C of the lower tank 22 and is configured to interconnect in an unobstructed fluidically free manner to the upper outlet 46 of the upper tank 20 , via interconnecting hose 50 ( FIG. 4 ).
- the cavity 22 A of the lower tank 22 can fill once the water line WL ( FIG. 5 ) of the upper tank 20 has reached the upper water outlet 46 , thereby ensuring that the upper tank 20 is filled before the lower tank 22 is filled.
- water can be introduced into the lower tank 22 via water inlet 76 from the upper tank 20 during a filing cycle.
- Water can also be introduced into the lower tank 22 via water inlet 74 from the upper tank 20 during a valve regulated steam generating cycle.
- water can be introduced into the lower tank 22 via water inlet 104 from the phase separator 28 during a steam generating cycle.
- the water inlets 74 , 76 and 104 can be positioned at various locations on the lower tank 22 , but are shown in the embodiment of FIG. 7 as being positioned on the upper portion 22 C of the lower tank 22 .
- the cavity 28 A of the phase separator 28 is shown as generally defined by the cover 62 of the phase separator 28 .
- upper and lower baffles 118 and 120 extend into the cavity 28 A to separate the cavity 28 A into multiple portions.
- a first portion 122 of the cavity 28 A is configured to receive a water and steam mixture as introduced into the phase separator 28 form the boiler 26 in the direction as indicated by arrow 124 .
- a second portion 126 of the cavity 28 A provides for the water and steam mixture to move in a downward direction under the pressure of the steam as indicated by arrow 128 .
- the movement of the water and steam mixture into the cavity 28 A of the phase separator 28 in the direction as indicated by arrow 124 is a powered movement provided by the heating of the water within the boiler 26 .
- the water and steam mixture will move downward in the direction as indicated by arrow 128 , where the water that was not converted into steam will generally separate from the steam of the water and steam mixture and head toward the lower-most portion 28 B of the phase separator 28 in the direction as indicated by arrow 130 .
- the unconverted water can then exit the phase separator 28 via outlet 106 ( FIG. 7 ) and be reintroduced into the cavity 22 A of lower tank 22 for further processing.
- the separated steam will then rise in a third portion 134 of the cavity 28 A of the phase separator 28 , as indicated by arrow 132 , towards the steam outlet 102 disposed on the upper portion 28 C of the phase separator 28 and exit out of the phase separator 28 in the direction as indicated by arrow 136 .
- the directional arrows 124 , 128 , 132 and 136 define a pathway for steam, water, or both to travel through the phase separator 28 .
- Inlet 100 of the phase separator 28 is disposed at a first end of the pathway, and outlet 102 of the phase separator 28 is disposed at a second end of the pathway.
- Water outlet 106 ( FIG.
- a steam inlet 140 is positioned within the cooking cavity 6 of the oven 2 , as shown in FIG. 9 .
- the steam inlet 140 is contemplated to be coupled to the steam supply tube 64 ( FIG. 3 ) that is further coupled to the steam outlet 102 of the phase separator 28 , thereby interconnecting the steam generating system 10 with the cooking cavity 6 to introduce steam thereto.
- interconnecting hoses such as interconnecting hoses 36 , 38 , 50 , 52 , 54 , and 80 ( FIG. 4 )
- interconnecting members may include multiple parts with suitable connectors, unless specifically noted otherwise.
- the interconnecting members are contemplated to be open members that provide for fluid transfers and air transfer between components, unless a valve assembly is disposed along such an interconnecting member. With a valve assembly in place on an interconnecting member, it is contemplated that the interconnecting member is then selectively open depending on a condition of the valve assembly.
- multiple components of the steam generating system 10 include base portions and cover portions that interconnect to form whole components of the steam generating system 10 .
- Such components can be unitary parts, and features disclosed herein as being disposed on either the base portions or cover portions of these components can also be disposed on the opposite portion (i.e. features described as being disposed on a base portion can be disposed on a cover portion and vice versa) without departing from the spirit of the present concept.
- the upper and lower tanks 20 , 22 may be referred to herein as first and second tanks of the multi-tank system.
- the capacity of the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 results in a combined volume of approximately 1 to 2 liters, such that the present concept provides a dual tank system that allows for a user to run a steam cooking function for a substantial length of time without the need to re-fill either of the upper or lower tanks 20 , 22 during a steam generating cycle.
- the steam generating system 10 of the present concept includes water inlet options at the water connecting system 40 , such that a user does not need to stand in front of the oven 2 during a fill, drain or de-scaling operation.
- An external reservoir 180 (FIGS. 14 A, 14 B) can be used to provide water to the steam generating system 10 via the water connecting system 40 .
- the external reservoir 180 can be placed on a rack within the oven cavity 6 ( FIG. 14 A ), or can be placed on the door 4 of the oven 2 when the door 4 is opened ( FIG. 14 B ) and then connected to the water connecting system 40 using appropriate supply lines.
- the various forms of the water connecting system 40 are described below and can be used to pump water into the steam generating system 10 from the external reservoir 180 using inlet pump 32 , and can be used to pump water out of the steam generating system 10 into the external reservoir 180 using outlet pump 34 .
- a water connecting system 40 may include a quick connect system 150 .
- the quick connect system 150 is positioned on the user interface panel 8 above the door 4 of the oven 2 .
- the position of the quick connect system 150 is exemplary only, and other positions are contemplated for use with the present concept.
- the quick connect system 150 includes a door 152 on the user interface panel 8 which is operable between open and closed positions to selectively provides access to an inset portion 154 of the user interface panel 8 .
- a quick connect inlet stem 156 is positioned within the inset portion 154 of the quick connect system 150 , such that the inlet stem 256 is accessible from an exterior portion of the oven 2 .
- the quick connect inlet stem 156 may take various forms, as further described below. In use, it is contemplated that a user will open the door 152 to the inset portion 154 of the user interface panel 8 and connect a first end of an external hose 162 ( FIG. 12 A ) to the quick connect inlet stem 156 . A second end of the external hose 162 is contemplated to be a free end that will be placed into an external reservoir of water for introducing water into the steam generating system 10 . Thus, it is contemplated that the quick connect inlet stem 156 is operably coupled to the inlet pump 32 via interconnecting hose 36 ( FIG. 4 ) and is fixedly coupled to the inset portion 154 of the user interface panel 8 .
- FIG. 11 another embodiment of the steam generating system 10 A is shown having the inlet pump 32 and outlet pump 34 both connected to a common inlet and outlet hose 160 shown in the form of a “Y” connector.
- Interconnecting hoses 36 , 82 are coupled to both pumps 32 , 34 , respectively, in a fluidic manner.
- the quick connect inlet stem 156 FIG. 10
- the common hose 160 can connect with the common hose 160 , such that water can be supplied to the steam generating system 10 A via inlet pump 32 , and water can also be discharged from the steam generating system 10 A via outlet pump 34 through the water connecting system 40 .
- FIG. 12 A another embodiment of a steam generating system 10 B is shown with the quick connect inlet stem 156 disposed on a front portion 13 of the chassis 12 , such that the quick connect inlet stem 156 is accessible when the door 4 ( FIG. 1 ) of the oven 2 is open, and concealed when the door 4 is closed.
- an external hose 162 includes a female quick connect first end 164 that is contemplated to connect, in a quick connect manner, to the male quick connect inlet stem 156 .
- This connection between the external hose 162 and the male quick connect inlet stem 156 can be accomplished in a number of ways.
- the male stem 156 and the female quick connect end 164 may connect in a friction fit manner, a snap fit engagement, a threaded engagement, or a ball bearing type quick connect system.
- the male quick connect inlet stem 156 is shown extending outwardly from the front portion 13 of the chassis 12 that is generally concealed by the oven door 4 when the oven door 4 is in a closed position.
- the quick connect inlet stem 156 is revealed and made accessible for connecting to female quick connect first end 164 of the external hose 162 for filling the steam generating system 10 B, and/or discharging water therefrom, when the oven door 4 is opened. It is contemplated that the male and female parts of the inlet stem and the quick connect end can be reversed.
- the male quick connect inlet stem 156 is shown having a quick connect end 156 A and a hose connecting end 156 B.
- the quick connect end 156 A includes a seal ring 157 .
- the male quick connect inlet stem 156 includes a channel 158 disposed therethrough.
- the male quick connect inlet stem 156 may be flush mounted to the front portion 13 of the chassis 12 and interconnected with multiple hoses 161 , 36 , 82 within the steam generating system 10 .
- an outermost end 159 of the male quick connect inlet stem 156 is accessible by a user when the door 4 ( FIG.
- FIG. 12 F the entire quick connect end 156 A of the male quick connect inlet stem 156 is shown accessible and extending outwardly from the front portion 13 of the chassis 12 of the oven 2 .
- a hose extension 163 is shown for coupling to the quick connect end 156 A of the male quick connect inlet stem 156 .
- the hose extension 163 can be coupled to an external hose for reception within an external reservoir for providing water to the steam generating system 10 .
- the water connecting system 40 may also include a retractable hose system 170 .
- an outer end 172 of a retractable hose 174 is shown disposed on an underside 9 of the user interface panel 8 of the oven 2 .
- the outer end 172 of the retractable hose system 170 is generally positioned within a gap between user interface panel 8 and the door 4 when the door 4 is in a closed position to substantially conceal the water connecting system 40 .
- the outer end 172 of the hose 174 is shown having a handle 176 that can be engaged by a user to draw the retractable hose 174 out of the oven 2 .
- the retractable hose 174 is in a stowed or retracted position. Movement of the retractable hose 174 from the retracted position to an extended or deployed position is further described below.
- the retractable hose 174 of the retractable hose system 170 is shown extended outwardly from the underside 9 of the user interface panel 8 .
- the hose 174 is extended outwardly for connection with the external reservoir 180 that is shown supported on an oven rack 182 within the cooking cavity 6 of the oven 2 .
- the external reservoir 180 can also be positioned on an inner surface 4 A of the open door 4 of the oven 2 , as shown in FIG. 14 B .
- the retractable hose system 170 is configured to allow for deployment of the retractable hose 174 , such that the end portion 172 thereof can reach a volume of water stored in the external reservoir 180 .
- the retractable hose 174 is configured to remain in the deployed or extended position using a push-push connector assembly, as further described below.
- the push-push mechanism is released to retract the retractable hose 174 which is biased towards the retracted position.
- a second end of the external hose 162 can be positioned within the external reservoir 180 to provide fluidic contact with a volume of water stored therein, while the first end 164 of the external hose 162 is coupled to the inlet 156 of the oven 2 .
- the retractable hose system 170 is shown with the retractable hose 174 in the retracted position, such that the end portion 172 is drawn towards and abutting a housing 18 A.
- inlet pump 32 is shown enclosed within the housing 18 A which also houses the retractable hose system 170 .
- the housing 18 A defines an enclosure for both the inlet pump 32 and retractable hose system 170 which is contemplated to be mounted to the chassis 12 ( FIG. 1 ) of the oven 2 .
- the housing 18 A may be mounted to the upper wall 14 of the chassis 12 , in a similar location as pump housing 18 shown mounted in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 15 the retractable hose system 170 is shown with the retractable hose 174 in the retracted position, such that the end portion 172 is drawn towards and abutting a housing 18 A.
- inlet pump 32 is shown enclosed within the housing 18 A which also houses the retractable hose system 170 .
- the housing 18 A defines an enclosure for both the inlet pump 32 and retract
- FIG. 15 a sidewall 197 ( FIG. 16 ) of the housing 18 A has been removed to reveal the retractable hose system 170 housed within.
- a track assembly 224 is shown in FIG. 15 having upper and lower mounting flanges 224 A, 224 B positioned on opposite sides of a channel 225 .
- the upper and lower mounting flanges 224 A, 224 B are mounted to sidewall 197 via fasteners 226 , as shown in FIG. 16 .
- the retractable hose 174 is again shown in the retracted position with the outer end 172 abutting the housing 18 A.
- the outer end 172 of the retractable hose 174 is configured to be engaged by a user for extending the retractable hose 174 out from the housing 18 A in a downward direction as indicated by arrow 190 .
- the inner end 192 of the retractable hose 174 is shown coupled to the inlet pump 32 in a fluidic manner.
- the retractable hose 174 is positioned along a base portion 194 of the housing 18 A to a shoulder member 196 having a channel 198 disposed therethrough which extends upwardly in a curved manner, such that the retractable hose 174 enters the channel 198 of the shoulder member 196 at a lower portion of the shoulder member 196 and exits at an upper portion of the shoulder member 196 .
