"CLEANING DEVICE FOR OVENS, OVEN AND CLEANING PROCESS”

FIELD OF THE FINDING

The object of the present invention is a cleaning device for ovens, for example ovens for home or industrial use, as well as an oven for heating/cooking food and a relative process for cleaning said oven. The present invention has application both in the home, e.g. for defining embedded ovens for cooking food, and in the industrial field, e.g. for defining ovens of industrial type, such as electric ovens or gas ovens for pizzerias, pastry shops, bakeries and delicatessens.

STATE OF THE ART

Ovens for home use for cooking food are known, provided with automatic or semi-automatic cleaning processes which exploit pyrolytic or hydrolysis cleaning systems. The ovens with pyrolytic cleaning system have a cleaning function that allows the oven to reach, in a few minutes, a particularly high temperature (around 500° C) due to which the dirt is carbonized. Even if the ovens with pyrolytic systems are widely used, the latter have a number of disadvantages; in particular, these ovens require dedicated components such as glasses, resistors, gaskets, door locks, and a greater isolation with respect to the standard ovens, a condition which considerably affects the production costs. It should also be indicated that the process of cleaning via pyrolysis requires a high energy consumption for the increasing of the high temperatures required and due to the fact that such system is not completely automatic since it requires the intervention of the user at the end of the oven heating process for the removal of highly-damaging combustion residues. The ovens with system of cleaning via hydrolysis instead exploit the generation of the steam in order to soften and detach the dirty residues from the walls of the oven. Such process is quicker and less expensive to perform with respect to the system of cleaning via pyrolysis: it is in fact sufficient to have a reduced quantity of water and low temperatures in order to generate the steam useful for cleaning the oven.

In the field of ovens with systems of cleaning via hydrolysis, the solution described in United States patent No. US 8,981 ,262 B2 is known, which is relative to a home oven arranged for steam cooking foods; the oven in fact has a plurality of holes arranged on a rear wall of the oven, next to a ventilation system, which allow the emission of steam for cooking food. The oven is also provided with further holes for the emission of steam arranged on opposite lateral walls of the oven, dedicated for the emission of steam for cleaning the oven itself: the cleaning steam is generated from a liquid comprising brighteners and/or surfactants.

A further known solution described in the United States patent No. US 8,415,591 B2 regards an oven provided with a self-cleaning system. Such self-cleaning system comprises a steam diffuser arranged on a bottom wall of the oven; the steam diffuser is defined by a cavity open at the top and placed on the bottom wall of the oven which is adapted to receive a predetermined quantity of treatment liquid, and below which a heating element is present that is capable of evaporating the treatment liquid: the steam generated by the diffuser allows cleaning the oven by means of a hydrolysis process. A further known solution described in the United States patent application No. US 2008/0223357 A1 regards an oven provided with a steam self-cleaning system. Such system comprises a device for generating steam and a dispenser of water; the device for generating steam is employed during the cleaning process for softening and detaching, from the walls of the oven, the dirty residues while the water dispenser is subsequently activated for washing the wall. A further solution similar to that provided for the United States patent application No. US 2008/0223357 A1 is also described in the United States patent No. US 6,909,071 B2.

Even if the above-described known solutions allow executing a cleaning process via hydrolysis of the oven, the Applicant has detected that such known solutions can be further improved, for example in terms of efficiency of cleaning, simplification and compactness of the oven.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

General object of the present invention is therefore that of resolving at least one of the drawbacks and/or limitations of the preceding solutions.

One object of the invention is to provide an oven having a cleaning device which is capable of performing a correct cleaning of the oven, reducing to the minimum, in particular eliminating, the interventions by the user. Another object of the present invention is to provide an oven having an efficient cleaning device capable of executing the cleaning of the oven in reduced times and with reduced energy consumption.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning device with simple and compact structure, employable for cleaning ovens; in particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning device which can be easily installed on ovens that do not provide for a cleaning system.

One or more of the above-indicated objects are substantially achieved by a cleaning device, an oven and a process for cleaning said oven in accordance with one or more of the enclosed claims and/or of the following aspects.

SUMMARY

In one aspect a cleaning device (70) for an oven is provided, said oven being of the type comprising: a containment structure (2) defining a chamber (3) delimited by an internal surface, said chamber (3) being configured to house at least one food item, said containment structure (2) having at least one access (4) configured to allow the communication between the chamber (3) and the external environment, at least one closing element (5) engaged with the containment structure (2) and movable with respect to the latter at least between:

• a closed position in which said closing element (5) prohibits the access (4), preventing the communication between the chamber (3) and the external environment,

