Cooking vessel heater and heated cooking appliance

Abstract

The cooking pot heater (1A) includes: an induction heating coil (4) that performs induction heating on a cooking pot (CT); a heat receiving head (6) that includes a heat receiving portion (61) having a heat receiving surface (611) that receives heat of the cooking pot (CT) in a state of contacting the cooking pot (CT) and an extension portion (62) having a shorter circumference than the heat receiving portion (61); a temperature detecting portion (7) that detects a temperature of the heat receiving head (6); and a heat insulating member (5) that is arranged on an upper side with respect to the induction heating coil (4) and surrounds a side surface of the heat receiving head (6). The heat receiving surface (611) of the heat receiving head (6) is exposed to an outer side from the heat insulating member (5) and is arranged on an inner side with respect to an inner peripheral portion of the induction heating coil (4) when viewed from above. Accordingly, the temperature of the cooking pot can be accurately detected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooking tank heater and a heating cooker having an induction heating coil for induction heating of the cooking tank. Background Technology

[0002] As an example of a cooking appliance that heats and cooks food in a cooking tank, there is a heating cooking appliance described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 6696198. This heating cooking appliance includes a pot that serves as a cooking tank for holding food, a coil for induction heating of the pot, and a temperature sensor that abuts against the bottom of the pot from the outside.

[0003] In this heating cooker, a temperature sensor located at the bottom of the pot detects the temperature of the pot, which is being inductively heated by a coil. When the pot is heated, the high-frequency current supplied to the coil is controlled based on the temperature sensor's detection result.

[0004] In the heating cooker described in Japanese Invention Patent Publication No. 6696198, a temperature sensor detects the temperature of the pot by sensing the heat of the pot being inductively heated by a coil. Although the temperature sensor is configured to contact the bottom surface of the pot, there is room for improvement in accurately detecting the heat of the pot. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a cooking tank heater and a heating cooker that can accurately detect the temperature of the cooking tank.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention relates to a cooking tank heater for heating a cooking tank. The cooking tank heater includes: an annular induction heating coil for induction heating of the cooking tank; a heating head including an upper end portion and a lower end portion with a circumference shorter than the circumference of the upper end portion, the upper end portion having an upper surface for receiving heat from the cooking tank when in contact with it; a temperature detection unit for detecting the temperature of the heating head; and a heat insulation member disposed above the induction heating coil and surrounding at least a portion of the side surface of the heating head. The upper surface of the heating head protrudes outward from the heat insulation member, and when viewed from above, the heating head is disposed inside the inner circumference of the induction heating coil.

[0007] Another aspect of the invention relates to a heating cooker comprising a cooking tank and a cooking tank heater.

[0008] The temperature of the cooking tank can be accurately detected using the cooking tank heater and the heating cooker described above. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1This is a cross-sectional view showing the overall structure of the heating cooker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the area near the heating head of the cooking tank heater.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the first modified example of the heated head.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing a second modified example of the heated head.

[0013] Figure 5 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view near the heating head in a first variation of a cooking tank heater suitable for heating cookers.

[0014] Figure 6 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view near the heating head in a second variation of a cooking tank heater suitable for heating cookers.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the overall structure of the heating cooker according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The following description, based on the accompanying drawings, describes the cooking tank heater and the heating cooker according to this embodiment.

[0017] (First Implementation)

[0018] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the overall structure of the heating cooker 1 of the cooking tank heater 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the heating head 6 of the cooking tank heater 1A. The heating cooker 1 is a cooker used for heating and cooking food in a cooking tank CT, and includes a cooking tank CT and a cooking tank heater 1A. The cooking tank heater 1A includes a main frame 2, an induction heating coil 4, a tank support member 51, a head holding member 52, a heating head 6, and a temperature sensor 7.

[0019] The main frame 2 is a box-shaped frame with an opening at the top. An internal frame 3 is arranged inside the main frame 2.

[0020] The induction heating coil 4 is housed within the main frame 2, supported by a coil support member 41 disposed on the upper part of the inner frame 3. The induction heating coil 4 is a loop-shaped coil formed by a coil of wire wound in a circular motion. The induction heating coil 4 induction heats the cooking tank CT by supplying a high-frequency current. Furthermore, the coil support member 41 is formed of a non-magnetic material with heat-insulating properties. The heat-insulating nature of the coil support member 41 suppresses the transfer of heat from the induction heating coil 4 to the surrounding environment. Moreover, by making the coil support member 41 a non-magnetic material, the self-heating of the coil support member 41 caused by eddy currents induced by the induction heating coil 4 can be suppressed.