- the shoulder member 196 is further described in detail below with reference to FIG. 27 .
- This first length of the retractable hose 174 is identified as the first portion 200 and is contemplated to remain in-place between the shoulder member 196 and the inlet pump 32 while the remaining portions of the retractable hose 174 are deployed and retracted into and out of the housing 18 A.
- a second portion 202 of the retractable hose 174 extends from the upper portion of the shoulder member 196 towards the base portion 194 of the housing 18 A when the retractable hose 174 is in the retracted position, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 .
- This second portion 202 of the retractable hose 174 curves upwardly at a location indicated at reference numeral 206 .
- a bracket 210 is coupled to the hose 174 at a third portion 204 of the retractable hose 174 .
- the bracket 210 is further coupled into a U-shaped bracket 212 at opposite sides of the retractable hose 174 .
- the brackets 210 , 212 are used to couple a wire or cable 214 to the retractable hose 174 .
- the wire 214 is coupled to the U-shaped bracket 212 at an eyelet 216 .
- the wire 214 is drawn around a pulley 220 that is positioned on a mounting member 222 that is mounted to the base portion 194 of the housing 18 A.
- the pulley 220 is configured to rotate and guide the wire 214 around the end of the track assembly 224 to an opposite side of a track assembly 224 .
- the wire 214 is coupled to a biasing mechanism 230 through a striker assembly 236 , as further described below.
- the biasing mechanism 230 is best shown in FIGS. 15 and 17 in the form of a coil spring.
- a push-push connector assembly 232 is configured to be coupled to the sidewall 197 of the housing 18 A adjacent the pulley 220 and mounting member 222 .
- the push-push connector assembly 232 includes a stationary female end 234 which is configured it receive and engage the striker assembly 236 that is positioned between the wire 214 and the spring 230 .
- the third portion 204 of the retractable hose 174 is positioned between the brackets 210 , 212 and a front end of the housing 18 A, when the retractable hose 174 is in the retracted position.
- the extension of the retractable hose 174 and the engagement of the component parts of the push-push connector assembly 232 is described below with reference to FIG. 17 . Individual components of the retractable hose system 170 are further described below with reference to FIGS. 19 A- 28 .
- the retractable hose 174 is shown in the extended or deployed position, such that the third portion 204 of the retractable hose 174 is extended outwardly form the housing 18 A.
- the second and third sections 202 , 204 are pulled towards a downwardly directed guide member 240 which is mounted to a front end of the housing 18 A.
- the guide member 240 includes a downwardly directed channel 242 disposed therethrough.
- the guide member 240 is best shown in FIGS. 16 , 28 , and is concealed in the embodiment shown in FIG. 17 . Referring again to FIG.
- the second and third portions 202 , 204 of the retractable hose 174 are slack portions of the retractable hose 174 that can be deployed from the housing 18 A and are moveable within the housing 18 A.
- the slack portions (the second and third portions 202 , 204 of the retractable hose 174 ) are pulled out of the housing 18 A, such that the brackets 210 , 212 that interconnect the retractable hose 174 with the wire 214 are pulled from the retracted position shown in FIG. 16 towards the guide member 240 disposed at the front portion of the housing 18 A.
- This movement draws the wire 214 around the pulley 220 , thereby drawing the striker assembly 236 of the push-push connector assembly 232 towards the female connector end 234 .
- This movement of the striker assembly 236 along the channel 225 of the track assembly 224 stretches and loads the spring 230 which is connected to the striker assembly 236 at a first end 230 A, and further connected to a front portion of the track assembly 224 at a second end 230 B.
- the channel 225 of the track assembly 224 defines an outwardly opening channel in which the striker assembly 236 is slidably retained for movement along the channel 225 .
- the retractable hose 174 is contemplated to be fully extended, such that the striker assembly 236 of the push-push connector assembly 232 is shown engaged with the female connector end 234 .
- the retractable hose 174 will be retained in the extended position, as shown in FIG. 17 .
- the outer end 172 of the retractable hose 174 is shown having a configuration that is the same or similar to the quick connect inlet stem 156 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 12 C and 12 D .
- FIG. 18 when a user wishes to retract the retractable hose 174 into the housing 18 A, the user will pull downwardly on the already extended retractable hose 174 in the direction as indicated by arrow 190 which will move the striker assembly 236 inwardly in the direction as indicated by arrow 250 , as shown in FIG. 18 .
- This further inward movement of the striker assembly 236 towards the female connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 releases the striker assembly 236 from the female connector end 234 , such that the striker assembly 236 is returned to an at-rest or home position (shown in FIG. 15 ) in a direction as indicated by arrow 252 under a biasing force provided by the spring 230 .
- the striker assembly 236 will be drawn from the rear portion of the track assembly 224 ( FIG. 15 ) to the front portion of the track assembly 224 along the channel 225 disposed therein.
- This longitudinal sliding movement of the striker assembly 236 draws the wire 214 back towards the retracted position as shown in FIG. 16 .
- This biased movement of the wire 214 draws the retractable hose 174 towards the retracted position shown in FIG. 16 .
- a user can engage the outer end 172 with the retractable hose 174 to pull the retractable hose 174 from the pump housing 18 A and engage the retractable hose 174 with an external reservoir, such as reservoir 180 shown in FIG. 14 A .
- the retractable hose 174 While engaging the reservoir, the retractable hose 174 will remain in the extended position by the interconnection of the striker assembly 236 and the female connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 .
- the user When the user wishes to retract the retractable hose 174 into the housing 18 A, the user will pull further downward on the hose 174 to disengage the striker assembly 236 and the female connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 to allow the striker assembly 236 to retract along the track assembly 224 under the biasing force of the spring 230 .
- a housing 300 of the push-push connector assembly 232 ( FIG. 18 ) is shown having mounting apertures 302 , 304 and an interior cavity 306 .
- the interior cavity 306 of the housing 300 is best shown in FIG. 19 B .
- the housing 300 is contemplated to provide an enclosure for a push-push connector device 310 as shown in FIGS. 20 A, 20 B .
- the housing 300 is part of the overall push-push connector assembly 232 shown in FIGS. 15 - 18 .
- the housing 300 couples to a spacer assembly 322 ( FIG. 21 ) around the push-push connector device 310 , to retain the push-push connector device 310 in the interior cavity 306 of the housing 300 .
- the coupling of the housing 300 to the spacer assembly 322 is best shown in FIG. 18 .
- the push-push connector device 310 is shown having a main housing 312 which houses a biasing mechanism 314 shown in the form of a spring.
- the push-push connector device 310 further includes an engagement assembly having first and second coupling arms 316 , 318 with inner barb portions 316 A, 318 A.
- the engagement assembly of push-push connector device 310 defines the female connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 described above.
- the first and second coupling arms 316 , 318 of the female connector end 234 are operable between engaged and disengaged positions relative to the striker assembly 236 , as further described below.
- the spacer assembly 322 is shown having mounting bosses 324 , 326 with respective mounting apertures 324 A, 326 A disposed therethrough.
- the spacer assembly 322 couples to the housing 300 , as shown in FIG. 18 , with the mounting apertures 302 , 304 of the housing 300 aligning respectively with the mounting apertures 326 A, and 324 A of the spacer assembly 322 .
- the spacer assembly 322 further includes an inner surface 328 which closes off the inner cavity 306 of the housing 300 when the spacer assembly 322 is coupled to the housing 300 . In this way, the push-push connector device 310 is captured between the spacer assembly 322 and the housing 300 and retained within the inner cavity 306 of the housing 300 in assembly.
- the spacer assembly 322 includes a channel 330 disposed along the inner surface 328 .
- the channel 330 is configured to provide access for the wire 214 to pass through the connection of the spacer assembly 322 and the housing 300 , such that the wire 214 can move through the push-push connector assembly 232 , as shown in FIG. 15 .
- the mounting bosses 324 , 326 of the spacer assembly 322 are configured to mount to the sidewall 197 of the modified pump housing 18 A using mounting screws 324 B, 326 B, as best shown in FIG. 15 , which also couple the housing 300 to the spacer assembly 322 . In this way, the push-push connector assembly 232 is fixedly mounted to the modified pump housing 18 A.
- a first portion 340 of the striker assembly 236 is shown having a main body portion 342 with a striker member 344 extending outwardly therefrom.
- the striker member 344 engages the female connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 at push-push connector device 310 .
- the striker member 344 is configured to be releasably engaged and retained by the coupling arms 316 , 318 of the push-push connector device 310 as shown in FIG. 18 .
- the first portion 340 of the striker assembly 236 includes a channel 346 opening into a receiving cavity 348 .
- the channel 346 and receiving cavity 348 are recessed from an inner surface 349 of the main body portion 342 .
- mounting bosses 350 are disposed around a perimeter of the main body 342 .
- the first portion 340 of the striker assembly 236 includes a recess 348 B which may be used to house a connector 348 C ( FIG. 18 ) for connecting the striker assembly 236 to the spring 230 .
- a second portion 340 A of the striker assembly 236 is shown having a main body portion 342 A.
- the first and second portions 340 , 340 A of the striker assembly 236 are configured to couple to one another around an anchor portion 217 of the wire 214 ( FIG. 24 ).
- the first and second portions 340 , 340 A of the striker assembly 236 positively capture the anchor portion 217 of the wire 214 therebetween, such that the wire 214 can pull the striker assembly 236 along the channel 225 of the track assembly 224 .
- FIG. 24 As further shown in FIG.
- the second portion 340 A of the striker assembly 236 includes a channel 346 A opening into a receiving cavity 348 A.
- the channel 346 A and receiving cavity 348 A are recessed from an inner surface 349 A of the main body portion 342 A.
- the channel 346 A and receiving cavity 348 A of the second portion 340 A of the striker assembly 236 mirror the channel 346 and receiving cavity 348 of the first portion 340 of the striker assembly 236 . In this way, a single channel and receiving cavity are formed around the anchor portion 217 of the wire 214 when the first portion 340 of the striker assembly 236 is coupled the second portion 340 A of the striker assembly 236 .
- the location of the channel 346 / 346 A of the striker assembly 236 aligns with the channel 330 of the spacer assembly 322 ( FIG. 21 ), such that the striker member 344 of the striker assembly 236 will properly contact the push-push connector device 310 , as housed in the housing 300 , when the striker assembly 236 is drawn into contact with the female connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 .
- Recessed inwardly from the inner surface 349 A of the main body portion 342 A of the second portion 340 A, receiving apertures 350 A are disposed around a perimeter of the main body 342 A. In assembly, the receiving apertures 350 A of the second portion 340 A of the striker assembly 236 receive the mounting bosses 350 of the first portion 340 of the striker assembly 236 .
- the wire 214 is shown having the eyelet 216 disposed on a first side and the anchor portion 217 disposed on a second side.
- the anchor portion 217 of the wire 214 is configured to be received in the receiving cavity defined by receiving cavity 348 of the first portion 340 of the striker assembly 236 and receiving cavity 348 A of the second portion 340 A of the striker assembly 236 .
- the wire 214 is securely anchored to the striker assembly 236 for movement along the track assembly 224 .
- the pulley 220 is shown having a wheel 360 pivotally mounted on a mounting stem 362 for rotation thereon.
- the mounting stem 362 is configured to be received in a mounting aperture 364 of mounting member 222 as shown in FIG. 26 .
- the mounting member 222 includes a base portion 366 which is configured to mount to the base portion 194 of the housing 18 A.
- the mounting member 222 further includes a top surface 368 which is disposed at an angle 370 shown in FIG. 26 .
- the angled top surface 368 provides for a proper angle for the wheel 360 of the pulley 220 to be received for the wire 214 to wrap around in assembly as shown in FIG. 16 .
- the shoulder member 196 is shown having the channel 198 disposed therethrough.
- the channel 198 is configured to receive a portion of the retractable hose 174 as shown in FIG. 16 .
- the retractable hose 174 enters at a lower portion 372 of the channel 198 and exits at an upper portion 374 of the channel 198 to provide a continuous curved channel 198 around a guide member 376 . In this way, the retractable hose 174 will not kink as positioned within the housing 18 A in the retracted position as shown in FIG. 16 .
- the guide member 240 is shown having the downwardly curved channel 242 that receives the retractable hose 174 as shown in FIG. 16 .
- the retractable hose 174 can move over the guide member 240 at the curved and smooth channel 242 thereof as the retractable hose 174 moves into and out of the housing 18 A.