• an open position in which said closing element (5) allows the communication between the chamber (3) and the external environment, through said access (4), wherein the cleaning device (70) is configured to generate a steam flow and introduce said steam flow within the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with the preceding aspect the cleaning device (70) has at least one outlet opening (11) definable on the containment structure (2) of the oven and configured to allow the escapement of a fluid and/or residues from the chamber (3) of the oven.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) has at least one channel (12) configured to allow the introduction of a steam flow in a chamber (3) of an oven. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) has an ejection opening (12a) configured for being put in direct fluid communication with the chamber (3) of an oven. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the oven is of the type comprising an outlet opening configured to allow at least the expulsion of a fluid from the chamber (3), optionally of a drain liquid.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said ejection opening (12a) is configured to allow the introduction of the steam flow in the chamber (3) of an oven. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said ejection opening (12a) of the channel (12) coincides at least partially with the outlet opening (11).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) comprises at least one pipe configured for being at least partially placed within the outlet opening (11) of the oven. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the outlet opening (11) defines a passage section that is annually external with respect to the pipe of the channel. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the pipe defined by the channel (12) is configured for being placed substantially concentric with respect to the outlet opening (11).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the containment structure (2) of the oven is of the type comprising a bottom wall (2a), a top wall (2b) opposite the bottom wall (2a) and at least one lateral wall (2c) which connects said bottom wall (2a) and said top wall (2b). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the outlet opening (11) is defined on the bottom wall (2a).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises: a tank (14) configured to contain a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition for the generation of the steam flow, said tank (14) being in fluid communication with at least said channel (12), a heater (15) housed in the tank (14) is configured to allow the evaporation of the liquid composition contained in the tank (14) for the generation of the steam flow.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a case (13) defining a compartment (13a), said case (13) having a passage opening (13b) suitable to put in fluid communication the compartment (13a) with the channel (12), optionally the passage opening (13b) is suitable to put in fluid communication the compartment (13a) with the outlet opening (11) of the containment structure (2). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the case (13) has at least one drain (13c) in fluid communication with said compartment (13a). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) is housed in the compartment (13a) of the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank is placed next to the passage opening (13b). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) is arranged next to the drain (13c). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) is spaced from the channel (12). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) is extended along a predetermined direction, the tank is spaced from the channel (12) along a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction along which said channel (12) is extended. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the case (13) and the tank (14) housed within said case (13) are configured in order to be placed outside the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) comprises a tray open at the top. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tray is in direct fluid communication with the compartment (13a) of the case (13) and consequently with the passage opening (13b) of said case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the heater (15) is housed in the tray and configured to generate the steam flow directly into the compartment (13a) of the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tray has a top opening which does not face the channel (12). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the top opening of the tray is offset with respect to the channel (12) according to a lying plane of said tray. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) comprises a pipe configured for directly connecting the outlet opening (11) with the passage opening (13b) of the case (13).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the drain (13c) of the case (13) directly faces the channel (12) of the cleaning device (70).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) comprises at least one inlet (14a) configured to communicate with a source of at least one liquid composition for the generation of the steam flow. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said inlet (14a) is configured to allow the introduction in the tank (14) of a predetermined quantity of at least one liquid composition.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises at least one supply line in fluid communication with the inlet (14a) of the tank (14). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said at least one supply line is configured to put in fluid communication at least one source (18) of at least one liquid composition with said tank (14).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said at least one supply line comprises: a first branch (16a) configured to put the inlet (14a) of the tank (14) in communication with a water source (19), e.g. with the mains water, a second branch (16b) which connects the inlet (14a) of the tank (14) with a container (20) configured to contain a detergent solution.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said first and second branches (16a, 16b) - optionally of the supply line configured to put, in fluid communication, at least one source (18) of at least one liquid composition with said tank (14) - have at least one common section. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a valve (19a), optionally a solenoid valve, active on the first branch (16a) of the supply line (16), said valve (19a) being configured to regulate the water passage through said first branch (16a). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a pump (20a) active on the second branch (16b) of the supply line (16), said pump (20a) being configured to send a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to the tank (14).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises a drain line (25) in fluid communication with the drain (13c) of the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises a pump (26) active on the drain line (25) and configured to allow the ejection of at least one fluid, optionally of drain liquids, from the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises a valve (27), in particular a solenoid valve, active on the drain line (25) between the drain (13c) of the case (13) and the pump (26) active on said drain line (25), said valve (27) being configured to regulate the passage of a drain fluid through said drain line (25).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises at least one dispenser (30) configured to insert a liquid composition within the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the dispenser (30) is configured to be placed at the top wall (2b) of the containment structure (2). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the dispenser (30) is opposite the channel (12). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said at least one supply line comprises: a first supply line (16), said first supply line being the supply line configured to put in fluid communication the inlet (14a) of the tank (14) with at least one source (18) of at least one liquid composition, a second supply line (36) configured to put in fluid communication at least one source (37) of at least one liquid composition with said dispenser (30).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said second supply line (26) comprises: a first branch (36a) configured to put the dispenser (30) in communication with a water source (38), e.g. with the mains water, a second branch (36b) which connects the dispenser (30) with a container (39) configured to contain a detergent solution.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said first and second branches (36a, 36b) of the second supply line (36) have at least one common section. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a valve (38a), optionally a solenoid valve, active on the first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36), said valve (38a) being configured to regulate the water passage through said first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a pump (39a) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36), said pump (39a) being configured to send a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to the dispenser (30). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises at least one softener (38b) active on the first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36), interposed between the dispenser (30) and the water source (38), optionally arranged interposed between said valve (38a) and the dispenser (30). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises at least one check valve (39b) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36) and arranged interposed between the container (39), active on said second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36), and the dispenser (30), optionally between said dispenser said container (30) and the pump (39a) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises at least one heater (40) active on the second supply line (36) and configured to heat the water and/or the detergent solution passing through the second supply line (36).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the oven is of the type comprising at least one heating element (60) configured to allow an increase of the temperature within the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the heating element (60) comprises at least one electrical heating element arranged outside the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the containment structure (2) has: at least one air inlet, optionally defined on the lateral wall (2c) of the containment structure, at least one ventilator arranged outside the chamber (3), facing said air inlet, said ventilator being configured to insufflate air within the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises at least one control unit (50). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to perform a cleaning procedure comprising at least one step of generating a steam flow by means of said cleaning device (70) within the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to be connected to and active in command on at least one between the heater (15), the heating element (60) and the dispenser (30), wherein the step of generating said steam flow comprises at least one of the following steps: activating the heater (15) housed within the tank (14) so as to generate a fluid flow passing through the channel (12) and configured to enter in the chamber (3) through the outlet opening (11) of the containment structure (2), activating the heating element (60) to allow the heating of the chamber (3), by means of the dispenser (30), introducing in the chamber (3) a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to be connected to and active in command on the valve (19a) active on the first branch (16a) of the first supply line (16) and on the pump (20a) active on the second branch (16b) of the first supply line (16), wherein the cleaning procedure comprises a step of filling the tank (14) by means of a predetermined quantity of liquid composition. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the step of filling the tank (14) of the cleaning procedure comprises the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve (19a) active on said first branch (16a) to allow a predetermined quantity of water to be sent to the tank (14), commanding the activation of the pump (20a) active on said second branch (16b) to allow a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to be sent to the tank. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to be connected to and active in command on the pump (26) active on the drain line (25), wherein the cleaning procedure also comprises a drain step which comprises the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve (27) active on the drain line (25), commanding the activation of the pump (26) active on said drain line (25) to allow the ejection of at least one fluid, optionally of drain liquids, from the case (13).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to be connected to and active in command on the valve (38a) active on the first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36) and on the pump (38b) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36a), wherein the cleaning procedure comprises a washing step of the chamber (3) by means of the dispenser (30), said washing step of the cleaning procedure comprises at least one of the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve (38a) active on said first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36) to allow a predetermined quantity of water to be sent to the dispenser (30), commanding the activation of the pump (38b) active on said second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36) to allow a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to be sent to the dispenser.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure executed by the control unit (50) comprises: the execution of at least one of said step of generating a steam flow within the chamber (3), following the step of generating the steam flow, the execution of at least one of said washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure executed by the control unit (50) comprises: the execution of the steam flow generation step within the chamber, optionally the execution of a rest step following the step of generating the steam flow, subsequently, repeating the step of generating a steam flow within the chamber, following the repetition of the step of generating a steam flow, the execution of the washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to control the step of generating the steam flow for a predetermined time period comprised between 5 and 20 minutes, optionally comprised between 7 and 15 minutes, still more optionally comprised between 7 and 12 minutes. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein the control unit (50), during the step of generating the steam flow, is configured to maintain a temperature within the chamber (3) comprised between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50), during the predetermined time period of the step of generating the predetermined steam flow, is configured for commanding: a continuous steam flow generation during the entire predetermined time period, an intermittent steam flow generation, optionally at predetermined time intervals, during the entire predetermined time period. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein the step of generating said steam flow comprises at least one of the following steps: activating the heating element (60) to allow the heating of the chamber (3), by means of the dispenser (30), introducing in the chamber (3) a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the step of introducing in the chamber the predetermined quantity of a liquid composition occurs in an intermittent manner at predetermined time intervals.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to control the washing step following the steam flow generation step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the washing step has a duration comprised between 1 minute and 10 minutes, still more optionally comprised between 1 minute and 5 minutes. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein, during the washing step, the control unit (50) is configured to maintain a temperature within the chamber (3) comprised between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure, following the washing step, provides for the execution of a rest step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure, between the step of generating the steam flow and the subsequent washing step, provides for the execution of a rest step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the rest step immediately follows the steam flow generation step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50), during the rest step, is configured to block the cleaning device in order to prevent the latter from introducing fluids into the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure following the washing step, optionally following the rest step after the washing step, comprises a step of repeating the step of generating a steam flow within the chamber.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises a final process step which provides for repeating the washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises a cleaning cycle defined by the execution of the steam flow generation step followed by the washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises the execution of a plurality of cleaning cycles, optionally comprised between 2 and 4. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises a rest step, defined between the step of generating the steam flow and the washing step of a cleaning cycle, wherein during said rest step, the step of generating the steam flow is interrupted and no further fluid is introduced within said chamber (3).