[0021] Here, the cooking tank CT is described. The cooking tank CT has a tank body CT1 with an upper opening and a cover CT2 that can open and close the upper opening of the tank body CT1. By closing the upper opening of the tank body CT1 with the cover CT2, a space separated from the external space is formed inside the cooking tank CT. At least the central portion of the bottom CT11 of the tank body CT1 is formed of a magnetic body that heats itself using eddy currents induced by the induction heating coil 4. That is, the entire tank body CT1 can be formed of a magnetic body, or the entire surface of the bottom CT11 of the tank body CT1 can be formed of a magnetic body, or the central portion of the bottom CT11 of the tank body CT1 can be formed of a magnetic body. In the tank body CT1, except for the portions formed of magnetic bodies, non-magnetic bodies are formed.

[0022] A heat insulation member 5 is formed by the tank support member 51 and the head retaining member 52 to suppress the heating head 6 from being exposed to heat other than that of the cooking tank CT, as described later. The heat insulation member 5 is disposed around the heating head 6.

[0023] The sink support member 51 is disposed separately from the induction heating coil 4 and positioned upwards. The sink support member 51 is formed of a non-magnetic material with heat-insulating properties. The sink support member 51 is disposed at the upper end of the main frame 2 in a manner that blocks the upper opening of the main frame 2. The sink support member 51 is formed to support the cooking sink CT from below. Specifically, the sink support member 51 is a flat top plate extending in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (horizontal direction), on which the cooking sink CT is mounted. The sink support member 51 has a stepped portion 512 recessed downwards from its upper surface and a through hole 511 extending through the stepped portion 512 in the vertical direction. The cooking sink CT is mounted on the sink support member 51 such that the center portion of its bottom CT11 is located above the through hole 511.

[0024] The head holding member 52 is disposed separately upward from the induction heating coil 4. The head holding member 52 is formed of a non-magnetic material with heat insulation properties. The head holding member 52 and the slot support member 51 are formed separately. The head holding member 52 is detachably mounted to the slot support member 51 by blocking the through hole 511. The head holding member 52 has: a cylindrical portion 521 with a fitting hole 523 for fitting the heated head 6 (described later) and extending in the vertical direction; and a flange portion 522 extending from the upper edge of the cylindrical portion 521 in the horizontal direction (perpendicular to the vertical direction). A recess is formed in the cylindrical portion 521 to accommodate the heated portion 61 of the heated head 6 (described later). Alternatively, the fitting hole 523 of the cylindrical portion 521 may also be a stepped hole that can accommodate the heated portion 61. The head retaining member 52 is inserted through the through hole 511 via the cylindrical portion 521 and the flange portion 522 is placed on the stepped portion 512, thereby being installed on the slot support member 51. With the head retaining member 52 installed on the slot support member 51, the upper surface of the flange portion 522 can be on the same plane as the upper surface of the slot support member 51, or it can protrude upward relative to the upper surface of the slot support member 51.

[0025] With the head retaining member 52 installed on the groove support member 51, the flange portion 522 is screwed onto the stepped portion 512 using the screw member SC1, thereby fixing the head retaining member 52 to the groove support member 51. By releasing the screw member SC1 between the flange portion 522 and the stepped portion 512, the head retaining member 52 can be detached from the groove support member 51 with the heated head 6 engaged in the fitting hole 523. Furthermore, a first waterproof sealing member 53 is disposed between the flange portion 522 and the stepped portion 512.

[0026] The slot support member 51 and the head retaining member 52 are formed of a non-magnetic material with heat-insulating properties. The materials forming the slot support member 51 and the head retaining member 52 can be the same or different. As described above, the head retaining member 52 is screwed to the slot support member 51 using a screw member SC1. Therefore, the slot support member 51 and the head retaining member 52 are preferably formed of materials that are easy to thread. Examples of heat-insulating, non-magnetic materials that are easy to thread are resin materials such as bakelite. Among resin materials, black bakelite, especially, improves the aesthetics of the cooking sink heater 1.

[0027] The heating head 6 is formed of a non-magnetic material with high thermal conductivity. Copper is an example of a non-magnetic material with high thermal conductivity. In addition, a nickel-plated protective layer is formed on the surface of the heating head 6 for rust prevention.

[0028] The heating head 6 is a component configured such that its heating surface 611, which is its upper end face, protrudes outward from the heat insulation member 5 and upward from the heat insulation member 5. That is, the heating head 6 is surrounded by the heat insulation member 5 from the side, and the heating surface 611 of the heating head 6 is located on the upper side compared to the heat insulation member 5. In other words, a portion of the side of the heating head 6 is surrounded by the heat insulation member 5. When viewed from above, the heating head 6 is positioned inside the annular induction heating coil 4. The heating surface 611 of the heating head 6 protrudes from the heat insulation member 5, thereby contacting the center of the bottom CT11 of the cooking tank CT from the outside of the cooking tank CT. The heating head 6 receives heat from the cooking tank CT through contact with the cooking tank CT via the heating surface 611.

[0029] Specifically, the heating head 6 protrudes upward from the head retaining member 52 (heat insulation member 5) while being fitted into the fitting hole 523 of the head retaining member 52 installed on the tank support member 51. With the heating head 6 fitted into the fitting hole 523 of the head retaining member 52, the heating surface 611 protrudes from the upper surfaces of the tank support member 51 and the head retaining member 52, thereby contacting the center of the bottom CT11 of the cooking tank CT from the outside of the cooking tank CT.