- the guide member 240 further includes mounting apertures 380 , 382 which are disposed through the guide member 240 to mount the guide member 240 to the housing 18 A in a manner as shown in FIG. 16 .
- an initial step 402 includes closing the valve assembly 24 between the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 .
- the valve assembly 24 is disposed on interconnecting members 52 , 54 which interconnect the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 .
- the method further includes a filling step 404 that provides for filling the upper tank 20 with a volume of water. It is contemplated that upper tank 20 can hold approximately 1 liter of water.
- a filling step 406 of the method 400 provides for filling the lower tank 22 with a volume of overflow water from the first tank 20 through a second interconnecting member, such as interconnecting member 50 .
- the filling step 406 of the lower tank 22 is provided after the upper tank 20 is filled with water from the inlet pump 32 . With the upper tank 20 filled with water when the valve assembly 24 is closed, the volume of water within the upper tank 20 will eventually reach the upper water outlet 46 which is fluidically coupled to the lower tank 22 by interconnecting member 50 .
- overflow water freely flows from the upper tank 20 to the lower tank 22 in a gravitational manner along interconnecting member 50 as the inlet pump 32 continues to provide water to the upper tank 20 beyond its fill capacity.
- the gravitational filling of the lower tank 22 is provided by the vertically offset positions of the upper tank 20 and the lower tank 22 . It is contemplated that the lower tank 22 may also hold approximately 1 liter of water at fill capacity.
- step 408 of the method 400 water is drawn from the lower tank 22 into the boiler 26 .
- the water within the boiler 26 is then heated in step 410 .
- a water and steam mixture rises through the vertically disposed boiler 26 and enters the phase separator 28 in step 412 of the method 400 .
- step 414 of the method 400 water and steam are separated from one another within the phase separator 28 in a manner as described above with reference to FIG. 8 .
- step 416 of the method 400 the separated water is reintroduced into the lower tank 22 from the phase separator 28 .
- step 418 of the method 400 the separated steam is introduced into a cooking cavity from the phase separator 28 , such as cooking cavity 6 shown in FIG.
- a decreasing water level within the lower tank 22 is continually monitored using a water level sensor, such as water level sensor 90 . It is contemplated that filling of the lower tank 22 will cease once the water level sensor 90 provides information to the controller 84 that the lower tank 22 is filled to capacity, or to another predesignated fill point.
- the water level sensor 90 continues to monitor the water level within the lower tank 22 during a steam generating process in step 420 of the method 400 .
- the water level sensor 90 may send a signal to a controller, such as the controller 84 discussed above, that the water level within the lower tank 22 has reached a threshold level wherein more water is required within the lower tank 22 to continue to generate steam for the cooking cavity 6 .
- the controller 84 can control the valve assembly 24 to selectively open and close the valve assembly 24 to allow a portion of the volume of water stored within the upper tank 20 to enter the lower tank 22 via the interconnecting members 52 , 54 in a gravitational manner.
- the steam generating system 10 can continue to generate steam to a cooking cavity by first using the water within the lower tank 22 , and then using water as needed from the upper tank 20 , under the control of the controller 84 and the valve assembly 24 , to refill the lower tank 22 .
- interconnecting members 52 , 54 may be collectively described as a first in a connecting member, while interconnecting member 50 may be described as a second interconnecting member.
- a method 430 of connecting an appliance to a water source is illustrated.
- the oven 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 and the retractable hose 174 of FIGS. 15 - 18 will be used as exemplary components for the description of the method 430 .
- a length of the retractable hose 174 is deployed from a housing 18 A.
- the length of retractable hose 174 that is deployed from the housing 18 A is retained in the deployed position in step 434 of the method 430 .
- the length of retractable hose 174 may be retained in the deployed position using the push-push connector assembly 232 as described above.
- an external reservoir is provided with a volume of water, such as external reservoir 180 shown in FIGS. 14 A and 14 B .
- an end portion 172 of the length of retractable hose 174 is placed into fluidic contact with the volume of water of the external reservoir 180 .
- an inlet pump such as inlet pump 32 , is provided and operably coupled to the retractable hose 174 (step 440 ) for pumping water from the external reservoir 180 into the steam generating system 10 (step 442 ).
- the steam generating system 10 can generate steam for providing to the cooking cavity 6 .
- an outlet pump such as outlet pump 34
- outlet pump 34 may be provided in fluidic communication with the steam generating system 10 .
- outlet pump 34 is operably coupled to the lower tank 22 by interconnecting member 80 .
- water is pumped from the steam generating system 10 to the external reservoir 180 through the retractable hose 174 using the outlet pump 34 which is operably coupled to the retractable hose 174 .
- step 446 of the method 400 the length of the retractable hose 174 is retracted back into the housing 18 A after the discharging of the water is complete.
- a method 450 of connecting an appliance to a water source is illustrated.
- the oven 2 shown in FIGS. 10 and 12 F will be used as an exemplary appliance for the description of the method 450 .
- external reservoir 180 is provided with a volume of water.
- a hose or interconnecting member is provided having first and second ends.
- the hose may be akin to external hose 162 shown in FIG. 12 A .
- the first end 164 of the hose 162 is connected to an inlet of the oven 2 , such as inlet 156 .
- this connection can be provided using a quick connect system, a threaded engagement, a friction fit connection, or other like connecting technique.
- a second end of the hose 162 is contemplated to be a free end of the external hose 162 that can be positioned into fluidic contact with the volume of water of the external reservoir 180 .
- an inlet pump such as inlet pump 32 , is provided and operably coupled to the inlet 156 of the oven 2 (step 460 ) for pumping water from the external reservoir 180 into the steam generating system 10 of the oven 2 (step 462 ) through the external hose 162 .
- an outlet pump such as outlet pump 34 shown in FIG. 4
- an outlet pump is provided on the oven 2 and is also operably coupled to the inlet 156 of the oven 2 .
- water is pumped from the steam generating system 10 to the external reservoir 180 using the outlet pump 34 and the interconnecting hose 162 .
- a steam generating system for an appliance includes a first tank positioned at a first vertical position.
- the first tank includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet vertically offset from one another.
- a second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank.
- the upper water outlet of the first tank that is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a first interconnecting member.
- the lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a second interconnecting member.
- a valve assembly is disposed along the second interconnecting member and is operable between open and closed conditions to selectively provide access between the first tank and the second tank via the second interconnecting member.
- a boiler includes first and second ends.
- the first end of the boiler is operably coupled to a water outlet of the second tank.
- a phase separator includes an inlet operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the boiler at the second end of the boiler.
- the phase separator further includes a water outlet operably coupled to the second tank for reintroducing water that is not converted into steam back into the second tank.
- the phase separator further includes a steam outlet operably coupled to a steam supply tube.
- the steam supply tube is operably coupled to a cooking cavity of the appliance for delivering steam thereto.
- the phase separator further includes a pathway therethrough that is defined between the inlet of the phase separator and the steam outlet of the phase separator.
- the water outlet of the phase separator is disposed between the inlet of the phase separator and the steam outlet of the phase separator along the pathway.
- the water outlet and the inlet of the phase separator are disposed on a lower portion of the phase separator.
- the steam outlet of the phase separator is disposed on an upper portion of the phase separator.
- an appliance includes a chassis having an upper wall and a rear wall.
- a cooking cavity is at least partially surrounded by the chassis.
- a first tank is mounted on the upper wall of the chassis and includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet.
- a second tank is mounted on the rear wall of the chassis in a position that is vertically lower than a position of the first tank.
- the second tank includes first and second water inlets.
- the upper water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank.
- the lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- an interconnecting member fluidically couples the lower water outlet of the first tank to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- a valve assembly is disposed along the interconnecting member fluidically coupling the lower water outlet of the first tank to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- the valve assembly is operable between open and closed conditions to selectively provide access between the first tank and the second tank.
- a second interconnecting member fluidically couples the upper water outlet of the first tank to the first water inlet of the second tank.
- the second interconnecting member is an open member.
- the upper water outlet of the first tank is disposed on an upper portion of the first tank.
- the first water inlet of the second tank is disposed on an upper portion of the second tank.
- a boiler includes first and second ends.
- the first end of the boiler is operably coupled to a water outlet disposed on a lower portion of the second tank.
- a phase separator includes an inlet operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the boiler at the second end of the boiler.
- the boiler is vertically disposed, such that the first end of the boiler is positioned below the second end of the boiler.
- the phase separator includes a water outlet disposed above and opening into a cavity of the second tank.
- the phase separator further includes a steam outlet operably coupled to a steam inlet.
- the steam inlet opens into the cooking cavity of the appliance for delivering steam thereto.
- a steam generating system for an appliance includes a first tank disposed at a first vertical position.
- the first tank includes a cavity with a first water outlet and a second water outlet.
- the second water outlet is positioned vertically below the first water outlet.
- a valve assembly is operable between open and closed conditions.
- a second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank.
- the second tank includes first and second water inlets.
- the first water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank.
- the second water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the valve assembly that is further fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- a water level sensor is disposed within the second tank for monitoring a water level within the second tank.
- valve assembly is an electrovalve assembly operably coupled to and controlled by a controller.
- controller is further operably coupled to the water level sensor for receiving data regarding the water level within the second tank.
- a boiler includes first and second ends.
- the first end of the boiler is operably coupled the second tank.
- a phase separator includes an inlet operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the boiler at the second end of the boiler.
- the phase separator further includes a water outlet opening into the second tank.
- the phase separator also includes a steam outlet for discharging steam therethrough.
- the term “coupled” in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc. generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.
- elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied.
- the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.
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Abstract
Description
- This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/377,825, filed on Apr. 8, 2019, entitled STEAM GENERATING SYSTEM, which claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/654,877, filed on Apr. 9, 2018, entitled STEAM GENERATING SYSTEM, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- The present device generally relates to an oven having a steam generating system, and more specifically, to an oven having a steam generating system that is not plumbed, but rather uses an inlet system to fill water tanks disposed on the oven chassis.
- In at least one aspect, a steam generating system for an oven includes a first tank positioned at a first vertical position and having an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet. A second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank. A first hose is coupled to the upper water outlet of the first tank and further coupled to a first inlet of the second tank. A second hose is coupled to the lower water outlet of the first tank and further coupled to a second water inlet of the second tank. A valve assembly is positioned along the second hose and operable between open and closed conditions. An inlet pump is coupled to the first tank and an outlet pump is coupled to the second tank to provide and discharge water from the system. A boiler is coupled between the second tank and a phase separator, and a water connecting system coupled to the inlet pump to introduce water to the system.
- In another aspect, a steam generating system for an appliance includes a first tank positioned at a first vertical position. The first tank includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet vertically offset from one another. A second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank. The upper water outlet of the first tank that is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a first interconnecting member. The lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a second interconnecting member. A valve assembly is disposed along the second interconnecting member and is operable between open and closed conditions to selectively provide access between the first tank and the second tank via the second interconnecting member.
- In another aspect, an appliance includes a chassis having an upper wall and a rear wall. A cooking cavity is at least partially surrounded by the chassis. A first tank is mounted on the upper wall of the chassis and includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet. A second tank is mounted on the rear wall of the chassis in a position that is vertically lower than a position of the first tank. The second tank includes first and second water inlets. The upper water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank. The lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- In yet another aspect, a steam generating system for an appliance includes a first tank disposed at a first vertical position. The first tank includes a cavity with a first water outlet and a second water outlet. The second water outlet is positioned vertically below the first water outlet. A valve assembly is operable between open and closed conditions. A second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank. The second tank includes first and second water inlets. The first water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank. The second water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the valve assembly that is further fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present device will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.