In one aspect an oven (1) is provided for heating and/or cooking food, said oven (1) comprising: a containment structure (2) defining a chamber (3) delimited by an internal surface, said chamber (3) being configured to house at least one food item, said containment structure (2) having at least one access (4) configured to allow the communication between the chamber (3) and the external environment, at least one closing element (5) engaged with the containment structure (2) and movable with respect to the latter at least between:

• a closed position in which said closing element (5) prohibits the access (4), preventing the communication between the chamber (3) and the external environment,

• an open position in which said closing element (5) allows the communication between the chamber (3) and the external environment, through said access (4).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the oven (1) comprises at least one cleaning device (70) in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) is configured to generate a steam flow and introduce said steam flow within the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) has at least one outlet opening (11) defined on said containment structure (2) and configured to allow the escapement of a fluid and/or residues from said chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) has at least one channel (12) configured to allow the introduction of a steam flow in the chamber (3), wherein said steam flow passes through said outlet opening (11).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) has an ejection opening (12a) in fluid communication with the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said ejection opening (12a) is configured to allow the introduction of the steam flow in said chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said ejection opening (12a) of the channel (12) coincides at least partially with said outlet opening (11). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the ejection opening (12a) of the channel coincides with the outlet opening (11).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) comprises at least one pipe arranged at least partially within the outlet opening (11). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the outlet opening (11) defines a passage section that is annually external with respect to the pipe of the channel. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the pipe defined by the channel (12) is substantially concentric with respect to the outlet opening (11).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the containment structure (2) comprises a bottom wall (2a), a top wall (2b) opposite the bottom wall (2a) and at least one lateral wall (2c) which connects said bottom wall (2a) and said top wall (2b). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the outlet opening (11) is defined on the bottom wall (2a).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises: a tank (14) configured to contain a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition for the generation of the steam flow, said tank (14) being in fluid communication with at least said channel (12), a heater (15) housed in the tank (14) is configured to allow the evaporation of the liquid composition contained in the tank (14) for the generation of the steam flow. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a case (13) defining a compartment (13a), said case (13) having a passage opening (13b) suitable to put in fluid communication the compartment (13a) with the outlet opening (11) of the containment structure (11) and the channel (12) of the same cleaning device (70). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the case (13) has at least one drain (13c) in fluid communication with said compartment (13a). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) is housed in the compartment (13a) of the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank is placed next to the passage opening (13b). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) is arranged next to the drain (13c). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank only faces the bottom wall (2a) of the containment structure (2). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank does not face the outlet opening (11). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) is spaced from the channel (12). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) is extended along a predetermined direction, the tank is spaced from the channel (12) along a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction along which said channel (12) is extended. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the case (13) and the tank (14) housed within said case (13) is arranged outside the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the case (13) is arranged below the bottom wall (2a).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) comprises a tray open at the top. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tray is in direct fluid communication with the compartment (13a) of the case (13) and consequently with the passage opening (13b) of said case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the heater (15) is housed in the tray and configured to generate the steam flow directly into the compartment (13a) of the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tray has a top opening which does not face the outlet opening (11). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the top opening of the tray is offset with respect to the outlet opening (11) according to a lying plane of said tray.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the channel (12) comprises a pipe which directly connects the outlet opening (11) with the passage opening (13b) of the case (13).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the drain (13c) of the case (13) directly faces the outlet opening (11) of the cleaning device (70).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the tank (14) comprises at least one inlet (14a) configured to communicate with a source of at least one liquid composition for the generation of the steam flow. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said inlet (14a) is configured to allow the introduction in the tank (14) of a predetermined quantity of at least one liquid composition.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises at least one supply line in fluid communication with the inlet (14a) of the tank (14). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said at least one supply line is configured to put in fluid communication at least one source (18) of at least one liquid composition with said tank (14).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said at least one supply line comprises: a first branch (16a) configured to put the inlet (14a) of the tank (14) in communication with a water source (19), for example with the mains water, a second branch (16b) which connects the inlet (14a) of the tank (14) with a container (20) configured to contain a detergent solution.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said first and second branches (16a, 16b) - optionally of the supply line configured to put in fluid communication at least one source (18) of at least one liquid composition with said tank (14) - have at least one common section.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a valve (19a), optionally a solenoid valve, active on the first branch (16a) of the supply line (16), said valve (19a) being configured to regulate the water passage through said first branch (16a). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a pump (20a) active on the second branch (16b) of the supply line (16), said pump (20a) being configured to send a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to the tank (14).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises a drain line (25) in fluid communication with the drain (13c) of the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises a pump (26) active on the drain line (25) and configured to allow the ejection of at least one fluid, optionally of drain liquids, from the case (13). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises a valve (27), in particular a solenoid valve, active on the drain line (25) between the drain (13c) of the case (13) and the pump (26) active on said drain line (25), said valve (27) being configured to regulate the passage of a drain fluid through said drain line (25).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises at least one dispenser (30) configured to insert a liquid composition within the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the dispenser (30) is arranged at the top wall (2b) of the containment structure (2).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said at least one supply line comprises: a first supply line (16), said first supply line being the supply line configured to put in fluid communication the inlet (14a) of the tank (14) with at least one source (18) of at least one liquid composition, a second supply line (36) configured to put in fluid communication at least one source (37) of at least one liquid composition with said dispenser (30).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said second supply line (26) comprises: a first branch (36a) configured to put the dispenser (30) in communication with a water source (38), for example with the mains water, a second branch (36b) which connects the dispenser (30) with a container (39) configured to contain a detergent solution.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said first and second branches (36a, 36b) of the second supply line (36) have at least one common section.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a valve (38a), optionally a solenoid valve, active on the first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36), said valve (38a) being configured to regulate the water passage through said first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning device (70) comprises a pump (39a) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36), said pump (39a) being configured to send a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to the dispenser (30).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises at least one softener (38b) active on the first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36) interposed between the dispenser (30) and the water source (38), optionally arranged interposed between said valve (38a) and the dispenser (30). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises at least one check valve (39b) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36) and arranged interposed between the container (39), active on said second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36), and the dispenser (30), optionally between said dispenser said container (30) and the pump (39a) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said cleaning device (70) comprises at least one heater (40) active on the second supply line (36) and configured to heat the water and/or the detergent solution passing through the second supply line (36).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the oven comprises at least one heating element (60) configured to allow an increase of the temperature within the chamber (3). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the heating element (60) comprises at least one electrical heating element arranged outside the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the containment structure (2) has: at least one air inlet, optionally defined on the lateral wall (2c) of the containment structure, at least one ventilator arranged outside the chamber (3), facing said air inlet, said ventilator being configured to insufflate air within the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the oven comprises at least one control unit (50) connected to and active in command on the cleaning device (70). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to perform a cleaning procedure comprising at least one step of generating a steam flow by means of said cleaning device (70) within the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is connected to and active in command on at least one between the heater (15), the heating element (60) and the dispenser (30), wherein the step of generating said steam flow comprises at least one of the following steps: activating the heater (15) housed within the tank (14) so as to generate a fluid flow passing through the channel (12) and configured to enter in the chamber (3) through the outlet opening (11) of the containment structure (2), activating the heating element (60) to allow the heating of the chamber (3), by means of the dispenser (30), introducing in the chamber (3) a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is connected to and active in command on the valve (19a) active on the first branch (16a) of the first supply line (16) and on the pump (20a) active on the second branch (16b) of the first supply line (16), wherein the cleaning procedure comprises a step of filling the tank (14) by means of a predetermined quantity of liquid composition. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the step of filling the tank (14) of the cleaning procedure comprises the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve (19a) active on said first branch (16a) to allow a predetermined quantity of water to be sent to the tank (14), commanding the activation of the pump (20a) active on said second branch (16b) to allow a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to be sent to the tank.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is connected to and active in command on the pump (26) active on the drain line (25), wherein the cleaning procedure also comprises a drain step which comprises the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve (27) active on the drain line (25), commanding the activation of the pump (26) active on said drain line (25) to allow the ejection of at least one fluid, optionally of drain liquids, from the case (13).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is connected to and active in command on the valve (38a) active on the first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36) and on the pump (38b) active on the second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36a), wherein the cleaning procedure comprises a washing step of the chamber (3) by means of the dispenser (30), said washing step of the cleaning procedure comprises at least one of the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve (38a) active on said first branch (36a) of the second supply line (36) to allow a predetermined quantity of water to be sent to the dispenser (30), commanding the activation of the pump (38b) active on said second branch (36b) of the second supply line (36) to allow a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to be sent to the dispenser.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure executed by the control unit (50) comprises: the execution of at least one of said step of generating a steam flow within the chamber (3), following the step of generating the steam flow, the execution of at least one said washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure executed by the control unit (50) comprises: the execution of the step of generating a steam flow within the chamber, optionally the execution of a rest step following the step of generating the steam flow, then, repeating the step of generating a steam flow within the chamber, after the repetition of the step of generating a steam flow, executing of the washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure, following the washing step, provides for the execution of a rest step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50), during the rest step, is configured to block the cleaning device in order to prevent the latter from introducing fluids into the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure following the washing step, optionally following the rest step subsequent to the washing step, comprises a step of repeating the step of generating a steam flow within the chamber.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises a final process step which provides for repeating the washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to control the step of generating the steam flow for a predetermined time period comprised between 5 and 20 minutes, optionally comprised between 7 and 15 minutes, still more optionally comprised between 7 and 12 minutes. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein the control unit (50), during the step of generating the steam flow, is configured to maintain a temperature within the chamber (3) comprised between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50), during the predetermined time period of the step of generating the predetermined steam flow, is configured to control: a continuous steam flow generation during the entire predetermined time period, an intermittent steam flow generation, optionally at predetermined time intervals, during the entire predetermined time period.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein the step of generating said steam flow comprises at least one of the following steps: activating the heating element (60) to allow the heating of the chamber (3), by means of the dispenser (30), introducing in the chamber (3) a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the step of introducing in the chamber the predetermined quantity of a liquid composition occurs in an intermittent manner at predetermined time intervals.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is configured to control the washing step following the steam flow generation step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the washing step has a duration comprised between 1 minute and 10 minutes, still more optionally comprised between 1 minute and 5 minutes. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein during the washing step the control unit (50) is configured to maintain a temperature within the chamber (3) comprised between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure, following the washing step, provides for the execution of a rest step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure, between the step of generating the steam flow and the subsequent washing step, provides for the execution of a rest step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the rest step immediately follows the steam flow generation step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50), during the rest step, is configured to block the cleaning device in order to prevent the latter from introducing fluids into the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure following the washing step, optionally following the rest step after the washing step, comprises a step of repeating the step of generating a steam flow within the chamber.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises a final process step which provides for repeating the washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises a cleaning cycle defined by the execution of the steam flow generation step followed by the washing step.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises the execution of a plurality of cleaning cycles, optionally comprised between 2 and 4. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning procedure comprises a rest step, defined between the step of generating the steam flow and the washing step of a cleaning cycle, wherein during said rest step, the step of generating the steam flow is interrupted and no further fluid is introduced within said chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the control unit (50) is connected to and active in command on the heating element (60) and on the ventilator, wherein the cleaning procedure comprises, at the end of at least one cleaning cycle, at least one drying step, wherein said drying step comprises at least one of the following sub-steps: activating the ventilator for a predetermined time period, activating the heating element for a predetermined time period to allow the heating of the chamber to a temperature comprised between 60 °C and 100°C.