[0030] Here, the cooking basin CT used in the heating cooker 1 has an uneven outer surface at the bottom CT11 and a cooking basin with a slight depression in the center (see reference). Figure 2 Therefore, the protrusion of the heating surface 611 of the heating head 6 from the upper surface of the tank support member 51 is set to be greater than the indentation of the central portion of the bottom CT11. Accordingly, the heating surface 611 of the heating head 6 reliably contacts the central portion of the bottom CT11 of the cooking tank CT.

[0031] Furthermore, the heating head 6 is configured such that the area of ​​the heating surface 611 is larger than the area of ​​the lower end surface 621. In other words, in the heating head 6, the area of ​​the lower end surface 621 is smaller than the area of ​​the heating surface 611. Specifically, the heating head 6 includes: a heating portion 61 (upper end) having a heating surface 611 extending in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (horizontal direction); and an extension portion 62 (lower end) having a lower end surface 621 and extending downward from the heating portion 61. When the heating head 6 is fitted into the fitting hole 523 of the head holding member 52, the lower end surface 621 of the extension portion 62 is a downward-facing surface and faces the lower opening of the fitting hole 523. In the heating head 6, the perimeter of the extension portion 62 is shorter than the perimeter of the heating portion 61. In the heating head 6, the area of ​​the heating surface 611 is set to, for example, 5 to 10 times the area of ​​the lower end surface 621. Figure 2In the example shown, the heating head 6 includes a heating portion 61 and an extension 62 extending downward from the center of the lower surface of the heating portion 61. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the heating head 6 is T-shaped. In this case, the perimeter of the extension 62 is constant throughout the vertical region from the connection point between the extension 62 and the heating portion 61 to the lower end face 621. The perimeter of the extension 62 is shorter than the perimeter of the heating portion 61 throughout the entire region of the extension 62.

[0032] The heating head 6 can be any structure that includes a heating portion 61 and an extension portion 62, and is not limited to a structure with a T-shaped longitudinal section. The heating head 6 can be formed in, for example... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The shape shown. In Figure 3 In the longitudinal section shape of the heated head 6 involved in the first modified example shown, the outline of the extension 62 is a curve that bends inward from the lower outer periphery of the heated portion 61 toward the bottom. Figure 4 In the longitudinal section shape of the heated head 6 involved in the second modified example shown, the outline of the extension 62 is an inclined line that slopes inward from the lower outer periphery of the heated portion 61 toward the bottom. In either the first or second modified example, the perimeter of the extension 62 decreases toward the bottom and is shorter than the perimeter of the heated portion 61 over the entire area of ​​the extension 62.

[0033] like Figure 2 As shown, with the heated head 6 fitted into the fitting hole 523 of the head retaining member 52, the gap between the heated portion 61 and the head retaining member 52 is sealed by the second waterproof sealing member 54. Furthermore, the extension portion 62 of the heated head 6 is pushed horizontally by the fixing bolt SC2 inserted into the cylindrical portion 521 of the head retaining member 52. Accordingly, the heated head 6 is fixed to the head retaining member 52 while fitted into the fitting hole 523.

[0034] Furthermore, the heated head 6 has a recess 63 extending vertically from the lower end face 621 of the extension 62 to the vicinity of the heated surface 611 of the heated portion 61. The temperature detection portions 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 are housed in this recess 63.

[0035] Temperature sensor 7 is a sensor that detects the temperature of the heated head 6. Temperature sensor 7 includes a first thermocouple 71 and a second thermocouple 72.

[0036] The first thermocouple 71 has a first thermocouple wire 711 and a first temperature sensing unit 712. The first thermocouple wire 711 is inserted into the recess 63 of the heated head 6 such that the first temperature sensing unit 712 of the first thermocouple 71 is disposed within the heated portion 61. The first thermocouple wire 711 has one (or more) pairs of wires formed of different types of metals. The first thermocouple wire 711 generates a thermoelectric potential in response to the temperature detected by the first temperature sensing unit 712. The temperature of the heated head 6 can be detected by the first thermocouple 71 based on the thermoelectric potential generated by the first thermocouple wire 711. The detection result of the first thermocouple 71 is input to the controller 12 (described later) and referenced when controlling the high-frequency current supplied to the induction heating coil 4.

[0037] The second thermocouple 72 has a second thermocouple wire 721 and a second temperature sensing part 722. The second thermocouple wire 721 is inserted into the recess 63 of the heated head 6 such that the second temperature sensing part 722 of the second thermocouple 72 is disposed within the heated part 61. The second thermocouple 72 is constructed in the same manner as the first thermocouple 71, therefore a detailed description thereof is omitted. The second thermocouple 72 can detect the temperature of the heated head 6 based on the thermoelectric potential generated by the second thermocouple wire 721. The detection result of the first thermocouple 71 is used for the control of the induction heating coil 4, while the detection result of the second thermocouple 72 is used to detect excessive heating of the cooking tank CT.