- In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a front top perspective view of an oven having a steam generating system according to one embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is a rear top perspective view of the oven ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a rear top perspective view of components of the steam generating system ofFIG. 2 as removed from the oven; -
FIG. 4 is a rear top perspective view of the components ofFIG. 3 showing interconnections between the components; -
FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of an upper tank; -
FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a lower tank, boiler and phase separator; -
FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of portions of the phase separator and the lower tank of -
FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a cover of the phase separator; -
FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the oven ofFIG. 1 with the door removed to reveal a cooking cavity having a steam inlet; -
FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the oven ofFIG. 1 having a quick connect water inlet disposed thereon; -
FIG. 11 is a partial top plan view of a steam generating system according to another embodiment disposed on an upper portion of a chassis; -
FIG. 12A is a side elevational view a steam generating system according to another embodiment of the present concept with a quick connect water inlet system; -
FIG. 12B is a front perspective view of the quick connect water inlet system ofFIG. 12A ; -
FIG. 12C is a front elevational view of a quick connect inlet stem; -
FIG. 12D is a front perspective view of the quick connect inlet stem ofFIG. 12C ; -
FIG. 12E is a partial cross-sectional view of a quick connect water inlet system having the quick connect inlet stem ofFIG. 12C installed therein; -
FIG. 12F is a front perspective view of a hose extension exploded away from an externally accessible end of a quick connect inlet stem mounted on the chassis; -
FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of an oven having a retractable hose water connecting system showing the retractable hose in a retracted position; -
FIG. 14A is a front elevational view of the oven ofFIG. 13 showing the retractable hose in an extended position with a water reservoir supported on an oven rack; -
FIG. 14B is a front elevational view of the oven ofFIG. 14A with a water reservoir supported on an open door of the oven; -
FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of the retractable hose water connecting system showing the retractable hose in a retracted position from a first side; -
FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of the retractable hose water connecting system ofFIG. 15 shown from a second side; -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the retractable hose system ofFIG. 15 with the retractable hose shown in an extended position; -
FIG. 18 is a close-up view of a push-push connection system ofFIG. 17 as incorporated into the retractable hose water connecting system; -
FIG. 19A is a top perspective view of a push-push connector housing; -
FIG. 19B is a bottom perspective view of the push-push connector housing ofFIG. 19A ; -
FIG. 20A is a side elevation view of a push-push connector device; -
FIG. 20B is a top perspective view of the push-push connector device ofFIG. 20A ; -
FIG. 21 is bottom perspective view of a spacer assembly; -
FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of a first portion of a striker assembly; -
FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of a second portion of a striker assembly; -
FIG. 24 is a side elevation view of a wire assembly; -
FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of a pulley assembly; -
FIG. 26 is a side elevation view of a mounting member; -
FIG. 27 is a top perspective view of a shoulder member; -
FIG. 28 is a top perspective view of a guide member; -
FIG. 29 is a flow chart diagram illustrating a method of filling a steam generating system and generating steam; -
FIG. 30 is a flow chart diagram illustrating a method of connecting a steam generating system to a water source; and -
FIG. 31 is a flow chart diagram illustrating another method of connecting a steam generating system to a water source. - For purposes of description herein the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the device as oriented in
FIG. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the device may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. - Referring to the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 1 , anoven 2 includes adoor 4 which selectively provides access to acooking cavity 6. Theoven 2 is shown as having auser interface panel 8 disposed above theoven door 4 for allowing a user to control the parameters of a cooking procedure. Theoven 2 further includes asteam generating system 10 which is disposed on achassis 12 of theoven 2 that surrounds, or partially surrounds, thecooking cavity 6. In this way, thesteam generating system 10 is disposed outside of thecooking cavity 6 along various portions of thechassis 12, yet in communication with thecooking cavity 6 to provide steam thereto during a steam cooking procedure. Thechassis 12 includes anupper wall 14 and arear wall 16. Components of thesteam generating system 10 are contemplated to be disposed along theupper wall 14 andrear wall 16 of thechassis 12, however, it is further contemplated that the components of thesteam generating system 10 may be located along any portion of theoven 2 outside of thecooking cavity 6. On theupper wall 14, apump housing 18 is shown containing one or more pumps, as further described below. Anupper tank 20 is also disposed on theupper wall 14 of thechassis 12 and is configured to receive water for use in a steam generating procedure, as further described below. While an oven is shown inFIG. 1 and used throughout this disclosure, an oven is only an exemplary appliance upon which thesteam generating system 10 can be used. Other appliances contemplated for use with the present concept may include a toaster oven, a microwave, a slow cooker, or any other appliance that may include a steam generating feature. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , therear wall 16 of thechassis 12 is shown having alower tank 22 disposed thereon which is fluidically coupled to theupper tank 20 for the transfer of water therebetween, as further described below. Thelower tank 22 is coupled to therear wall 16 of thechassis 12 at a vertical position that is lower than a vertical position of theupper tank 20. In this way, water can be gravitationally fed from theupper tank 20 to thelower tank 22 using the conduits disposed therebetween. Avalve assembly 24 is shown coupled to therear wall 16 of thechassis 12 and is contemplated to be an electrovalve assembly configured to selectively control the introduction of water from theupper tank 20 into thelower tank 22, as further described below. Thus, thesteam generating system 10 includes a two-tank or dual-tank system having theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22, wherein theupper tank 20 is further connected to a water inlet system, as further described below. Theupper tank 20 is contemplated to be a completely sealed tank to avoid any water overflow to thechassis 12 or any steam traveling up from thelower tank 22 to theupper tank 20 and then to thechassis 12. Similarly, thelower tank 22 is a sealed tank that is operably coupled to the cooking cavity 6 (FIG. 1 ). In this way, both theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22 are void of openings to thechassis 12 thereby increasing the efficiency of thesteam generating system 10 and reducing the risk of condensation or water spillage on electrical components disposed on thechassis 12. - As further shown in
FIG. 2 , aboiler 26 is positioned in communication with thelower tank 22 at a first end thereof, and in communication with aphase separator 28 at a second end thereof. In use, theboiler 26 is contemplated to include a heating element used to heat water provided from thelower tank 22. Heating the water provides a water and steam mixture which is introduced into thephase separator 28 from theboiler 26. Thephase separator 28 is configured in fluid communication with theboiler 26, thelower tank 22, and the cooking cavity 6 (FIG. 1 ). The water and steam mixture provided from theboiler 26 is separated at thephase separator 28 into steam, which is directed toward thecooking cavity 6 during a steam cooking procedure, and water, which is directed toward thelower tank 22 for re-entry into the steam generating procedure. - Referring now to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , thesteam generating system 10 is shown as removed from thechassis 12 to better identify the individual components and the interconnections between those components. InFIG. 3 , thepump housing 18 is shown having a base 31 and acover 30 that may be pivotally coupled to the base to cover twopumps FIG. 4 . Thepumps pump housing 18 to reduce noise and protect the electronics from possible water leakage. Thepumps steam generating system 10. In the configuration shown inFIG. 4 , it is contemplated that pump 32 is used to provide water to theupper tank 20, and may be referred to herein as a supply pump or inlet pump. Thepump 32 includes aninlet 32A and anoutlet 32B, wherein theinlet 32A is coupled to awater connecting system 40 by an interconnectinghose 36. Thewater outlet 32B is coupled to theupper tank 20 by an interconnectinghose 38. Similarly, thepump 34 is contemplated to remove or discharge water from thesteam generating system 10 and includes aninlet 34A and anoutlet 34B, wherein theinlet 34A is coupled to thelower tank 22 and theoutlet 34B is coupled to thewater connecting system 40. Thepump 34 may be referred to herein as a discharge pump or an outlet pump. In this way, thewater connecting system 40 is coupled to both thesupply pump 32 and thedischarge pump 34 for allowing a user to both supply and discharge water to and from thesteam generating system 10 at a single location. Thewater connecting system 40 may take various forms that are further described below. - With further reference to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , theupper tank 20 includes abase 41 and a cover 42 (FIG. 3 ). Thecover 42 is removed inFIG. 4 to reveal acavity 20A of theupper tank 20 defined by thebase 41. Thecavity 20A of theupper tank 20 is filled via thesupply pump 32 as interconnected to theupper tank 20 via interconnectinghose 38. As shown inFIG. 3 , theupper tank 20 includes aside wall 44 having anupper water outlet 46 and alower water outlet 48 that are vertically offset from one another. It is contemplated that the upper andlower water outlets side wall 44 of theupper tank 20 without departing from the spirit of the present concept. The upper andlower water outlets side wall 44 of theupper tank 20 to allow for controlled filling of thelower tank 22 from theupper tank 20. Filling of thelower tank 22 from theupper tank 20, is further described below. As shown inFIG. 4 , theupper water outlet 46 is interconnected to thelower tank 22 via an interconnectinghose 50. Thelower water outlet 48 of theupper tank 20 is interconnected with afirst side 24A of theelectrovalve 24 via an interconnectinghose 52. Theelectrovalve 24 further includes asecond side 24B which is interconnected to an upper portion of thelower tank 22 via an interconnectinghose 54. InFIGS. 3 and 4 , theupper tank 20 is shown as a single tank, but may comprise multiple tanks that cooperate to define an upper tank system. Similarly, thelower tank 22 is shown as a single tank, but may comprise multiple tanks that cooperate to define a lower tank system. In a system having multiple upper tanks or multiple lower tanks, or both, the principle operation of the steam generating system remains the same, in that the upper tank system is to be positioned vertically above the lower tank system, and multiple separate connections between the upper and lower tank systems should be present. As such, theupper tank 20 is contemplated to be disposed at a first vertical position, while thelower tank 22 is disposed at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of theupper tank 20. As noted above, the position of the upper andlower tanks chassis 12 of theoven 2. - With further reference to
FIG. 3 , thephase separator 28 is shown having abase portion 60 and acover portion 62. Thephase separator 28 is contemplated to be connected to the cooking cavity 6 (FIG. 9 ) via an interconnectingsteam supply tube 64. Thesteam supply tube 64 is contemplated to be comprised of a metallic material, such as a woven stainless steel, to ensure that thesteam supply tube 64 can handle the increased temperatures of thecooking cavity 6 of theoven 2, even when a steam cooking feature is not being used. With further reference toFIGS. 3 and 4 , thelower tank 22 is shown having acover 72 disposed on abase portion 70 to define acavity 22A therebetween. Thebase portion 70 includeswater inlets 74, 76 (FIG. 4 ), disposed on an upper portion of thebase portion 70. The water inlets 74, 76 may be referred to herein as first and second water inlets, respectively.Water inlet 74 interconnects with theelectrovalve 24 via interconnectinghose 54. Thewater inlet 76 is best shown inFIG. 7 and is coupled to theupper tank 20 via interconnectinghose 50. There is no valve in place along interconnectinghose 50 between the upper andlower tanks hose 50 is a continuously open member providing consistent access between theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22. Thus, this connection between theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22 is unencumbered for free fluidic communication between thetanks tanks tanks base portion 70 of thelower tank 22 further includes awater outlet 78 disposed at a lower-most portion of thelower tank 22 which is used to interconnect with thedischarge pump 34 via interconnectinghose 80 which connects to thewater inlet 34A of thedischarge pump 34. Thewater outlet 34B of thedischarge pump 34 is interconnected to thewater connecting system 40 via interconnectinghose 82. During a water discharge cycle,outlet pump 34 will pump water out of thelower tank 22 and discharge the water through thewater connecting system 40. Thus, the position of thewater outlet 78 at the lower-most portion of thelower tank 22 ensures that all the water disposed in thelower tank 22 will be discharged during a water discharge cycle. - As further shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4 , theboiler 26 is coupled to the lower-most portion of thelower tank 22 at afirst end 26A, and further coupled to thephase separator 28 at asecond end 26B. Theboiler 26 is an upright member positioned such that thesecond end 26B is disposed over thefirst end 26A, which provides for thephase separator 28 to be disposed over thesecond tank 22 in assembly. As further shown inFIG. 4 , awater level sensor 90 is disposed within thelower tank 22 within thecavity 22A thereof and includes a plurality of sensors P1-P4 which are used to detect various water levels within thecavity 22A of thelower tank 22. In use, theboiler 26 is configured to heat water in thesteam generating system 10 to convert the water into steam. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , theboiler 26 is connected to thelower tank 22 and is in a vertical configuration having a height that is approximate the height of thelower tank 22. Theboiler 26 is configured to deliver a steam and water mixture produced therein to thephase separator 28. Thewater level sensor 90 is configured to monitor water levels within thelower tank 22 during a filling cycle and a steam generating cycle of thesteam generating system 10 to ensure that proper water levels are maintained. - With the