In a further aspect a process is provided for cleaning by means of an oven (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the cleaning process comprises at least one step of generating within the chamber (3) a steam flow by means of said cleaning device (70). In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the step of generating the steam flow comprises the sub-steps of: heating, optionally by means of the heater (15), a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition present within the tank (14) in order to generate steam within the compartment (13a) of the case (13), emitting, from the channel (12), a steam flow generated within the compartment (13a) of the case (13), or heating the chamber (3), optionally by means of the heating element (60), dispensing a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition, optionally by means of the dispenser (30), in the chamber (3) in a manner such that at least one part of said liquid composition evaporates in order to generate said steam flow within said chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the liquid composition comprises at least one of: water, a detergent solution.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein, following the step of generating the steam flow, the process comprises a step of washing the internal surface of the chamber (3) by means of dispensing a predetermined quantity of liquid composition. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects said liquid composition dispensed during the washing step comprises at least one of: water, a detergent solution. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the washing step is executed by means of dispensing the liquid composition from the dispenser (30).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the process comprises: at least one first step of generating a steam flow within the chamber (3), at least one second step of generating a steam flow within the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the at least one step of generating a steam flow (optionally at least one of said first and second steps) is followed by a predetermined time period comprised between 5 and 20 minutes, optionally comprised between 7 and 15 minutes, still more optionally comprised between 7 and 12 minutes. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein - during the step of generating a steam flow - the temperature within the chamber (3) is maintained between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein during the rest step, the steam flow generation step and the washing step are interrupted. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein, during the rest step, no fluid is introduced within said chamber.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the rest step has a duration comprised between 5 and 25 minutes, optionally comprised between 5 and 20 minutes. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein - during the rest step - the temperature within the chamber (3) is maintained between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the washing step is executed following the steam flow generation step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the washing step has a duration comprised between 1 and 10 minutes, optionally comprised between 1 and 5 minutes. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein - during the washing step - the temperature within the chamber (3) is maintained between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein - following the washing step - the process comprises a step of generating a steam flow within the chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the process comprises a cleaning cycle comprising the at least one step of generating the steam flow and the subsequent washing step. In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the process comprises the execution of a plurality of cleaning cycles, optionally a number of cleaning cycles comprised between 2 and 4.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects each step of generating the steam flow comprises the sub-steps of: heating, optionally by means of the heater (15), a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition present within the tank in order to generate steam within the compartment of the case (13), emitting, from the channel (12), a steam flow generated within the case (13), or heating the chamber (3), optionally by means of the heating element, dispensing a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition, optionally by means of the dispenser (30), in the chamber (3) in a manner such that at least one part of said composition evaporates in order to generate said steam flow within said chamber (3).

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein, during the predetermined time period of the step of generating the predetermined steam flow, the process provides for: a continuous steam flow generation during the entire predetermined time period, an intermittent steam flow generation, optionally at predetermined time intervals, during the entire predetermined time period.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the step of generating said steam flow comprises at least one of the following steps: activating the heating element (60) to allow the heating of the chamber (3), by means of the dispenser (30), introducing in the chamber (3) a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the step of introducing in the chamber the predetermined quantity of a liquid composition occurs in an intermittent manner at predetermined time intervals.

In a further aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects wherein each washing step is executed by means of dispensing a predetermined quantity of liquid composition by means of the dispenser (30).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Several embodiments and several aspects of the invention will be described hereinbelow with reference to the enclosed drawings, provided only as a non-limiting example in which:

- figure 1 is a schematic view of an oven in accordance with the present invention;

- figure 2 is a detailed view of the oven of figure 1 ;

- figure 3 is a schematic view of a cleaning device for ovens;

- figure 4 is a sectional view, according to trace IV-IV, of the device of figure 3;

- figures 5 to 7 schematically illustrate a process for cleaning an oven;

- figure 8 is a flow diagram relative to steps that can be actuated by a control unit for cleaning an oven. DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

It is noted that in the present detailed description, corresponding parts illustrated in the various figures are indicated with the same reference numbers. The figures could illustrate the object of the invention by means of representations that are not in scale; therefore, parts or components illustrated in the figures relative to the object of the invention might only regard schematic representations.

