Safety device for a cooking appliance and cooking appliance provided with the same

Abstract

This invention relates to a safety device for a cooking utensil and a cooking utensil equipped with the safety device. The invention includes: a first main body portion (210); and a second main body portion (230), one end of which is connected to the first main body portion, and the other end of which is spaced apart from the first end along its length. An interference region is defined in the second main body portion (230) with an axial thickness greater than that of the first main body portion (210). A mounting hole is formed in the first main body portion (210) through which the drive shaft passes, serving as the rotation center of the safety device (200). The interference region prevents the knob assembly from being pressed arbitrarily in a locked position. Thus, even if a user's body comes into contact with at least one of the knobs without the user's awareness, applying an external force to press the knob body, the safety device (200) can axially support the knob body to prevent the knob from being pressed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a safety device for a cooking appliance and a cooking appliance equipped with the safety device. Background Technology

[0002] Cooking utensils are tools used to cook ingredients and prepare food. They can also be used to heat food to a suitable eating temperature. Cooking utensils can be categorized in various ways based on the form of the heat source used, the type of fuel, and so on. For example, cooking utensils can be classified as open or closed based on the form of the space where food is placed. Closed cooking utensils include ovens and microwave ovens, while open cooking utensils include cooktops and griddles.

[0003] Enclosed cooking appliances use a door to conceal the space containing the food, and cook the food by heating the concealed space. Open cooking appliances place the food or its container in an open space, and cook the food by heating the food or container. Recently, combination cooking appliances that combine both enclosed and open cooking methods have also become widely used. Combination cooking appliances can cook various ingredients by combining multiple heat sources, and can also cook multiple foods simultaneously.

[0004] Such cooking appliances may be equipped with a control knob. This knob can be used to turn the cooking appliance on and off, or to set cooking modes. Furthermore, the knob can be used to adjust the heating temperature.

[0005] Taking a gas stove as an example, cooking appliances can be operated by a push-and-turn knob. This push-and-turn knob requires the user to press it down before rotating it to activate the appliance. The user can then adjust the heating temperature or select a cooking mode by varying the amount of rotation around the drive shaft while the knob is pressed. Because both steps are required for the appliance to operate, this design enhances safety.

[0006] However, such push-to-turn knobs also protrude outwards, making them susceptible to accidental rotation by the user. For example, a user might press the knob without realizing it, causing it to rotate. Furthermore, young children could potentially operate the knobs to turn the cooking appliance on. Such unauthorized operation could lead to fires or burns, necessitating improvements in the stability of cooking appliances. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] The present invention aims to solve the problems described above in the prior art, and its purpose is to prevent users from accidentally pressing the knob.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to switch to a locked state after the safety device is rotated to a specific angle, thereby preventing the safety device from switching to an unlocked state due to gravity.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to easily switch between the locked state (anti-pressing state) and the unlocked state (pressable state) of the knob when the safety device is slid while installed on the cooking appliance.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to enable the user to hold the safety device easily and stably when operating it.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is that, when the safety device rotates around the knob, it can rotate easily without generating significant friction with the knob or cooking utensil.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to prevent users from accidentally pressing the knobs and to be applicable to knobs of various sizes and spacings.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention is to prevent the safety device from interfering with the axial movement of the knob when the safety device is in the disengaged position.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to allow easy switching between a locked state and an unlocked state when the safety device is slid while mounted on a cooking appliance.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is that, when the safety device rotates about the knob, it rotates without interfering with other adjacent knobs.

[0017] Methods for solving problems

[0018] According to the features of the invention for achieving the objectives described above, the invention may include: a first main body portion; and a second main body portion, one end of which is connected to the first main body portion, and the other end of which is spaced apart from the first end portion along its length. An interference region with an axial thickness greater than that of the first main body portion may be defined in the second main body portion. A mounting hole may be formed in the first main body portion, through which a drive shaft passes and serves as the rotation center of the safety device. The interference region prevents the knob assembly from being pressed arbitrarily in the locked position. Thus, even if the user applies external force to press the knob by touching it with their body without the user's awareness, the safety device can axially support the knob to prevent it from being pressed.

[0019] The mounting hole can be formed at a location outside the interference area.

[0020] The interference region may have different axial thicknesses along the length direction.

[0021] The inner diameter of the mounting hole can be larger than the outer diameter of the drive shaft and the base portion through which the drive shaft passes.

[0022] A partition can be defined between the first body portion and the second body portion at one end of the first body portion. The axial thickness of the second body portion can be greater than the axial thickness of the first body portion, with reference to the partition. The mounting hole can be formed at a position spaced apart from the partition towards the other end of the first body portion.

[0023] The mounting hole can form a closed curve within the first main body.

[0024] The interference area can be defined between the partition and the other end of the second main body.

[0025] The first body portion may have the same axial thickness throughout the entire area. The first body portion may continuously surround the edge of the mounting hole along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole.

[0026] The first main body portion and the second main body portion can be separated by a partition. The first main body portion and the second main body portion can have different thicknesses based on the partition.

[0027] One end of the first main body and one end of the second main body can be connected to the partition. The length between the other end of the first main body furthest from the partition and the partition can be longer than the length between the other end of the second main body furthest from the partition and the partition.

[0028] One end of the first main body and one end of the second main body can be connected to the partition. The distance between the other end of the first main body furthest from the partition and the center of the mounting hole can be longer than the distance between the partition and the center of the mounting hole.

[0029] A through hole may be formed in the second main body, the through hole having a closed curve independent of the mounting hole.

[0030] The diameter of the mounting hole can be larger than the diameter of the through hole.

[0031] The distance between the partition and the center of the mounting hole can be longer than the distance between the partition and the center of the through hole.

[0032] The interference area can be defined between the edge of the mounting hole and the edge of the through hole.

[0033] The center of the mounting hole and the center of the through hole can be aligned along the length direction of the first main body and the second main body.

[0034] A handle may be provided on the second main body, and the handle protrudes in a direction opposite to that toward the first main body.

[0035] The first main body portion and the second main body portion may have different widths based on the width in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the first main body portion and the second main body portion.

[0036] The second main body portion may be symmetrical in the axial direction with reference to a reference line extending along the length direction of the first main body portion and the second main body portion.

[0037] According to the present invention, the invention may include: a base portion disposed on an operation panel; a drive shaft protruding forward through the base portion; and a knob assembly coupled to the drive shaft and linearly movable in the axial direction of the drive shaft. In this case, a safety device may be disposed between the operation panel and the knob assembly.

[0038] The safety device may have: a locked position, which is a position in which the interference area is configured between the knob assembly and the operation panel with the axis as a reference; and a released position, which is a position in which the safety device moves in a direction different from the axis, causing the interference area to be configured away from the position between the knob assembly and the operation panel.

[0039] The safety device may have: a first position in which the other end of the second main body faces downward; a second position in which the safety device is rotated about the mounting hole so that the other end of the second main body faces upward; and a third position in which the safety device moves downward from the second position so that the interference area is positioned between the knob assembly and the operation panel.

[0040] When the center of the mounting hole is concentrically aligned with the center of the base portion, the inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole can be entirely spaced apart from the outer circumferential surface of the base portion.

[0041] The safety device may have: a locked position, which is a position that restricts the movement of the knob assembly in the axial direction by the interference area; and a released position, which is a position in which the safety device can move in the axial direction by moving in a direction different from the axial direction.

[0042] The difference between the inner diameter of the mounting hole and the outer diameter of the base portion can be greater than or equal to the distance between the locking position and the releasing position.

[0043] A heating drive unit connected to the drive shaft can be provided on the operation panel. The knob assembly can move the drive shaft a reference distance in the axial direction to drive the heating drive unit. The axial distance between the surface of the first main body and the knob assembly can be greater than or equal to the reference distance.

[0044] The present invention may include: a first main body portion; and a second main body portion, one end of which is connected to the first main body portion, and the other end of which is spaced apart from the first end portion along its length. A mounting hole may be formed in the first main body portion, through which the drive shaft of the cooking appliance passes, serving as the rotation center of the safety device. In this case, a stepped portion with varying axial thickness may be formed at the boundary between the first main body portion and the second main body portion. Therefore, even if the user applies external force to press the knob by touching it with their body without the user's awareness, the safety device can axially support the knob to prevent it from being pressed.

[0045] The stepped portion may be formed by protruding along the axial direction at the boundary portion.

[0046] Multiple stepped portions may be provided at intervals between each other at the boundary portion. The multiple stepped portions may be arranged along an arc shape.

[0047] Imaginary extension lines extending along the normal direction on the surfaces of the plurality of stepped portions can intersect each other within the area of ​​the mounting hole.

[0048] The plurality of stepped portions can be arranged in a left-right symmetrical structure with reference to the center line in the length direction connecting the center of the first main body portion and the center of the second main body portion.

[0049] The stepped portion can be an inclined surface or a curved surface.

[0050] The stepped portion can be formed along an arc-shaped path at the boundary portion.

[0051] The pair of stepped portions can be respectively provided on both sides of the through hole.

[0052] An imaginary center line can be formed that passes through the center of both the mounting hole and the through hole. An imaginary extension line extending along the normal direction on the surface of the stepped portion can intersect the imaginary center line.

[0053] The center of the mounting hole and the center of the through hole can be aligned along the length direction of the first main body and the second main body.

[0054] The stepped portion can be disposed between the mounting hole and the through hole. The mounting hole can be formed at a position spaced apart from the stepped portion.

[0055] The area of ​​the mounting hole can be larger than the area of ​​the through hole.

[0056] The first main body portion and the second main body portion may have different widths based on the width in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the first main body portion and the second main body portion.

[0057] A recess may be formed between the side surface of the first main body and the side surface of the second main body.

[0058] One end of the second main body may be connected to the stepped portion. The other end of the second main body may have a curved shape.

[0059] The second main body portion may include: one end portion connected to the stepped portion; and another end portion furthest from the stepped portion. The thickness of the second main body portion may gradually increase from the one end portion toward the other end portion.

[0060] The second main body may include multiple regions with different axial thicknesses along the radial direction of the mounting hole.

[0061] The inner diameter of the mounting hole can be larger than the outer diameter of the drive shaft and the base portion through which the drive shaft passes.

[0062] The shortest length between the edge of the mounting hole and the stepped portion can be longer than the shortest length between the stepped portion and the other end of the second main body portion.

[0063] An interference region with an axial thickness greater than that of the first body portion can be defined in the second body portion.

[0064] The present invention may include: a drive shaft that protrudes forward through an operation panel; and a knob assembly that is coupled to the drive shaft and moves linearly in the axial direction of the drive shaft. In this case, the second main body portion is disposed between the knob assembly and the operation panel, thereby restricting the axial movement of the knob assembly.

[0065] When the second main body portion is in the released state, protruding to its maximum extent from the knob assembly in the radial direction, the stepped portion can be positioned radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the knob assembly.

[0066] When the second main body portion is in the released state, protruding to its maximum extent from the knob assembly in the radial direction, the radial length between the center of the drive shaft and the radial end of the knob assembly can be shorter than the radial length between the center of the drive shaft and the stepped portion.

[0067] Invention Effects

[0068] The safety device for cooking appliances and the cooking appliances equipped with the safety device provided by the present invention, as described above, have the following effects.