upper tank 20 disposed at a higher vertical position then thelower tank 22, the present concept is able to provide a filling sequence which fills the upper andlower tanks lower tanks hose 50 shown inFIG. 4 and the interconnectinghoses valve assembly 24 disposed therebetween. During a filling sequence, water is supplied from theinlet pump 32 from thewater connecting system 40 and pumped into thecavity 20A of theupper tank 20. - With reference to
FIG. 5 , theupper tank 20 may be filled via awater inlet 47 disposed on a front portion thereof. The various water inlets and outlets of the upper andlower tanks inlet 47 is contemplated to be positioned at a vertical level on theupper tank 20 that is substantially the same as the vertical position ofupper outlet 46. InFIG. 5 , a water level WL is shown as rising in the direction as indicated byarrow 92 during a filling cycle. Thus, as water enters theupper tank 20 frominlet 47, as connected toinlet pump 32, the water level WL will rise within thecavity 20A so long as thevalve assembly 24 is in a closed position. In the present system, it is contemplated that thevalve assembly 24 will be closed during a system filling cycle. The filling cycle incorporates both theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22. As the water level WL rises in theupper tank 20, the water level WL will eventually reach theupper outlet 46 when thevalve assembly 24 is closed. As noted above, theupper water outlet 46 is interconnected to the water inlet 76 (FIG. 7 ) of thelower tank 22 via an interconnectinghose 50. Thus, as water rises to theupper water outlet 46, the overflow water will freely travel from theupper tank 20 to thelower tank 22 via the open line of interconnectinghose 50, as there is no valve assembly disposed along interconnectinghose 50 between theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22. Thus, water is used to sequentially fill theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22, wherein thelower tank 22 does not begin filling until theupper tank 20 is filled with the water level WL having reached theupper water outlet 46 of theupper tank 20. Theinlet 47 andoutlets upper tank 20 are shown in exemplary positions on theupper tank 20. It is contemplated that other positions for theinlet 47 andoutlets inlet 47 andoutlet 46 are positioned on an upper portion of theupper tank 20.Outlet 48 is positioned belowoutlet 46 and is generally disposed on a lower portion of theupper tank 20, such that the full volume of thecavity 20A (FIG. 4 ) of theupper tank 20 can be utilized to hold water at the onset of a steam cooking procedure. - As further shown in
FIG. 5 , theupper tank 20, includes a plurality of mountingbrackets 94 that support theupper tank 20 in an up-right position and are used to fixedly coupled theupper tank 20 to a portion of the chassis 12 (FIG. 1 ) of theoven 2, such as theupper wall 14. As positioned on an upper portion of thechassis 12, theupper tank 20 will gravitationally feed the overflow water from theupper tank 20 to thelower tank 22 throughwater outlet 46 via the open pathway of interconnecting hose 50 (FIG. 4 ) during a system filling sequence. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , thelower tank 22 is shown with thecover 72 removed to reveal thecavity 22A having alower-most portion 22B. Adjacent to thelower-most portion 22B of thecavity 22A, thewater outlet 78 is disposed, which interconnects to theoutlet pump 34 via interconnectinghose 80. In this way, theentire cavity 22A of thelower tank 22 can be emptied after a steam cooking procedure, as thelower tank 22 is designed to drain water towards thelower-most portion 22B in use. Thelower-most portion 22B of thecavity 22A is coupled to thefirst end 26A of theboiler 26 via an interconnecting hose 95. Thesecond end 26B of theboiler 26 is coupled to thephase separator 28 via an interconnectinghose 96. Theboiler 26 further includesthermal limiters 98 to protect theboiler 26 from a potential overheating failure. Thelower tank 22 includes one or more mountingbrackets 99 that are used to couple thelower tank 22 securely to thechassis 12 of theoven 2 at a lower vertical position relative to theupper tank 20. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 2 , thelower tank 22 is coupled to therear wall 16 of thechassis 12 of theoven 2. - As further shown in
FIG. 6 , thewater level sensor 90 extends into thecavity 22A of thelower tank 22. Thewater level sensor 90 includes aninterface portion 91 that is externally accessible for connecting thewater level sensor 90 to a power source or a controller, as further described below. Thewater level sensor 90 further includes multiple probes P1-P4 disposed at varying lengths and extending downwardly from theinterface portion 91. The probes P1-P4 are configured to measure and monitor a water level within thecavity 22A of thelower tank 22 at various fill levels. Thewater level sensor 90 is coupled to anupper portion 22C of thelower tank 22, adjacent thewater inlets water inlet 74 is contemplated to provide a connection between theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22 through interconnectinghoses valve assembly 24 disposed therebetween. The valve assembly 24 (FIG. 4 ) is contemplated to be a valve assembly having open and closed conditions that are controlled in an electric manner, thereby making thevalve assembly 24 an electrovalve. In the open condition, thevalve assembly 24 allows for water to move freely from theupper tank 20 to thelower tank 22 through the interconnectinghoses upper tank 20 will exit the lower water outlet 48 (FIG. 5 ) and enter thelower tank 22 viawater inlet 74, when thevalve assembly 24 is in the open condition. In this way, thevalve assembly 24 regulates the flow of water between theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22. During the filling process, it is contemplated that thevalve assembly 24 is closed, such that water is introduced into thecavity 22A of thelower tank 22 via water inlet 76 (FIG. 7 ). Once theupper tank 20 has been filled during a filling sequence, overflow water exits theupper tank 20 viaupper water outlet 46. During a steam cooking process, theelectrovalve 24 is contemplated to be selectively opened and closed as necessary to regulate a water level within thelower tank 22 as measured by thewater level sensor 90. Thus, thewater level sensor 90 and thevalve assembly 24 are contemplated to be in communication with one another through an overall steam generating program that is contemplated to be controlled by a controller to control the amount of water available in thelower tank 22 during a steam cooking process using both thevalve assembly 24 and thewater level sensor 90. With reference toFIGS. 3 and 4 , acontroller 84 is shown operably coupled to theinterface portion 91 of thewater level sensor 90 vialead 86, such that data regarding a water level in thelower tank 22 can be electronically transmitted (or otherwise provided) to thecontroller 84 from thewater level sensor 90. Thecontroller 84 is further shown as being coupled to thevalve assembly 24 vialead 88. In this way, thecontroller 84 is electronically coupled to and in communication with thevalve assembly 24 and thewater level sensor 90 for controlling the operations of thevalve assembly 24 between open and closed conditions, as well as monitoring the water level within thelower tank 22. Thus, thecontroller 84 can open and close thevalve assembly 24 based on water level data received from thewater level sensor 90 when certain threshold water levels are detected by thewater level sensor 90. It is further contemplated that thecontroller 84 is in communication with theuser interface 8 of theoven 2 for controlling specific steam generating programs selected by a user. It is further contemplated that thecontroller 84 may be in communication with theinlet pump 32 and outlet pump 34 of theoven 2 for controlling specific filling sequences and draining sequences of thesteam generating system 10. - With the interconnection of the
lower tank 22 to theupper tank 20 via the unencumbered interconnecting hose 50 (with no valve disposed therebetween), the upper tank air pressure and lower tank air pressure can be kept at the same pressure level during a steam generating cycle so that water stored in theupper tank 20 can reach thelower tank 22 once the electrovalve 24 is opened without unwanted vacuum effects disrupting flow within the sealed system. With the multi-tank system having theupper tank 20 disposed at a vertical position that is above thelower tank 22, a water level sensor is not needed in theupper tank 20. This is unlike other systems which must monitor the water level in all tanks where apertures may be disposed in the tanks to relieve imbalanced pressure. In the present system, the sealed system between theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22 provides for thelower tank 22 being the only tank that needs awater level sensor 90 to monitor water levels during filling and steam generating cycles, as theupper tank 20 is self-regulating via vertically offsetoutlets - With further reference to
FIG. 6 , thephase separator 28 is shown having thebase portion 60 and thecover 62 coupled together to define acavity 28A therebetween. Thecover 62 of thephase separator 28 includes aninlet 100 and anoutlet 102. Theinlet 100 is configured to receive a water and steam mixture from the heated water of theboiler 26 during a steam generating cycle. Theoutlet 102 is positioned at a raised position relative to theinlet 100, such that steam produced by theboiler 26 rises toward theoutlet 102 that is interconnected to thecooking cavity 6 via steam supply tube 64 (FIG. 3 ). As such, theoutlet 102 may be referred to herein as asteam outlet 102. Thelower tank 22 further includes awater inlet 104 that interconnects with awater outlet 106 of thephase separator 28 as best shown inFIG. 7 . InFIG. 7 , thecover 62 of thephase separator 28 has been removed to reveal thebase portion 60 having a mountingbracket 108 used to couple thephase separator 28 to thechassis 12 of theoven 2. Aclip mechanism 110 is used to couple the cover 62 (FIG. 6 ) to thebase 60 of thephase separator 28. Thebase portion 60 includes thewater outlet 106 to interconnect withwater inlet 104 of thelower tank 22, such that water that is not converted into steam can re-enter in thelower tank 22 for further processing during a steam generating cycle. It is contemplated that thebase portion 60 of thephase separator 28 and thebase portion 70 of thelower tank 22 may be a unitary part. - As further shown in
FIG. 7 , thebase portion 70 of thelower tank 22 includes awater outlet 112 that is an upwardly opening water outlet that is used to interconnect thelower tank 22 with theboiler 26. InFIG. 7 , theupper portion 22C of thelower tank 22 is shown having anoblong aperture 114 surrounded by a mountingbracket 116 that is used to introduce and couple thewater level sensor 90 to thelower tank 22. With the interconnections between thelower tank 22, theboiler 26 and thephase separator 28, a circulation of water during a steam generating cycle occurs between these interconnected components. In this way, water is not introduced directly into thecavity 6 of theoven 2, but rather water that is converted into steam enters thecooking cavity 6, while unconverted water is re-introduced into thecavity 22A of thelower tank 22. InFIG. 7 ,water inlet 76 is shown disposed on theupper portion 22C of thelower tank 22 and is configured to interconnect in an unobstructed fluidically free manner to theupper outlet 46 of theupper tank 20, via interconnecting hose 50 (FIG. 4 ). In this way, thecavity 22A of thelower tank 22 can fill once the water line WL (FIG. 5 ) of theupper tank 20 has reached theupper water outlet 46, thereby ensuring that theupper tank 20 is filled before thelower tank 22 is filled. Thus, water can be introduced into thelower tank 22 viawater inlet 76 from theupper tank 20 during a filing cycle. Water can also be introduced into thelower tank 22 viawater inlet 74 from theupper tank 20 during a valve regulated steam generating cycle. Further, water can be introduced into thelower tank 22 viawater inlet 104 from thephase separator 28 during a steam generating cycle. The water inlets 74, 76 and 104 can be positioned at various locations on thelower tank 22, but are shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 7 as being positioned on theupper portion 22C of thelower tank 22. - Referring now to
FIG. 8 , thecavity 28A of thephase separator 28 is shown as generally defined by thecover 62 of thephase separator 28. Within thecavity 28A of thephase separator 28, upper andlower baffles cavity 28A to separate thecavity 28A into multiple portions. Afirst portion 122 of thecavity 28A is configured to receive a water and steam mixture as introduced into thephase separator 28 form theboiler 26 in the direction as indicated byarrow 124. Asecond portion 126 of thecavity 28A provides for the water and steam mixture to move in a downward direction under the pressure of the steam as indicated byarrow 128. The movement of the water and steam mixture into thecavity 28A of thephase separator 28 in the direction as indicated byarrow 124 is a powered movement provided by the heating of the water within theboiler 26. Once the water and steam mixture has moved to thesecond portion 126 of thecavity 28A of thephase separator 28, the water and steam mixture will move downward in the direction as indicated byarrow 128, where the water that was not converted into steam will generally separate from the steam of the water and steam mixture and head toward thelower-most portion 28B of thephase separator 28 in the direction as indicated byarrow 130. The unconverted water can then exit thephase separator 28 via outlet 106 (FIG. 7 ) and be reintroduced into thecavity 22A oflower tank 22 for further processing. The separated steam will then rise in a third portion 134 of thecavity 28A of thephase separator 28, as indicated byarrow 132, towards thesteam outlet 102 disposed on theupper portion 28C of thephase separator 28 and exit out of thephase separator 28 in the direction as indicated byarrow 136. Thus, as shown inFIG. 8 , thedirectional arrows phase separator 28.Inlet 100 of thephase separator 28 is disposed at a first end of the pathway, andoutlet 102 of thephase separator 28 is disposed at a second end of the pathway. Water outlet 106 (FIG. 7 ) is disposed betweeninlet 100 andoutlet 102 along the pathway where water separates from steam of the water and steam mixture to reenterlower tank 22. The elevated level of thesteam outlet 102 helps to ensure that only steam, rather than any unconverted heated water, will enter thecooking cavity 6 during a steam cooking procedure. Asteam inlet 140 is positioned within thecooking cavity 6 of theoven 2, as shown inFIG. 9 . Thesteam inlet 140 is contemplated to be coupled to the steam supply tube 64 (FIG. 3 ) that is further coupled to thesteam outlet 102 of thephase separator 28, thereby interconnecting thesteam generating system 10 with thecooking cavity 6 to introduce steam thereto. - The connections between the