With the term liquid composition it is intended a composition comprising one or more liquid compounds, or one or more solid compounds that are dissolved or dispersed in a suitable liquid phase, having the function of removing the dirt from a surface. The treatment composition can comprise a mixture of water and a detergent solution. In one embodiment, the liquid composition can comprise: at least one surfactant, preferably in a percentage comprised between 0.1% and 1% by weight with respect to the total weight of the composition, and water as need to reach 100%.

The terms 'upstream' and 'downstream' refer to a direction of advancement of a liquid composition along a predetermined supply line defined starting from at least one source (e.g. a container of a liquid composition or an attachment to the mains water) up to a containment tank or a dispenser of the liquid composition.

Control unit

The oven described and claimed herein can comprise at least one control unit set for controlling the operations implemented by the oven. There can clearly be only one control unit or it can be formed by a plurality of distinct control units depending on the design selections and on the operating requirements.

With the term control unit it is intended a component of electronic type which can comprise at least one of the following: a digital processor (e.g. comprising at least one selected from the following group: CPU, GPU, GPGPU), a memory (or memories), a circuit of analog type, or a combination of one or more digital processing units with one or more circuits of analog type. The control unit can be "configured" or "programmed" to execute several steps: this can in practice be made with any means that allow configuring or programming the control unit. For example, in the case of a control unit comprising one or more CPUs and one or more memories, one or more programs can be stored in suitable memory banks connected to the CPU or CPUs; the program or programs contain instructions which, when executed by the CPU or by the CPUs, program or configure the control unit to execute the described operations in relation to the control unit. Alternatively if the control unit is or comprises circuitry of analog type, then the circuit of the control unit can be designed to include circuitry that is configured, during use, in order to process electrical signals in a manner such to execute the steps relative to the control unit. The control unit can comprise one or more digital units, for example of the type with microprocessor, or one or more analog units, or a suitable combination of digital and analog units; the control unit can be configured for coordinating all the actions necessary for the execution of an instruction or a set of instructions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Oven

Reference number 1 overall indicates an oven for heating and/or cooking food. The oven 1 can be employed in the home, e.g. the oven can be of electric or gas type, or of industrial type, such as electric ovens or gas ovens for pizzerias, pastry shops, bakeries and delicatessens.

As is visible from the enclosed figures the oven 1 comprises a containment structure 2 defining a chamber 3 delimited by an internal surface and configured to house at least one food item; the chamber 3 defines the compartment of the oven for cooking and/or heating the food. In detail, the containment structure 2 comprises a bottom wall 2a, a top wall 2b opposite the bottom wall 2a and at least one lateral wall 2c which connects said bottom wall 2a and said top wall 2b. The bottom and top walls can have a substantially quadrangular shape; said at least one lateral wall 2c can comprise a rear wall interposed between a first and a second lateral wall. All the walls can have a substantially quadrangular shape.

Opposite the rear wall, the containment structure 2 has at least one access 4, optionally a front access, configured to allow the communication between the chamber 3 and the external environment. The access 4 allows a user to insert and/or pick up food from the chamber 3.

As is visible from the enclosed figures, the oven 1 also comprises a closing element 5, e.g. a door, engaged with the containment structure 2 and movable with respect to the latter at least between: a closed position in which the closing element 5 prohibits the access 4, preventing the communication between the chamber 3 and the external environment, an open position in which the closing element 5 allows the communication between the chamber 3 and the external environment, through said access 4.

In fact, the closing element 5 represents the component of the oven which allows closing the chamber in order to allow the heating/cooking of food. The closing element 5 can be hinged at a free edge delimiting the access 4.

As is visible from the enclosed figures, the oven 1 can also comprise at least one heating element 60 configured to allow an increase of the temperature within the chamber 3; in the event in which the oven is of electric type, the heating element 60 can comprise one or more electrical heating elements arranged outside the chamber 3.

In addition, in the event in which the oven 1 has a ventilated function, the containment structure 2 can have at least one air inlet, for example defined on the rear wall of the containment structure, constituted by one or more opening passing through said wall; at the inlet, placed outside the chamber 3, the oven can comprise a ventilator: the ventilator faces the inlet and is configured to insufflate air within the chamber 3. The ventilator can comprise a fan 61 moved by an electric motor 62 as illustrated in figures 1 , 5-7.

The oven 1 comprises a cleaning device 70 configured to allow cleaning the chamber 3, in particular the internal surface of the chamber, for example executable following a food cooking process. In particular, the cleaning device 70 is configured to allow the cleaning of the internal surface of the chamber 3 at least by means of the introduction of a steam flow within the chamber 3 or due to the generation of said steam flow directly within the chamber 3. As is visible in figures 1 , 3, 5 and 7, the cleaning device 70 comprises at least one outlet opening 11 defined on the containment structure 2 and configured to allow the escapement of a fluid from said chamber 3. In particular, the outlet opening 11 can be defined on the bottom wall 2a of the containment structure 2 in a manner such that said opening can allow the escapement, from the chamber 3, of a condensation liquid (drain liquid) generatable during or at the end of a steam cleaning process and containing residues (dirt) that have detached from the walls during said process. The outlet opening passes through the wall of the containment structure 2 and can be defined for example at the center of the bottom wall 2a as is, for example, illustrated in figure 1. Of course, it may be possible to make an outlet opening 11 that is for example placed at one edge of the chamber, e.g. at the edge that joins the bottom wall 2a with the rear wall. The outlet opening 11 can have, in a non-limiting manner, a circular shape; of course it may be possible to make an opening 11 having a different shape, e.g. square, rectangular, oval or semi-circular.

In detail, the cleaning device 70 comprises a tank 14 configured to contain a liquid composition and a heater 15 housed in the tank 14 is configured to allow the evaporation of the composition contained in the tank 14 for the generation of the steam flow. The tank 14 can comprise a closed container or, as illustrated in the enclosed figures, can comprise a tray open at the upper part.

The tank 14 is in fluid communication with a channel 12 which is configured to allow the passage of the steam flow from said outlet opening 11 for the introduction in the chamber 3.

The channel 12 can be in the shape of a pipe directly communicating with the tank 14 and passing through the outlet opening 11 ; the steam flow generatable by the tank can then be conveyed through the outlet opening by means of the passage of the steam within the channel 12. Alternatively, the channel 12 can comprise an ejection opening 12a in fluid communication with the chamber 3; in such configuration, the ejection opening 12a coincides with the outlet opening 11 and is configured to allow the introduction of the steam flow directly into the chamber 3.

The cleaning device 70 can comprise a case 13 defining a compartment 13a within which the tank 14 is housed. The case 13 can be arranged outside the chamber 3 below the bottom wall 2a (figures 1 , 3, 5-7); the case 13 has a passage opening 13b suitable to put in fluid communication the compartment 13a with the outlet opening 11. In detail, the channel 12 of the cleaning device 70 is in direct fluid communication with the passage opening 13b of the case 13 in order to put the latter in communication with the outlet opening 11. Opposite the passage opening 13b, the case has a drain 13c, it too in direct fluid communication with the compartment 13a. In detail, the tank 14 is configured to generate the steam flow directly within the compartment 13a of the case 13 which is transferred, due to the channel 12, into the chamber 3; in the enclosed figures, the tank 14 comprises a tray open at the upper part which allows generating a steam flow directly into the compartment 13a; the steam flow present in the compartment 13a exits from the passage opening 13b of the case 13 and is transferred, due to the channel 12 - directly connected with the compartment 13a - through the outlet opening 11. In such configuration, the outlet opening 11 allows both the introduction of the steam flow in the chamber 3, generated by the tank 14 and by the heater 15, and the drainage of at least one liquid coming from the chamber 3.