[0069] In this invention, the safety device for cooking appliances prevents the knob assembly from being pressed unintentionally in the locked position. That is, even if the user applies external force to the knob by touching it without the user's awareness, the safety device axially supports the knob to prevent it from being pressed. Therefore, this invention can prevent the cooking part of the cooking appliance from operating due to unintentional pressing of the knob, thus improving the safety of the cooking appliance.

[0070] Furthermore, the present invention can be rotatably positioned at the upper end (12 o'clock position) of the knob assembly. Since the safety device positioned at the upper end of the knob assembly is supported by the knob assembly, there is no need to worry about the safety device moving downwards due to gravity. Therefore, the present invention can prevent the locking state from being arbitrarily released due to gravity, thereby further improving the safety of the cooking appliance.

[0071] Furthermore, the safety device for cooking appliances of the present invention may include: a first main body portion having a mounting hole; and a second main body portion defining an interference area. In this case, the relatively heavy second main body portion, due to its thickness, can rotate downwards around the mounting hole as a center of rotation under gravity. This allows the safety device for cooking appliances to be in the released position. Thus, the safety device for cooking appliances of the present invention can be essentially in the released position, and can be rotated to the locked position only when needed by the user, thus offering high ease of use.

[0072] Furthermore, this invention can slide while installed in a cooking appliance. By sliding the knob within the cooking appliance, the locked state (anti-pressing state) and the unlocked state (pressable state) can be easily switched. Therefore, this invention improves user convenience.

[0073] Furthermore, the present invention may include: a first main body portion that serves as a rotation center; and a second main body portion that prevents the knob assembly from being pressed. In this case, a through hole may be formed in the second main body portion, allowing the user to easily grip the safety device through the through hole. Therefore, the user can easily rotate the safety device or move it linearly through the through hole, thereby improving the operability of the safety device.

[0074] Furthermore, when the interference area is compressed between the knob assembly and the cooking appliance, the compressed portion can elastically deform in the direction of filling the through hole. This allows for easier compression of the interference area and reduces the force required to switch the safety device to the locked state, improving user convenience.

[0075] On the other hand, in this invention, the mounting hole, which serves as the rotation center of the safety device, can be formed outside the interference area of ​​the interference knob assembly. This ensures that there is no through-hole in the interference area where the knob assembly is locked, thereby maximizing the contact area with the knob assembly within the interference area. Therefore, the state between the safety device interference knob assembly and the cooking appliance can be stably maintained, thus improving the stability of the cooking appliance.

[0076] Furthermore, in this invention, since the mounting hole is located outside the interference area, it can solely handle the installation and rotation of the safety device regardless of whether the knob assembly is locked. This allows the mounting hole to be made with a sufficiently large diameter, enabling the safety device to rotate easily without generating significant friction.

[0077] Furthermore, in this invention, since the mounting hole misalignment causes the knob assembly to become an interference area in the locked state, the mounting hole can be manufactured with various diameters. This increases the design freedom of the safety device and allows it to be applied to knobs of various sizes and spacings, resulting in excellent interchangeability.

[0078] Furthermore, in this invention, the stepped portion of the safety device can be arranged in a generally arc shape, thereby having a form corresponding to the outer end of the knob assembly. In this way, even without increasing the size of the safety device, interference between the safety device and the knob assembly can be minimized in the disengaged state.

[0079] In particular, reducing the size of the safety device in this way shortens the length of the safety device protruding from the knob assembly along the radial direction. A safety device with a shorter protrusion can rotate without interfering with adjacent knobs. Therefore, the operability of the safety device can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0080] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a cooking appliance with a knob assembly.

[0081] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the cooking appliance safety device provided by the present invention installed on the operation panel of the cooking appliance in different directions.

[0082] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the components of a cooking appliance that constitutes an embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0083] Figure 4 This involves disassembling the components of a cooking appliance that constitutes an embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention and separating them from... Figure 3 A three-dimensional image shown from different angles.

[0084] Figure 5 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the V-V' line.

[0085] Figure 6 It is along Figure 2 A sectional view of the VI-VI' line.

[0086] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention in the state of being moved to the locked position.

[0087] Figure 8 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing, in which the second main body and the knob assembly interfere with each other axially in a state where an embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is moved to the locked position.

[0088] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the structure of one embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0089] Figure 10 From and Figure 9 Different perspective views show the structure of one embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0090] Figure 11 This is a front view illustrating the structure of an embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0091] Figure 12 This is a side sectional view showing the structure of an embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0092] Figures 13-16This is a diagram showing the working state of an embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention, from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0093] Figure 17 as well as Figure 18 These are perspective views showing the structure of a second embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention from different angles.

[0094] Figure 19 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a third embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0095] Figure 20 as well as Figure 21 These are perspective views and cross-sectional views showing the structure of a fourth embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0096] Figure 22 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a fifth embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0097] Figure 23 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a sixth embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0098] Figure 24 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a seventh embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0099] Figure 25 This is a front view showing the structure of the eighth embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0100] Figure 26 This is a front view showing the structure of the ninth embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0101] Figure 27 This is a perspective view showing the cooking appliance safety device of the 10th embodiment of the present invention installed on the operation panel of the cooking appliance in different directions.

[0102] Figure 28 This is an exploded perspective view showing the components of a cooking appliance that constitutes the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0103] Figure 29 This involves disassembling the components of the cooking appliance that constitute the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention and separating them from the components of the appliance. Figure 28 A three-dimensional image shown from different angles.

[0104] Figure 30 It is along Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the V-V' line.

[0105] Figure 31 It is along Figure 27 A sectional view of the VI-VI' line.

[0106] Figure 32 It is shown Figure 31 A cross-sectional view of the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention in the state of being moved to the locked position.

[0107] Figure 33 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the state in which the second main body and the knob assembly interfere with each other axially when the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is moved to the locked position.

[0108] Figure 34 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention.

[0109] Figure 35 This is a perspective view showing the enlarged step structure of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention.

[0110] Figure 36 From and Figure 34 Perspective views of the structure of the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention are shown from different angles.

[0111] Figure 37 This is a front view showing the structure of the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0112] Figure 38 This is a side sectional view showing the structure of the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking appliances provided by the present invention.

[0113] Figures 39-42 This is a working state diagram showing the 10th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention moving from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0114] Figure 43 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the 11th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention.

[0115] Figure 44 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the 12th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention.

[0116] Figure 45 This is a front view showing the structure of the 13th embodiment of the safety device for cooking utensils provided by the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0117] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when affixing reference numerals to the constituent elements of the various drawings, the same numerals are used as much as possible, even if the same constituent element appears in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related well-known structures or functions are omitted if it is believed that they would hinder the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0118] This invention relates to a knob assembly 100 and a cooking appliance including the knob assembly 100, wherein a cooktop section 20 including a plurality of heating devices 28 may be provided on the upper part of the cooking appliance. The heating devices 28 may be a gas heating device 28 that uses gas as an energy source, an electric cooktop, or an induction cooktop. Figure 1 The image shows, as an example, the gas heating device 28 in the heating device 28 of the stove section 20. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the heating device 28 may be exposed on the upper part of the cooking appliance. As another example, the heating device 28 may be disposed inside the cooking appliance, or it may be disposed both inside and outside the cooking appliance.

[0119] The knob assembly 100 is used to operate the heating device 28. The user can operate the knob assembly 100 to turn the heating device 28 on / off. The user can also operate the knob assembly 100 to adjust the heat provided by the heating device 28. Alternatively, the user can operate the knob assembly 100 to operate the oven sections 40 and 50, or select the cooking mode of the cooking appliance.

[0120] The user can control the heating device 28 by rotating the knob assembly 100 after pressing it. At this time, as... Figure 2 As shown, in order to prevent the knob assembly 100 from being arbitrarily operated due to user error or interference from surrounding objects, a safety device for cooking utensils (hereinafter referred to as "safety device 200") is provided in this invention. Hereinafter, the cooking utensil will be described in relation to such safety device 200 and the misoperation prevention structure.

[0121] Observing the structure of the cooking appliance, its appearance is formed by an outer body 10. Except for the door located at the front, the outer body 10 can form the skeleton of the cooking appliance. An additional inner shell (not shown) can be disposed inside the outer body 10.

[0122] The stove section 20 is equipped with at least one heating device 28 for heating food to be cooked or containers containing food. In this embodiment, the stove section 20 is equipped with a total of four heating devices 28.

[0123] A grate 25 may be provided on the cooktop section 20. The grate 25 is a frame that allows cooking containers to be placed on top of the heating device 28. The grate 25 is detachably mounted on the cooktop section 20. The grate 25 may be located on top of the heating device 28.

[0124] An operation panel 30 may be disposed on the upper part of the oven section 40, 50 and in front of the stove section 20. The operation panel 30 may include knob assemblies 100 for operating the oven section 40, 50 and the stove section 20. Multiple knob assemblies 100 may operate the additional heating device 28 and the oven assembly respectively. The operation panel 30 may be regarded as an operating device or a front surface panel. The operation panel 30 may be disposed not only in front of the stove section 20, but also in various other positions such as the lower part of the cooking appliance, the side surface of the cooking appliance, or the upper surface of the cooking appliance.

[0125] A display unit 60 may be provided on the operation panel 30. The display unit 60 can display information about the cooking appliance. The display unit 60 may also be a touch panel for user operation of the cooking appliance. That is, the display unit 60 may also serve as an operation unit. As another example, the display unit 60 may be omitted.

[0126] Observing the oven sections 40 and 50, the oven sections 40 and 50 may include multiple oven devices. In this embodiment, the oven sections 40 and 50 include a first oven device 40 and a second oven device 50. The first oven device 40 and the second oven device 50 are configured at different heights. Additional, mutually separated cooking chambers may be formed in the first oven device 40 and the second oven device 50.

[0127] The first door 45 of the first oven assembly 40 can be operated by a pull-down motion, rotating up and down with its upper and lower ends as the center. Alternatively, the first door 45 can also be operated by a side-swing motion, opening laterally. Reference numeral 47 indicates a handle for opening and closing the first door 45.

[0128] The second door 55 of the second oven assembly 50 can be operated by sliding in the front-to-back direction. As another example, the second door 55, like the aforementioned first door 45, is operated by a pull-down motion, rotating up and down around its upper and lower ends. Reference numeral 57 indicates a handle for opening and closing the second door 55.

[0129] Next, observe the knob assembly 100. For reference, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, six knob assemblies 100 are arranged on the control panel 30. This is just an example; one to five or more knob assemblies 100 may also be provided on the control panel 30. Each knob assembly 100 may include a generally circular body and a portion protruding from the circular body for easy gripping. As another example, the knob assembly 100 may also be directly disposed on the upper or side surface of the cooking appliance, instead of the control panel 30. As yet another example, the knob assembly 100 may also be disposed on the lower part of the front surface of the cooking appliance.

[0130] like Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, a safety device 200 is disposed between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. The safety device 200 prevents the knob assembly 100 from being pressed axially. As long as the safety device 200 restricts the axial movement of the knob assembly 100, the heating drive unit cannot operate using the knob assembly 100. To operate the heating drive unit, the knob assembly 100 must first be pressed and then rotated, which effectively prevents the pressing of the knob assembly 100 as the first step. Therefore, the safety device 200 prevents accidental operation of the cooking appliance.