tanks pumps valve assembly 24 are described herein as being made via interconnecting hoses (such as interconnectinghoses FIG. 4 )). These interconnections can be made with multiple hoses or tubes that are suitable for transporting water and generally define supply lines between system components. Thus, these interconnections define interconnecting members that may include multiple parts with suitable connectors, unless specifically noted otherwise. The interconnecting members are contemplated to be open members that provide for fluid transfers and air transfer between components, unless a valve assembly is disposed along such an interconnecting member. With a valve assembly in place on an interconnecting member, it is contemplated that the interconnecting member is then selectively open depending on a condition of the valve assembly. - Further, it is noted that multiple components of the steam generating system 10 (such as the
upper tank 20, thelower tank 22, thephase separator 28 and others) include base portions and cover portions that interconnect to form whole components of thesteam generating system 10. Such components can be unitary parts, and features disclosed herein as being disposed on either the base portions or cover portions of these components can also be disposed on the opposite portion (i.e. features described as being disposed on a base portion can be disposed on a cover portion and vice versa) without departing from the spirit of the present concept. Further, the upper andlower tanks - It is contemplated that the capacity of the
upper tank 20 and thelower tank 22 results in a combined volume of approximately 1 to 2 liters, such that the present concept provides a dual tank system that allows for a user to run a steam cooking function for a substantial length of time without the need to re-fill either of the upper orlower tanks steam generating system 10 of the present concept includes water inlet options at thewater connecting system 40, such that a user does not need to stand in front of theoven 2 during a fill, drain or de-scaling operation. An external reservoir 180 (FIGS. 14A, 14B) can be used to provide water to thesteam generating system 10 via thewater connecting system 40. Theexternal reservoir 180 can be placed on a rack within the oven cavity 6 (FIG. 14A ), or can be placed on thedoor 4 of theoven 2 when thedoor 4 is opened (FIG. 14B ) and then connected to thewater connecting system 40 using appropriate supply lines. The various forms of thewater connecting system 40 are described below and can be used to pump water into thesteam generating system 10 from theexternal reservoir 180 usinginlet pump 32, and can be used to pump water out of thesteam generating system 10 into theexternal reservoir 180 usingoutlet pump 34. - Referring now to
FIG. 10 , awater connecting system 40 may include aquick connect system 150. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 10 , thequick connect system 150 is positioned on theuser interface panel 8 above thedoor 4 of theoven 2. The position of thequick connect system 150 is exemplary only, and other positions are contemplated for use with the present concept. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 10 , thequick connect system 150 includes adoor 152 on theuser interface panel 8 which is operable between open and closed positions to selectively provides access to aninset portion 154 of theuser interface panel 8. A quickconnect inlet stem 156 is positioned within theinset portion 154 of thequick connect system 150, such that the inlet stem 256 is accessible from an exterior portion of theoven 2. The quickconnect inlet stem 156 may take various forms, as further described below. In use, it is contemplated that a user will open thedoor 152 to theinset portion 154 of theuser interface panel 8 and connect a first end of an external hose 162 (FIG. 12A ) to the quickconnect inlet stem 156. A second end of theexternal hose 162 is contemplated to be a free end that will be placed into an external reservoir of water for introducing water into thesteam generating system 10. Thus, it is contemplated that the quickconnect inlet stem 156 is operably coupled to theinlet pump 32 via interconnecting hose 36 (FIG. 4 ) and is fixedly coupled to theinset portion 154 of theuser interface panel 8. - Referring now to
FIG. 11 , another embodiment of thesteam generating system 10A is shown having theinlet pump 32 and outlet pump 34 both connected to a common inlet andoutlet hose 160 shown in the form of a “Y” connector. Interconnectinghoses pumps FIG. 10 ) can connect with thecommon hose 160, such that water can be supplied to thesteam generating system 10A viainlet pump 32, and water can also be discharged from thesteam generating system 10A viaoutlet pump 34 through thewater connecting system 40. - Referring now to
FIG. 12A , another embodiment of asteam generating system 10B is shown with the quickconnect inlet stem 156 disposed on afront portion 13 of thechassis 12, such that the quickconnect inlet stem 156 is accessible when the door 4 (FIG. 1 ) of theoven 2 is open, and concealed when thedoor 4 is closed. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 12A , anexternal hose 162 includes a female quick connectfirst end 164 that is contemplated to connect, in a quick connect manner, to the male quickconnect inlet stem 156. This connection between theexternal hose 162 and the male quickconnect inlet stem 156 can be accomplished in a number of ways. Themale stem 156 and the femalequick connect end 164 may connect in a friction fit manner, a snap fit engagement, a threaded engagement, or a ball bearing type quick connect system. With reference toFIG. 12B , the male quickconnect inlet stem 156 is shown extending outwardly from thefront portion 13 of thechassis 12 that is generally concealed by theoven door 4 when theoven door 4 is in a closed position. In this embodiment, the quickconnect inlet stem 156 is revealed and made accessible for connecting to female quick connectfirst end 164 of theexternal hose 162 for filling thesteam generating system 10B, and/or discharging water therefrom, when theoven door 4 is opened. It is contemplated that the male and female parts of the inlet stem and the quick connect end can be reversed. - Referring now to
FIGS. 12C and 12D , the male quickconnect inlet stem 156 is shown having aquick connect end 156A and ahose connecting end 156B. Thequick connect end 156A includes aseal ring 157. As best shown inFIG. 12D , the male quickconnect inlet stem 156 includes achannel 158 disposed therethrough. Referring now toFIG. 12E , the male quickconnect inlet stem 156 may be flush mounted to thefront portion 13 of thechassis 12 and interconnected withmultiple hoses steam generating system 10. As further shown inFIG. 12E , an outermost end 159 of the male quickconnect inlet stem 156 is accessible by a user when the door 4 (FIG. 1 ) of theoven 2 is open. Referring now toFIG. 12F , the entirequick connect end 156A of the male quickconnect inlet stem 156 is shown accessible and extending outwardly from thefront portion 13 of thechassis 12 of theoven 2. Ahose extension 163 is shown for coupling to thequick connect end 156A of the male quickconnect inlet stem 156. Thehose extension 163 can be coupled to an external hose for reception within an external reservoir for providing water to thesteam generating system 10. - Referring now to
FIG. 13 , thewater connecting system 40 may also include aretractable hose system 170. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 13 , anouter end 172 of aretractable hose 174 is shown disposed on anunderside 9 of theuser interface panel 8 of theoven 2. In this way, theouter end 172 of theretractable hose system 170 is generally positioned within a gap betweenuser interface panel 8 and thedoor 4 when thedoor 4 is in a closed position to substantially conceal thewater connecting system 40. Theouter end 172 of thehose 174 is shown having ahandle 176 that can be engaged by a user to draw theretractable hose 174 out of theoven 2. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 13 , theretractable hose 174 is in a stowed or retracted position. Movement of theretractable hose 174 from the retracted position to an extended or deployed position is further described below. - Referring now to
FIG. 14A , theretractable hose 174 of theretractable hose system 170 is shown extended outwardly from theunderside 9 of theuser interface panel 8. Thehose 174 is extended outwardly for connection with theexternal reservoir 180 that is shown supported on anoven rack 182 within thecooking cavity 6 of theoven 2. As noted above, theexternal reservoir 180 can also be positioned on aninner surface 4A of theopen door 4 of theoven 2, as shown inFIG. 14B . Theretractable hose system 170 is configured to allow for deployment of theretractable hose 174, such that theend portion 172 thereof can reach a volume of water stored in theexternal reservoir 180. Theretractable hose 174 is configured to remain in the deployed or extended position using a push-push connector assembly, as further described below. When theretractable hose 174 must be retracted into theoven 2, the push-push mechanism is released to retract theretractable hose 174 which is biased towards the retracted position. WhileFIGS. 14A and 14B depict theretractable hose 174 interconnecting theexternal reservoir 180 with theoven 2, it is contemplated that the external hose 162 (FIG. 12A ) can also interconnect with theexternal reservoir 180 of theoven 2 in a similar manner. Thus, a second end of theexternal hose 162 can be positioned within theexternal reservoir 180 to provide fluidic contact with a volume of water stored therein, while thefirst end 164 of theexternal hose 162 is coupled to theinlet 156 of theoven 2. - Referring now to
FIG. 15 , theretractable hose system 170 is shown with theretractable hose 174 in the retracted position, such that theend portion 172 is drawn towards and abutting ahousing 18A. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 15 ,inlet pump 32 is shown enclosed within thehousing 18A which also houses theretractable hose system 170. Thehousing 18A defines an enclosure for both theinlet pump 32 andretractable hose system 170 which is contemplated to be mounted to the chassis 12 (FIG. 1 ) of theoven 2. Specifically, it is contemplated that thehousing 18A may be mounted to theupper wall 14 of thechassis 12, in a similar location aspump housing 18 shown mounted inFIG. 1 . InFIG. 15 , a sidewall 197 (FIG. 16 ) of thehousing 18A has been removed to reveal theretractable hose system 170 housed within. Atrack assembly 224 is shown inFIG. 15 having upper and lower mountingflanges channel 225. In assembly, the upper and lower mountingflanges fasteners 226, as shown inFIG. 16 . - Referring now to
FIG. 16 , theretractable hose 174 is again shown in the retracted position with theouter end 172 abutting thehousing 18A. Again, theouter end 172 of theretractable hose 174 is configured to be engaged by a user for extending theretractable hose 174 out from thehousing 18A in a downward direction as indicated byarrow 190. Theinner end 192 of theretractable hose 174 is shown coupled to theinlet pump 32 in a fluidic manner. From theinlet pump 32, theretractable hose 174 is positioned along abase portion 194 of thehousing 18A to ashoulder member 196 having achannel 198 disposed therethrough which extends upwardly in a curved manner, such that theretractable hose 174 enters thechannel 198 of theshoulder member 196 at a lower portion of theshoulder member 196 and exits at an upper portion of theshoulder member 196. Theshoulder member 196 is further described in detail below with reference toFIG. 27 . This first length of theretractable hose 174 is identified as thefirst portion 200 and is contemplated to remain in-place between theshoulder member 196 and theinlet pump 32 while the remaining portions of theretractable hose 174 are deployed and retracted into and out of thehousing 18A. - A
second portion 202 of theretractable hose 174 extends from the upper portion of theshoulder member 196 towards thebase portion 194 of thehousing 18A when theretractable hose 174 is in the retracted position, as shown inFIGS. 15 and 16 . Thissecond portion 202 of theretractable hose 174 curves upwardly at a location indicated atreference numeral 206. Abracket 210 is coupled to thehose 174 at athird portion 204 of theretractable hose 174. Thebracket 210 is further coupled into aU-shaped bracket 212 at opposite sides of theretractable hose 174. Thebrackets cable 214 to theretractable hose 174. Thewire 214 is coupled to theU-shaped bracket 212 at aneyelet 216. Thewire 214 is drawn around apulley 220 that is positioned on a mountingmember 222 that is mounted to thebase portion 194 of thehousing 18A. Thepulley 220 is configured to rotate and guide thewire 214 around the end of thetrack assembly 224 to an opposite side of atrack assembly 224. On the opposite side of thetrack assembly 224, thewire 214 is coupled to abiasing mechanism 230 through astriker assembly 236, as further described below. Thebiasing mechanism 230 is best shown inFIGS. 15 and 17 in the form of a coil spring. A push-push connector assembly 232 is configured to be coupled to thesidewall 197 of thehousing 18A adjacent thepulley 220 and mountingmember 222. The push-push connector assembly 232 includes a stationaryfemale end 234 which is configured it receive and engage thestriker assembly 236 that is positioned between thewire 214 and thespring 230. As further shown inFIG. 16 , thethird portion 204 of theretractable hose 174 is positioned between thebrackets housing 18A, when theretractable hose 174 is in the retracted position. The extension of theretractable hose 174 and the engagement of the component parts of the push-push connector assembly 232 is described below with reference toFIG. 17 . Individual components of theretractable hose system 170 are further described below with reference toFIGS. 19A-28 . - Referring now to
