Cooking equipment

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a cooking apparatus. The cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a cavity in which a cooking chamber is defined; a heater unit configured to generate heat to be supplied to the cooking chamber; a housing covering at least a portion of the cavity to define a space between the cavity and the housing; and a gas sensing module installed in a space between the cavity and the housing and configured to sense a gas generated in the cooking chamber, in which the cavity further includes an exhaust portion for discharging the gas in the cooking chamber to an outside of the cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following description relates to a cooking device, and more specifically to a cooking device that includes a gas sensor. Background Technology

[0002] Various products, such as microwave ovens, ovens, and stoves, are widely used as cooking equipment.

[0003] Microwave ovens heat food by emitting microwaves generated by a magnetron into a sealed cooking chamber, causing water molecules in the food placed in the cooking chamber to vibrate, while ovens heat food placed in a cooking chamber by heating the sealed cooking chamber with a heater.

[0004] As cooking equipment becomes more versatile, the development of cooking equipment is underway, in which a single cooking device performs two or more functions that are performed individually by two or more existing cooking devices.

[0005] A lightwave oven is being developed in which an optical heater configured to emit light and radiant heat is used as a heater to heat food, and the oven is turned on after the food is placed on a shelf with an exposed top, allowing the food to absorb light and radiant heat.

[0006] To make things easier for users, when food is placed in the oven's cooking chamber, the imaging module captures an image of the food, and the oven determines the type, weight, and location of the food based on the captured image, and then automatically cooks it using methods suitable for the food.

[0007] A gas sensor is used to detect gases generated in a cooking chamber, but accurate gas measurement is difficult to achieve due to the oil mist contained in the gas being measured. Furthermore, the high temperature of the cooking equipment leads to reliability issues for the gas sensor.

[0008] Specifically, European Patent No. EP 2741011 A1 (Related Art 1) discloses a control method using a sensor array (oxygen sensor, nitrogen sensor, humidity sensor, and temperature sensor) disposed in a cooking chamber. The method includes: determining whether cooking is complete by recording a signal curve to determine the remaining cooking time, and storing the curve information in a memory.

[0009] However, in related technology 1, cooking time and cooking state are determined by direct measurement using various types of sensors installed in the cooking chamber. However, the molecular weight of odor molecules is different, making it difficult to improve the accuracy of the measurement if it is taken at one location. Furthermore, it is difficult to keep the temperature of the sensor within an allowable range, which leads to problems with the reliability of the sensor.

[0010] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0153892 (Related Technology 2) discloses a method for determining the overcooking state of food using a CO sensor, wherein the method measures gases emitted from a pipe for application to an oven. However, in Related Technology 2, accurate measurement is difficult to achieve due to water vapor and oil mist introduced into the CO sensor, and the reliability of the sensor cannot be guaranteed due to the high temperature.

[0011] Existing technical documents

[0012] Patent documents

[0013] Patent Document 1: EP 2741011 A1

[0014] Patent Document 2: Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0153892 Summary of the Invention

[0015] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a cooking apparatus that prevents malfunction of the gas sensor module when the temperature of the gas sensor module rises above an allowable temperature due to heat generated during the heating of food.

[0016] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a cooking device that can perform accurate gas sensing by removing oil mist from gases generated in the cooking chamber.

[0017] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a cooking device in which the oil mist remover and gas sensor unit have a chamber structure, allowing the oil mist remover to be easily separated and cleaned by simply separating the cover.

[0018] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a cooking apparatus that can prevent malfunctions of the imaging module when it is heated by heat generated during the heating of food.

[0019] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a cooking apparatus that can cool the imaging module and the gas sensor module by sharing a blower fan configured to cool electrical or electronic components, without using a fan that directly cools the imaging module.

[0020] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a cooking apparatus that can analyze images of food and detect the weight of the food in order to automatically cook it using a method suitable for the type and weight of the food.

[0021] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the foregoing, and other purposes not described herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description.

[0022] To achieve the above objectives, the cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized in that a gas sensing module configured to sense the gas generated in the cooking chamber is disposed at the outer portion of the cavity in which the cooking chamber is formed.

[0023] Specifically, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the above and other objectives can be achieved by providing a cooking apparatus comprising: a cavity defining a cooking chamber therein; a heater unit configured to generate heat to be supplied to the cooking chamber; a housing covering at least a portion of the cavity to define a space between the cavity and the housing; and a gas sensing module mounted in the space between the cavity and the housing and configured to sense gas generated in the cooking chamber, wherein the cavity further includes an exhaust portion for discharging the gas in the cooking chamber to the outside of the cavity.

[0024] The space between the cavity and the outer shell may include: an upper flow space between the upper surface of the cavity and the outer shell; a rear flow space between the rear surface of the cavity and the outer shell; and a lateral flow space between the lateral surface of the cavity and the outer shell.

[0025] The gas sensing module can be placed in the lateral flow space.

[0026] The housing may also include a substrate disposed in the lower part of the cavity, wherein the gas sensing module may be coupled to the upper surface of the substrate.

[0027] The gas sensing module can be placed in the upper flow space.

[0028] The gas sensing module can be attached to the upper surface of the cavity.

[0029] The gas sensing module may include: an oil mist remover configured to filter oil mist contained in the gas emitted from the exhaust section; and a gas sensor unit configured to detect the type and concentration of the gas emitted from the oil mist remover.

[0030] The oil mist remover can be vertically overlapped with the exhaust section.

[0031] The oil mist remover may include: an oil mist removal chamber defining a gas flow space in which gas discharged from the exhaust portion flows, and the oil mist removal chamber including a plurality of partition walls that reduce the velocity and temperature of the gas flowing in the oil mist removal chamber; a first gas inlet through which gas discharged from the exhaust portion flows into the oil mist removal chamber; and a first gas outlet through which the gas is discharged after the oil mist has been filtered from the gas in the oil mist removal chamber.

[0032] The oil mist removal chamber may include: an oil mist chamber body having an opening formed in an upper portion, defining a gas flow space in the oil mist chamber body, and having a first gas outlet formed in one side of the oil mist chamber body; and an oil mist chamber cover covering the opening of the oil mist chamber body, wherein the first gas inlet may be formed in the oil mist chamber cover.

[0033] The first gas inlet can vertically overlap with the exhaust section.

[0034] The exhaust section can be located above the oil mist remover.

[0035] The exhaust section may have a pipe protruding from the transverse surface of the cavity.

[0036] The gas sensor unit may include: a sensing chamber defining a sensing space in which gas discharged from the oil mist remover flows; a second gas inlet through which gas discharged from the oil mist remover flows into the sensing chamber; a second gas outlet through which gas in the sensing chamber is discharged; and a gas sensor installed in the sensing space and configured to sense the gas flowing in the sensing space.

[0037] The sensing chamber may include: a sensing chamber body having an opening formed in an upper portion, defining the sensing space in the sensing chamber body, and having a first gas outlet formed on one side of the sensing chamber body and a second gas outlet formed on the opposite side of the sensing chamber body; and a sensing chamber cover covering the opening of the sensing chamber body.

[0038] The gas sensing module may also include an air pump configured to pump and supply gas from the oil mist remover.

[0039] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the above and other objectives can be achieved by providing a cooking apparatus comprising: a cavity defining a cooking chamber therein; a heater unit configured to generate heat to be supplied to the cooking chamber; and a gas sensing module configured to sense gases generated in the cooking chamber, wherein the gas sensing module includes: an oil mist remover configured to filter oil mist contained in gases emitted from the cooking chamber; a gas sensor unit configured to detect the type and concentration of gases emitted from the oil mist remover; and an air pump configured to pump and supply the gases emitted from the oil mist remover.

[0040] The oil mist remover may include: an oil mist removal chamber defining a gas flow space in which gas emitted from the cooking chamber flows, and the oil mist removal chamber including a plurality of partition walls that reduce the velocity and temperature of the gas flowing in the oil mist removal chamber; a first gas inlet through which gas emitted from the cooking chamber flows into the oil mist removal chamber; and a first gas outlet through which the gas is discharged after the oil mist has been filtered from the gas in the oil mist removal chamber.

[0041] The oil mist removal chamber may include: an oil mist chamber body having an opening formed in an upper portion, defining a gas flow space in the oil mist chamber body, and having a first gas outlet formed in one side of the oil mist chamber body; and an oil mist chamber cover covering the opening of the oil mist chamber body, wherein the first gas inlet may be formed in the oil mist chamber cover.

[0042] The gas sensor unit may include: a sensing chamber defining a sensing space in which gas discharged from the oil mist remover flows; a second gas inlet through which gas discharged from the oil mist remover flows into the sensing chamber; a second gas outlet through which gas in the sensing chamber is discharged; and a gas sensor installed in the sensing space and configured to sense the gas flowing in the sensing space.

[0043] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the above and other objectives can be achieved by providing a cooking apparatus comprising: a cavity defining a cooking chamber therein; a heater unit configured to generate heat to be supplied to the cooking chamber; and a housing covering at least a portion of the cavity to define a space between the cavity and the housing, wherein the cavity further comprises an exhaust portion and a gas sensing module, the exhaust portion being used to exhaust gas from the cooking chamber into the space between the cavity and the housing, and the gas sensing module being mounted in the space between the cavity and the housing and configured to sense gas emitted from the exhaust portion. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The front view of the cooking equipment shown.