[0131] At this time, the safety device 200 can achieve a locked state that prevents the knob assembly 100 from being pressed and a released state that allows the knob assembly 100 to be pressed by changing its position between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. The locked state is achieved when the safety device 200 is configured in the locked position, and the released state is achieved when the safety device 200 is configured in the released position. This structure will be observed in detail below.

[0132] For reference, the axial direction hereafter refers to drive shaft 71 (reference). Figure 3 The length direction of ) is Figures 2-4The X-axis direction. Hereinafter, the rotation direction refers to the direction in which the knob assembly 100 rotates about the drive shaft 71. Furthermore, the radial direction refers to the radial direction of the drive shaft 71, which is the same as the radial direction of the rotation path of the knob assembly 100 and also the same as the radial direction of the mounting hole 215 described later. As explained below, the safety device 200 can rotate about the axial direction, i.e., the X-axis direction. The safety device 200 can also move linearly in the axial directions, i.e., the Y-axis and Z-axis directions.

[0133] Observe the detailed structure of the knob assembly 100. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The components of the knob assembly 100 are shown in an exploded view. For clarity, the drive shaft 71, which is connected to the knob assembly 100, is observed first. The drive shaft 71 serves as the rotation center of the knob assembly 100. The drive shaft 71 rotates along with the knob assembly 100 when it rotates. The drive shaft 71 also moves linearly along with the knob assembly 100 when it moves axially.

[0134] The drive shaft 71 can be disposed in the heating drive unit 70 (see reference). Figure 4 The heating drive unit 70 can supply energy to the heating device 28. For example, the heating drive unit 70 can be configured to control the heating device 28 while being driven by the drive shaft 71. Therefore, the drive shaft 71 can also be regarded as a valve shaft.

[0135] The energy source can be gas or electricity. When the energy source is electricity, the heating drive unit 70 can be called a regulator; when the energy source is gas, the heating drive unit 70 can be called a valve assembly. The drive shaft 71 can be a component constituting the knob assembly 100. As another example, the drive shaft 71 can also be considered as part of the heating drive unit 70. Reference numeral 32 indicates a plate through-hole through which a fastener (not shown) for fixing the base part 110 passes.

[0136] More specifically, the drive shaft 71 can be drivably and rotatably coupled to the heating drive unit 70. In this case, the heating drive unit 70 can be configured not to rotate the drive shaft 71 when it is not being pushed. As the drive shaft 71 is pushed and rotated relative to the heating drive unit 70, the heating drive unit 70 can supply energy to the heating device 28.

[0137] A connecting member 75 may be provided on the drive shaft 71. The connecting member 75 may cover the outer peripheral surface of the drive shaft 71. The connecting member 75 may be made of an elastic material such as a leaf spring. The connecting member 75 may be disposed between the drive shaft 71 and the shaft coupling portion 131 (described later), providing elastic force between the drive shaft 71 and the shaft coupling portion 131. This prevents the drive shaft 71 from easily detaching from the shaft coupling portion 131.

[0138] The drive shaft 71 can be operated via the knob assembly 100. More precisely, the drive shaft 71 can be coupled to the knob body NB and rotate together with the knob body NB. The drive shaft 71 can move linearly in the axial direction together with the knob body NB. Therefore, when the user operates the knob assembly 100, the heating drive unit 70 is driven by the drive shaft 71, thereby activating the heating device 28.

[0139] Observing the structure of the knob assembly 100, a base portion 110 can be provided in the knob assembly 100. The base portion 110 can be disposed on the front surface plate 31 of the operation panel 30. A bottom hole 111 can be provided through the base portion 110 for the drive shaft 71 to pass through, so as to support the rotation of the drive shaft 71. That is, the base portion 110 enables the drive shaft 71 to rotate stably and move linearly in the axial direction.

[0140] As another example, the bottom hole 111 may be omitted from the base portion 110. In this case, the drive shaft 71 may pass directly through the front surface plate 31 without passing through the base portion 110.

[0141] The base portion 110 may be a generally disc-shaped structure. Centered on the bottom hole 111 formed at the center of the base portion 110, a base fixing hole 112 is formed on the outer side of the bottom hole 111. The base fixing hole 112 is a portion through which a fastener (not shown) passes, which can assemble the base portion 110 to the front surface panel 31.

[0142] As another example, the base portion 110 may be omitted. As yet another example, the base portion 110 may be integrally formed with the operation panel 30. That is, the base portion 110 may also be considered part of the operation panel 30. As yet another example, the base portion 110 may also have various polygonal shapes that are not disc-shaped.

[0143] The frame of the knob assembly 100 can be formed from the knob body NB. The knob body NB can enclose the drive shaft 71 and the base portion 110. The knob body NB is the part that the user holds. In this embodiment, the knob body NB is composed of a first knob body 120 and a second knob body 130. The first knob body 120 can be exposed to the outside. The second knob body 130 can be disposed inside the first knob body 120.

[0144] In this embodiment, the first knob body 120 may be exposed to the outside and become part of the user-operated knob assembly 100. The second knob body 130 may be disposed inside the first knob body 120 to form the interior of the knob body NB. As another example, the first knob body 120 and the second knob body 130 may be integrally manufactured.

[0145] The first knob body 120 may include a knob ring 121 in a generally frustum-cone or cylindrical shape. The knob ring 121 is disposed face-to-face with the front surface panel 31. A grip portion 123 may protrude from the upper surface 122 of the knob ring 121. The grip portion 123 protrudes axially from the upper surface 122 of the knob ring 121. The grip portion 123 may be the part held by the user. The grip portion 123 may be in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (see reference). Figure 2 It extends relatively long in the Z-axis direction. Reference numeral 123a is a reference scale formed on the grip portion 123. Although not shown, the scale can also be marked on the surface of the knob ring 121.

[0146] The end 121b of the knob ring 121 (refer to) Figure 8 It may be affected by the safety device 200. (Observation) Figure 8 The end 121b of the knob ring 121 can contact the interference area A of the safety device 200. In this way, the entire knob body NB, including the knob ring 121, cannot move in the axial direction.

[0147] The second knob body 130 can be disposed within the internal space 121a of the first knob body 120. The second knob body 130 can be fixed to the internal space 121a of the first knob body 120. The second knob body 130 can be pressed into the internal space 121a or fixed to the internal space 121a using adhesive. Although not shown, the second knob body 130 can also be assembled to the first knob body 120 using fasteners.

[0148] The second knob body 130 may be provided with a shaft engagement portion 131 that engages with one end of the drive shaft 71. The shaft engagement portion 131 may be generally cylindrical in shape. The shaft engagement portion 131 may be disposed at the center of the knob body NB. A shaft engagement hole 132 may be formed in the shaft engagement portion 131, into which the drive shaft 71 is inserted. The drive shaft 71 may be fixed inside the shaft engagement hole 132 to prevent it from spinning freely inside the shaft engagement hole 132.

[0149] If one end of the drive shaft 71 is inserted into the shaft engagement hole 132, the drive shaft 71 can rotate together with the second knob body 130 and move axially together with the second knob body 130. That is, when the second knob body 130 and the first knob body 120 are driven together, the drive shaft 71 is also driven together. For example, when the second knob body 130 and the first knob body 120 are pushed axially together, the drive shaft 71 also moves axially. When the second knob body 130 and the first knob body 120 rotate together about the drive shaft 71, the drive shaft 71 also rotates together. Therefore, the drive shaft 71 can also be referred to as a rotating shaft.

[0150] The second knob body 130 can be coupled to the drive shaft 71 and also to the counterweight 160. In this way, because the structure for coupling with other components is implemented on the second knob body 130, the first knob body 120 can be made with a relatively simple and thin structure. Therefore, when injection molding the first knob body 120, it is possible to prevent the formation of sink marks or flow marks due to shrinkage of a portion of the first knob body 120 caused by its complex shape.

[0151] An assembly block portion 133 may be provided on the second knob body 130. The assembly block portion 133 may have a hexahedral structure that is elongated in approximately one direction. The assembly block portion 133 may form the skeleton of the second knob body 130. In this embodiment, the assembly block portion 133 has a shape corresponding to the grip portion 123. Thus, the assembly block portion 133 can be accommodated in a fastening space 127 (see reference) provided inside the grip portion 123. Figure 4 )Inside.

[0152] The second knob body 130 can be connected to the counterweight 160 via fastener B1. The fastener B1 can be fixed to the assembly hole 134 of the second knob body 130 after passing through the counterweight 160. Thus, the second knob body 130 and the counterweight 160 can be assembled together and operate together.

[0153] A support plate 136 may be provided on the second knob body 130. The support plate 136 protrudes along the axial direction toward the side opposite to the base portion 110. The support plate 136 protrudes from the assembly block portion 133 in a generally plate-like shape. The support plate 136 may extend relatively long in the same direction as the grip portion 123, i.e., in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. One end of the support plate 136 may be in close contact with the inner surface of the first knob body 120, i.e., the inner surface of the fastening space 127.

[0154] A counterweight 160, which rotates and moves together with the knob body NB, can be engaged with the knob body NB. The counterweight 160 may have a disc structure to correspond to the internal space 121a. The counterweight 160 increases the overall weight of the knob assembly 100, thereby improving the operability of the knob assembly 100. For this purpose, the counterweight 160 may be made of metal.

[0155] A shaft through hole 161 for inserting the drive shaft 71 can be formed through the center of the counterweight 160. Plate fastening holes 164 for fasteners B1 to pass through can be formed around the shaft through hole 161. The plate fastening holes 164 can be configured as a pair.

[0156] Next, the safety device 200 will be described. The safety device 200 restricts the linear movement of the knob assembly 100 along the axial direction of the drive shaft 71. The user can selectively restrict the pushing action of the knob assembly 100 by changing the position and orientation of the safety device 200. The safety device 200 can be configured to wrap around the drive shaft 71 before the knob assembly 100 engages with it. In this embodiment, the safety device 200 is configured to surround the outer peripheral surface of the base portion 110. This structure will be described again below.

[0157] When the safety device 200 changes position between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30, it can achieve (i) a locked state preventing the knob assembly 100 from being pressed and (ii) a released state allowing the knob assembly 100 to be pressed. For reference, Figure 5 The deactivated status is shown. Figure 7 The locked state is shown.

[0158] The safety device 200 is rotatable about the drive shaft 71. A mounting hole 215, as described below, can be formed in the safety device 200, through which the drive shaft 71 passes, becoming the rotation center of the safety device 200. As the safety device 200 rotates, the second main body 230 can be released to a downward orientation (see reference). Figure 5 ) and in the state where the second main body 230 faces upward, the interference area A is disposed between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30 in a locked state (refer to Figure 7 ).

[0159] In this way, the safety device 200 can rotate around the knob assembly 100 and is positioned at the upper end (12 o'clock position) of the knob assembly 100 in the locked state. Since the safety device 200, positioned at the upper end of the knob assembly 100, is supported by the knob assembly 100, there is no need to worry about the safety device moving downwards due to gravity. Therefore, once locked, the lock cannot be arbitrarily released due to gravity.

[0160] The safety device 200 may include a first main body portion 210 and a second main body portion 230. The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 are interconnected to form a single main body. The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 may be integrally formed. If the first main body portion 210 is used to install the safety device 200 on a cooking appliance, then the second main body portion 230 serves both as a part for the user to hold and as a part to restrict the pushing action of the knob assembly 100.