FIG. 17 , theretractable hose 174 is shown in the extended or deployed position, such that thethird portion 204 of theretractable hose 174 is extended outwardly form thehousing 18A. As theretractable hose 174 is pulled by a user in the downward direction as indicated byarrow 190, the second andthird sections guide member 240 which is mounted to a front end of thehousing 18A. Theguide member 240 includes a downwardly directedchannel 242 disposed therethrough. Theguide member 240 is best shown inFIGS. 16, 28 , and is concealed in the embodiment shown inFIG. 17 . Referring again toFIG. 16 , the second andthird portions retractable hose 174 are slack portions of theretractable hose 174 that can be deployed from thehousing 18A and are moveable within thehousing 18A. As the user engages theouter end 172 of theretractable hose 174, the slack portions (the second andthird portions housing 18A, such that thebrackets retractable hose 174 with thewire 214 are pulled from the retracted position shown inFIG. 16 towards theguide member 240 disposed at the front portion of thehousing 18A. This movement draws thewire 214 around thepulley 220, thereby drawing thestriker assembly 236 of the push-push connector assembly 232 towards thefemale connector end 234. This movement of thestriker assembly 236 along thechannel 225 of thetrack assembly 224 stretches and loads thespring 230 which is connected to thestriker assembly 236 at afirst end 230A, and further connected to a front portion of thetrack assembly 224 at asecond end 230B. Thechannel 225 of thetrack assembly 224 defines an outwardly opening channel in which thestriker assembly 236 is slidably retained for movement along thechannel 225. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 17 , theretractable hose 174 is contemplated to be fully extended, such that thestriker assembly 236 of the push-push connector assembly 232 is shown engaged with thefemale connector end 234. When thestriker assembly 236 and thefemale connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 engage one another, theretractable hose 174 will be retained in the extended position, as shown inFIG. 17 . As further shown inFIG. 17 , theouter end 172 of theretractable hose 174 is shown having a configuration that is the same or similar to the quickconnect inlet stem 156 discussed above with reference toFIGS. 12C and 12D . - Referring now to
FIG. 18 , when a user wishes to retract theretractable hose 174 into thehousing 18A, the user will pull downwardly on the already extendedretractable hose 174 in the direction as indicated byarrow 190 which will move thestriker assembly 236 inwardly in the direction as indicated byarrow 250, as shown inFIG. 18 . This further inward movement of thestriker assembly 236 towards thefemale connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 releases thestriker assembly 236 from thefemale connector end 234, such that thestriker assembly 236 is returned to an at-rest or home position (shown inFIG. 15 ) in a direction as indicated byarrow 252 under a biasing force provided by thespring 230. As such, thestriker assembly 236 will be drawn from the rear portion of the track assembly 224 (FIG. 15 ) to the front portion of thetrack assembly 224 along thechannel 225 disposed therein. This longitudinal sliding movement of thestriker assembly 236 draws thewire 214 back towards the retracted position as shown inFIG. 16 . This biased movement of thewire 214 draws theretractable hose 174 towards the retracted position shown inFIG. 16 . Thus, with the present concept, a user can engage theouter end 172 with theretractable hose 174 to pull theretractable hose 174 from thepump housing 18A and engage theretractable hose 174 with an external reservoir, such asreservoir 180 shown inFIG. 14A . While engaging the reservoir, theretractable hose 174 will remain in the extended position by the interconnection of thestriker assembly 236 and thefemale connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232. When the user wishes to retract theretractable hose 174 into thehousing 18A, the user will pull further downward on thehose 174 to disengage thestriker assembly 236 and thefemale connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 to allow thestriker assembly 236 to retract along thetrack assembly 224 under the biasing force of thespring 230. - Referring now to
FIG. 19A , ahousing 300 of the push-push connector assembly 232 (FIG. 18 ) is shown having mountingapertures interior cavity 306. Theinterior cavity 306 of thehousing 300 is best shown inFIG. 19B . Thehousing 300 is contemplated to provide an enclosure for a push-push connector device 310 as shown inFIGS. 20A, 20B . Thehousing 300 is part of the overall push-push connector assembly 232 shown inFIGS. 15-18 . Thehousing 300 couples to a spacer assembly 322 (FIG. 21 ) around the push-push connector device 310, to retain the push-push connector device 310 in theinterior cavity 306 of thehousing 300. The coupling of thehousing 300 to thespacer assembly 322 is best shown inFIG. 18 . - Referring now to
FIGS. 20A, 20B , the push-push connector device 310 is shown having amain housing 312 which houses abiasing mechanism 314 shown in the form of a spring. The push-push connector device 310 further includes an engagement assembly having first andsecond coupling arms inner barb portions push connector device 310 defines thefemale connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 described above. The first andsecond coupling arms female connector end 234 are operable between engaged and disengaged positions relative to thestriker assembly 236, as further described below. - Referring now to
FIG. 21 , thespacer assembly 322 is shown having mountingbosses apertures spacer assembly 322 couples to thehousing 300, as shown inFIG. 18 , with the mountingapertures housing 300 aligning respectively with the mountingapertures spacer assembly 322. Thespacer assembly 322 further includes aninner surface 328 which closes off theinner cavity 306 of thehousing 300 when thespacer assembly 322 is coupled to thehousing 300. In this way, the push-push connector device 310 is captured between thespacer assembly 322 and thehousing 300 and retained within theinner cavity 306 of thehousing 300 in assembly. As further shown inFIG. 21 , thespacer assembly 322 includes achannel 330 disposed along theinner surface 328. Thechannel 330 is configured to provide access for thewire 214 to pass through the connection of thespacer assembly 322 and thehousing 300, such that thewire 214 can move through the push-push connector assembly 232, as shown inFIG. 15 . The mountingbosses spacer assembly 322 are configured to mount to thesidewall 197 of the modifiedpump housing 18A using mountingscrews FIG. 15 , which also couple thehousing 300 to thespacer assembly 322. In this way, the push-push connector assembly 232 is fixedly mounted to the modifiedpump housing 18A. - Referring now to
FIG. 22 , afirst portion 340 of thestriker assembly 236 is shown having amain body portion 342 with astriker member 344 extending outwardly therefrom. Thestriker member 344 engages thefemale connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232 at push-push connector device 310. Thestriker member 344 is configured to be releasably engaged and retained by the couplingarms push connector device 310 as shown inFIG. 18 . As further shown inFIG. 22 , thefirst portion 340 of thestriker assembly 236 includes achannel 346 opening into a receivingcavity 348. Thechannel 346 and receivingcavity 348 are recessed from aninner surface 349 of themain body portion 342. Outwardly extending from theinner surface 349 of themain body portion 342, mountingbosses 350 are disposed around a perimeter of themain body 342. Thefirst portion 340 of thestriker assembly 236 includes arecess 348B which may be used to house aconnector 348C (FIG. 18 ) for connecting thestriker assembly 236 to thespring 230. - Referring now to
FIG. 23 , asecond portion 340A of thestriker assembly 236 is shown having amain body portion 342A. In assembly, and best shown inFIG. 18 , the first andsecond portions striker assembly 236 are configured to couple to one another around ananchor portion 217 of the wire 214 (FIG. 24 ). In this way, the first andsecond portions striker assembly 236 positively capture theanchor portion 217 of thewire 214 therebetween, such that thewire 214 can pull thestriker assembly 236 along thechannel 225 of thetrack assembly 224. As further shown inFIG. 23 , thesecond portion 340A of thestriker assembly 236 includes a channel 346A opening into a receivingcavity 348A. The channel 346A and receivingcavity 348A are recessed from aninner surface 349A of themain body portion 342A. The channel 346A and receivingcavity 348A of thesecond portion 340A of thestriker assembly 236 mirror thechannel 346 and receivingcavity 348 of thefirst portion 340 of thestriker assembly 236. In this way, a single channel and receiving cavity are formed around theanchor portion 217 of thewire 214 when thefirst portion 340 of thestriker assembly 236 is coupled thesecond portion 340A of thestriker assembly 236. The location of thechannel 346/346A of thestriker assembly 236 aligns with thechannel 330 of the spacer assembly 322 (FIG. 21 ), such that thestriker member 344 of thestriker assembly 236 will properly contact the push-push connector device 310, as housed in thehousing 300, when thestriker assembly 236 is drawn into contact with thefemale connector end 234 of the push-push connector assembly 232. Recessed inwardly from theinner surface 349A of themain body portion 342A of thesecond portion 340A, receivingapertures 350A are disposed around a perimeter of themain body 342A. In assembly, the receivingapertures 350A of thesecond portion 340A of thestriker assembly 236 receive the mountingbosses 350 of thefirst portion 340 of thestriker assembly 236. - Referring now to
FIG. 24 , thewire 214 is shown having theeyelet 216 disposed on a first side and theanchor portion 217 disposed on a second side. In assembly, theanchor portion 217 of thewire 214 is configured to be received in the receiving cavity defined by receivingcavity 348 of thefirst portion 340 of thestriker assembly 236 and receivingcavity 348A of thesecond portion 340A of thestriker assembly 236. In this way, thewire 214 is securely anchored to thestriker assembly 236 for movement along thetrack assembly 224. - Referring now to
FIG. 25 , thepulley 220 is shown having a wheel 360 pivotally mounted on a mountingstem 362 for rotation thereon. The mountingstem 362 is configured to be received in a mountingaperture 364 of mountingmember 222 as shown inFIG. 26 . The mountingmember 222 includes abase portion 366 which is configured to mount to thebase portion 194 of thehousing 18A. The mountingmember 222 further includes atop surface 368 which is disposed at anangle 370 shown inFIG. 26 . The angledtop surface 368 provides for a proper angle for the wheel 360 of thepulley 220 to be received for thewire 214 to wrap around in assembly as shown inFIG. 16 . - Referring now to
FIG. 27 , theshoulder member 196 is shown having thechannel 198 disposed therethrough. Specially, thechannel 198 is configured to receive a portion of theretractable hose 174 as shown inFIG. 16 . Theretractable hose 174 enters at alower portion 372 of thechannel 198 and exits at anupper portion 374 of thechannel 198 to provide a continuouscurved channel 198 around aguide member 376. In this way, theretractable hose 174 will not kink as positioned within thehousing 18A in the retracted position as shown inFIG. 16 . - Similarly, with reference to
FIG. 28 , theguide member 240 is shown having the downwardlycurved channel 242 that receives theretractable hose 174 as shown inFIG. 16 . In this way, theretractable hose 174 can move over theguide member 240 at the curved andsmooth channel 242 thereof as theretractable hose 174 moves into and out of thehousing 18A. As shown inFIG. 28 , theguide member 240 further includes mountingapertures guide member 240 to mount theguide member 240 to thehousing 18A in a manner as shown inFIG. 16 . - Referring now to
FIG. 29 , amethod 400 of connecting a steam generating system, such as steam generating system 10 (FIGS. 3, 4 ), to a water source is shown. Thesteam generating system 10 ofFIGS. 3 and 4 will be used as an exemplary system to describe themethod 400 of connecting the same to a water source. Themethod 400 further includes the steps of generating steam using the water used to fill the steam generating system. In themethod 400, aninitial step 402 includes closing thevalve assembly 24 between theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , thevalve assembly 24 is disposed on interconnectingmembers upper tank 20 and thelower tank 22. The method further includes a fillingstep 404 that provides for filling theupper tank 20 with a volume of water. It is contemplated thatupper tank 20 can hold approximately 1 liter of water. A fillingstep 406 of themethod 400 provides for filling thelower tank 22 with a volume of overflow water from thefirst tank 20 through a second interconnecting member, such as interconnectingmember 50. As noted above, with specific reference toFIG. 5 , the fillingstep 406 of thelower tank 22 is provided after theupper tank 20 is filled with water from theinlet pump 32. With theupper tank 20 filled with water when thevalve assembly 24 is closed, the volume of water within theupper tank 20 will eventually reach theupper water outlet 46 which is fluidically coupled to thelower tank 22 by interconnectingmember 50. Without any valves or other hindrances along the interconnectingmember 50, overflow water freely flows from theupper tank 20 to thelower tank 22 in a gravitational manner along interconnectingmember 50 as theinlet pump 32 continues to provide water to theupper tank 20 beyond its fill capacity. Again the gravitational filling of thelower tank 22 is provided by the vertically offset positions of theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22. It is contemplated that thelower tank 22 may also hold approximately 1 liter of water at fill capacity. - In
step 408 of themethod 400, water is drawn from thelower tank 22 into theboiler 26. The water within theboiler 26 is then heated instep 410. By heating the water in theboiler 26, a water and steam mixture rises through the vertically disposedboiler 26 and enters thephase separator 28 instep 412 of themethod 400. Instep 414 of themethod 400, water and steam are separated from one another within thephase separator 28 in a manner as described above with reference toFIG. 8 . Instep 416 of themethod 400, the separated water is reintroduced into thelower tank 22 from thephase separator 28. Instep 418 of themethod 400, the separated steam is introduced into a cooking cavity from thephase separator 28, such ascooking cavity 6 shown inFIG. 9 . As a steam producing cycle is underway, a decreasing water level within thelower tank 22 is continually monitored using a water level sensor, such aswater level sensor 90. It is contemplated that filling of thelower tank 22 will cease once thewater level sensor 90 provides information to thecontroller 84 that thelower tank 22 is filled to capacity, or to another predesignated fill point. Thewater level sensor 90 continues to monitor the water level within thelower tank 22 during a steam generating process instep 420 of themethod 400. When applicable, thewater level sensor 90 may send a signal to a controller, such as thecontroller 84 discussed above, that the water level within thelower tank 22 has reached a threshold level wherein more water is required within thelower tank 22 to continue to generate steam for thecooking cavity 6. When such a signal is received by thecontroller 84, thecontroller 84 can control thevalve assembly 24 to selectively open and close thevalve assembly 24 to allow a portion of the volume of water stored within theupper tank 20 to enter thelower tank 22 via the interconnectingmembers steam generating system 10 is in a filled condition, wherein both theupper tank 20 and thelower tank 22 are filled to capacity with water, thesteam generating system 10 can continue to generate steam to a cooking cavity by first using the water within thelower tank 22, and then using water as needed from theupper tank 20, under the control of thecontroller 84 and thevalve assembly 24, to refill thelower tank 22. As noted above, thelower tank 22 will also receive water from thephase separator 28 during the separation of water and steam within thephase separator 28 to partially replenish water drawn to theboiler 26 from thelower tank 22 in a steam generating process. As disclosed within themethod 400, interconnectingmembers member 50 may be described as a second interconnecting member. - Referring now to