As is visible from the enclosed figures, the tank 14 is housed in the compartment 13a and placed next to the passage opening 13b and next to the drain 13c. In fact, the tank 14 is not placed below the outlet opening 11 and does not obstruct the drain 13c of the case 13; in this manner, the drain liquids which are generated within the chamber 3 can enter into the outlet opening 11 and pass directly into the drain 13c of the case 13, which, as is visible from the enclosed figures, directly faces the opening 11 . In the embodiment illustrated in the enclosed figures the channel 12 is extended along a predetermined direction; the tank 14 (optionally the tray) is spaced from the channel along a plane orthogonal to the predetermined extension direction of the channel 12.

The spaced configuration of the tank 14 with respect to the outlet opening 11 can be advantageously maintained even in the event in which the tank 14 has a closed-container configuration and the channel is in the shape of a pipe at least partly traversing said outlet opening 11 , in a manner such that the drain liquids coming from the chamber 3 are not obstructed by the tank in the passage from the opening 11 to the drain 13c.

As is visible in figures 3 and 4, the tank 14 comprises at least one inlet 14a configured to communicate with a source of at least one liquid composition for the generation of the steam flow; the inlet 14a is configured to allow the introduction in the tank 14 of a predetermined quantity of at least one liquid composition. In detail, the inlet 14a is in fluid communication with at least one supply line 16 of the cleaning device 70 which is configured to put in fluid communication at least one source 18 of at least one liquid composition with said tank 14. The liquid composition can for example comprise water or a mixture of multiple solutions, e.g. water and a detergent solution. Illustrated in the enclosed figures, in a non-limiting manner, is a supply line 16 comprising a first branch 16a configured to put the inlet 14a of the tank 14 in communication with a water source 19; the water source can for example be defined by a tank of the oven or by the mains water. On the first branch, a valve 19a can be active, e.g. a solenoid valve, configured to regulate the water passage through said first branch 16a. In the enclosed figures the first branch is configured to connect the tank 14 with the mains water; in such configuration, the cleaning device can comprise a solenoid valve 19a configured to regulate the water passage. In the event in which the source 18 comprises a tank source, the cleaning device 70 can be provided with a pump configured for picking up water from the tank source in order to serve it to the tank 14 for the generation of the steam flow.

The supply line 16 can also comprise a second branch which connects the inlet 14a of the tank 14 with a container 20 configured to contain a detergent solution; the cleaning device 70 can thus furthermore comprise at least one pump 20a active on the second branch 16b of the supply line 16 and configured to send a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to the tank 14. In the enclosed figures, the supply line 16 comprises the first and the second branch 16a, 16b which have a common section for a terminal section, at the tank 14. As a function of the quantity of water and detergent solution sent to the tank, the mixture is defined that composes the liquid composition employed for the generation of the steam flow.

It may be possible to provide for only one branch for the supply line 16 which connects a container 20 to the tank 14; in such configuration, the liquid composition to be served to the tank 14 (configuration not illustrated in the enclosed figures) can be directly introduced within the container.

The cleaning device 70 can also comprise a drain line 25 configured for collecting the drain liquids extracted from the opening 11 in order to allow the ejection thereof. In detail, the drain line 25 is directly connected with the drain 13c of the case 13; on the drain line 25, a pump 26 can be provided that is configured to allow the ejection of liquids, optionally of drain liquids, from the compartment of the case 13. Furthermore, the cleaning device 70 can be provided with a valve 27, in particular a solenoid valve, active on the drain line 25, between the drain 13c of the case 13 and the pump 26 active on said drain line 25: the valve 27 is configured to regulate the passage of a drain fluid through said line 25. As is visible for example in figures 1 , 2, 5-7, the cleaning device 70 can also comprise a dispenser 30 configured to insert a liquid composition within the chamber 3. The dispenser 30 is arranged within the chamber 3, at the top wall 2b of the containment structure 2; the dispenser can be in the form of a diffuser configured in the form of a diffuser configured for emitting a flow of a liquid composition on a main part of the internal surface of the chamber 3. In particular, the dispenser 30 is configured to spray by means of a liquid composition at least the lateral wall 2c and the bottom wall 2a of the containment structure; optionally, the dispenser is configured to spray by means of said liquid composition, the closing element 5 is all the walls of the containment structure 2 (the bottom wall 2a, the lateral wall 2c and the top wall 2b).

The liquid composition that can be emitted by the dispenser 30 can only comprise water or a mixture of water and a detergent solution, for example that provided within the tank 14 for the generation of the steam flow.

The cleaning device can therefore comprise a further supply line of the liquid composition for the dispenser 30; in other words, the cleaning device 70 comprises: a first supply line 16 - defined by the supply line in fluid communication with the inlet 14a of the tank 14 (in particular adapted to serve water and/or a detergent solution to the tank 14), and a second supply line 36 configured to put in fluid communication at least one source 37 of liquid composition with said dispenser 30.

Illustrated in the enclosed figures, in a non-limiting manner, is a second supply line 36 comprising a first branch 36a configured to put the dispenser 30 in communication with a water source 38; the water source can be defined for example by a tank of the oven or by the mains water. On the first branch 36a, a valve 38a, e.g. a solenoid valve, can be active which is configured to regulate the water passage through said first branch 36a. In the enclosed figures the first branch 36a is configured to connect the dispenser with the mains water; in such configuration, the cleaning device 70 can comprise a solenoid valve 38a configured to regulate the water passage. In the event in which, the source 38 comprises a tank source, the cleaning device 70 can be provided with a pump configured to pick up water from the tank source in order to serve it to the dispenser 30. On the first branch 36a of the second supply line 26, a softener 38b can also be provided that is configured to intercept the flow of water arriving from the mains water from the tank source and directed towards the dispenser 30.

The second supply line 36 can also comprise a second branch 36b which connects the dispenser 30 with a container 39 configured to contain a detergent solution; the cleaning device 70 can thus further comprise at least one pump 39a active on the second branch 36b of the second supply line 36 and configured to send a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to the dispenser 30. Still on the second branch 36b, a check valve 39b can be provided that is arranged downstream of the container 39 and in particular interposed between the container 39 and the pump 39a. In the enclosed figures, the second supply line 36 comprises the first and the second branch 36a, 36b which have a common section for a terminal section, at the dispenser 30. As a function of the quantity of water and detergent solution sent to the dispenser 30, the mixture is defined which composes the liquid composition emitted in liquid form by the dispenser 30 within the chamber 3. Illustrated in the enclosed figures, in a non-limiting manner, is a configuration of the cleaning device 70 also comprising a heater 40 active on the second supply line 36 and configured to heat the water and/or the detergent solution passing through the second supply line 36; in the enclosed figures, the heater is active on the common section of the first and second branches 36a, 36b, immediately upstream of the dispenser 30.

It may be possible to provide for only one branch for the second supply line 36 which connects a container 39 to the dispenser 30; in such configuration, the liquid composition to be served to the dispenser 30 (configuration not illustrated in the enclosed figures) can be directly introduced within the container 39.

The cleaning device 70 can comprise a unit 50 for controlling one or more components of said device 70 and configured to control the operation thereof. In detail, the control unit 50 is configured to perform a cleaning procedure comprising at least one step of generating a steam flow by means of said cleaning device 70 within the chamber 3. In more detail, the control unit 50 is connected to and active in command on at least one between the heater 15, the heating element 60 and the dispenser 30; the step of generating said steam flow of the cleaning procedure can be executed by the control unit by means of at least one of the following steps: activating the heater 15 housed within the tank 14 so as to generate a fluid flow passing through the channel 12 and configured to enter in the chamber 3 through the outlet opening 11 of the containment structure 2 (condition schematically illustrated in figure 6), activating the heating element 60 to allow the heating of the chamber 3, by means of the dispenser 30, introducing in the chamber 3 a predetermined quantity of liquid composition.