[0161] The safety device 200 can be made of a flexible material. For example, the safety device 200 can be made of silicone or rubber. The safety device 200 can bend during rotation or movement. For example, when the safety device 200 rotates, it may interfere with other knob assemblies 100 adjacent to the knob assembly 100 in which the safety device 200 is embedded. In this case, the bending of the safety device 200 can prevent interference.

[0162] The first main body portion 210 may have a generally plate-like structure. A mounting hole 215 extends through the first main body portion 210. The mounting hole 215 is shaped to extend through the first main body portion 210 in the axial direction. The base portion 110 is located inside the mounting hole 215. The drive shaft 71 passes through the mounting hole 215, which can serve as the rotation center of the safety device 200. Furthermore, the safety device 200 is mounted on the drive shaft 71, thereby preventing separation from the cooking appliance.

[0163] Reference Figure 9One end portion 213 of the first main body portion 210 is formed on one side of the first main body portion 210 with the mounting hole 215 as the center, and the other end portion 211 of the first main body portion 210 is formed on the opposite side. One end portion 213 of the first main body portion 210 is connected to the partition portion K described below. The other end portion 211 of the first main body portion 210 faces downward when the safety device 200 is in the released position.

[0164] Side portions 212 of a first main body portion 210 are formed on both sides of the mounting hole 215. The pair of side portions 212 of the first main body portion 210 can surround the two side edges of the mounting hole 215. The side portions 212 of the first main body portion 210 can have the same width based on the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the axial direction, or their width can vary along a curved shape corresponding to the mounting hole 215. Reference numeral 216 indicates the circumferential surface of the first main body portion 210.

[0165] The mounting hole 215 forms a closed curve within the first main body portion 210. Here, a closed curve means that there is no radially open portion within the entire circumferential direction of the mounting hole 215. As long as the mounting hole 215 is formed as a closed curve, it can remain suspended between the drive shaft 71 and the base portion 110.

[0166] The first main body portion 210 may continuously surround the edge of the mounting hole 215 along the circumferential direction. One end portion 213, the other end portion 211, and a pair of side portions 212 of the first main body portion 210 surround the edge of the mounting hole 215.

[0167] The first main body portion 210 can have the same axial thickness throughout the entire area. Because the first main body portion 210 has the same thickness throughout the entire area, even if the safety device 200 is rotated to any angle around the mounting hole 215, it will not interfere with the relationship between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. Furthermore, because the first main body portion 210 has the same thickness throughout the entire area, when the safety device 200 is positioned on the operation panel 30, the front surface 210A of the first main body portion 210 protrudes from the operation panel 30 to an equal degree.

[0168] The second main body portion 230 is connected to the first main body portion 210. One end portion 233 of the second main body portion 230 is connected to the first main body portion 210, and the other end portion 231 of the second main body portion 230 is spaced apart from the end portion 233 of the second main body portion 230 along its length. Here, the length direction refers to the overall length direction of the safety device 200. Figure 9 When observing from the reference point, the direction is up and down. Figure 3 (Z-axis direction).

[0169] An interference region A is defined in the second main body portion 230, the axial thickness of which is greater than the axial thickness of the first main body portion 210. The interference region A prevents the knob body NB from being pressed axially by interfering with the interaction between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. The interference region A may be defined entirely within the second main body portion 230 or within a portion of the second main body portion 230.

[0170] The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 can be separated by a partition K. One end 213 of the first main body portion 210 and one end 233 of the second main body portion 230 can face each other with reference to the partition K. The axial thickness of the second main body portion 230 can gradually increase with reference to the partition K. A portion of this portion with increased axial thickness can become the interference region A.

[0171] In this embodiment, the interference region A is defined between the partition K and the through hole 235. That is, the interference region A is formed within the second main body 230. As another example, a portion of the side portions 232 of the second main body 230 disposed on both sides of the through hole 235 may also be included in the interference region A.

[0172] Reference Figure 9 Observing the structure of the second main body 230, a through hole 235 can be formed in the second main body 230. The through hole 235 is formed as a closed curve in the second main body 230 that is independent of the mounting hole 215. The through hole 235 can be a handle to make it easier for the user to grip the second main body 230. Furthermore, when the interference area A is compressed between the knob assembly 100 and the cooking appliance, the compressed part can elastically deform in the direction of filling the through hole 235. Thus, the interference area A can be compressed more easily.

[0173] Side portions 232 of a second main body portion 230 are formed on both sides of the through hole 235. The pair of side portions 232 of the second main body portion 230 can surround the two side edges of the through hole 235. The side portions 232 of the second main body portion 230 can have the same width based on the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the axial direction, or their width can vary along a curved shape corresponding to the mounting hole 215. Reference numeral 236 indicates the circumferential surface of the second main body portion 230.

[0174] The axial thickness of the second main body portion 230 can vary throughout the entire region. More precisely, the axial thickness of the second main body portion 230 can increase along a direction orthogonal to the axial direction, i.e., the length direction. Thus, the second main body portion 230, including the interference region A, can be pressed between the operation panel 30 and the knob assembly 100. Because the thickness of the second main body portion 230 varies throughout the entire region, when the safety device 200 is disposed on the operation panel 30, the degree to which the front surface 230A of the second main body portion 230 protrudes from the operation panel 30 is uneven along the length direction.

[0175] For reference, observe Figure 10 The rear surface 210B of the first main body portion 210 and the rear surface 230B of the second main body portion 230 can be configured as continuous planes. The rear surfaces 210B of the first main body portion 210 and the rear surface 230B of the second main body portion 230 are each configured as planes of equal height. Therefore, the rear surfaces 210B of the first main body portion 210 and the rear surfaces 230B of the second main body portion 230 can collectively form a large contact area with the front surface plate 31.

[0176] The mounting hole 215 can be formed outside the interference area A. When the mounting hole 215 is formed outside the interference area A, there is no through portion in the interference area A where the knob assembly 100 is locked. Therefore, a larger contact area with the knob assembly 100 can be ensured in the interference area A, thereby stably maintaining the state between the safety device 200 and the cooking appliance.

[0177] In this embodiment, the mounting hole 215 is formed at a position spaced apart from the starting point of the interference area A, i.e., the other end 211 of the partition portion K toward the first main body portion 210. Therefore, the mounting hole 215 can be prevented from interfering with the operation panel 30 and the knob assembly 100.

[0178] Observe that the safety device 200 is in the disengaged position. Figure 5This shows the state in which the safety device 200 is positioned in front of the operation panel 30. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the safety device 200 is disposed between the front panel 31 and the knob body NB. The inner surface of the mounting hole 215 of the safety device 200 covers the base portion 110, and a portion of the drive shaft 71 protrudes forward through the mounting hole 215.

[0179] The base portion 110 can be hung on the edge of the mounting hole 215. Referring to the attached drawings, the upper end of the base portion 110 is hung on the upper edge of the mounting hole 215. Thus, the safety device 200 can remain hung on the base portion 110.

[0180] like Figure 5 As shown, a first gap G1 is formed between the end 121b of the first knob body 120 constituting the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31. Here, the first gap G1 is not the entire distance at which the knob body NB can be pressed in the axial direction. Since the end 121b of the first knob body 120 faces the front surface 210A of the first main body portion 210 of the safety device 200, the end 121b of the first knob body 120 contacts the front surface 210A of the first main body portion 210 before contacting the front surface plate 31. Therefore, with... Figure 5 Based on this, the total distance that the knob body NB can be pressed in the axial direction is the axial distance G2, G3 between the end 121b of the first knob body 120 and the first body portion 210.

[0181] When the safety device 200 is in the disengaged position, the axial distance between the surface of the first main body 210 and the knob assembly 100 is greater than or equal to the reference distance. Figure 5 When viewed from a reference position, the axial distances G2 and G3 between the end 121b of the first knob body 120 and the first body portion 210 are greater than or equal to the axial reference distance used to operate the heating drive unit by the drive shaft 71. Therefore, when the safety device 200 is in the released position, the user can operate the heat source device 28 by pressing the knob body NB axially.

[0182] observe Figure 5 The end 121b of the first knob body 120 is located at a position offset from the interference region A, with reference to the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the axial direction. The end 121b of the first knob body 120 is offset from the interference region A and faces a position closer to the first body portion 210 than the partition portion K.

[0183] Upon closer inspection, when the cooking appliance is in the disengaged state, the radial distance S1 between one end of the base portion 110 and the partition portion K is shorter than the radial distance S2 between one end of the base portion 110 and the interference area A. Here, the end 121b of the first knob body 120 faces the partition portion K, or is positioned closer to the drive shaft 71 than the partition portion K. Therefore, in the disengaged state, even in the axial direction ( Figure 5 When the knob body NB is pressed (in the direction of the arrow), the end 121b of the first knob body 120 can also be prevented from being interfered with by the interference area A.

[0184] On the other hand, the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is larger than the outer diameter R3 of the drive shaft 71 and the base portion 110 through which the drive shaft 71 passes. In this embodiment, the safety device 200 can slide in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction by an amount equivalent to the difference RG between the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 and the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. The difference between the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 and the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110 can be greater than or equal to the distance the safety device 200 moves between the locked position and the released position. Figure 5 When viewed from a reference angle, the safety device 200 can move linearly in the Z-axis direction by an amount equivalent to the difference RG. This margin of safety distance RG facilitates operation of the safety device 200 and makes it suitable for various sizes of cooking utensils.

[0185] For reference only. Figure 11 The inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is compared with the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. In this way, when the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 is concentrically aligned with the center of the base portion 110, the inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 215 can be entirely spaced apart from the outer circumferential surface of the base portion 110.

[0186] Figure 6 The diagram shows the safety device 200 rotated 180 degrees around the drive shaft 71. Figure 6 In this configuration, the knob body NB remains axially spaced from the surface of the safety device 200. Therefore, the knob body NB can be pressed axially (in the direction of arrow ①).

[0187] The axial thickness D2 of the first main body portion 210 may be less than or equal to the axial thickness D1 of the base portion 110. (Observation) Figure 6In the enlarged portion, the thickness D1 of the base portion 110 is greater than the thickness D2 of the first main body portion 210. Therefore, based on the released state, the knob assembly 100 may be axially disturbed by the base portion 110 before being disturbed by the safety device 200.

[0188] on the other hand, Figure 6 In this process, the safety device 200 slides in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (arrow ② direction) by an amount equivalent to the difference RG between the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 and the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. Here, the direction orthogonal to the axial direction is the same as the direction of gravity. When the safety device 200 moves in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (arrow ② direction), the interference area A fills the gap between the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31. As a result, the knob body NB cannot move in the axial direction (arrow ① direction), thereby locking the cooking appliance.

[0189] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates this state. When the safety device 200 is moved to the locked position, the interference area A of the safety device 200 is positioned between the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31. Therefore, the knob body NB cannot move axially ( Figure 7 When the arrow is pressed, the heat source device 28 cannot work.

[0190] by Figure 7 Based on this, the upper end of the first knob body 120 is affected by the interference area A. Reference numeral T indicates the interference point between the upper end of the first knob body 120 and the interference area A. The interference point T may be formed between the through hole 235 and the mounting hole 215.