[0038] In addition, in the following description, the first thermocouple 71 and the second thermocouple 72 are sometimes collectively referred to as "temperature sensor 7". Furthermore, the first temperature detection section 712 of the first thermocouple 71 and the second temperature detection section 722 of the second thermocouple 72 are sometimes collectively referred to as "temperature detection sections 712 and 722 of temperature sensor 7".

[0039] As explained above, in the cooking tank heater 1A applicable to the heating cooker 1 according to the first embodiment, the heat of the cooking tank CT induced by the induction heating coil 4 is received by the heating head 6, and the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 detect the temperature of the heating head 6.

[0040] The heating head 6 is configured such that its heating surface 611 protrudes upward from the heat insulation member 5 (sink support member 51 and head holding member 52). Since the heating surface 611 protrudes upward from the heat insulation member 5 and is located on the upper side relative to the heat insulation member 5, a situation where the heating surface 611 cannot easily contact the cooking sink CT due to its relationship with the heat insulation member 5 can be avoided. Furthermore, since the heating head 6 protrudes from the interior of the heat insulation member 5, the heat insulation member 5 surrounds a portion of the side surface of the heating head 6. That is, the heat insulation member 5 is arranged around the side surface of the heating head 6. Therefore, when the heating surface 611 of the heating head 6 contacts the center portion of the bottom CT11 of the cooking sink CT, the movement of heat from the cooking sink CT to the area surrounding the side surface of the heating head 6 is suppressed by the heat insulation member 5. Accordingly, in the heating head 6, the heat from the cooking sink CT received from the heating surface 611 is accumulated in a state where heat loss is suppressed. Furthermore, since the area of ​​the lower end face 621 is smaller than the area of ​​the heating surface 611 that contacts the cooking tank CT, the heating head 6 is less susceptible to heat effects other than those from the cooking tank CT. That is, in the heating head 6, because the area of ​​the heating surface 611 is larger than the area of ​​the lower end face 621, the heat absorption of the cooking tank CT from the heating surface 611 can be improved, and the effects of heat interference (cooling or heating) from the lower end face 621 can be reduced. Moreover, the heating head 6 is positioned inside the induction heating coil 4 when viewed from above. That is, the heating head 6 is not in a facing position relative to the induction heating coil 4 in the vertical direction. Therefore, in the heating head 6, self-heating caused by eddy currents induced by the induction heating coil 4 is suppressed.

[0041] In the heating head 6, the self-heating of the induction heating coil 4 is suppressed, and the heat received from the heating surface 611 in the cooking tank CT is accumulated while heat loss is suppressed. Therefore, the temperature difference between the temperature of the heating head 6 and the temperature inside the cooking tank CT can be minimized. In particular, the temperature difference can be suppressed during the transition period of temperature change as the cooking tank CT heats up. Therefore, the temperature detection of the heating head 6 by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensors 7 can accurately detect the temperature inside the cooking tank CT, allowing for a more accurate understanding of the temperature inside the cooking tank CT. The temperature detection results of the heating head 6 detected by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensors 7 become values ​​that accurately represent the temperature inside the cooking tank CT.

[0042] Furthermore, since the perimeter of the extension 62 in the heating head 6 is shorter than that of the heating portion 61, the heat influence received by the extension 62 from its surroundings can be reduced. Therefore, the temperature of the heating portion 61 can be made closer to the temperature of the cooking tank CT. Consequently, the temperature detected by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 disposed within the recess 63 of the heating head 6 in the heating portion 61 becomes a value closer to the temperature of the cooking tank CT.

[0043] Furthermore, the through hole 511 of the tank support member 51 on which the cooking tank CT is mounted is blocked by the mounting head retaining member 52, and the fitting hole 523 of the mounting head retaining member 52 is blocked by the fitting of the heating head 6. Therefore, in the event of liquid or the like overflowing from the cooking tank CT onto the tank support member 51, the flow of such liquid downwards through the through hole 511 and the fitting hole 523 can be prevented. Accordingly, the contact of liquid with the induction heating coil 4 and the controller 12, etc., disposed below the tank support member 51 and the mounting head retaining member 52, can be prevented.

[0044] Furthermore, the head holding member 52 can be detached from the slot support member 51 when the heated head 6 is engaged in the engagement hole 523. With the head holding member 52 detached from the slot support member 51, the temperature detection parts 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 are exposed through the through hole 511 of the slot support member 51. This allows for maintenance of the temperature sensor 7.

[0045] Furthermore, the portion of the head retaining member 52 that surrounds the heating head 6 can support the heating part 61 of the heating head 6 from below, thus preventing the heating head 6, which bears the weight of the cooking tank CT, from falling off the head retaining member 52.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooking tank heater 1A applicable to the heating cooker 1 according to the first embodiment also includes a first blocking member 8, a second blocking member 9, a sealing plug 10, a blower 11, and a controller 12.