In fact, the generation of the steam flow can be carried out by means of the generation of the flow from the tank by means of the activation of the heater 15 which allows the evaporation of the liquid composition within the case 13 which can be introduced in the chamber through the channel 12 and the opening 11 (figure 5). The steam flow can be alternatively generated by means of introduction in the chamber of a predetermined quantity of liquid composition which, following the heating of the chamber 3 itself, can evaporate such that said steam flow is directly generated within the chamber 3 (such condition schematized in figure 5). Of course it may be possible to generate said flow by simultaneously employing the above-described processes, i.e. by combining the generation of a steam flow from the tank 14 and the generation of a steam flow directly into the chamber by means of the heating of a liquid composition dispensed by the dispenser 30.

In particular, in order to be able to execute the dispensing of the liquid composition from the dispenser, the control unit 50 is connected to and active in command on the valve 38a (active on the first branch 36a of the second supply line 36) and on the pump 38b (active on the second branch 36b of the second supply line 36a); said dispensing step of the cleaning procedure comprises at least one of the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve 38a to allow a predetermined quantity of water to be sent to the dispenser 30, commanding the activation of the pump 38b to allow a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to be sent to the dispenser. The control unit 50 is also connected to and active in command on the valve 19a (active on the first branch 16a of the first supply line 16) and on the pump 20a (active on the second branch 16b of the first supply line 16) in a manner such to be able to execute, by means of the command of said components, the execution of a step of filling the tank 14 with a predetermined quantity of liquid composition. This step of filling the tank 14 of the cleaning procedure comprises the steps of: commanding an opening of the valve 19a to allow a predetermined quantity of water to be sent to the tank 14, commanding the activation of the pump 20a to allow a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to be sent to the tank.

The step of filling the tank 14 can be started in order to arrange the predetermined quantity of liquid composition in the tank useful for generating the steam flow.

The control unit 50 is also connected to and active in command on the pump 26 active on the drain line 25; the cleaning procedure also comprises a drain step which comprises the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve 27 active on the drain line 25, commanding the activation of the pump 26 active on said drain line 25 to allow the ejection of at least one fluid, optionally of drain liquids, from the case 13.

The step of generating the steam flow can occur for a predetermined time period in a continuous manner or intermittent manner. For example, in the event in which the generation of the steam flow is continuous, the control unit 50 can command the continuous activation of the heater 15 such that a continuous stream flow can exit from the case 13. In the event in which the generation of steam occurred, for the predetermined time period, in an intermittent manner, the control unit can be configured to maintain active the heating element 60 in a manner such to maintain the chamber 3 at a temperature comprised between 60 °C and 100 °C and introduce, at predetermined time intervals, a predetermined quantity of liquid composition. In particular, the control unit 50 can command the activation of the dispenser 30 each minute in order to dispense the liquid composition for a predetermined time, e.g. comprised between 1-3 seconds.

As described above, the control unit 50 is connected to and active in command on the valve 38a and on the pump 38b operating on the second supply line 36; the cleaning procedure can also comprise a washing step (such condition schematized in figure 7) of the chamber 3 by means of the dispenser 30. Such washing step of the cleaning procedure comprises at least one of the following sub-steps: commanding an opening of the valve 38a active on said first branch 36a of the second supply line 36 to allow a predetermined quantity of water to be sent to the dispenser 30, commanding the activation of the pump 38b active on said second branch 36b of the second supply line (36) to allow a predetermined quantity of detergent solution to be sent to the dispenser.

The control unit 50 due to the execution of the cleaning procedure allows cleaning the internal surface of the chamber 3. The control unit 50 can nevertheless manage the alternation of one or more of the above-described steps in order to control the cleaning procedure. For example, the cleaning procedure executed by the control unit 50 can comprise: the execution of at least one of said step of generating a steam flow within the chamber 3 (e.g. by means of at least one of the two above-described modes), following the step of generating the steam flow, the execution of at least one of said washing step.

The control unit 50 is in particular configured for controlling the time of execution of the step of generating said steam flow and the time of execution of the washing step. For example, the step of generating the steam flow can be executed - optionally continuously - for a predetermined time period, e.g. comprised between 5 and 20 minutes, optionally comprised between 7 and 15 minutes, still more optionally between 7 and 12 minutes. Similarly, the washing step can be executed - optionally continuously - for a predetermined time period, e.g. comprised between 1 and 10 minutes, optionally between 1 and 5 minutes. During such steps the control unit 50 can be configured to control the heating element 60, optionally also the ventilator, of the oven in order to control the temperature within the chamber 3 during said steps of generating the steam flow and said washing step. In particular, the control unit 50 is configured to maintain said temperature between 60 and 100 °C (optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C), during the step of generating the steam flow and during the washing step.

In one embodiment, the control unit 50 is configured to perform a cleaning procedure comprising at least one first and a second steam flow generation step. The first step of generating the steam flow can be executed, as mentioned above, by means of a step of heating (or preheating) the chamber 3 and dispensing a predetermined quantity of liquid composition within the chamber 3 (the steps are respectively indicated with the reference numbers 201 and 202 of the flow diagram of figure 8). The second step of generating the steam flow is instead indicated with the reference number 204 in figure 8: such step 204 can be spaced from the first step of generating a steam flow by a rest step (for example respectively indicated with reference number 203 of the flow diagram of figure 8) during which the introduction of (new) fluids is introduced in the chamber 3. Following the second step of generating the steam flow, the cleaning procedure can comprise the execution of a washing step (e.g. indicated with the reference number 205 of the flow diagram of figure 8) which can be followed by a further rest step (e.g. indicated with the reference number 206 of the flow diagram of figure 8). After the further rest step, the cleaning procedure can provide for a third step of generating the steam flow (e.g. indicated with the reference number 207 of the flow diagram of figure 8) and a concluding washing step (e.g. indicated with the reference number 207 of the flow diagram of figure 8).

The control unit 50 is configured to manage the times and the temperature of the chamber of each rest step; for example, during each rest step, the control unit 50 is configured to maintain within the chamber 3 a temperature comprised between 60 and 100 °C, by means of the control of the heating element 60, and this can last for a time comprised between 5 and 25 min. As described above, the control unit 50 can execute two distinct rest steps; the two steps can have the same duration, or as a function of the cleaning procedure they can have different times.

Similarly, the control unit 50 is configured to determine temperature and duration of each steam flow generation step and washing step; also in this case, the steps of generating the steam flow, like the washing steps, can have the same duration and/or the same operating temperature, or as a function of the cleaning procedure, have different times and/or different temperatures.

The control unit 50, also being connected to the heating element 60 and to the ventilator, can be configured for controlling the modes of heating/cooking of the oven 1 . In a further embodiment the control unit 50 is configured to perform a cycle for cleaning said procedure; each cycle can comprise said step of generating the steam flow and the subsequent washing step; the cleaning cycle can optionally comprise a rest step defined between said step of generating the steam flow and said washing step. The control unit 50 can be configured to perform only one cleaning cycle or commanding the execution, in sequence of two or more cleaning cycles. In fact, the control unit 50, as a function of the number of cleaning cycles, can be configured to perform a cleaning procedure at different levels. For example, if the user wishes to execute a quick cleaning procedure, for example for removing a reduced quantity of dirt present in the chamber, the user can command the control unit to execute only one cleaning cycle. If instead the oven requires a thorough cleaning, the user can command the control unit to execute a plurality of consecutive cleaning cycles (e.g. comprised between 2 and 4), in a manner such that the repetition of said cycles can ensure a thorough cleaning intervention of the internal surface of the chamber 3.