[0191] To observe the interference point T by magnification Figure 8 At this time, the end 121b of the first knob body 120 comes into contact with the surface of the interference area A. Since the interference point T is formed between the through hole 235 and the mounting hole 215, the interference area can be prevented from shrinking due to holes 215 and 235. In this way, since the interference area is ensured to be wide enough, the interference state can be maintained more stably.

[0192] observe Figures 9-11 The length between the other end 211 of the first main body portion 210 furthest from the partition portion K and the partition portion K is longer than the length between the other end 231 of the second main body portion 230 furthest from the partition portion K and the partition portion K. That is, when comparing lengths relative to the partition portion K, the length X1 of the first main body portion 210 (refer to...) Figure 11 ) is twice the length of the second main body 230 (refer to) Figure 11 The reason is that the first main body 210 needs to be large enough to ensure that the diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is suitable for various sizes of knob assemblies 100 and base portions 110. Furthermore, the area of ​​the second main body 230 exposed upwards in the locked position can be reduced by making the length of the second main body 230 shorter than the length of the first main body 210.

[0193] In this embodiment, the diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is larger than the diameter R2 of the through hole 235. Since the through hole 235 does not participate in the installation of the safety device 200, but rather serves to facilitate the user's grip, the diameter R2 of the through hole 235 does not need to be as large as the diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215.

[0194] The through hole 235 may have a closed curve independent of the mounting hole 215. The through hole 235 does not open to either side in the radial direction. When the through hole 235 has a closed curve shape, the user can apply a strong external force to pull the safety device 200 while the user has their fingers or other objects hanging in the through hole 235.

[0195] The distance H1 between the partition K and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 can be longer than the distance H2 between the partition K and the center C2 of the through hole 235. This allows the through hole 235 to be exposed to the outside of the knob assembly 100 while the safety device 200 is mounted on the operation panel 30. By ensuring a sufficient distance H1 between the partition K and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215, the through hole 235 and the other end 231 of the second main body 230 can be exposed to the user.

[0196] The distance between the other end 211 of the first main body portion 210 furthest from the partition portion K and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 can be longer than the distance between the partition portion K and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215. As long as the safety device 200 has such a structure, even if the safety device 200 is applicable to base portions 110 of various sizes, the through hole 235 can be exposed to the radially outer side of the knob assembly 100.

[0197] The interference region A may have different axial thicknesses along its length. (Observation) Figure 12 The interference region A has a different thickness along its length between the partition K and the through hole 235. More precisely, the thickness of the interference region A gradually increases with distance from the partition K. Therefore, it is possible to disperse the insertion force required for the user to push the interference region A between the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31.

[0198] The interference region A can be defined between the edge of the mounting hole 215 and the edge of the through hole 235. For example... Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the interference area A can be located between the edge of the mounting hole 215 and the edge of the through hole 235. Here, the edge of the mounting hole 215 and the edge of the through hole 235 each point to one end facing the partition portion K.

[0199] The interference area A can also be defined between a position spaced apart from the edge of the mounting hole 215 toward the second body portion 230 and the other end 231 of the second body portion 230. Depending on the relative size of the second body portion 230 and the knob assembly 100, the entire area from the edge of the mounting hole 215 to the other end 231 of the second body portion 230 can be the interference area A.

[0200] The center C1 of the mounting hole 215 and the center C2 of the through hole 235 can be aligned along the length direction of the first main body 210 and the second main body 230. For example... Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 and the center C2 of the through hole 235 can be arranged on the same extension line along the length direction of the safety device 200. In this way, the safety device 200 has a left-right symmetrical structure with the mounting hole 215 and the through hole 235 as the center, so the user can easily operate the safety device 200 in both left and right directions.

[0201] A protrusion 237 may be provided on the second main body 230. The protrusion 237 protrudes from the front surface 230A of the second main body 230. The protrusion 237 increases friction for the user to grip the second main body 230 more easily. The protrusion 237 is also provided in the interference area A, which can also increase friction between the interference area A and the surface of the knob body NB.

[0202] The plurality of protrusions 237 may be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the second main body portion 230. Each protrusion 237 is a rib extending elongated in one direction, with each rib spaced apart from the others. The protrusions 237 may be formed in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the safety device 200. Alternatively, the protrusions 237 may be formed along the length direction of the safety device 200 or in an inclined direction. As another example, the protrusions 237 may be omitted.

[0203] refer to Figures 13-16 Observe the process of switching the safety device 200 from the released position to the locked position. First, Figure 13The diagram shows the safety device 200 in the released position. In the released position, the first main body 210 of the safety device 200 faces downwards, and the second main body 230 faces upwards. Even when the user does not operate the safety device 200, the second main body 230 may also face downwards due to gravity. This position of the safety device 200 can also be referred to as the first position.

[0204] At this time, the second main body 230, which is relatively heavy due to its thickness, rotates downward around the mounting hole 215 as its center of rotation under the influence of gravity, thus reaching the released state. In this way, the safety device 200 of this embodiment can be basically in the released position, and can be rotated to the locked position only when needed by the user.

[0205] like Figure 13 As shown, the entirety or a portion of the interference area A can be exposed beneath the knob assembly 100. Therefore, the user can confirm that the safety device 200 does not restrict the pressing of the knob assembly 100. The through hole 235 can be entirely exposed beneath the knob assembly 100, allowing the user to easily grip the through hole 235.

[0206] Figure 14 The diagram shows the safety device 200 rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. The user can rotate the safety device 200 by holding the through hole 235. In this case, the mounting hole 215 can become the center of rotation. Figure 14 Similarly, in this state, as long as the user moves the safety device 200 towards the drive shaft 71 (to the right of the attached figure), the interference area A can be pressed between the knob body NB and the front surface panel 31. However, in this case, if it is not pressed in forcefully or for an extended period of time, the safety device 200 may return to its original position due to gravity. Figure 13 The state.

[0207] Figure 15 It shows in Figure 14 In this state, the safety device 200 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. This positions the second main body 230 towards the 12 o'clock position. In this state, the safety device 200 can move vertically. This movement is possible because the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is larger than the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different context.) Figure 15 In the state shown, the position of the safety device 200 can be referred to as the second position.

[0208] When the user Figure 15 When the safety device 200 is pressed in the direction of the arrow, it switches to the following mode: Figure 16The state shown indicates that the interference area A of the safety device 200 is inserted between the knob body NB and the front surface panel 31, thus entering a locked state. (Observation) Figure 16 Most of the interference area A can be blocked by the knob body NB. Therefore, the user can confirm that the cooking appliance is locked by observing this state. This can be referred to as the third position of the safety device 200.

[0209] In this way, the safety device 200 can be positioned at the upper end (12 o'clock position) of the knob assembly 100. Since the safety device 200, positioned at the upper end of the knob assembly 100, is supported by the knob assembly 100, there is no need to worry about the safety device moving downwards due to gravity. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the safety device 200 from being arbitrarily released from its locked state due to rotation caused by gravity.

[0210] Figure 17 as well as Figure 18 The structure of the second embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in perspective views viewed from different angles. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures are observed instead. In this embodiment, a mounting hole 215 is formed in the first main body portion 210. A through hole 235 is formed in the second main body portion 230 connected to the first main body portion 210.

[0211] An interference region A is defined in the second main body portion 230, where the axial thickness increases from the partition portion K. At this time, a portion of the mounting hole 215 overlaps with the interference region A. Figure 17 As shown, a portion of the mounting hole 215 is surrounded by the interference region A. However, the majority of the mounting hole 215 is located outside the interference region A within the first main body portion 210. More precisely, more than two-thirds of the mounting hole 215 is located outside the interference region A.

[0212] Figure 19 The structure of a third embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in a perspective view. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures are observed instead. In this embodiment, a mounting hole 215 is formed in the first main body portion 210. The mounting hole 215 is formed outside the interference area A.

[0213] A portion of the mounting hole 215 is open in the radial direction. A slit 218 is formed in the open portion of the mounting hole 215. The slit 218 is formed in the radial direction of the mounting hole 215, and in this embodiment, the slit 218 is formed in the longitudinal direction of the safety device 200. One end of the slit 218 is connected to the mounting hole 215, and the other end of the slit 218 is connected to the other end of the first main body 210. The function of the slit 218 is to allow the safety device 200 to be detached from the cooking appliance even without removing the knob assembly 100. As another example, the slit 218 may be formed at different angles along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole 215.

[0214] A through hole 235 is formed in the second main body portion 230 connected to the first main body portion 210. In this case, the through hole 235 is not a perfect circle, but rather an ellipse that is longer in one direction. In this embodiment, the through hole 235 is longer in the left-right direction orthogonal to the length direction of the safety device 200.

[0215] Figure 20 and Figure 21 The structure of the fourth embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in both perspective and sectional views. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the foregoing embodiments are omitted; other structures will be observed.

[0216] In this embodiment, a mounting hole 215 is formed in the first main body portion 210. The mounting hole 215 is formed outside the interference area A. A second main body portion 230, having a through hole 235, is connected to the first main body portion 210.

[0217] The second main body portion 230 is axially symmetrical about a reference line extending along the length direction of the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230. Here, with... Figure 21 Using this as a reference, the axis refers to the front-to-back direction. For example... Figure 21 As shown, the second main body 230 may have a structure in which the thickness increases in the front and rear directions respectively.

[0218] The interference area A may include a first interference area A1 and a second interference area A2. Thus, when the interference areas A are configured as a symmetrical pair, the safety device 200 is non-directional with respect to the axial direction. Therefore, when installing the safety device 200 on a cooking appliance, the user does not need to install it in two separate directions.

[0219] Figure 22The structure of the fifth embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in the perspective view. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures will be observed. Figure 22 As shown, a square mounting hole 215 can be formed in the first main body portion 210. The vertical length and horizontal length of the mounting hole 215 are both larger than the outer diameter of the base portion 110. As another example, the mounting hole 215 can have a non-square shape, such as an ellipse, a triangle, or a polygon with more than five sides.

[0220] Figure 23 The structure of the sixth embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in the perspective view. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the foregoing embodiments are omitted; other structures will be observed. Figure 23 As shown, a peripheral surface 238 is provided on the second main body portion 230, and the peripheral surface 238 protrudes in the direction opposite to that toward the first main body portion 210. The peripheral surface 238 is the part that the user holds. The peripheral surface 238 may have a hook shape. A hanging groove 235 may be formed in the peripheral surface 238 to facilitate user gripping.

[0221] In this embodiment, the peripheral surface 238 has an asymmetrical structure. Figure 23 Based on this, the peripheral surface area 238 is located slightly to the right of the center of the second main body portion 230. As another example, the peripheral surface area 238 may be located slightly to the left of the center of the second main body portion 230. As yet another example, the peripheral surface area 238 may protrude upwards from the center of the second main body portion 230.

[0222] Figure 24 The structure of the seventh embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in a perspective view. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures are observed. The protrusion 237 is omitted from the interference region A. The interference region A, with its inclined or curved surface structure lacking the protrusion 237, can increase the contact area with the knob body NB.

[0223] Figure 25 The structure of the eighth embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in the perspective view. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures are observed instead. The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 have different widths based on their widths in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230. More precisely, the left-right width of the first main body portion 210 is larger than the left-right width of the second main body portion 230.