[0047] A blower 11 is disposed within the main frame 2. The blower 11 draws in air from the outside of the main frame 2 (external air) and blows the drawn external air to the induction heating coil 4. The external air blown from the blower 11 cools the induction heating coil 4, which is supported by the coil support member 41, from below.

[0048] The first blocking member 8 is a ring-shaped member formed of a non-magnetic material such as silicone sponge that has heat insulation and elasticity. The first blocking member 8 is positioned on the inner side relative to the inner periphery of the induction heating coil 4, sandwiched between the coil support member 41 and the slot support member 51. The first blocking member 8 blocks the space between the induction heating coil 4 and the heating head 6.

[0049] The second blocking member 9, like the first blocking member 8, is a ring-shaped member formed of a non-magnetic material such as silicone sponge that has heat insulation and elasticity. The second blocking member 9 is positioned on the outer side relative to the outer periphery of the induction heating coil 4, sandwiched between the coil support member 41 and the slot support member 51.

[0050] The first blocking member 8 and the second blocking member 9 suppress the flow of external air blown from the blower 11 into the heated head 6. Accordingly, the situation where the heated head 6 is cooled by the external air blown from the blower 11 can be prevented.

[0051] As a result, the temperature difference between the heating head 6 and the cooking tank CT can be suppressed from increasing due to the external air blown from the blower 11.

[0052] The sealing plug 10 is a sealing member made of a non-magnetic material such as silicone rubber that has heat insulation and elasticity. The sealing plug 10 is arranged to abut against the lower end face 621 of the heated head 6 from below (see reference). Figure 2 The sealing plug 10 holds the first thermocouple wire 711 and the second thermocouple wire 721 inserted into the recess 63 of the heating head 6. Furthermore, the sealing plug 10 blocks the opening of the recess 63, isolating the space within the recess 63 from the outside. Therefore, the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 housed within the recess 63 are less susceptible to the influence of outside air temperature. Consequently, the temperature detected by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 on the heating head 6 is closer to the temperature of the cooking bath CT.

[0053] The controller 12 is housed within the internal frame 3. The controller 12 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing control programs, and RAM (Random Access Memory) used as the CPU's operating area.

[0054] The controller 12 is input with the cooking conditions for cooking food using the cooking bath heater 1A, and with the detection results of the first thermocouple 71 and the second thermocouple 72 constituting the temperature sensor 7. The cooking conditions include the temperature change pattern from the start of cooking to the end of cooking.

[0055] The controller 12 executes a control program stored in the ROM via the CPU, thereby controlling the induction heating coil 4 according to the cooking conditions. Specifically, the controller 12 controls the high-frequency current supply to the induction heating coil 4 based on the detection results of the first thermocouple 71. As mentioned earlier, the detection results of the temperature of the heated head 6 detected by the first thermocouple 71 accurately represent the temperature of the cooking tank CT. Therefore, the controller 12 can both accurately grasp the temperature of the cooking tank CT and control the high-frequency current supply to the induction heating coil 4.

[0056] When the cooking tank CT in the cooking tank heater 1A is in an overheating state during heating and cooking, if the cooking tank CT is in a dry-burning state, the temperature of the cooking tank CT will rise excessively. At this time, the controller 12 detects the overheating of the cooking tank CT based on the detection result of the second thermocouple 72 and stops supplying high-frequency current to the induction heating coil 4. Accordingly, safety can be ensured even if the cooking tank CT is in a dry-burning state.

[0057] (First variation of the first embodiment)

[0058] The structure of the cooking tank heater applicable to the heating cooker 1 according to the first embodiment is not limited to the structure of the cooking tank heater 1A. Figure 5 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view near the heating head 6 in a first variation of a cooking tank heater 1A suitable for heating cooker 1. In the cooking tank heater 1A involved in the first variation, the positional relationship between the head holding member 52 mounted on the tank support member 51 and the heating head 6 is different from that in the cooking tank heater 1A described above.

[0059] like Figure 5 As shown, in the cooking tank heater 1A according to the first modified example, the cylindrical portion 521 is inserted through the through hole 511, and the flange portion 522 is mounted on the stepped portion 512, thereby the head retaining member 52 is mounted on the tank support member 51. With the head retaining member 52 mounted on the tank support member 51, the upper surface of the flange portion 522 protrudes upward relative to the upper surface of the tank support member 51.

[0060] The heated head 6 is fitted into the fitting hole 523 of the head retaining member 52 mounted on the slot support member 51. With the heated head 6 fitted into the fitting hole 523, the heated surface 611 is exposed outward from the head retaining member 52 while being on the same plane as the upper surface of the flange portion 522. In other words, the entire side of the heated head 6 is surrounded by the head retaining member 52, which serves as a heat insulation member 5.