[0046] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 The image shows the cooking equipment with the door open.

[0047] Figure 4 It is when viewed from the rear that the outer shell has been removed. Figure 1 A 3D view of the cooking equipment.

[0048] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The top view of the cooking equipment shown.

[0049] Figure 6 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 6-6'.

[0050] Figure 7 Is it installation? Figure 6 An enlarged view of the part where the imaging module is located.

[0051] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The exploded stereoscopic view of the imaging module shown.

[0052] Figure 9 It has had its imaging module and other components removed. Figure 4 A 3D view of the cooking equipment.

[0053] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 11 yes Figure 10A perspective view of the periphery of the air guide shown.

[0055] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 The cross-sectional view taken from line 12-12'.

[0056] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A perspective view of the air guide 200 shown.

[0057] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Figure 16 This is a top view of a cooking equipment cabinet according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, with a portion of the outer casing removed.

[0061] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An enlarged view of the area surrounding the gas sensing module.

[0062] Figure 19 It is shown Figure 17 The diagram shows the configuration of the gas sensing module.

[0063] Figure 20a yes Figure 19 A three-dimensional view of the oil mist remover shown.

[0064] Figure 20b yes Figure 20a An exploded perspective view of the oil mist remover shown.

[0065] Figure 20c yes Figure 20a The image shows a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the oil mist remover.

[0066] Figure 21a yes Figure 19 An exploded perspective view of the gas sensor unit shown.

[0067] Figure 21b yes Figure 21a The image shows a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the main body of the sensing chamber.

[0068] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of a cooking appliance with a portion of its outer casing removed, according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0069] Figure 23 This is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of a cooking apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0070] The advantages and features of the invention, as well as the methods for carrying out the invention, will become apparent after referring to the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments are not limited to those disclosed herein and may be embodied in different ways. The embodiments are provided to enhance the disclosure and to inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals may refer to the same elements.

[0071] As shown in the figures, spatially relative terms such as “below,” “under,” or “lower,” and “above,” or “upper,” are used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device other than those shown in the figures. For example, if one of the devices in the figures were flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” the other elements would be oriented “above” the other elements. Therefore, the exemplary terms “below” or “under” can include both above and below orientations. Since the device can be oriented in another direction, spatially relative terms can be interpreted according to the orientation of the device.

[0072] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this disclosure. As used in this disclosure and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component is specified, but the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof is not excluded.

[0073] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. It should be further understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant art and in the context of this disclosure, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0074] In the accompanying drawings, for ease of description and clarity, the thickness or dimensions of each layer are exaggerated, omitted, or shown schematically. Furthermore, the dimensions or area of ​​each component do not perfectly reflect its actual size.

[0075] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0076] In the following description, a cooking apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0077] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The front view of the cooking device 1 shown; Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 The image shows cooking appliance 1 with the door open; Figure 4 It is when viewed from the rear that the outer casing 10 has been removed. Figure 1 A perspective view of cooking equipment 1; and Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Top view of cooking equipment 1 shown.

[0078] Reference Figures 1 to 5 The cooking appliance 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a housing 10 defining its appearance and a cavity 30 disposed inside the housing 10. The housing 10 has an open front surface. The cavity 30 includes a front panel 31 covering the open front surface of the housing 10.

[0079] A cavity 30 defines a cooking chamber 32 therein. The cavity 30 includes: a transverse surface 33 defining both the left and right sides of the cooking chamber 32; an upper surface 37 defining an upper surface of the cooking chamber 32; a bottom surface 38 defining a lower surface of the cooking chamber 32; and a rear surface 35 defining a rear surface of the cooking chamber 32. The cavity 30 has an open front surface. Food can be inserted through the open front surface of the cavity 30.

[0080] The cooking apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a sealed grilling chamber (not shown), which is detachably disposed within the cooking chamber 32 of the cavity 30. The sealed grilling chamber slides within the cooking chamber 32 and is detachable from the cavity 30.

[0081] The cooking appliance 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a door 20 rotatably mounted to a front panel 31. The door 20 can be selectively opened or closed at the front opening of the cavity 30. The door 20 is in close contact with the front panel 31, thereby preventing microwaves and heat emitted into the cooking chamber 32 from leaking to the outside of the cooking chamber 32.

[0082] Door 20 may include a door handle 21 to allow a user to easily open and close door 20. Door 20 may include a transparent window 23 to allow a user to see the interior of cooking room 32. Door handle 21 may be positioned above transparent window 23.

[0083] The cooking appliance 1 includes: a controller 130 (not shown) configured to control the operation of various heaters 40, 50, and 60, and a microwave component 70 described below; a display unit 81 configured to display its operating status; and an input unit 83 configured to receive operating instructions from a user for the cooking appliance 1. The display unit 81 and the input unit 83 may be positioned on the upper portion of the door 20. The display unit 81 and the input unit 83 may also be positioned above the door handle 21.

[0084] The various heaters 40, 50, and 60, as well as the microwave component 70, can be collectively referred to as the heating unit. This heating unit generates heat for heating the cooking chamber 32.

[0085] The upper, lower, left, right, and rear surfaces of the cavity 30 are separated from the housing 10 to form a space, and various electrical or electronic components can be accommodated in the space formed between the cavity 30 and the housing 10. The space between the upper, lower, left, right, and rear surfaces of the cavity 30 and the housing 10 can be defined as airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15 in which air flows.

[0086] In addition, the cooking appliance 1 may also include a blower fan 80 configured to blow air within the airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15. The blower fan 80 can provide air for cooling electronic components disposed in the airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15.

[0087] The cooking appliance 1 may also include a back panel 16. The back panel 16 may be located at the rear of the cavity and may face the front panel 31. The upper end of the back panel 16 may be attached to the upper surface of the housing 10. The side surfaces of the back panel 16 may be attached to the rear surface of the housing 10. The back panel 16 may maintain a separation space between the housing 10 and the cavity 30. The back panel 16 may have holes through which air supplied by the blower fan 80 passes.

[0088] Specifically, the blower fan 80 can be located behind the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30. The blower fan 80 can be located in the airflow spaces 11, 14 and 15 between the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30 and the outer casing 10.

[0089] The blower fan 80 can supply air from outside the cavity 30 to the imaging module 90. The air that exchanges heat with the imaging module 90 can be discharged to the outside of the cavity 30.

[0090] More specifically, air outside the housing 10 flows into the airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15 between the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30 and the housing 10, and moves to the airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15 between the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and the housing 10. After exchanging heat with the electronic components and the imaging module 90, the air moves to the airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15 between the lateral surface 33 of the cavity 30 and the housing 10, and is discharged to the outside of the housing 10.

[0091] The various heaters 40, 50 and 60 used for heating food, as well as microwave assembly 70, will be described below.

[0092] The cooking appliance 1 includes an optical heater 40 mounted on the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. The electrode portion 42 of the optical heater 40 is disposed in the space between the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and the outer casing 10, and a heater unit 41 configured to emit light (infrared light) and radiate heat can be disposed below the upper surface 37. The heater unit 41 of the optical heater 40 is disposed below the upper surface 37 and is therefore exposed to the cooking chamber 32.

[0093] The optical heater 40 can emit radiant heat while emitting light during operation. Whether the optical heater 40 is in operation can be visually determined based on the light generated by it during operation. Furthermore, the optical heater 40 can rapidly raise the temperature inside the cooking chamber 32.

[0094] It is well known that the maximum radiant energy in the wavelength range of 1.4 μm to 5 μm (hereinafter also referred to as the "maximum absorption region") can be absorbed by food (e.g., grains, meat, fish, etc.). Light in the wavelength range of the maximum absorption region can be absorbed more by food, while light in other wavelength ranges is not absorbed by food but is reflected, and therefore has no effect on cooking food.

[0095] The optical heater 40 can be a carbon heater. According to Planck's law, a surface temperature in the range of 1100°C to 1400°C is required to emit light in the wavelength range of 1.4μm to 5μm, and the carbon heater can be used in this temperature range.

[0096] The cooking apparatus 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a microwave assembly 70, which includes a magnetron for generating microwaves. The microwave assembly 70 can heat food by using microwaves emitted by the magnetron. The microwaves emitted by the magnetron can heat food by causing the water contained in the food to vibrate.

[0097] The microwave assembly 70 can be mounted on the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. The microwave assembly 70 can emit microwaves toward the cooking chamber 32 to heat the food contained in the cooking chamber 32.

[0098] The cooking apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a convection module 60 configured to supply heat to a cooking chamber 32. The convection module 60 may be mounted on a rear surface 35 of a cavity 30, and a blow-through port 36 through which heat emitted from the convection module 60 passes may be formed in the rear surface 35.

[0099] The convection module 60 may include: a convection heater (not shown) configured to generate heat; a convection fan (not shown) configured to supply the heat generated by the convection heater to the cooking chamber 32; and a convection motor (not shown) configured to rotate the convection fan.

[0100] When the convection heater and convection motor are started, the air is heated by heat emitted from the convection heater, and the heated air is supplied to the cooking chamber 32 through the blow port via a convection fan. The heat supplied by the convection module 60 is transferred by convection to heat the food contained in the cooking chamber 32.