FIG. 30 , amethod 430 of connecting an appliance to a water source is illustrated. Theoven 2 shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 and theretractable hose 174 ofFIGS. 15-18 will be used as exemplary components for the description of themethod 430. In aninitial step 432 of themethod 430, a length of theretractable hose 174 is deployed from ahousing 18A. The length ofretractable hose 174 that is deployed from thehousing 18A is retained in the deployed position instep 434 of themethod 430. The length ofretractable hose 174 may be retained in the deployed position using the push-push connector assembly 232 as described above. Instep 436 of themethod 430, an external reservoir is provided with a volume of water, such asexternal reservoir 180 shown inFIGS. 14A and 14B . Instep 438 of themethod 430, anend portion 172 of the length ofretractable hose 174 is placed into fluidic contact with the volume of water of theexternal reservoir 180. Insteps method 430, an inlet pump, such asinlet pump 32, is provided and operably coupled to the retractable hose 174 (step 440) for pumping water from theexternal reservoir 180 into the steam generating system 10 (step 442). - Having used the
retractable hose 174 to provide water to thesteam generating system 10, thesteam generating system 10 can generate steam for providing to thecooking cavity 6. When a steam generating cycle of theoven 2 is completed, an outlet pump, such asoutlet pump 34, may be provided in fluidic communication with thesteam generating system 10. As shown inFIG. 4 ,outlet pump 34 is operably coupled to thelower tank 22 by interconnectingmember 80. Instep 444 of themethod 430, water is pumped from thesteam generating system 10 to theexternal reservoir 180 through theretractable hose 174 using theoutlet pump 34 which is operably coupled to theretractable hose 174. This step may not be necessary if all the water housed within thesteam generating system 10 is used up in a steam generating procedure. Instep 446 of themethod 400, the length of theretractable hose 174 is retracted back into thehousing 18A after the discharging of the water is complete. - Referring now to
FIG. 31 , amethod 450 of connecting an appliance to a water source is illustrated. Theoven 2 shown inFIGS. 10 and 12F will be used as an exemplary appliance for the description of themethod 450. In aninitial step 452 of themethod 450,external reservoir 180 is provided with a volume of water. Instep 454 of themethod 450, a hose or interconnecting member is provided having first and second ends. The hose may be akin toexternal hose 162 shown inFIG. 12A . Instep 456 of themethod 450, thefirst end 164 of thehose 162 is connected to an inlet of theoven 2, such asinlet 156. As noted above, this connection can be provided using a quick connect system, a threaded engagement, a friction fit connection, or other like connecting technique. Instep 458 of themethod 450, a second end of thehose 162 is contemplated to be a free end of theexternal hose 162 that can be positioned into fluidic contact with the volume of water of theexternal reservoir 180. Insteps method 450, an inlet pump, such asinlet pump 32, is provided and operably coupled to theinlet 156 of the oven 2 (step 460) for pumping water from theexternal reservoir 180 into thesteam generating system 10 of the oven 2 (step 462) through theexternal hose 162. Instep 464 of themethod 450, an outlet pump, such asoutlet pump 34 shown inFIG. 4 , is provided on theoven 2 and is also operably coupled to theinlet 156 of theoven 2. Instep 468 of themethod 450, water is pumped from thesteam generating system 10 to theexternal reservoir 180 using theoutlet pump 34 and the interconnectinghose 162. - According to at least one aspect, a steam generating system for an appliance includes a first tank positioned at a first vertical position. The first tank includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet vertically offset from one another. A second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank. The upper water outlet of the first tank that is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a first interconnecting member. The lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second tank by a second interconnecting member. A valve assembly is disposed along the second interconnecting member and is operable between open and closed conditions to selectively provide access between the first tank and the second tank via the second interconnecting member.
- According to another aspect, a boiler includes first and second ends. The first end of the boiler is operably coupled to a water outlet of the second tank.
- According to another aspect, a phase separator includes an inlet operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the boiler at the second end of the boiler.
- According to another aspect, the phase separator further includes a water outlet operably coupled to the second tank for reintroducing water that is not converted into steam back into the second tank.
- According to another aspect, the phase separator further includes a steam outlet operably coupled to a steam supply tube. The steam supply tube is operably coupled to a cooking cavity of the appliance for delivering steam thereto.
- According to another aspect, the phase separator further includes a pathway therethrough that is defined between the inlet of the phase separator and the steam outlet of the phase separator. The water outlet of the phase separator is disposed between the inlet of the phase separator and the steam outlet of the phase separator along the pathway.
- According to yet another aspect, the water outlet and the inlet of the phase separator are disposed on a lower portion of the phase separator. The steam outlet of the phase separator is disposed on an upper portion of the phase separator.
- According to at least one aspect, an appliance includes a chassis having an upper wall and a rear wall. A cooking cavity is at least partially surrounded by the chassis. A first tank is mounted on the upper wall of the chassis and includes an upper water outlet and a lower water outlet. A second tank is mounted on the rear wall of the chassis in a position that is vertically lower than a position of the first tank. The second tank includes first and second water inlets. The upper water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank. The lower water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- According to another aspect, an interconnecting member fluidically couples the lower water outlet of the first tank to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- According to another aspect, a valve assembly is disposed along the interconnecting member fluidically coupling the lower water outlet of the first tank to the second water inlet of the second tank. The valve assembly is operable between open and closed conditions to selectively provide access between the first tank and the second tank.
- According to another aspect, a second interconnecting member fluidically couples the upper water outlet of the first tank to the first water inlet of the second tank. The second interconnecting member is an open member.
- According to another aspect, the upper water outlet of the first tank is disposed on an upper portion of the first tank. The first water inlet of the second tank is disposed on an upper portion of the second tank.
- According to another aspect, a boiler includes first and second ends. The first end of the boiler is operably coupled to a water outlet disposed on a lower portion of the second tank.
- According to another aspect, a phase separator includes an inlet operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the boiler at the second end of the boiler.
- According to another aspect, the boiler is vertically disposed, such that the first end of the boiler is positioned below the second end of the boiler. The phase separator includes a water outlet disposed above and opening into a cavity of the second tank.
- According to yet another aspect, the phase separator further includes a steam outlet operably coupled to a steam inlet. The steam inlet opens into the cooking cavity of the appliance for delivering steam thereto.
- According to at least one aspect, a steam generating system for an appliance includes a first tank disposed at a first vertical position. The first tank includes a cavity with a first water outlet and a second water outlet. The second water outlet is positioned vertically below the first water outlet. A valve assembly is operable between open and closed conditions. A second tank is positioned at a second vertical position that is lower than the first vertical position of the first tank. The second tank includes first and second water inlets. The first water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the first water inlet of the second tank. The second water outlet of the first tank is fluidically coupled to the valve assembly that is further fluidically coupled to the second water inlet of the second tank.
- According to another aspect, a water level sensor is disposed within the second tank for monitoring a water level within the second tank.
- According to another aspect, the valve assembly is an electrovalve assembly operably coupled to and controlled by a controller. The controller is further operably coupled to the water level sensor for receiving data regarding the water level within the second tank.
- According to another aspect, a boiler includes first and second ends. The first end of the boiler is operably coupled the second tank. A phase separator includes an inlet operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the boiler at the second end of the boiler. The phase separator further includes a water outlet opening into the second tank. The phase separator also includes a steam outlet for discharging steam therethrough.
- It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described device and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the device disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.
- For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.
- It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the device as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.
- It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present device. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.
- It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present device, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
- The above description is considered that of the illustrated embodiments only. Modifications of the device will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the device. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above is merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of the device, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the Doctrine of Equivalents.
Claims (9)
Priority Applications (1)
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US18/079,199 US20230110059A1 (en) | 2018-04-09 | 2022-12-12 | Steam generating system |
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US201862654877P | 2018-04-09 | 2018-04-09 | |
US16/377,825 US11608988B2 (en) | 2018-04-09 | 2019-04-08 | Steam generating system |
US18/079,199 US20230110059A1 (en) | 2018-04-09 | 2022-12-12 | Steam generating system |
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US16/377,825 Division US11608988B2 (en) | 2018-04-09 | 2019-04-08 | Steam generating system |
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US18/079,199 Pending US20230110059A1 (en) | 2018-04-09 | 2022-12-12 | Steam generating system |
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US16/377,825 Active 2041-09-18 US11608988B2 (en) | 2018-04-09 | 2019-04-08 | Steam generating system |
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KR102133286B1 (en) * | 2018-12-14 | 2020-07-13 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Electronic cooking device possible automatic cleaning of kitchen ctructure |
US10813490B2 (en) * | 2019-01-31 | 2020-10-27 | Whirlpool Corporation | Water inlet connectivity for steam oven |
US11051654B2 (en) | 2019-02-25 | 2021-07-06 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Cooking device and components thereof |
CN212788226U (en) | 2019-02-25 | 2021-03-26 | 沙克忍者运营有限责任公司 | Cooking system |
US11426027B2 (en) * | 2020-03-25 | 2022-08-30 | Ningbo Careline Electric Appliance Co., Ltd. | Air fryer with steaming function and method for controlling air fryer with steaming function |
US11134808B2 (en) | 2020-03-30 | 2021-10-05 | Sharkninja Operating Llc | Cooking device and components thereof |
IT202000017674A1 (en) * | 2020-07-21 | 2022-01-21 | Angelo Po Grandi Cucine Spa | APPARATUS FOR COOKING FOOD AND RELATED METHOD OF MANAGEMENT |
CN111972977A (en) * | 2020-09-01 | 2020-11-24 | 杭州老板电器股份有限公司 | Waste water volume detecting system and cooking device with steaming function |
US20220183496A1 (en) * | 2020-12-11 | 2022-06-16 | Whirlpool Corporation | Modular steam generator |
EP4050267A1 (en) | 2021-02-25 | 2022-08-31 | Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag | Cooking oven |
DE102021201865A1 (en) | 2021-02-26 | 2022-09-01 | BSH Hausgeräte GmbH | Water-bearing household appliance and connection plug |
US20230210297A1 (en) | 2022-01-04 | 2023-07-06 | Whirlpool Corporation | Steam oven with check valve at water inlet for steam backflow prevention |
US20230213210A1 (en) | 2022-01-06 | 2023-07-06 | Whirlpool Corporation | Water fill drawer with structures to prevent backflow of steam |
CN115299768B (en) * | 2022-08-08 | 2023-08-25 | 珠海格力电器股份有限公司 | Steaming and baking box |
US20240159399A1 (en) | 2022-11-10 | 2024-05-16 | Whirlpool Corporation | Securement and release assembly for a component of an appliance, appliance including the same and oven including the same for a refillable water reservoir for use with steam cooking |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US20190309957A1 (en) | 2019-10-10 |
US11608988B2 (en) | 2023-03-21 |
EP3553394A1 (en) | 2019-10-16 |
US20190309956A1 (en) | 2019-10-10 |
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