As specified above, the at least one step of generating the steam flow can last between 5 and 20 minutes; the control unit 50, if it is provided to execute a plurality of cleaning cycles, can command a different duration of the steam flow generation step. For example, the step of generating the steam flow of a first cycle can be set between 7 and 20 minutes, while the duration of the steam flow generation step of consecutive cleaning cycles of the same cleaning procedure can be set between 5 and 15 minutes, optionally between 5 and 12 minutes. Similarly, the control unit can intervene on the times of the washing step and of the optional rest step.

It should be observed that the control unit 50 can command a rest step between two immediately consecutive cycles. As described above, the control unit 50 is connected to and active in command on the heating element 60 and on the ventilator. Following the last washing step of the cleaning procedure, the control unit 50 can be at least one drying step; said drying step can comprise at least one of the following sub-steps: activating the ventilator for a predetermined time period, activating the heating element for a predetermined time period to allow the heating of the chamber at a temperature comprised between 60 °C and 100°C.

As is visible for example in figure 1 , the oven 1 can comprise a control panel 80, e.g. a touch screen, connected to the control unit 50 and through which the user can set the modes for cooking and executing the cleaning procedure. The control unit can execute a pre-established cleaning procedure or it can allow the user to insert, for example through the control panel 80, one or more parameters of the cleaning procedure; for example the control unit can allow setting at least one of the following parameters of the cleaning procedure: the total time of the cleaning process, the time of one or more of said steam flow generation steps, the time of at least one rest step, the time of at least one washing step, the temperature of the chamber 3 during at least one steam flow generation step, the temperature of the chamber 3 during at least one rest step, the temperature of the chamber 3 during at least one washing step, the number of the steam flow generation, the number of the rest steps, the number of the washing steps.

Process for cleaning an oven Also forming the object of the present invention a cleaning process using an oven 1 in accordance with any one of the enclosed claims and/or with the above-described description.

The process provides for a step of generating within the chamber 3 a steam flow by means of said cleaning device 70. Such step can be carried out by means of at least one of the following sub-steps: heating, optionally by means of the heater 15, a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition present within the tank 14 in order to generate steam within the compartment of the case 13, emitting, from the channel 12, a steam flow generated within the case 13, or heating the chamber 3, optionally by means of the heating element 60, dispensing a predetermined quantity of a liquid composition, optionally by means of the dispenser 30, in the chamber 3 in a manner such that at least one part of said composition evaporates in order to generate said steam flow within said chamber 3.

The step of generating the steam flow is executed with the closing element 5 arranged in the closed position in a manner such that the steam flow can remain for a predetermined time within the chamber 3 such that said steam can dissolve (clean) dirty residues present on the internal surface of the chamber 3 of the oven 1. The liquid composition employed for the generation of the steam flow within the chamber 3 can comprise at least one of: water, a detergent solution.

Following the step of generating the steam flow, the process comprises a step of washing the internal surface of the chamber 3 by means of dispensing a predetermined quantity of liquid composition, optionally comprising at least one of: water, a detergent solution. The washing step is executed by using the dispenser 30 such that the dirty residues dissolved during the step of generating the steam flow can be removed via washing action: the liquid that is generated during the washing step is a drain liquid that is ejected from the chamber 3 due to the presence of the outlet opening 11. During the washing step, the drain liquid then passes from the outlet opening 11 and enters into the case 13: through the case the drain liquid traverses the compartment in order to immediately reach the drain 13c of the case. The drain liquid can then be ejected from the oven by means of the drain line 25.

Before the execution of the washing step, the process can execute one or more steam flow generation steps. For example, the process can comprise: at least one first step of generating a steam flow within the chamber 3, at least one second step of generating a steam flow within the chamber 3.

Each step of generating a steam flow has a duration comprised between 5 and 20 minutes, optionally comprised between 7 and 15 minutes, still more optionally comprised between 7 and 12 minutes; during such step of generating a steam flow, the temperature within the chamber 3 is maintained between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally comprised between 65 °C and 85 °C.

The washing step is executed following the steam flow generation step. Such washing step has a duration comprised between 1 and 10 minutes, optionally comprised between 1 and 5 minutes; during the washing step, the temperature within the chamber (3) is maintained between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally comprised between 65 °C and 85 °C. The process can also comprise a further rest step defined between the step of generating the steam flow and the washing step: also during said rest step, the step of generating the steam flow is interrupted and no further fluid is introduced within said chamber. The rest step has a duration comprised between 5 and 25 minutes, optionally comprised between 5 and 20 minutes; during the further rest step, the temperature within the chamber (3) is maintained between 60 °C and 100 °C, optionally between 65 °C and 85 °C.

In detail the process can provide for the execution of one or more cleaning cycles, each of which defined by an initial step of generating a steam flow and a subsequent washing step: between said steps, the rest step can be provided for.

If the cleaning process provides for two or more consecutive cleaning cycles, the process could provide for the execution of a rest cycle between two immediately consecutive cycles.

Furthermore, the process can comprise a final drying step, executable following the final washing step provided by the process; such drying step can comprise the activation of the ventilator for a predetermined time period, the activation of the heating element for a predetermined time period to allow the heating of the chamber at a temperature comprised between 60 °C and 100°C.

The drying step can allow the removal of the steam within the chamber 3.

Cleaning device

Also forming the object of the present invention is a cleaning device 70 employable for cleaning a home oven, for example the electric or gas oven, or an oven of industrial type, such as electric ovens or gas ovens for pizzerias, pastry shops, bakeries and delicatessens.

The cleaning device 70 can be in accordance with any one of the enclosed claims or with the above-described description. In particular, the cleaning device can be of the type comprising at least the following above-described components: the tank 14, the heater 15 and the channel 12; for example, the cleaning device 70 can furthermore comprise: the case 13. The cleaning device 70 can also comprise said at least one supply line and said drain line 25. The cleaning device 70 can further comprise the container 20, the valve 19a, the pump 20a, the valve 27 and the pump 26.

The cleaning device 70 can also comprise: the dispenser 30 and the second supply line 36. The cleaning device 70 can also comprise at least one of: the container 39, the pump 39a, the check valve 39b, the valve 38a, the softener 38b, the heater 40.

The cleaning device 70 can also comprise the control unit 50 configured to perform the cleaning procedure in accordance with the enclosed claims and/or in accordance with the above-reported description.

In one embodiment, the cleaning device 70 comprises the first and the second supply lines and together with the components active on said lines. In an embodiment variant the cleaning device 70 only comprises the second supply line 36 together with the components only active on said second supply line 36, i.e. at least one of: the dispenser 30, the valve 38a, the softener 38b, the container 39, the pump 39a, the check valve 39b. ADVANTAGES OF THE FINDING

The present invention involves significant technical effects with respect to the state of the art. In particular, the structure of the cleaning device allows providing an oven capable of executing a cleaning procedure via hydrolysis that is highly effective, capable of preserving an advantageous structural simplicity and an appreciable compactness. In fact, arranging a tank 14 and a heater 15 that are capable of generating a steam flow, which can be emitted directly by the outlet opening 11 of the oven 1 , allows attaining an oven that is extremely compact and efficient.

Due to the simplicity and compactness of the cleaning device 70, this can be easily installed on ovens which do not provide for a steam cooking and cleaning system; the cleaning device 70 can be employed in order to adapt/improve any one type of oven so to attain an oven provided with an automatic system for cleaning the same.

A further important advantage of the present invention regards the fact that the oven 1 , object of the present invention, is capable of providing a cleaning system that is completely automatic, capable of reducing to a minimum, even eliminating, any one intervention of the user during the oven cleaning step. A further advantage is that of being able to use the same cleaning device for cooking food. The present invention also allows defining a process for cleaning ovens capable of effectively cleaning an internal wall of an oven with the minimum energy consumption and reduced times, as well as with the minimum consumption of water and detergent composition.