[0224] Figure 26 The structure of the ninth embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown in the perspective view. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures are observed. A mounting hole 215 is formed in the first main body portion 210, and the second main body portion 230 does not have a through structure. That is, the second main body portion 230 can be integrally formed as a grip portion without a through structure.

[0225] On the other hand, although not illustrated, the thickness of the interference region A does not necessarily increase gradually along the length of the safety device 200. For example, the thickness of the interference region A may increase in a stepped manner along the length of the safety device 200. Furthermore, the interference region A may consist of only portions having two different thicknesses. As another example, the interference region A may have a uniform thickness greater than the thickness of the first main body portion 210. As yet another example, the interference region A may be composed of multiple protruding structures that are greater than the thickness of the first main body portion 210.

[0226] Next, refer to Figures 27-42 A tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The user can control the heating device 28 by rotating the knob assembly 100 after pressing it. At this time, as... Figure 27 As shown, to prevent the knob assembly 100 from being arbitrarily operated due to user error or interference from surrounding objects, a safety device for cooking appliances (hereinafter referred to as "safety device 200") is provided in this invention. Hereinafter, the cooking appliance will be described with respect to such safety device 200 and the misoperation prevention structure. However, the same reference numerals are used for structures identical to those in the aforementioned embodiments, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0227] like Figure 27 As shown, in this embodiment, a safety device 200 is disposed between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. The safety device 200 prevents the knob assembly 100 from being pressed axially. As long as the safety device 200 restricts the axial movement of the knob assembly 100, the heating drive unit cannot operate using the knob assembly 100. To operate the heating drive unit, the knob assembly 100 must first be pressed and then rotated, which effectively prevents the first step of pressing the knob assembly 100. Therefore, the safety device 200 prevents accidental operation of the cooking appliance.

[0228] At this time, the safety device 200 can achieve a locked state that prevents the knob assembly 100 from being pressed and a released state that allows the knob assembly 100 to be pressed by changing its position between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. The locked state is achieved when the safety device 200 is configured in the locked position, and the released state is achieved when the safety device 200 is configured in the released position. This structure will be observed in detail below.

[0229] Observe the detailed structure of the knob assembly 100. Figure 28 and Figure 29 The components of the knob assembly 100 are shown in an exploded view. For clarity, the drive shaft 71, which is connected to the knob assembly 100, is observed first. The drive shaft 71 is rotatably and expeditably connected to the heating drive unit 70. The heating drive unit 70 can be configured to not rotate the drive shaft 71 when it is not pushed. As the drive shaft 71 is pushed and rotated relative to the heating drive unit 70, the heating drive unit 70 can supply energy to the heating device 28. This structure can be configured similarly to the previously described embodiment.

[0230] Next, the safety device 200 will be described. When the safety device 200 changes position between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30, it can achieve (i) a locked state that prevents the knob assembly 100 from being pressed and (ii) a released state that allows the knob assembly 100 to be pressed. For reference, Figure 30 The deactivated status is shown. Figure 32 The locked state is shown.

[0231] The safety device 200 is rotatable about the drive shaft 71. A mounting hole 215, as described below, can be formed in the safety device 200, through which the drive shaft 71 passes, becoming the rotation center of the safety device 200. As the safety device 200 rotates, the second main body 230 can be released to a downward orientation (see reference). Figure 30 ) and in the state where the second main body 230 faces upward, the interference area A is disposed between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30 in a locked state (refer to Figure 32 ).

[0232] In this way, the safety device 200 can rotate around the knob assembly 100 and is positioned at the upper end (12 o'clock position) of the knob assembly 100 in the locked state. Since the safety device 200, positioned at the upper end of the knob assembly 100, is supported by the knob assembly 100, there is no need to worry about the safety device moving downwards due to gravity. Therefore, once locked, the lock cannot be arbitrarily released due to gravity.

[0233] The safety device 200 may include a first main body portion 210 and a second main body portion 230. The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 are interconnected to form a single main body. The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 may be integrally formed. The first main body portion 210 is used to mount the safety device 200 onto a cooking appliance, while the second main body portion 230 serves both as a part for the user to hold and as a part to restrict the pushing action of the knob assembly 100.

[0234] The safety device 200 can be made of a flexible material. For example, the safety device 200 can be made of silicone or rubber. The safety device 200 can bend during rotation or movement. For example, when the safety device 200 rotates, it may interfere with other knob assemblies 100 adjacent to the knob assembly 100 in which the safety device 200 is embedded. In this case, the bending of the safety device 200 can prevent interference.

[0235] The first main body portion 210 may have a generally plate-like structure. A mounting hole 215 extends through the first main body portion 210. The mounting hole 215 is shaped to extend through the first main body portion 210 in the axial direction. The base portion 110 is located inside the mounting hole 215. The drive shaft 71 passes through the mounting hole 215, which can serve as the rotation center of the safety device 200. Furthermore, the safety device 200 is mounted on the drive shaft 71, thereby preventing separation from the cooking appliance.

[0236] Reference Figure 34 One end portion 213 of the first main body portion 210 is formed on one side of the first main body portion 210 with the mounting hole 215 as the center, and the other end portion 211 of the first main body portion 210 is formed on the opposite side. One end portion 213 of the first main body portion 210 is connected to the stepped portion 237 described below. The other end portion 211 of the first main body portion 210 faces downward when the safety device 200 is in the released position.

[0237] Side portions 212 of a first main body portion 210 are formed on both sides of the mounting hole 215. The pair of side portions 212 of the first main body portion 210 can surround the two side edges of the mounting hole 215. The side portions 212 of the first main body portion 210 can have the same width with reference to the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the axial direction, or their width can vary along the curved shape corresponding to the mounting hole 215. Reference numeral 216 indicates the circumferential surface of the first main body portion 210.

[0238] The mounting hole 215 forms a closed curve within the first main body portion 210. Here, a closed curve means that there is no radially open portion within the entire circumferential region of the mounting hole 215. As long as the mounting hole 215 is formed as a closed curve, it can remain suspended between the drive shaft 71 and the base portion 110.

[0239] The first main body portion 210 may continuously surround the edge of the mounting hole 215 along the circumferential direction. One end portion 213, the other end portion 211, and a pair of side portions 212 of the first main body portion 210 surround the edge of the mounting hole 215.

[0240] The first main body portion 210 can have the same axial thickness throughout the entire area. Because the first main body portion 210 has the same thickness throughout the entire area, even if the safety device 200 is rotated to any angle around the mounting hole 215, it will not interfere with the relationship between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. Furthermore, because the first main body portion 210 has the same thickness throughout the entire area, when the safety device 200 is positioned on the operation panel 30, the front surface 210A of the first main body portion 210 protrudes from the operation panel 30 to an equal degree.

[0241] The second main body portion 230 is connected to the first main body portion 210. One end of the second main body portion 230 is connected to the first main body portion 210, and the other end portion 231 of the second main body portion 230 is spaced apart from the first end portion along its length. Here, the length direction refers to the overall length direction of the safety device 200. Figure 34 When observing from the reference point, the direction is up and down. Figure 28 (Z-axis direction).

[0242] observe Figure 32An interference region A is defined on the second main body 230, the axial thickness of which is greater than that of the first main body 210. The interference region A prevents the knob body NB from being pressed axially by interfering with the interaction between the knob assembly 100 and the operation panel 30. The interference region A may be defined entirely on the second main body 230 or on a portion thereof.

[0243] The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 can be separated by a stepped portion 237. One end 213 of the first main body portion 210 and one end of the second main body portion 230 can face each other with reference to the stepped portion 237. The axial thickness of the second main body portion 230 can gradually increase with reference to the stepped portion 237. A portion of the portion with such increased axial thickness can become the interference region A.

[0244] In this embodiment, the interference region A is defined between the stepped portion 237 and the other end 231 of the second main body portion 230. That is, the interference region A is formed within the second main body portion 230. A portion of the side portions 232 of the second main body portion 230 disposed on both sides of the through hole 235 may also be included in the interference region A.

[0245] Reference Figure 34 Observing the structure of the second main body portion 230, a through hole 235 can be formed in the second main body portion 230. More precisely, a portion of the through hole 235 can be formed in the first main body portion 210, and the remaining portion can be formed in the second main body portion 230. That is, the through hole 235 is formed in the boundary portion. Therefore, the stepped portions 237 (described later) can be arranged on both sides with reference to the through hole 235. As another example, the through hole 235 may also be formed only in the region of the second main body portion 230.

[0246] The through hole 235 is formed in the second main body 230 with a closed curve independent of the mounting hole 215. The through hole 235 can serve as a handle, allowing the user to grip the second main body 230 more easily. Furthermore, when the interference area A is compressed between the knob assembly 100 and the cooking appliance, the compressed portion can elastically deform in the direction of filling the through hole 235. This allows for easier compression of the interference area A.

[0247] Side portions 232 of a second main body portion 230 are formed on both sides of the through hole 235. The pair of side portions 232 of the second main body portion 230 can surround the two side edges of the through hole 235. The side portions 232 of the second main body portion 230 can have the same width based on the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the axial direction, or their width can vary along a curved shape corresponding to the mounting hole 215. Reference numeral 236 indicates the circumferential surface of the second main body portion 230.

[0248] The axial thickness of the second main body portion 230 can vary throughout the entire region. More precisely, the axial thickness of the second main body portion 230 can increase along a direction orthogonal to the axial direction, i.e., the length direction. Thus, the second main body portion 230, including the interference region A, can be pressed between the operation panel 30 and the knob assembly 100. Because the thickness of the second main body portion 230 varies throughout the entire region, when the safety device 200 is disposed on the operation panel 30, the degree to which the front surface 230A of the second main body portion 230 protrudes from the operation panel 30 is uneven along the length direction.

[0249] For reference, observe Figure 35 The rear surface 210B of the first main body portion 210 and the rear surface 230B of the second main body portion 230 can be configured as continuous planes. The rear surfaces 210B of the first main body portion 210 and the rear surface 230B of the second main body portion 230 are each configured as planes of equal height. Therefore, the rear surfaces 210B of the first main body portion 210 and the rear surfaces 230B of the second main body portion 230 can collectively form a large contact area with the front surface plate 31.

[0250] The mounting hole 215 can be formed outside the interference area A. When the mounting hole 215 is formed outside the interference area A, there is no through portion in the interference area A where the knob assembly 100 is locked. Therefore, a larger contact area with the knob assembly 100 can be ensured in the interference area A, thereby stably maintaining the state between the safety device 200 and the cooking appliance.

[0251] In this embodiment, the mounting hole 215 is formed at a position spaced apart from the starting point of the interference area A, i.e., the other end 211 of the stepped portion 237 toward the first main body portion 210. Therefore, the mounting hole 215 can be prevented from interfering with the operation panel 30 and the knob assembly 100.

[0252] Observe that the safety device 200 is in the disengaged position. Figure 30This shows the state in which the safety device 200 is positioned in front of the operation panel 30. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the safety device 200 is disposed between the front panel 31 and the knob body NB. The inner surface of the mounting hole 215 of the safety device 200 covers the base portion 110, and a portion of the drive shaft 71 protrudes forward through the mounting hole 215.

[0253] The base portion 110 can be hung on the edge of the mounting hole 215. Referring to the attached drawings, the upper end of the base portion 110 is hung on the upper edge of the mounting hole 215. Thus, the safety device 200 can remain hung on the base portion 110.