[0101] The cooking apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a lower heater 50 disposed on the bottom surface 38 of the cavity 30 and configured to supply heat from below to the cooking chamber 32. The heat supplied by the lower heater 50 is radiant heat and is provided to the cooking chamber 32.

[0102] A guide 34 protruding toward the cooking chamber 32 may be formed on the transverse surface 33 of the cavity 30. The sealed grill chamber may be removably mounted on the guide 34. The sealed grill chamber may slide to be pushed into or pulled out of the cooking chamber 32, and when pushed into the cooking chamber 32, the sealed grill chamber may be mounted on the guide 34.

[0103] The guide 34 can be integrally formed with the transverse surface 33 of the cavity 30. During the manufacture of the cavity 30, the guide 34 can protrude into the cooking chamber 32 by firing the transverse surface 33.

[0104] A pair of guides 34 may be formed at the same height on the left and right sides of the cavity 30. The guides 34 may include multiple guides 34 formed at different heights on the transverse surface of the cavity 30.

[0105] Cooking appliance 1 may also include a shelf 12 on which food is placed (see Figure 6 The shelf is inserted into the cooking chamber 32 to divide the cooking chamber 32.

[0106] The guide 34 may include a shelf guide 34a supporting the shelf 12. The shelf guide 34a may include a plurality of shelf guides 34a formed at different heights on the transverse surface of the cavity 30, and these plurality of shelf guides 34a may be arranged in pairs on both the left and right sides of the cavity 30. The shelf guides 34a arranged in pairs on each of the left and right sides may be formed at the same height.

[0107] Shelf 12 can be inserted into adjacent guides among a plurality of guides 34 to be pushed into and pulled out of cooking chamber 32.

[0108] The cavity 30 includes a stop 34b projecting from the transverse surface 33 toward the cooking chamber 32. The stop 34b may be disposed behind the guides 34 and may be formed along the height direction between a plurality of guides 34. Thus, when the shelf 12 is over-inserted, the stop 34b can prevent impacts applied to the convection module 60, etc., positioned on the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30.

[0109] By firing the cavity 30 in the same manner as the guide 34, the stopper 34b can protrude toward the cooking chamber 32.

[0110] The guide 34 includes a barbecue chamber guide 34c that supports the sealed barbecue chamber. The sealed barbecue chamber can be removably mounted on the barbecue chamber guide 34c.

[0111] The grill chamber guide 34c can be located above the shelf guide 34a. If multiple shelf guides 34a are provided, the grill chamber guide 34c can be positioned above the shelf guide 34a located at the uppermost position. The grill chamber guide 34c is the uppermost guide among the multiple guides 34.

[0112] Since the barbecue chamber guide 34c is the uppermost guide among the guides 34, the sealed barbecue chamber can be positioned close to the optical heater 40.

[0113] Furthermore, the cooking apparatus 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may also include an imaging module 90 configured to capture images of the interior of the cavity 30.

[0114] The imaging module 90 has a viewing angle for capturing images of the entire interior of the cavity 30 and is configured not to be damaged by heat inside the cavity 30. The imaging module 90 can be disposed in airflow spaces 11, 14 and 15 and can be cooled by air blown by a blower fan 80.

[0115] The structure of the imaging module 90 will be described in detail below.

[0116] Figure 6It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line 6-6'; Figure 7 Is it installation? Figure 6 An enlarged view of the part where the imaging module 90 is located; Figure 8 yes Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of the imaging module 90 shown; and Figure 9 It is the one with the imaging module 90 and other components removed. Figure 4 A perspective view of cooking equipment 1.

[0117] Reference Figures 6 to 9 The imaging module 90 captures images of the interior of the cavity 30. The imaging module 90 may have a viewing angle for capturing images of the entire interior of the cavity 30 and may be positioned in a location that can protect the imaging module 90 from the heat inside the cavity 30.

[0118] The cavity 30 may also include a module mounting portion 371 where the imaging module 90 is mounted. The module mounting portion 371 may include a camera aperture 372, which will be described later, through which light supplied to the image sensor 91 passes.

[0119] The module mounting portion 371 may be a part of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. The module mounting portion 371 may be formed by bending a part of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. Specifically, the module mounting portion 371 may be an inclined surface that is inclined relative to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0120] More specifically, the module mounting portion 371 can be tilted upward and backward. Preferably, the tilt angle between the module mounting portion 371 of the cavity 30 and the upper surface 37 can be 20 degrees to 30 degrees.

[0121] The module mounting portion 371 can be configured to be adjacent to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. Furthermore, the module mounting portion 371 can be positioned at the center of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 along the left-right direction.

[0122] When the module mounting portion 371 is positioned adjacent to the front end of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and tilted upward and backward, the image sensor 91 mounted at the module mounting portion 371 observes the interior of the cavity 30 diagonally, thereby achieving the widest viewing angle within the limited space of the cavity 30 and eliminating blind spots that occur when the image sensor 91 is mounted at the door.

[0123] The module mounting portion 371 is positioned adjacent to the front end of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30, thereby reducing interference with the optical heater 40 disposed on the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and protecting the imaging module 90 from the heat generated by the optical heater 40.

[0124] A camera hole 372 can be formed through the module mounting portion 371. The camera hole 372 can be circular in shape. The camera hole 372 can be located at the center of the module mounting portion 371.

[0125] The camera aperture 372 can be sized such that it allows light to pass through but not microwaves, and allows the image sensor 91 to have a suitable viewing angle. Preferably, the width D1 of the camera aperture 372 can be between 8 mm and 12 mm. This is because if the width D1 of the camera aperture 372 is less than 8 mm, the viewing angle of the image sensor 91 becomes too small, while if the width D1 of the camera aperture 372 is greater than 12 mm, microwaves will exit through the camera aperture 372.

[0126] The imaging module 90 has a structure in which it can capture images of the interior of the cavity 30 without blind spots and can be protected from the heat generated inside the cavity 30.

[0127] For example, imaging module 90 may include image sensor 91 and window 94.

[0128] An image sensor 91 is disposed outside the cavity 30 and captures images of the interior of the cavity 30 through a camera aperture 372 formed in the cavity 30. The images captured by the image sensor 91 are transmitted to the controller 130.

[0129] Image sensor 91 is a device for sensing information about an object and converting that information into an electrical image signal. Image sensor 91 may include one of the following: a picture tube, a photoconductor, a metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS), and a charge-coupled device (CCD).

[0130] The imaging module 90 may further include a heat sink 93 configured to dissipate heat from the image sensor 91 and a power supply 92 configured to supply power to the image sensor 91. The power supply 92 may include a printed circuit board. The image sensor 91 may be disposed between the power supply 92 and the camera aperture 372.

[0131] The heat sink 93 is made of a material with high heat transfer efficiency (e.g., metal) and can have a large surface area in contact with air. The heat sink 93 can be in contact with the power supply 92.

[0132] Image sensor 91 is disposed outside cavity 30. Image sensor 91 may be disposed in airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15 between cavity 30 and housing 10. Image sensor 91 may be spaced apart from cavity 30 to suppress heat transfer through cavity 30 to image sensor 91.

[0133] If the image sensor 91 is too far from the cavity 30 (camera hole 372), the camera hole 372 needs to be wider to ensure the viewing angle of the image sensor 91. However, if the camera hole 372 is widened, microwaves will be emitted through it. Furthermore, if the image sensor 91 is too close to the cavity 30 (camera hole 372), heat from inside the cavity 30 will be transferred to the image sensor 91 through the camera hole 372, potentially causing the image sensor 91 to malfunction.

[0134] Therefore, to solve the above problems, it is preferable that the width of the camera hole 372 is larger than the distance T1 between the camera hole 372 and the image sensor 91. More preferably, the width of the camera hole 372 can be five to six times the distance T1 between the camera hole 372 and the image sensor 91.

[0135] Image sensor 91 can overlap with camera aperture 372. Specifically, image sensor 91 can overlap with camera aperture 372 in the axial direction Ax. Therefore, light inside cavity 30 can be accurately detected by image sensor 91.

[0136] The window 94 is located inside the cavity 30 to prevent the image sensor 91 from being damaged by various contaminants generated by food inside the cavity 30, and may have an air gap to reduce the heat transferred to the image sensor 91.

[0137] Window 94 includes a light-transmitting material. Window 94 may include resin or glass material.

[0138] Window 94 may at least cover camera hole 372. Specifically, window 94 may cover camera hole 372 and the portion of module mounting portion 371 surrounding camera hole 372. Window 94 may contact the upper surface 37 and lower end of cavity 30.

[0139] Preferably, a gasket 96 may be provided to seal the space between the window 94 and the inner surface of the cavity 30 surrounding the camera aperture 372. The gasket 96 may be formed around the periphery of the camera aperture 372. The gasket 96 may contact the window 94 and a surface of the cavity 30 defining the periphery of the camera aperture 372.

[0140] Window 94 may overlap with camera aperture 372. Specifically, at least a portion of window 94 may overlap with camera aperture 372 in the axial direction Ax.

[0141] Window 94 can be spaced apart from camera aperture 372. If window 94 is too far from cavity 30 (camera aperture 372), window 94 needs to have a larger width to ensure the field of view of image sensor 91. However, if the width of window 94 increases, the size of other components (e.g., brackets) also increases, increasing manufacturing costs and reducing the internal space of cavity 30. Furthermore, if window 94 is too close to cavity 30 (camera aperture 372), heat from inside cavity 30 will be transferred to image sensor 91 through window 94, potentially causing window 94 to malfunction.