[0061] exist Figure 5 In the cooking tank heater 1A of the first modified example shown, the self-heating of the induction heating coil 4 in the heating head 6 is suppressed, and the heat received from the heating surface 611 in the cooking tank CT is accumulated under the condition that heat loss is suppressed. Therefore, the temperature difference between the temperature of the heating head 6 and the temperature inside the cooking tank CT can be minimized as much as possible. As a result, the temperature detection of the heating head 6 by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensors 7 can accurately detect the temperature inside the cooking tank CT, and the temperature inside the cooking tank CT can be more accurately controlled.

[0062] (Second variation of the first embodiment)

[0063] Figure 6 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view near the heated head 6 in a second variation of a cooking tank heater 1A suitable for heating cooker 1. In the second variation of the cooking tank heater 1A, the structure of the head holding member 52 mounted on the tank support member 51 differs from that of the cooking tank heater 1A described above.

[0064] like Figure 6 As shown, in the cooking tank heater 1A according to the second modification, the cylindrical portion 521 is inserted through the through hole 511, and the flange portion 522 is mounted on the stepped portion 512, thereby mounting the head retaining member 52 to the tank support member 51. The upper surface of the flange portion 522 of the head retaining member 52 is in the same plane as the upper surface of the tank support member 51. Furthermore, the cylindrical portion 521 of the head retaining member 52 has an annular protrusion 5221. The protrusion 5221 is connected to the upper surface of the flange portion 522, and in the region along the upper edge of the fitting hole 523, it protrudes upward relative to the upper surface of the tank support member 51.

[0065] The heated head 6 is fitted into the fitting hole 523 of the head retaining member 52 mounted on the slot support member 51. With the heated head 6 fitted into the fitting hole 523, the heated surface 611 is exposed outward from the head retaining member 52 while being on the same plane as the upper surface of the protrusion 5221. That is, the entire side of the heated head 6 is surrounded by the head retaining member 52, which serves as a heat insulation member 5.

[0066] exist Figure 6 In the second modified example of the cooking tank heater 1A shown, the self-heating of the induction heating coil 4 in the heating head 6 is suppressed, and the heat received from the heating surface 611 in the cooking tank CT is accumulated under conditions where heat loss is suppressed. Therefore, the temperature difference between the temperature of the heating head 6 and the temperature inside the cooking tank CT can be minimized as much as possible. As a result, the temperature detection of the heating head 6 by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensors 7 can accurately detect the temperature inside the cooking tank CT, and the temperature inside the cooking tank CT can be more accurately controlled.

[0067] (Second Implementation)

[0068] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the overall structure of the heating cooker 1 of the cooking tank heater 1A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Here, the constituent elements that are different from those in the first embodiment will be described, and the description of other constituent elements will be omitted.

[0069] In the cooking tank heater 1A according to the second embodiment, the shape of the tank support member 51 differs from that in the first embodiment. For example... Figure 7As shown, the trough support member 51 of the second embodiment is formed in a shape that covers the entire outer peripheral surface of the cooking trough CT.

[0070] Furthermore, the cooking tank heater 1A according to the second embodiment, in addition to the induction heating coil 4 that induction heats the bottom CT11 of the cooking tank CT, also includes a side heating coil 4A that induction heats the sides of the cooking tank CT. The side heating coil 4A is supported by a side coil support member 4A1 disposed on a side extension frame 31 extending from the inner frame 3. The side heating coil 4A induction heats the sides of the cooking tank CT by being supplied with a high-frequency current.

[0071] In the cooking tank heater 1A according to the second embodiment, the heat of the cooking tank CT, which is induced and heated by the induction heating coil 4 and the side heating coil 4A, is received by the heating head 6, which contacts the central part of the bottom CT11 of the cooking tank CT. The temperature of the heating head 6 is detected by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7.

[0072] In the second embodiment of the cooking tank heater 1A, similarly to the first embodiment, the heat received from the heating surface 611 in the heating head 6 is stored in the cooking tank CT while heat loss is suppressed. Therefore, the temperature difference between the heating head 6 and the cooking tank CT can be minimized. Thus, the temperature detection of the heating head 6 by the temperature detection units 712 and 722 of the temperature sensors 7 can accurately detect the temperature inside the cooking tank CT, allowing for more precise control of the temperature inside the cooking tank CT.

[0073] The above describes the cooking tank heater 1A and the heating cooker 1 according to the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the following modified embodiments may be adopted, for example.

[0074] In the described embodiment, the heat insulation member 5 is described as comprising a separate slot support member 51 and a head retaining member 52, but it is not limited to this structure. The slot support member 51 and the head retaining member 52 may also be integrally formed. In this structure, the heat insulation member 5 does not have a hole corresponding to the through hole 511 of the slot support member 51, and the slot support member 51 and the head retaining member 52 are integrally connected. Furthermore, the heat insulation member 5 is a structure with a predetermined hole corresponding to the fitting hole 523 of the head retaining member 52. In this case, the heated head 6 is fitted into the predetermined hole in the integrally formed heat insulation member 5.