[0254] like Figure 30 As shown, a first gap G1 is formed between the end 121b of the first knob body 120 constituting the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31. Here, the first gap G1 is not the entire distance at which the knob body NB can be pressed in the axial direction. Since the end 121b of the first knob body 120 faces the front surface 210A of the first main body portion 210 of the safety device 200, the end 121b of the first knob body 120 contacts the front surface 210A of the first main body portion 210 before contacting the front surface plate 31. Therefore, with... Figure 30 Based on this, the total distance that the knob body NB can be pressed in the axial direction is the axial distance G2, G3 between the end 121b of the first knob body 120 and the first body portion 210.

[0255] When the safety device 200 is in the disengaged position, the axial distance between the surface of the first main body 210 and the knob assembly 100 is greater than or equal to the reference distance. Figure 30 When viewed from a reference position, the axial distances G2 and G3 between the end 121b of the first knob body 120 and the first body portion 210 are greater than or equal to the axial reference distance used to operate the heating drive unit by the drive shaft 71. Therefore, when the safety device 200 is in the released position, the user can operate the heat source device 28 by pressing the knob body NB axially.

[0256] observe Figure 30 The end 121b of the first knob body 120 is located at a position offset from the interference region A, with the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the axial direction as a reference. The end 121b of the first knob body 120 is offset from the interference region A and faces the position closer to the first body portion 210 than the stepped portion 237.

[0257] Upon closer inspection, when the cooking appliance is in the disengaged state, the radial distance S1 between one end of the base portion 110 and the step portion 237 is shorter than the radial distance S2 between one end of the base portion 110 and the interference area A. Here, the end 121b of the first knob body 120 faces the step portion 237, or is positioned closer to the drive shaft 71 than the step portion 237. Therefore, in the disengaged state, even in the axial direction ( Figure 30 Pressing the knob body NB in ​​the direction of the arrow can also prevent the end 121b of the first knob body 120 from being interfered with by the interference area A.

[0258] On the other hand, the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is larger than the outer diameter R3 of the drive shaft 71 and the base portion 110 through which the drive shaft 71 passes. In this embodiment, the safety device 200 can slide in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction by an amount equivalent to the difference RG between the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 and the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. The difference between the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 and the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110 can be greater than or equal to the distance the safety device 200 moves between the locked position and the released position. Figure 30 When viewed from a reference angle, the safety device 200 can move linearly in the Z-axis direction by an amount equivalent to the difference RG. This margin of safety distance RG facilitates operation of the safety device 200 and makes it suitable for various sizes of cooking utensils.

[0259] For reference only. Figure 30 The inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is compared with the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. In this way, when the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 is concentrically aligned with the center of the base portion 110, the inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 215 can be entirely spaced apart from the outer circumferential surface of the base portion 110.

[0260] Figure 31 The diagram shows the safety device 200 rotated 180 degrees around the drive shaft 71. Figure 31 In this configuration, the knob body NB remains axially spaced from the surface of the safety device 200. Therefore, the knob body NB can be pressed axially (in the direction of arrow ①).

[0261] The axial thickness D2 of the first main body portion 210 may be less than or equal to the axial thickness D1 of the base portion 110. (Observation) Figure 31In the enlarged portion, the thickness D1 of the base portion 110 is greater than the thickness D2 of the first main body portion 210. Therefore, based on the released state, the knob assembly 100 may be axially disturbed by the base portion 110 before being disturbed by the safety device 200.

[0262] on the other hand, Figure 31 In this process, the safety device 200 slides in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (arrow ② direction) by an amount equivalent to the difference RG between the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 and the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. Here, the direction orthogonal to the axial direction is the same as the direction of gravity. When the safety device 200 moves in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (arrow ② direction), the interference area A fills the gap between the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31. As a result, the knob body NB cannot move in the axial direction (arrow ① direction), thereby locking the cooking appliance.

[0263] Figure 32 The diagram illustrates this state. When the safety device 200 is moved to the locked position, the interference area A of the safety device 200 is positioned between the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31. Consequently, the knob body NB cannot move axially (…). Figure 32 When the arrow is pressed, the heat source device 28 cannot work.

[0264] by Figure 32 Based on this, the upper end of the first knob body 120 is affected by the interference area A. Reference numeral T indicates the interference point between the upper end of the first knob body 120 and the interference area A. The interference point T may be formed between the through hole 235 and the mounting hole 215.

[0265] To observe the interference point T by magnification Figure 33 At this time, the end 121b of the first knob body 120 comes into contact with the surface of the interference area A. At this time, the end 121b of the first knob body 120 is positioned closer to the second body part 230 than the first body part 210, with reference to the stepped portion 237, thereby facing the interference area A, which is the surface of the second body part 230, in the axial direction. The interference point T can be formed on the surface of the second body part 230. In this way, since the interference area is ensured to be sufficiently wide, the interference state can be maintained more stably.

[0266] observe Figures 34-36Let H1 represent the longitudinal distance between the lower end of the through hole 235 and the center of the mounting hole 215. Here, the longitudinal direction refers to the direction based on the imaginary extension line connecting the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230, and is orthogonal to the axial direction. Figure 34 Based on this, the length direction is the same as the vertical direction.

[0267] With reference to the length direction, the distance H1 between the lower end of the through hole 235 and the center of the mounting hole 215 can be made shorter than the shortest distance H2 between the step portion 237 and the center of the mounting hole 215. With reference to the length direction, the shortest distance H2 between the step portion 237 and the center of the mounting hole 215 can be shorter than the distance H3 between the center of the mounting hole 215 and the center of the through hole 235. Reference numeral H4 indicates the distance between the center of the mounting hole 215 and the upper end of the through hole 235.

[0268] When the distance H1 between the lower end of the through hole 235 and the center of the mounting hole 215 is shorter than the shortest distance H2 between the step portion 237 and the center of the mounting hole 215, the step portion 237 can protrude further outward from the end 121b of the knob ring 121 than the lower end of the through hole 235. This more reliably prevents interference between the end 121b of the knob ring 121 and the step portion 237 in the released position. Furthermore, it also reduces the area of ​​the through hole 235 exposed upwards in the locked position.

[0269] Conversely, when the safety device 200 moves to the locked position, the step portion 237 is positioned radially inward from the outer end (end of the knob ring 121) of the knob assembly 100, and the outer end 121b of the knob assembly 100 is locked due to interference from the interference area A, restricting the movement of the knob assembly 100 in the axial direction.

[0270] In this embodiment, the diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is larger than the vertical width of the through hole 235. Since the through hole 235 does not participate in the installation of the safety device 200 but serves to facilitate user gripping, the vertical width of the through hole 235 does not need to be as large as the diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215. In this embodiment, the through hole 235 is an elliptical shape with a horizontal width longer than its vertical width. As another example, the through hole 235 can also be a perfect circle. In this case, the diameter R2 (not shown) of the through hole 235 can be smaller than the diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215.

[0271] The through hole 235 may have a closed curve independent of the mounting hole 215. The through hole 235 does not open to either side in the radial direction. When the through hole 235 has a closed curve shape, the user can apply a strong external force to pull the safety device 200 while the user has their fingers or other objects hanging in the through hole 235.

[0272] With the length direction as a reference, the distance H2 between the stepped portion 237 and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 can be longer than the distance H3-H2 between the stepped portion 237 and the center C2 of the through hole 235. This allows the mounting hole 215 to be exposed to the outside of the knob assembly 100 while the safety device 200 is mounted on the operation panel 30. By ensuring a sufficient distance H1 between the stepped portion 237 and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215, the through hole 235 and the other end 231 of the second main body 230 can be exposed to the user.

[0273] The distance between the other end 211 of the first main body portion 210 furthest from the stepped portion 237 and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 can be longer than the distance between the stepped portion 237 and the center C1 of the mounting hole 215. As long as the safety device 200 has such a structure, even if the safety device 200 is applicable to base portions 110 of various sizes, the through hole 235 can be exposed to the radially outer side of the knob assembly 100.

[0274] The interference region A may have different axial thicknesses along its length. (Observation) Figure 34 The interference region A has a different thickness along its length from the step portion 237 to the other end 231 of the second main body portion 230. More precisely, the thickness of the interference region A gradually increases with distance from the step portion 237. Therefore, the insertion force required for the user to push the interference region A between the knob body NB and the front surface plate 31 can be dispersed.

[0275] Reference Figure 35 It can be seen that the thickness of the safety device near the lower end of the through hole 235, i.e., the thickness T1 of the first main body 210, is less than the thickness of the safety device near the upper end of the through hole 235, i.e., the thickness T1 of the second main body 230.

[0276] The second main body 230 may include multiple regions with different axial thicknesses along the radial direction of the mounting hole 215. Figure 34Based on this, the axial thickness of the second main body portion 230 can gradually increase from the lower end to the upper end. As another example, the second main body portion 230 may also include multiple regions in which the axial thickness increases in a stepped manner from the lower end to the upper end.

[0277] The interference region A can be defined between the edge of the stepped portion 237 and the other end 231 of the second main body portion 230. For example... Figure 34 As shown, in this embodiment, the interference region A formed on the front surface 230A of the second main body portion 230 can be disposed between the peripheral surface portion 238 formed on the outer side of the second main body portion 230 and the stepped portion 237. Reference numeral 236 indicates the two end peripheral surfaces of the second main body portion 230.

[0278] The center C1 of the mounting hole 215 and the center C2 of the through hole 235 can be aligned along the length direction of the first main body 210 and the second main body 230. For example... Figure 34 and Figure 36 As shown, the center C1 of the mounting hole 215 and the center C2 of the through hole 235 can be arranged on the same extension line along the length direction of the safety device 200. In this way, the safety device 200 has a left-right symmetrical structure with the mounting hole 215 and the through hole 235 as the center, so the user can easily operate the safety device 200 in both left and right directions.

[0279] A stepped portion 237 is formed on the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230. The stepped portion 237 may be formed at the boundary between the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230. When the safety device 200 is in the released position, the stepped portion 237 is formed so as not to interfere with the knob assembly 100. The axial thickness of the first main body portion 210 is formed to be thinner than the stepped portion 237, and the end 121b of the knob ring 121 faces the surface of the first main body portion 210, thereby becoming a state that can be pressed in the axial direction, i.e., a released state. Furthermore, when the safety device 200 rotates around the base portion 110 in the released state, the stepped portion 237 allows the safety device 200 to rotate without interfering with the end 121b of the knob ring 121.

[0280] The stepped portion 237 can be formed by protruding along the axial direction from the boundary portion. Therefore, the axial heights of the surfaces of the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 can be formed differently from each other, with reference to the stepped portion 237. With reference to the stepped portion 237, the axial height of the front surface 230A of the second main body portion 230 is greater than the axial height of the front surface 210A of the first main body portion 210. Here, protruding along the axial direction includes not only protruding in a direction parallel to the axial direction, but also protruding in a direction inclined relative to the axial direction.

[0281] observe Figure 35 The stepped portion 237 can be continuously formed from the outside to the inside of the boundary portion. One end 237a of the stepped portion 237, formed on the inside, can face the through hole 235, while the other end 237b, formed on the outside, can face the recess. The one end 237a and the other end 237b can have different axial thicknesses. In this embodiment, the axial thickness of the one end 237a is greater than the axial thickness of the other end 237b.