[0142] Therefore, to solve the above problems, it is preferable that the width of the camera hole 372 is larger than the distance T2 between the camera hole 372 and the window 94. More preferably, the width of the camera hole 372 can be five to six times the distance T2 between the camera hole 372 and the window 94.

[0143] The internal space of the camera aperture 372, the space between the camera aperture 372 and the image sensor 91, and the space between the window 94 and the camera aperture 372 are used as air gaps, so that the transfer of heat from inside the cavity 30 to the image sensor 91 is mainly delayed by the window 94, and secondarily by the air gap. In addition, the image sensor 91 is spaced apart from the cavity 30, thereby reducing heat transfer from the cavity 30.

[0144] The width of window 94 is preferably larger than the width of camera aperture 372. If the width of window 94 is small, it will be difficult to provide a sufficient viewing angle to image sensor 91. The width of window 94 is preferably larger than the distance T2 between camera aperture 372 and window 94.

[0145] The imaging module 90 may also include an imaging cover 95, which is spaced apart from and covers the window 94.

[0146] The imaging cover 95 is disposed inside the cavity 30 and prevents the window 94 from being damaged by various contaminants generated by food inside the cavity 30, and has an air gap to reduce the heat transferred to the window 94.

[0147] The imaging cover 95 includes a light-transmitting material. The imaging cover 95 may include resin or glass material.

[0148] The imaging cover 95 may at least cover the window 94. Specifically, the imaging cover 95 may overlap with the window 94. Specifically, at least a portion of the imaging cover 95 may overlap with the window 94 in the axial direction Ax of the camera aperture 372.

[0149] The imaging cover 95 can be spaced apart from the window 94. If the imaging cover 95 is too far from the window 94, it needs to have a larger width to ensure the viewing angle of the window 94. However, if the width of the imaging cover 95 increases, the size of other components (e.g., brackets) will also increase, thus increasing manufacturing costs and reducing the internal space of the cavity 30. Furthermore, if the imaging cover 95 is too close to the window 94, heat inside the cavity 30 will be transferred to the window 94 through the imaging cover 95, potentially causing the image sensor 91 to malfunction.

[0150] Therefore, to solve the above problems, it is preferable that the width of the camera aperture 372 is larger than the distance T3 between the window 94 and the imaging cover 95. More preferably, the width of the camera aperture 372 can be five to six times the distance T3 between the window 94 and the imaging cover 95.

[0151] The width of the imaging cover 95 is preferably larger than the width of the camera aperture 372. This is because if the width of the imaging cover 95 is small, it will be difficult to provide a sufficient viewing angle to the image sensor 91. The width of the imaging cover 95 is preferably larger than the distance T3 between the window 94 and the imaging cover 95.

[0152] The image sensor 91, window 94, and imaging cover 95 can overlap in the axial direction Ax of the camera aperture 372.

[0153] The cooking device 1 may also include a bracket for fixing the image sensor 91, the window 94, and the imaging cover 95. The bracket may also include a sensor bracket 96 and a cover bracket 97.

[0154] The sensor bracket 96 is attached to the outer portion of the cavity 30 to secure the image sensor 91. The sensor bracket 96 can be attached to the upper surface of the module mounting portion 371. Fastening holes 373, to which fastening members passing through the sensor bracket 96 are connected, can be formed in the module mounting portion 371.

[0155] The sensor bracket 96 secures the image sensor 91 in place. The sensor bracket 96 can house the power supply 92 and the heat sink 93. The sensor bracket 96 can support the image sensor 91 to separate it from the camera aperture 372. The sensor bracket 96 may include various through-holes through which airflow allows cooling of the image sensor 91 and the power supply 92 to pass.

[0156] The cover bracket 97 can be connected to the interior of the cavity 30 to secure the window 94. The cover bracket 97 can be connected to the lower surface of the module mounting portion 371. A fastening hole 373, to which a fastening member passing through the cover bracket 97 is connected, can be formed in the module mounting portion 371.

[0157] The cover bracket 97 secures the position of the window 94. The cover bracket 97 supports the window 94 to separate it from the camera aperture 372. The cover bracket 97 also secures the position of the imaging cover 95. The cover bracket 97 supports the imaging cover 95 to separate it from the window 94.

[0158] Specifically, the cover bracket 97 may include an annular receiving portion 973 that accommodates the window 94 and the imaging cover 95, and a separating protrusion 971 that maintains the distance between the window 94 and the imaging cover 95 and protrudes from the receiving portion 973. A space 972 between the window 94 and the imaging cover 95 is formed inside the receiving portion 973. In this case, a gasket 96 can seal the space between the cover bracket 97 and the module mounting portion 371.

[0159] The cooking equipment may include an air guide to increase the velocity and flow rate of air supplied to the imaging module via a blower fan. The air guide directs the air supplied to the imaging module via the blower fan.

[0160] The cooking appliance 1', including the air guide 200, will be described in detail below.

[0161] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a cooking apparatus 1' according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A perspective view of the periphery of the air guide 200 shown; Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 The cross-sectional view taken from line 12-12'; and Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A perspective view of the air guide 200 shown.

[0162] Reference Figures 10 to 13 According to another embodiment of the present disclosure (the second embodiment), the cooking device 1' includes: a housing 10 covering at least a portion of a cavity 30 to define an airflow space between the cavity 30 and the housing 10 for air to flow therein; an imaging module 90 mounted in the airflow space and configured to capture images of the interior of the cavity 30; a blower fan 80 configured to blow air into the airflow space; and an air guide 200 configured to guide a portion of the air flowing in the airflow space to the imaging module 90.

[0163] Furthermore, the cooking apparatus 1' according to the second embodiment of this disclosure is characterized in that, in addition to Figures 1 to 9 In addition to the implementation method (first embodiment), an air guide 200 is also installed. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and parts or components not specifically described in the second embodiment are considered to be the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0164] The upper, left, right, and rear surfaces of the cavity 30 are separated from the housing 10 to form a space, and various electrical or electronic components can be accommodated in the space formed between the cavity 30 and the housing 10. The space between the upper, left, right, and rear surfaces of the cavity 30 and the housing 10 can be defined as airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15 in which air flows.

[0165] The airflow spaces 11, 14, and 15 can be defined as the upper flow space 11 between the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and the upper surface of the outer shell 10, the rear flow space 15 between the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30 and the rear surface 13 of the outer shell 10, and the lateral flow space 14 between the lateral surface 33 of the cavity 30 and the lateral surface of the outer shell 10. The rear surface 13 of the outer shell 10 can also be referred to as the rear cover.

[0166] The upper flow space 11, the rear flow space 15, and the lateral flow space 14 are connected to each other, allowing air to flow within them.

[0167] The blower fan 80 can be disposed in the rear flow space 15. Specifically, the blower fan 80 can be disposed at the rear end of the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30. The imaging module 90 is disposed in the upper flow space 11.

[0168] Air blown by the blower fan 80 flows through the rear flow space 15 to the upper flow space 11, and then from the upper flow space 11 to the transverse flow space 14 to be discharged through an outlet (not shown) formed in the bottom portion of the cavity 30. In this case, the blower fan 80 is mounted such that air can flow from bottom to top in the rear flow space 15.

[0169] The air guide 200 guides a portion of the air flowing in the airflow space to the imaging module 90, thereby quickly and effectively cooling the imaging module 90.

[0170] For example, the air guide 200 may include an air passage 270, which includes an inlet 213 through which air is introduced into the airflow space and an outlet 223 through which air introduced through the inlet 213 is discharged toward the imaging module 90.

[0171] Air passage 270 can be closed except for inlet 213 and outlet 223, but can be opened except for inlet 213 and outlet 223.

[0172] Inlet 213 may be positioned closer to imaging module 90 than outlet 223. Outlet 223 may be positioned closer to blower fan 80 than inlet 213. Specifically, inlet 213 may be located in front of outlet 223. Outlet 223 and inlet 213 may be formed in upper flow space 11.

[0173] At least a portion of the outlet 223 may overlap with the imaging module 90 in the front-rear direction. Preferably, the outlet 223 and the inlet 213 may completely overlap or at least partially overlap in the front-rear direction.

[0174] The outlet 223 and the inlet 213 may not overlap in the front-to-back direction, but in this case, the airflow path is significantly inclined relative to the front-to-back direction, thereby increasing air resistance.

[0175] Inlet 213 opens in the front-to-back direction and closes in the up-down and left-to-right directions. Therefore, a portion of the air flowing from the rear to the front in the upper flow space 11 can be introduced through inlet 213.

[0176] The outlet 223 is open in the forward-backward (FR) direction and closed in the up-down (UD) and left-right (LeRi) directions. Therefore, a portion of the air introduced through the inlet 213 can be supplied to the imaging module 90 through the outlet 223.

[0177] Obviously, in some examples, inlet 213 and outlet 223 can be opened in the front-back direction, and can be opened in one of the up-down and left-right directions, and closed in the other direction.

[0178] The cross-sectional area of ​​inlet 213 can be equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​outlet 223. To improve heat exchange efficiency by increasing the velocity and flow rate of air supplied to the imaging module 90, the cross-sectional area of ​​inlet 213 is preferably larger than that of outlet 223. Here, the cross-sectional areas of inlet 213 and outlet 223 can refer to the cross-sectional areas of inlet 213 and outlet 223 when the cooking device is cut along a plane parallel to the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0179] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage 270 can be increased from the outlet 223 toward the inlet 213.