[0075] In the described embodiment, an example is given where the sink support member 51 and the head retaining member 52 are formed of a non-magnetic material with heat insulation properties, but this structure is not limited to this. For example, the sink support member 51 may also be formed of a non-magnetic material without heat insulation properties when the head retaining member 52 is approximately the same size as the bottom CT11 of the cooking sink CT or when the head retaining member 52 is larger than the bottom CT11 of the cooking sink CT.

[0076] In the described embodiment, a structure is presented in which the perimeter of the extension 62 is shorter than the perimeter of the heated portion 61 over the entire area of ​​the extension 62, but this structure is not limited to this. In a structure in which the side of the heated head 6 is surrounded by a head-holding member 52 serving as a heat insulation member 5, the extension 62 is formed such that at least the lowermost portion (the portion defining the lower end face 621) facing the lower opening of the fitting hole 523 of the head-holding member 52 has a perimeter shorter than the perimeter of the heated portion 61. That is, the perimeter of the extension 62 may also be longer than the perimeter of the heated portion 61 in the middle portion from the connection point between the extension 62 and the heated portion 61 to the lowermost portion. In this structure, since the head-holding member 52 serving as a heat insulation member 5 is also arranged around the side of the heated head 6, the thermal influence received by the extension 62 from the surroundings can be reduced.

[0077] In the described embodiment, a structure in which the heated head 6 is fixed to the head holding member 52 is presented, but the embodiment is not limited to this structure. The heated head 6 may also be configured to be able to move vertically by means of the elastic force of the elastic member.

[0078] In the described embodiment, the temperature detection portions 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 are arranged within the recess 63 of the heated head 6 and within the heated portion 61, but this structure is not limited to this. The recess 63 of the heated head 6 may also be formed in the range from the lower end face 621 to the extension 62. In this case, the temperature detection portions 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 are arranged in both the recess 63 and the extension 62 of the heated head 6. Furthermore, in the structure where the recess 63 of the heated head 6 is formed in the range from the lower end face 621 to the heated portion 61, the temperature detection portions 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 may also be arranged in the recess 63 and within the extension 62 of the heated head 6.

[0079] Furthermore, the temperature detection parts 712 and 722 of the temperature sensor 7 can also be installed on the outer surface of the heated head 6. In this case, the heated head 6 may not have the recess 63.

[0080] In the described embodiment, the cooking tank heater 1A is described as having a structure that includes a first blocking member 8 that blocks the induction heating coil 4 and the heating head 6, but it is not limited to this structure. The first blocking member 8 may be omitted as long as the heating head 6 is configured to be less susceptible to the influence of external air blown from the blower 11. Furthermore, the second blocking member 9 may also be omitted.

[0081] Furthermore, the implementation method is summarized as follows.

[0082] The cooking tank heater described in the embodiment is used to heat a cooking tank. The cooking tank heater includes: an annular induction heating coil for induction heating of the cooking tank; a heating head including an upper end portion and a lower end portion with a circumference shorter than the circumference of the upper end portion, the upper end portion having an upper surface for receiving heat from the cooking tank when in contact with it; a temperature detection unit for detecting the temperature of the heating head; and a heat insulation member disposed above the induction heating coil and surrounding at least a portion of the side surface of the heating head. The upper surface of the heating head protrudes outward from the heat insulation member, and when viewed from above, the heating head is disposed inside the inner circumference of the induction heating coil.

[0083] According to this cooking tank heater, since the upper end face of the heating head is exposed outward from the heat insulation member, the upper end face of the heating head contacts the cooking tank. Furthermore, the heat insulation member surrounds at least a portion of the side surface of the heating head. That is, a heat insulation member is arranged around the side surface of the heating head. Therefore, when the upper end face of the heating head contacts the cooking tank, the movement of heat from the cooking tank to the area surrounding the side surface of the heating head is suppressed by the heat insulation member. Accordingly, in the heating head, the heat from the cooking tank received from the heating surface is accumulated with heat loss suppressed. Moreover, the circumference of the lower end is shorter than the circumference of the upper end having the upper end face in contact with the cooking tank, therefore, the heating head is less susceptible to heat effects other than those from the cooking tank. In other words, in the heating head, since the circumference of the upper end is longer than the circumference of the lower end, the heat absorption of the cooking tank from the upper end face can be improved, and the influence of heat interference from the lower end can be reduced. Furthermore, when viewed from above, the heating head is positioned inside the induction heating coil. That is, the heating head and the induction heating coil are not positioned vertically opposite each other. Therefore, the heating head becomes a structure that suppresses self-heating caused by eddy currents induced by the induction heating coil.

[0084] By incorporating these features, the temperature difference between the cooking tank and the heating head can be minimized. In particular, the aforementioned temperature difference can be suppressed during the transition period of temperature change in the cooking tank. Therefore, by detecting the temperature of the heating head through the temperature detection unit, the temperature of the cooking tank can be accurately detected, allowing for more precise control of the temperature inside the cooking tank.

[0085] In the cooking tank heater, the upper end face of the heating head may also be located on the upper side relative to the heat insulation member.