[0180] In another example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage 270 can increase from the outlet 223 toward the inlet 213 and then decrease.

[0181] The structure of the air guide 200 will be described in detail below.

[0182] Air guide 200 may define an air passage 270 with a surface of cavity 30. Specifically, air guide 200 may be coupled to the upper end of upper surface 37 of cavity 30 and may define air passage 270 with upper surface 37 of cavity 30.

[0183] For example, the air guide 200 may include: two first guide lateral surfaces 212 that contact the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and are spaced apart from each other; a first guide upper surface 211 that connects to the upper end of the first guide lateral surfaces 212; two second guide lateral surfaces 222 that contact the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and have one end connected to the first guide lateral surfaces 212; and a second guide upper surface 221 that connects to the upper end of the second guide lateral surfaces 222 and is connected to one end of the first guide upper surface 211.

[0184] The lower ends of the two first guide transverse surfaces 212 contact the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30, and the first guide upper surface 211 connects the upper ends of the two first guide transverse surfaces 212, thereby defining the entrance 213, which is surrounded by the two first guide transverse surfaces 212, the first guide upper surface 211 and the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 facing the first guide upper surface 211.

[0185] Obviously, in some examples, the lower ends of the two first guide transverse surfaces 212 can also be connected to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0186] The lower ends of the two second guide transverse surfaces 222 contact the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30, and the second guide upper surface 221 connects to the upper ends of the second guide transverse surfaces 222, thereby defining an outlet 223, which is surrounded by the two second guide transverse surfaces 222, the second guide upper surface 221 and the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 facing the second guide upper surface 221.

[0187] The front end of the first guide transverse surface 212 is connected to the lower end of the second guide transverse surface 222, and the front end of the first guide upper surface 211 is connected to the lower end of the second guide upper surface 221.

[0188] The air guide 200 has a shape in which an inlet 213 is formed at the lower end, an outlet 223 is formed at the front, and an opening 230 is formed at the lower end. The opening 230 at the lower end of the air guide 200 is covered by the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0189] The first guide transverse surface 212 and the second guide transverse surface 222 may extend in a direction intersecting with the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30, and the first guide upper surface 211 and the second guide upper surface 221 may extend in a direction parallel to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 or extend at an acute angle relative to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0190] Specifically, the second guide upper surface 221 can be tilted from back to front and downward. When the second guide upper surface 221 is tilted from back to front and downward, the air flowing from back to front and downward can be effectively supplied to the imaging module 90, which is tilted relative to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0191] The distance between the first guide transverse surfaces 212 can increase from back to front, and the distance between the second guide transverse surfaces 222 can decrease from back to front.

[0192] The cooking appliance 1' may also include a baffle wall 39 protruding from the upper end of the cavity 30. The baffle wall 39 can prevent air flowing from the rear to the front of the cavity 30 from leaking through the door.

[0193] The baffle wall 39 can protrude upward from the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and can extend in the left-right direction. The baffle wall 39 can be disposed between the imaging module 90 and the air guide 200. The baffle wall 39 may also include a flow groove 39a communicating with the outlet 223.

[0194] The flow groove 39a may be recessed from a portion of the blocking wall 39. For example, the flow groove 39a may be recessed downward from the upper end of the blocking wall 39. Obviously, in some examples, when the blocking wall 39 is divided into two walls, the flow groove 39a may be defined as a hole formed between the two divided blocking walls 39.

[0195] The flow groove 39a can be connected to the outlet 223. Here, connection can mean that air flows between the flow groove 39a and the outlet 223.

[0196] Specifically, the left surface 39b of the flow groove 39a can be connected to or adjacent to the front end of one of the second guide transverse surfaces 222, and the right surface 39c of the flow groove 39a can be connected to or adjacent to the front end of the other of the second guide transverse surfaces 222.

[0197] The flow groove 39a can be adjacent to the imaging module 90. Specifically, the flow groove 39a can overlap with the imaging module 90 in the front-to-back direction. Obviously, the flow groove 39a can overlap with the outlet 223 in the front-to-back direction.

[0198] The barrier wall 39 can be configured to be adjacent to the front end of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. The air guide 200 can be configured to be adjacent to the front end of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. When the air guide 200 is configured to be adjacent to the front end of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30, the shorter length of the air guide 200 can effectively supply air to the imaging module 90.

[0199] There is no limitation on the length of the air guide 200 in the front-to-back direction, but since other electronic components are arranged in the upper flow space 11, the length of the air guide 200 is preferably shorter than half the length of the upper end of the cavity 30 in the front-to-back direction. That is, the distance between the inlet 213 and the outlet 223 in the front-to-back direction is preferably shorter than half the length of the upper end of the cavity 30 in the front-to-back direction.

[0200] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking apparatus 1 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0201] Reference Figure 14 The cooking apparatus 1” according to another embodiment (third embodiment) of this disclosure differs from the first embodiment in that the cooking apparatus 1” further includes an air guide 200'. Furthermore, the third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the structure and position of the air guide 200'.

[0202] In the following description, the third embodiment will be based on the differences from the second embodiment, and any parts or components not specifically described herein are considered to be the same as those in the second embodiment.

[0203] The air guide 200' in the third embodiment includes an outlet 223' disposed in the upper flow space 11 and an inlet 213' disposed in the rear flow space 15. Therefore, a portion of the air guide 200' can be disposed in the upper flow space 11, while another portion of the air guide 200' can be disposed in the rear flow space 15.

[0204] A portion of the air guide 200' can be attached to the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30, while another portion of the air guide 200' can be attached to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0205] The inlet 213' of the air guide 200' can be opened downwards, and the outlet 223' can be opened forwards. The air passage 270 can have an inverted L-shape. Air discharged upwards by the blower fan 80 is introduced from the rear flow space 15 through the inlet 213' and changes direction to be discharged through the outlet 223'.

[0206] The air guide 200' may have a tubular shape. Specifically, the air guide 200' may include: a first flow path 214 disposed in the rear flow space 15 and having an inlet 213' formed at its lower end; and a second flow path 224 communicating with the upper end of the first flow path 214 and extending upward, and having an outlet 223' formed at its front end. At least a portion of the first flow path 214 may be positioned in the upper flow space 11.

[0207] Obviously, although not shown in this document, the front end of the first flow path 214 may be open, and the front opening of the first flow path 214 may be closed by the rear surface 35 of the cavity 30, and the lower end of the second flow path 224 may be open, and the lower end of the second flow path 224 may be closed by the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0208] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of a cooking apparatus 1”' according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0209] Reference Figure 15 According to another embodiment (fourth embodiment) of this disclosure, the cooking device 1”' differs from the second embodiment in the position of the air guide 200”.

[0210] In the following description, the fourth embodiment will be based on the differences from the second embodiment, and any parts or components not specifically described herein are considered to be the same as those in the second embodiment.

[0211] In the fourth embodiment, the air guide 200” can be configured to be adjacent to the rear end of the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. The inlet 213 of the air guide 200” can be formed to be closer to the rear end of the cavity 30 than the outlet 223.

[0212] Figure 16 This is a top view of a cooking appliance with the cabinet removed, according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0213] Reference Figure 16 According to another embodiment (fifth embodiment) of this disclosure, the cooking device 1 differs from the second embodiment in the structure of the air guide 200”’.

[0214] In the following description, the fifth embodiment will be based on the differences from the second embodiment, and any parts or components not specifically described herein are considered to be the same as those in the second embodiment.

[0215] The air guide 200”' in the fifth embodiment may include a first guide surface 252 and a second guide surface 253.

[0216] The first guide surface 252 and the second guide surface 253 may be configured to face each other, such that a space 251 may be defined between the first guide surface 252 and the second guide surface 253. The space 251 between the first guide surface 252 and the second guide surface 253 defines an air passage 270.

[0217] The first guide surface 252 can extend in the vertical direction and the front-back direction. The first guide surface 252 can extend in the vertical direction and can be inclined at an acute angle relative to the front-back direction.

[0218] The second guide surface 253 can extend in the vertical direction and the front-back direction. The second guide surface 253 can extend in the vertical direction and can be inclined at an acute angle relative to the front-back direction.

[0219] A first guide surface 252 and a second guide surface 253 can be disposed between the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30 and the upper surface of the outer casing 10. The upper end of the first guide surface 252 can be connected to the upper end of the outer casing 10, and the lower end of the first guide surface 252 can be separated from or in contact with the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. Conversely, the upper end of the first guide surface 252 can be separated from or in contact with the upper end of the outer casing 10, and the lower end of the first guide surface 252 can be connected to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0220] The upper end of the second guide surface 253 can be connected to the upper end of the housing 10, and the lower end of the second guide surface 253 can be separated from or in contact with the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30. Obviously, in contrast, the upper end of the second guide surface 253 can be separated from or in contact with the upper end of the housing 10, and the lower end of the second guide surface 253 can be connected to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0221] Therefore, the air guide 200 can cool the imaging module 90 by using an air channel 270 defined by two facing plates, the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30, and the upper surface of the housing 10. This reduces the manufacturing cost of the air guide 200.

[0222] The left surface 39b of the flow groove 39a may be adjacent to or in contact with the front end of the first guide surface 252. The right surface 39c of the flow groove 39a may be adjacent to or in contact with the front end of the second guide surface 253.

[0223] The distance between the first guide surface 252 and the second guide surface 253 can be reduced towards the front. Therefore, the velocity and flow rate of the air flowing from back to front can be increased.

[0224] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of a cooking appliance 100 with a portion of the outer casing 10 removed, according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An enlarged view of the periphery of the gas sensing module 300 shown; and Figure 19 It is shown Figure 17 The diagram shows the configuration of the gas sensing module 300.

[0225] refer to Figures 17 to 19 The cooking apparatus 100 according to yet another embodiment (sixth embodiment) of this disclosure differs in that a gas sensing module 300 is added to the first to fifth embodiments.

[0226] In the following description, the sixth embodiment will be based on the differences from the first embodiment, and parts or components not specifically described herein are considered to be the same as parts or components in the first embodiment.

[0227] The substrate 111 can be disposed at the lower portion of the cavity 30. The upper surface of the substrate 111 can be fixed to the lower end of the front panel 31, the back panel 16, and the rear surface 13. The substrate 111 can be the lower surface of the outer casing 10. Obviously, when viewed vertically, the substrate 111 can have a larger area than the lower surface of the cavity 30.

[0228] Spaces 11 and 14 can be located between cavity 30 and outer shell 10.

[0229] The lateral flow space 14 is located at the upper portions of both ends of the substrate 111. The two ends of the substrate 111 in the lateral direction may protrude further outward than the lower portion of the cavity 30.

[0230] A flange 115 may be formed at the edge of the substrate 111. The substrate 111 has a plate shape parallel to the horizontal direction, and the flange 115 may project upward from the edge of the substrate 111. The lateral surface of the housing 10 may be connected to the flange 115.

[0231] An exhaust port (not shown) may be formed in the interior of the substrate 111. The exhaust port can serve as an outlet, allowing air blown by the blower fan 80 to flow within the cooking appliance 100 to be discharged to the outside through the exhaust duct 112 while forming an airflow. Additionally, a support leg may be provided at the bottom edge of the substrate 111.

[0232] Furthermore, the electronic component chamber can be disposed in the space between the cavity 30 and the housing 10. Various electrical or electronic components and circuit boards 113 can be disposed in this electronic component chamber. The electrical or electronic components and circuit boards 113 can be disposed in the upper portion of the substrate 111. The electrical or electronic components and circuit boards 113 can be disposed in the transverse flow space 14 and / or the upper flow space 11.

[0233] Electrical or electronic components and circuit board 113 may preferably be arranged adjacent to the upper end of the transverse surface 33 of cavity 30.

[0234] In this configuration, the cavity 30 may further include an exhaust portion 114 for discharging gases from the cooking chamber 32 to the outside of the cavity 30. The exhaust portion 114 may be an orifice or pipe formed in the cavity 30, allowing communication between the cooking chamber 32 and the outside of the cavity 30.

[0235] The exhaust portion 114 may be a pipe protruding from the cavity 30. The exhaust portion 114 may be formed on the transverse surface 33 of the cavity 30. The exhaust portion 114 may preferably be installed at the middle height of the transverse surface 33 of the cavity 30 and may discharge gas downwards.

[0236] The exhaust port 114a of the exhaust section 114 can open downwards. The exhaust section 114 can be tilted such that the distance between the exhaust section 114 and the transverse surface 33 of the cavity 30 increases from top to bottom. The exhaust section 114 can be tilted relative to the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0237] In other words, the exhaust section 114 can be configured such that gas can be supplied to the gas sensing module 300 disposed below the exhaust section 114, and the gas discharged from the exhaust section 114 can be discharged to the substrate 111.

[0238] A gas sensing module 300 can be installed in the space between the cavity 30 and the housing 10 to detect gases generated in the cooking chamber 32. The gas sensing module 300 can also be installed between the cavity 30 and the housing 10 to detect gases emitted from the exhaust section 114. Because the gas sensing module 300 is installed in the space between the cavity 30 and the housing 10, heat transfer from the cooking chamber 32 can be reduced compared to when the gas sensing module 300 is installed inside the cooking chamber 32, and the gas sensing module 300 can also be activated in low-temperature ranges, thereby improving reliability.

[0239] The gas sensing module 300 can be disposed in the transverse flow space 14 or the upper flow space 11. Preferably, the gas sensing module 300 is disposed in the transverse flow space 14. When disposed in the transverse flow space 14, the gas sensing module 300 can be separated from the upper flow space 11 where the electrical or electronic components are located, thereby preventing degradation of the reliability and accuracy of the gas sensing module 300 due to heat generated by the electrical or electronic components.

[0240] The gas sensing module 300 can be disposed adjacent to the lower end of the cavity 30 in the transverse flow space 14.

[0241] When disposed in the transverse flow space 14, the gas sensing module 300 can be connected to the transverse surface of the cavity 30. When disposed in the transverse flow space 14, the gas sensing module 300 is preferably connected to the upper surface of the substrate 111.

[0242] When the gas sensing module 300 is disposed in the transverse flow space 14 and connected to the upper surface of the substrate 111, the gas sensing module 300 can be exposed to the lower side by separating the housing 10 from the cavity 30, making the gas sensing module 300 easy to repair. Furthermore, an exhaust port is formed in the substrate 111, thereby reducing the residence time of oil mist in the gas flow space and allowing the gas to be naturally collected downwards due to the weight of the oil mist-containing gas.

[0243] In addition, the gas is collected in a substrate 111 with an exhaust port through which existing air is discharged to the outside, so that the gas can be easily discharged to the outside of the cooking appliance 100 after the gas is sensed.

[0244] The gas sensing module 300 senses low-temperature gas after the oil mist emitted from the cooking chamber 32 has been filtered.

[0245] For example, the gas sensing module 300 includes an oil mist remover 310 and a gas sensor unit 330. Alternatively, the gas sensing module 300 may include the oil mist remover 310, the gas sensor unit 330, and an air pump 320.

[0246] Oil mist remover 310 filters oil mist contained in the gas discharged from exhaust section 114. Oil mist remover 310 removes at least a portion of the oil mist contained in the gas discharged from exhaust section 114.

[0247] The oil mist remover 310 is vertically overlapped with the exhaust section 114. When the oil mist remover 310 and the exhaust section 114 are vertically overlapped, the gas discharged from the exhaust section 114 can effectively flow quickly into the oil mist remover 310. The oil mist remover 310 can be installed below the exhaust section 114.

[0248] This is because if the oil mist remover 310 does not overlap vertically with the exhaust section 114, the residence time of the gas discharged from the cooking chamber 32 in the transverse flow space 14 increases, resulting in the condensation of oil mist at the upper end of the substrate 111.

[0249] Specifically, refer to Figures 20a to 20c The oil mist remover 310 may include oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313, a first gas inlet 311, and a first gas outlet 314.

[0250] Oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 define a gas flow space 315 in which gas discharged from exhaust section 114 flows, and oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 include a plurality of partition walls 316 to reduce the velocity and temperature of the gas flowing therein.

[0251] Multiple partition walls 316 can be configured to change the airflow direction between one side and the opposite side of the gas flow space 315, and reduce the gas velocity. In the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313, the reduced gas velocity and temperature cause oil mist to condense.

[0252] The oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 may be formed as one unit, but may include an oil mist chamber body 313 and an oil mist chamber cover 312 for easy separation and cleaning.

[0253] The oil mist chamber body 313 has an opening formed in the upper portion, defining a gas flow space 315 therein, and a first gas outlet 314 formed on one side therein. The lower surface of the oil mist chamber body 313 can be attached to the upper surface of the substrate 111.

[0254] The oil mist chamber body 313 has a lower surface and a lateral surface surrounding the lower surface, wherein the upper surface is removed.

[0255] Multiple partition walls 316 that partially overlap in the first direction can be arranged in the gas flow space 315 of the oil mist chamber body 313. Here, the first direction is the gas flow direction.

[0256] The partition wall 316 may include a first partition wall 316a protruding from one surface of the oil mist chamber body and a second partition wall 316b protruding from an opposite surface of the oil mist chamber body and spaced apart from the first partition wall 316a in a first direction. The flow path of the gas can be defined between the first partition wall 316a and the second partition wall 316b.

[0257] A third partition wall 316c, having a smaller size than the first partition wall 316a and the second partition wall 316b, may be disposed between the first partition wall 316a and the second partition wall 316b.

[0258] The oil mist chamber cover 312 covers the opening of the oil mist chamber body 313. The oil mist chamber cover 312 is the upper surface of the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313. The lower and lateral surfaces of the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 are the oil mist chamber body 313, and the upper surface of the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 is the oil mist chamber cover 312.

[0259] The oil mist chamber cover 312 is plate-shaped and has a larger area than the opening of the oil mist chamber body 313. The oil mist chamber cover 312 may also include a connector 317 that inserts into the opening of the oil mist chamber body 313. The connector 317 can protrude downward from the lower end of the oil mist chamber cover 312 and can fit tightly to the inner surface of the oil mist chamber body 313.

[0260] In addition, a sealing member 318 that contacts the oil mist chamber body 313 and the connector to seal the space therebetween can be provided between the oil mist chamber body 313 and the connector.