[0086] In this structure, since the upper surface of the heating head is located on the upper side relative to the heat insulation member, the situation where the upper surface of the heating head cannot contact the cooking tank due to its relationship with the heat insulation member can be avoided.

[0087] In the cooking tank heater described above, the temperature detection unit may be arranged at the upper end, and the lower end extends downward from the upper end.

[0088] In this structure, the circumference of the lower end extending downwards from the upper end is shorter than the circumference of the upper end where the temperature sensing unit is located. Therefore, the lower end receives less heat from its surroundings. Consequently, the temperature of the upper end can be made closer to the temperature of the cooking tank. Therefore, the temperature detected by the heating head from the temperature sensing unit located at the upper end is closer to the temperature of the cooking tank.

[0089] The cooking tank heater may also include a blocking component that blocks the space between the induction heating coil and the heating head.

[0090] For example, sometimes external air is blown onto the induction heating coil to cool it. In this case, a blocking member prevents the external air blown onto the induction heating coil from contacting the heating head and flowing out. Accordingly, the cooling of the heating head due to the external air blown onto the induction heating coil can be prevented. As a result, the increase in the temperature difference between the heating head and the cooking tank due to the external air blown onto the induction heating coil can be prevented.

[0091] In the cooking tank heater described above, the heating head may have a recess for accommodating the temperature sensing part, and the cooking tank heater may also include a sealing member that blocks the recess.

[0092] In this structure, the recess of the heating head is blocked by a sealing member. This isolates the space within the recess from the outside. Consequently, the temperature sensing unit housed within the recess is less affected by the outside air temperature, and the temperature detected by the temperature sensing unit of the heating head is closer to the temperature of the cooking tub.

[0093] In the cooking tank heater described above, the heat insulation member may also include: a tank support member having a through hole for supporting the cooking tank from below; and a head retaining member mounted on the tank support member to block the through hole, having a fitting hole for fitting the heated head.

[0094] In this structure, the heating head is fixed by fitting into a fitting hole in a head retaining member mounted on a slot support member in a manner that blocks the through hole. Accordingly, the heating head is surrounded from the side by the slot support member and the head retaining member, which constitute a heat insulation element. That is, a head retaining member is arranged around the side of the heating head, and a slot support member is arranged around the side of the head retaining member. Therefore, when the upper end face of the heating head abuts against the cooking tank, the movement of heat from the cooking tank to the area surrounding the side of the heating head is suppressed by the slot support member and the head retaining mechanism, which constitute a heat insulation element.

[0095] Furthermore, the through hole of the tank support member supporting the cooking tank from below is blocked by the mounting head retaining member, and the fitting hole of the mounting head retaining member is blocked by the fitting of the heating head. Therefore, in the event of liquid or the like overflowing from the cooking tank onto the tank support member, the flow of such liquid downwards through the through hole and the fitting hole can be prevented. Accordingly, the contact of liquid with the induction heating coil disposed below the tank support member and the mounting head retaining member can be prevented.

[0096] The heating cooker described in the embodiments includes a cooking tank and a cooking tank heater.

Claims

1. A cooking tank heater for heating a cooking tank, characterized in that... include: A ring-shaped induction heating coil is used to induction heat the cooking tank; A heating head includes an upper end portion and a lower end portion with a circumference shorter than that of the upper end portion, the upper end portion having an upper surface that receives heat from the cooking tank when in contact with the cooking tank; The temperature detection unit detects the temperature of the heated head; as well as, A heat insulation element is disposed on the upper side relative to the induction heating coil and surrounds at least a portion of the side of the heated head, wherein, The heat insulation component includes: The trough support member has a through hole running vertically through the cooking trough, which can support the cooking trough from below; as well as, A head retaining member is separately constructed from the slot support member and is mounted on the slot support member by blocking the through hole. The head retaining member has a cylindrical portion with a fitting hole for the heated head to fit into. The head retaining member is installed in the slot support member by inserting the cylindrical portion through the through hole. With the heated head engaged in the engagement hole, its upper end face protrudes upward from the head holding member, and when viewed from above, the heated head is positioned inside the inner periphery of the induction heating coil. The heated head has a recess for accommodating the temperature sensing part. The head retaining member can be detached from the slot support member when the heated head is engaged in the engagement hole. If the head holding member with the heated head fitted is removed from the groove support member, the temperature sensing part that was once housed in the recess is exposed from the through hole of the groove support member.

2. The cooking tank heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper end face of the heated head is located on the upper side relative to the heat insulation element.

3. The cooking tank heater according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The temperature detection unit is disposed at the upper end. The lower end extends downward from the upper end.

4. The cooking tank heater according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... Also includes: A blocking component blocks the space between the induction heating coil and the heating head.

5. The cooking tank heater according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cooking tank heater also includes a sealing member that blocks the recess.

6. A heating cooker, characterized in that... include: Cooking tub; as well as, The cooking tank heater according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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