[0261] If the interior of oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 is filled with oil mist condensate, the interior of oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 can be cleaned by simply separating the oil mist chamber cover 312.

[0262] Obviously, in another example, the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313 may also include a filter (not shown) for filtering oil mist within the gas flow space 315.

[0263] The first gas inlet 311 allows gas discharged from the exhaust section 114 to flow into the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313. The first gas inlet 311 may be a hole or pipe formed in the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313.

[0264] Specifically, a first gas inlet 311 may be formed in an oil mist chamber cover 312. The first gas inlet 311 may have a tubular shape that protrudes upward from the oil mist chamber cover 312. The first gas inlet 311 may be inclined such that the distance between the first gas inlet 311 and the lateral surface 33 of the cavity 30 decreases from top to bottom.

[0265] The first gas inlet 311 may vertically overlap with the exhaust section 114. The exhaust section 114 may be located at the upper part of the first gas inlet 311, thereby allowing gas discharged from the exhaust section 114 to flow through the first gas inlet 311 into the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313. The first gas inlet 311 is exposed to the transverse flow space 14.

[0266] The diameter of the first gas inlet 311 is preferably larger than the diameter of the second gas outlet 334 and the exhaust portion 114 to prevent oil mist from condensing and clogging the first gas inlet.

[0267] After the oil mist is filtered from the gas in the oil mist removal chambers 312 and 313, the gas is discharged through the first gas outlet 314. The first gas outlet 314 may be a hole or pipe formed in one side of the oil mist chamber body 313. The first gas outlet 314 may be formed in the side of the oil mist chamber body 313 furthest from the first gas inlet 311. The first gas outlet 314 may be located below the first gas inlet 311.

[0268] The air pump 320 can pump the gas discharged from the oil mist remover 310 and supply the gas to the gas sensor unit 330. The air pump 320 may include an inlet pipe 322 through which the introduced gas passes and an outlet pipe 321 through which the discharged pressurized gas passes. The air pump 320 can be fixed to the base plate 111 by a pump bracket 323.

[0269] The inlet pipe 322 of the air pump 320 is connected to the first gas outlet 314. The outlet pipe 321 of the air pump 320 is connected to the second gas inlet 331 of the gas sensor unit 330. The air pump 320 provides pressure to the oil mist remover 310 to draw in gas and provides compressed gas to the gas sensor 336, enabling rapid removal of oil mist from the gas and accurate sensing of the gas. Obviously, the air pump 320 can be omitted in some examples.

[0270] Gas sensor unit 330 can detect the type and concentration of gas emitted from oil mist remover 310. Gas sensor unit 330 can detect the type and concentration of gas emitted from air pump 320.

[0271] refer to Figure 21a and Figure 21b The gas sensor unit 330 may include sensing chambers 332 and 333, a second gas inlet 331, and a second gas outlet 334.

[0272] Sensing chambers 332 and 333 may be formed as one unit, but may include a sensing chamber body 333 and a sensing chamber cover 332 for easy separation and cleaning.

[0273] The sensing chamber body 333 has an opening formed in the upper portion and defines a sensing space 335 therein, and has a second gas outlet 334 formed on one side therein. The lower surface of the sensing chamber body 333 can be coupled to the upper surface of the substrate 111.

[0274] The sensing chamber body 333 has a lower surface and a lateral surface surrounding the lower surface, wherein the upper surface is removed.

[0275] The sensing space 335 of the sensing chamber body 333 is a space in which a gas sensor 336 is installed and in which gas sensed by the gas sensor 336 flows.

[0276] The sensing chamber body 333 may further include sensor supports 337a and 337b for supporting and securing the gas sensor 336. The two sensor supports 337a and 337b may be spaced apart from each other and project upwards from the lower surface of the sensing chamber body 333. The sensor supports 337a and 337b may have a height that allows the gas sensor 336 to be sufficiently separated from the lower surface of the sensing chamber body.

[0277] The sensor supports 337a and 337b may also include an insertion recess 338 into which the gas sensor 336 is inserted. The insertion recess 338 is a recess that is downwardly recessed from the upper end of the sensor supports 337a and 337b.

[0278] The sensing chamber cover 332 covers the opening of the sensing chamber body 333. The lower and lateral surfaces of the sensing chambers 332 and 333 are the sensing chamber body 333, and the upper surface of the sensing chambers 332 and 333 is the sensing chamber cover 332.

[0279] The sensing chamber cover 332 is plate-shaped and has a larger area than the opening of the sensing chamber body 333. The sensing chamber cover 332 may also include a connecting portion 339 that inserts into the opening of the sensing chamber body 333. The connecting portion 339 protrudes downward from the lower end of the sensing chamber cover 332 and can be tightly fitted to the inner surface of the sensing chamber body 333.

[0280] In addition, a sealing member 339a may be disposed between the sensing chamber body 333 and the connecting portion 339, the sealing member contacting the sensing chamber body 333 and the connecting portion 339 to seal the space between them.

[0281] If the gas sensor 336 needs repair or replacement, it can be repaired or replaced by simply separating the sensing chamber cover 332.

[0282] The second gas inlet 331 allows gas discharged from the oil mist remover 310 to flow into the sensing chambers 332 and 333. The second gas inlet 331 can be connected to the pump outlet pipe 321. The second gas inlet 331 can be formed in one side of the sensing chamber body 333.

[0283] The second gas outlet 334 allows gas in the sensing chambers 332 and 333 to be discharged through it. The second gas outlet 334 may be formed on the opposite side of the sensing chamber body 333. The second gas outlet 334 may include a plurality of holes formed on the opposite side of the sensing chamber body 333.

[0284] If the second gas outlet 334 has multiple holes, the flow rate and pressure of the gas flowing through the second gas outlet 334 into the transverse flow space 14 are reduced, thereby allowing the gas to be safely discharged to the outside of the cooking appliance 100.

[0285] A gas sensor 336 is installed in a sensing space 335 to sense the gas flowing in the sensing space 335. The gas sensor 336 can detect at least one of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide in the gas flowing in the sensing space 335, and can provide the detected information to a controller. Furthermore, the gas sensor 336 can detect at least one of carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, and hydroxides. Additionally, the gas sensor 336 can detect at least one of benzaldehyde (P1), nonanal (P2), 2-decanal,(E)-(P3), and 2-undecenal (P4).

[0286] The gas sensor 336 can be placed on or inserted into the sensor supports 337a and 337b. Specifically, the gas sensor 336 can be inserted into the insertion recess 338 of the sensor supports 337a and 337b.

[0287] Furthermore, the gas sensor 336 may include a sensor recess 336a. Sensor supports 337a and 337b defining the periphery of the insertion recess 338 may be partially inserted into the sensor recess 336a.

[0288] Therefore, the gas sensor 336 with a double-groove structure can be stably connected to the sensor supports 337a and 337b. The gas sensor 336 can be disposed between the second gas inlet 331 and the second gas outlet 334.

[0289] A cooking apparatus 100' according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described.

[0290] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of a cooking appliance 100' with a portion of the outer casing 10 removed, according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0291] refer to Figure 22 According to another embodiment of this disclosure (seventh embodiment), the cooking device 100 differs from the sixth embodiment in the position of the gas sensing module 300'.

[0292] In the following description, the seventh embodiment will be based on the differences from the sixth embodiment, and parts or components not specifically described herein are considered to be the same as parts or components in the sixth embodiment.

[0293] The gas sensing module 300' can be disposed in the upper flow space 11. Specifically, the gas sensing module 300' can be mounted on the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0294] The gas sensing module 300' can be positioned adjacent to the right end of the upper surface 37 to reduce interference with other electrical or electronic components.

[0295] The gas sensor unit 330, the oil mist remover 310, and the air pump 320 can be located above the cavity 30. The lower surface of the oil mist chamber body 313, the lower surface of the sensing chamber body 333, and the air pump 320 can be connected to the upper surface 37 of the cavity 30.

[0296] In this configuration, the exhaust portion 114, protruding from the right surface 33 of the cavity 30, can discharge gas upwards. The exhaust portion 114' can extend upwards and toward the right side of the right surface 33 of the cavity 30. In this configuration, the gas sensing module 300 can be positioned above the exhaust portion 114'.

[0297] The exhaust section 114' is preferably connected to the pipe of the oil mist remover 310 and the first gas inlet 311.

[0298] Depending on the design or operating environment of the cooking equipment 100', the gas sensing module 300' can be disposed in the upper flow space 11 or the lateral flow space 14. The gas sensing module 300' is disposed outside the cavity 30, thereby preventing the gas sensing module 300' from being damaged by the heat generated in the cooking chamber 32.

[0299] Figure 23 This is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of a cooking apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0300] Reference Figure 23 The cooking device 1 may also include a weight sensor 150, a gas sensor 336, and a controller 130.

[0301] The weight sensor 150 can detect the weight of the food placed in the cooking chamber 32 and provide the weight information of the food to the controller 130.

[0302] Gas sensor 336 can detect the gas generated in cooking chamber 32 and provide the gas information to controller 130.

[0303] The controller 130 determines the type of food based on an image of the food captured by the image sensor 91, and can control at least one of the optical heater 40, microwave component 70, and convection module 60 by using a cooking method corresponding to the type of food.

[0304] Therefore, the cooking device 100 can autonomously determine the type of food and automatically perform cooking by using a method suitable for the type of food.

[0305] Furthermore, the controller 130 determines the type of food and its weight based on an image of the food captured by the image sensor 91, and can control at least one of the optical heater 40, microwave component 70, and convection module 60 by using a cooking method corresponding to the type and weight of the food.

[0306] Therefore, the cooking device 100 can autonomously determine the type and weight of the food and automatically perform cooking by using a method suitable for the type and weight of the food.

[0307] In addition, the controller 130 can determine whether the cooking of the food is complete based on the gas information provided by the gas sensor 336.

[0308] Clearly, the controller 130 can analyze images of food and determine whether the food is cooked based on changes in the color, saturation, and brightness of the food image.

[0309] The cooking apparatus according to this disclosure has one or more of the following effects.

[0310] The advantages of this disclosure are that the gas generated in the cooking chamber is discharged to the outside of the cooking chamber, and the oil mist remover and gas sensor are disposed as the outer part of the cooking chamber in the space between the outer shell and the cavity, so that the gas generated in the cooking chamber can be cooled mainly in the space between the cavity and the outer shell, and oil mist is removed by absorbing the gas between the cavity and the outer shell, thereby allowing accurate gas sensing and improving the oil mist removal efficiency, and the temperature of the gas flowing into the gas sensor is reduced, thereby improving the reliability of the gas sensor.

[0311] Furthermore, the present disclosure has the advantage that the oil mist remover and gas sensor unit for removing oil mist have a chamber structure, wherein the chamber body is connected to the substrate of the housing and the cover is connected to the chamber body, such that the interior of the oil mist remover and gas sensor unit is exposed by separating only the cover, and the oil mist remover can be easily separated and cleaned by separating only the housing.

[0312] Furthermore, the present disclosure has the advantage that the airflow for cooling electrical or electronic components is formed between the cavity and the housing by a blower fan, so that by placing a gas sensor module in the space between the cavity and the housing, the air and gas discharged from the cooking chamber can be mixed, and the gas discharged from the cooking chamber can be effectively cooled and then supplied to the oil mist remover.

[0313] The advantage of this disclosure is that the image sensor configured to capture images of the interior of the cavity is located on the outer part of the cavity, and the images of the interior of the cavity are acquired through a camera hole formed in the cavity, which is covered by a window located inside the cavity, such that the image sensor is located away from the center of the cavity, and an air gap is formed through the window arranged therein, thereby reducing the heat transferred to the image sensor and improving the reliability of the image sensor.

[0314] Furthermore, the advantage of this disclosure is that by using air supplied by a blower fan (which cools electrical or electronic components mounted on the upper surface of the cavity) to cool the imaging module, a separate fan is not required to cool the imaging module.

[0315] Furthermore, the present disclosure has the advantage that the imaging module can be effectively cooled by guiding the air supplied by the blower fan (which cools the electrical or electronic components mounted on the upper surface of the cavity) to the imaging module through the air guide.

[0316] Furthermore, the present disclosure has the advantage that the outlet of the air guide has a smaller cross-sectional area than the inlet of the air guide, thereby increasing the velocity and flow rate of the air supplied to the imaging module by the blower fan, and cooling the imaging module more effectively.

[0317] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that the air passage of the air guide is defined together with the upper surface of the cavity and / or a surface of the housing, such that a portion of the cavity and / or a portion of the housing are shared during the manufacture of the air guide, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the air guide.

[0318] Furthermore, the advantages of this disclosure are that by providing an optical heater mounted on the upper surface of the cavity, a microwave module configured to generate microwaves, a convection module mounted on the rear surface of the cavity, and a lower heater mounted on the bottom surface of the cavity, the cooking device can grill food without flipping it, and can automatically cook according to the type and weight of the food.

[0319] The aforementioned features, configurations, effects, etc., are included in at least one embodiment of the invention and should not be limited to one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, configurations, effects, etc., shown in each embodiment can be implemented for other embodiments when combined with each other or modified by those skilled in the art. Therefore, anything related to these combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being included within the scope and spirit of the invention disclosed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cooking apparatus, the cooking apparatus comprising: A cavity, in which a cooking chamber is defined; A heater unit configured to generate heat to be supplied to the cooking chamber; An outer casing that covers at least a portion of the cavity to define a space between the cavity and the outer casing; as well as A gas sensing module is installed in the space between the cavity and the outer casing and is configured to sense gases generated in the cooking chamber. The cavity further includes an exhaust section for discharging the gas in the cooking chamber to the outside of the cavity.

2. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The space between the cavity and the outer shell includes: An upper flow space, the upper flow space being between the upper surface of the cavity and the outer shell; The rear flow space is located between the rear surface of the cavity and the outer shell; and A lateral flow space is provided between the lateral surface of the cavity and the outer shell.

3. The cooking apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The gas sensing module is disposed in the transverse flow space.

4. The cooking apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The outer casing also includes a substrate disposed at the lower portion of the cavity. The gas sensing module is connected to the upper surface of the substrate.

5. The cooking apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The gas sensing module is disposed in the upper flow space.

6. The cooking apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The gas sensing module is connected to the upper surface of the cavity.

7. The cooking apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The gas sensing module includes: An oil mist remover, configured to filter oil mist contained in the gas emitted from the exhaust section; and A gas sensor unit configured to detect the type and concentration of gas emitted from the oil mist remover.

8. The cooking apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The oil mist remover overlaps vertically with the exhaust section.

9. The cooking apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The oil mist remover includes: An oil mist removal chamber, wherein a gas flow space is defined in the oil mist removal chamber, gas discharged from the exhaust section flows in the gas flow space, and the oil mist removal chamber includes a plurality of partition walls that reduce the velocity and temperature of the gas flowing in the oil mist removal chamber; A first gas inlet, through which gas discharged from the exhaust section flows into the oil mist removal chamber; and The gas is discharged through the first gas outlet after the oil mist has been filtered from the gas in the oil mist removal chamber.

10. The cooking apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The oil mist removal chamber includes: An oil mist chamber body having an opening formed in an upper portion, defining a gas flow space within the oil mist chamber body, and having a first gas outlet formed on one side of the oil mist chamber body; and An oil mist chamber cover that covers the opening of the oil mist chamber body. The first gas inlet is formed in the oil mist chamber cover.

11. The cooking apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The first gas inlet and the exhaust section overlap vertically.

12. The cooking apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The exhaust section is located above the oil mist remover.

13. The cooking apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The exhaust section has a pipe protruding from the transverse surface of the cavity.

14. The cooking apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The gas sensor unit includes: A sensing chamber, in which a sensing space is defined, in which gas discharged from the oil mist remover flows; The second gas inlet allows gas discharged from the oil mist remover to flow into the sensing chamber. A second gas outlet through which the gas in the sensing chamber is discharged; and A gas sensor, which is installed in the sensing space and configured to sense the gas flowing in the sensing space.

15. The cooking apparatus according to claim 14, wherein, The sensing chamber includes: A sensing chamber body having an opening formed in an upper portion, defining a sensing space within the sensing chamber body, and having a first gas outlet formed on one side of the sensing chamber body and a second gas outlet formed on the opposite side of the sensing chamber body; and A sensing chamber cover that covers the opening of the sensing chamber body.

16. The cooking apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The gas sensing module also includes an air pump configured to pump and supply gas emitted from the oil mist remover.

17. A cooking apparatus, the cooking apparatus comprising: A cavity, in which a cooking chamber is defined; A heater unit configured to generate heat to be supplied to the cooking chamber; as well as A gas sensing module, configured to sense gases generated in the cooking chamber, The gas sensing module includes: An oil mist remover, configured to filter oil mist contained in gases emitted from the cooking chamber; A gas sensor unit, configured to detect the type and concentration of gas emitted from the oil mist remover; and An air pump configured to pump and supply gas discharged from the oil mist remover.

18. The cooking apparatus according to claim 17, wherein, The oil mist remover includes: An oil mist removal chamber is provided, in which a gas flow space is defined, in which gas discharged from the cooking chamber flows, and the oil mist removal chamber includes a plurality of partition walls that reduce the velocity and temperature of the gas flowing in the oil mist removal chamber. A first gas inlet, through which gas emitted from the cooking chamber flows into the oil mist removal chamber; and The gas is discharged through the first gas outlet after the oil mist has been filtered from the gas in the oil mist removal chamber.

19. The cooking apparatus according to claim 18, wherein, The oil mist removal chamber includes: An oil mist chamber body having an opening formed in an upper portion, defining a gas flow space within the oil mist chamber body, and having a first gas outlet formed on one side of the oil mist chamber body; and An oil mist chamber cover that covers the opening of the oil mist chamber body. The first gas inlet is formed in the oil mist chamber cover.

20. A cooking apparatus, the cooking apparatus comprising: A cavity, in which a cooking chamber is defined; A heater unit configured to generate heat to be supplied to the cooking chamber; as well as An outer casing that covers at least a portion of the cavity to define a space between the cavity and the outer casing. The cavity further includes an exhaust section and a gas sensing module. The exhaust section is used to discharge gas in the cooking chamber into the space between the cavity and the outer shell. The gas sensing module is installed in the space between the cavity and the outer shell and is configured to sense the gas discharged from the exhaust section.

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