[0282] observe Figure 37 In this embodiment, a plurality of stepped portions 237 are provided at intervals on the boundary portion, with the through hole 235 as a reference. The plurality of stepped portions 237 may be arranged in an arc shape. Reference numeral S indicates an imaginary arc shape passing through the plurality of stepped portions 237.

[0283] Imaginary extension lines X1 and X2, extending along the normal direction on the surfaces of the plurality of stepped portions 237, intersect each other in the area overlapping with the mounting hole along the axial direction. These imaginary extension lines X1 and X2 can also intersect at a position lower than the center of the mounting hole 215, more precisely, closer to the other end 211 of the first main body portion 210. In this way, the plurality of stepped portions 237 can be arranged along an imaginary circle with a diameter larger than that of the mounting hole 215, thereby avoiding interference with the end 121b of the knob ring 121.

[0284] At this time, imaginary extension lines X1 and X2 extending along the normal direction on the surface of the stepped portion 237 can intersect with the imaginary center line CL. In this embodiment, the two imaginary extension lines X1 and X2 extending along the normal direction on the surfaces of the two stepped portions 237 intersect each other on the center line CL.

[0285] The plurality of stepped portions 237 can be arranged in a left-right symmetrical structure with reference to the center line CL connecting the center of the first main body portion 210 and the center of the second main body portion 230. By arranging the plurality of stepped portions 237 in a left-right symmetrical structure with reference to the center line CL, interference with the knob assembly 100 can be prevented equally when the safety device 200 rotates in both directions.

[0286] The step portion 237 can be an inclined surface or a curved surface. The step portion 237, as an inclined surface or a curved surface, can be formed along an arc-shaped path at the boundary portion. Such an inclined surface or curved surface can be a shape corresponding to the end 121b of the knob ring 121.

[0287] The stepped portion 237 can be formed between the two ends of the through hole 235 with the length direction as the reference. That is, an imaginary line connecting the two stepped portions 237 can cross the through hole 235. This ensures a larger area and length for the through hole 235. Alternatively, the stepped portion 237 can also be positioned between the mounting hole and the through hole.

[0288] One end of the second main body may be connected to the stepped portion 237. The peripheral portion 238 formed at the other end of the second main body may have a curved shape. When the peripheral portion 238 formed at the other end of the second main body is curved, it can prevent the safety device 200 from interfering with the peripheral components of the cooking appliance, such as other adjacent knob assemblies 100, during rotation.

[0289] The shortest length DA1 between the edge of the mounting hole 215 and the stepped portion 237 can be made larger than the shortest length DA2 between the mounting hole 215 and the through hole 235. This ensures a larger area between the two holes 215 and 235, which form the area of ​​the interference avoidance knob assembly 100, and also ensures a larger area for the through hole 235 that serves as the handle.

[0290] The shortest length DA1 between the edge of the mounting hole 215 and the stepped portion 237 can be formed to be longer than the shortest length DA3 between the stepped portion 237 and the peripheral portion 238 formed at the other end of the second body portion 230. In this way, by maximizing the area between the two holes 215, 235, which constitute the area for avoiding interference with the knob assembly 100, and simultaneously shortening the protrusion distance of the second body portion 230, interference with adjacent other knob assemblies 100 can also be prevented.

[0291] A recess may be formed between the side surface of the first main body portion 210 and the side surface of the second main body portion 230. The recess may provide a gripping space for the user. The recess may be formed on both side surfaces of the safety device 200.

[0292] refer to Figures 39-42 Observe the process of switching the safety device 200 from the released position to the locked position. First, Figure 39 The diagram shows the safety device 200 in the released position. In the released position, the first main body 210 of the safety device 200 faces downwards, and the second main body 230 faces upwards. Even when the user does not operate the safety device 200, the second main body 230 may also face downwards due to gravity. This position of the safety device 200 can also be referred to as the first position.

[0293] At this time, the second main body 230, which is relatively heavy due to its thickness, rotates downward around the mounting hole 215 as its center of rotation under the influence of gravity, thus reaching the released state. In this way, the safety device 200 of this embodiment can be basically in the released position, and can be rotated to the locked position only when needed by the user.

[0294] like Figure 39 As shown, the entirety or a portion of the interference area A can be exposed beneath the knob assembly 100. Therefore, the user can confirm that the safety device 200 does not restrict the pressing of the knob assembly 100. The through hole 235 can be entirely exposed beneath the knob assembly 100, allowing the user to easily grip the through hole 235.

[0295] Furthermore, the second main body 230 can be positioned radially outward from the knob ring 121, with the stepped portion 237 as a reference. That is, in the released state, when the second main body 230 protrudes to its maximum radial extent from the knob assembly 100, the stepped portion 237 is positioned radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the knob assembly 100. Consequently, the knob ring 210 is positioned inward from the second main body 230, thus preventing interference.

[0296] In this embodiment, in the released state where the second main body 230 protrudes to its maximum extent radially from the knob assembly 100, the center of the drive shaft 71 (with...) Figure 39 Based on the reference point, the radial length between the center of the knob assembly 100 and the radially oriented end of the knob assembly (the end of the knob ring 210) is greater than the radial length between the center of the drive shaft 71 and the center of the knob assembly. Figure 39Based on this, the radial length between the center portion of the knob assembly 100 and the stepped portion 237 is shorter. As a result, the stepped portion 237 can be positioned further outward than the end of the knob ring 121.

[0297] Figure 40 The diagram shows the safety device 200 rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. The user can hold the through hole 235 to rotate the safety device 200. In this position, the mounting hole 215 can become the center of rotation. Figure 40 Similarly, in this state, as long as the user moves the safety device 200 towards the drive shaft 71 (to the right of the attached figure), the interference area A can be pressed between the knob body NB and the front surface panel 31. However, in this case, if it is not pressed in forcefully or for an extended period of time, the safety device 200 may return to its original position due to gravity. Figure 39 The state.

[0298] Figure 41 It shows in Figure 40 In this state, the safety device 200 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. This positions the second main body 230 towards the 12 o'clock position. In this state, the safety device 200 can move vertically. This movement is possible because the inner diameter R1 of the mounting hole 215 is larger than the outer diameter R3 of the base portion 110. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different context.) Figure 41 In the state shown, the position of the safety device 200 can be referred to as the second position.

[0299] In this embodiment, when the safety device 200 moves from the first position to the second position, it is protected from interference from the end of the knob ring 121 by the step portion 237. This is because the step portion 237 protrudes radially outward from the end of the knob ring 121. Furthermore, it prevents the safety device 200 from interfering with adjacent knob assemblies 100 during rotation from the first position to the second position. This is because the peripheral portion 238 formed at the other end of the second main body portion 230 is formed in an arc shape centered on the step portion 237, and the radial length of the second main body portion 230 itself is also relatively short.

[0300] On the other hand, when users... Figure 41 When the safety device 200 is pressed in the direction of the arrow, it switches to the following mode: Figure 42 The state shown indicates that the interference area A of the safety device 200 is inserted between the knob body NB and the front surface panel 31, thus entering a locked state. (Observation) Figure 42Most of the interference area A can be blocked by the knob body NB. Therefore, the user can confirm that the cooking appliance is locked by observing this state. This can be referred to as the third position of the safety device 200.

[0301] In this way, the safety device 200 can be positioned at the upper end (12 o'clock position) of the knob assembly 100. Since the safety device 200, positioned at the upper end of the knob assembly 100, is supported by the knob assembly 100, there is no need to worry about the safety device moving downwards due to gravity. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the safety device 200 from being arbitrarily released from its locked state due to rotation caused by gravity.

[0302] When in the third position, the step portion 237 of the safety device 200 can be shielded by the knob assembly 100. That is, the step portion 237 moves in the radial direction to a position closer to the drive shaft 71 than the end of the knob ring 121, thereby becoming shielded by the knob ring 121.

[0303] Figure 43 The structure of the 11th embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures will be observed. In this embodiment, the recessed portion is omitted in the safety device 200. The first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 constituting the safety device 200 can be connected to each other to form a generally elliptical shape. The user can use the through hole 235 formed between the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230 as a handle.

[0304] Figure 44 The structure of a 12th embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the preceding embodiments are omitted; other structures will be observed. In this embodiment, the peripheral surface 238 of the second main body portion 230 may have a planar structure. The planar peripheral surface 238 may further deepen the recess between the first main body portion 210 and the second main body portion 230.

[0305] Figure 45 The structure of a 13th embodiment of the safety device 200 for cooking utensils provided by the present invention is shown. Descriptions of structures identical to those in the previous embodiments are omitted; other structures will be observed. In this embodiment, a through hole is omitted in the safety device 200. A stepped portion 237 spaced apart from the mounting hole 215 is formed in the safety device 200. The stepped portion 237 may be formed along a continuous arc shape.

[0306] The above description is merely an exemplary illustration of the technical concept of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in this invention are illustrative of the technical concept of the invention and not limiting, and are not intended to limit the scope of the technical concept of the invention through such embodiments. The scope of protection of this invention should be interpreted in accordance with the following claims, and all technical concepts falling within their equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the claims of this invention.

Claims

1. A safety device for a cooking utensil, comprising limiting the movement of a knob assembly that moves linearly in the axial direction of a drive shaft, the safety device comprising: First main body section; as well as The second main body has one end connected to the first main body, and the other end spaced apart from the first end along its length. A mounting hole is formed in the first main body portion, through which the drive shaft passes, thus becoming the rotation center of the safety device. An interference region with an axial thickness greater than that of the first body portion is defined in the second body portion.

2. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting hole is formed outside the interference area.

3. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The interference region has a different axial thickness along the length direction.

4. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The inner diameter of the mounting hole is larger than the outer diameter of the drive shaft and the base portion through which the drive shaft passes.

5. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, A partition is defined between the first main body portion and the second main body portion at one end of the first main body portion. The axial thickness of the second main body portion is greater than the axial thickness of the first main body portion, based on the partition portion. The mounting hole is formed at a position spaced apart from the other end of the partition portion toward the first main body portion.

6. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 5, wherein, The interference area is defined between the partition and the other end of the second main body.

7. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting hole forms a closed curve within the first main body.

8. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The first main body portion has the same axial thickness throughout the entire region. The first main body portion continuously surrounds the edge of the mounting hole along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole.

9. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The first main body portion and the second main body portion are separated by a partition portion. The first main body and the second main body have different thicknesses relative to the partition.

10. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The first main body portion and the second main body portion are separated by a partition portion. One end of the first main body and one end of the second main body are respectively connected to the partition portion. The length between the other end of the first main body portion furthest from the partition portion and the partition portion is longer than the length between the other end of the second main body portion furthest from the partition portion and the partition portion.

11. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The first main body portion and the second main body portion are separated by a partition portion. One end of the first main body and one end of the second main body are respectively connected to the partition portion. The distance between the other end of the first main body portion furthest from the partition portion and the center of the mounting hole is longer than the distance between the partition portion and the center of the mounting hole.

12. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, A through hole is formed in the second main body portion, the through hole having a closed curve independent of the mounting hole.

13. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 12, wherein, The diameter of the mounting hole is larger than the diameter of the through hole.

14. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, The first main body portion and the second main body portion are separated by a partition portion. A through hole is formed in the second main body portion, the through hole having a closed curve independent of the mounting hole. The distance between the center of the partition and the center of the mounting hole is longer than the distance between the center of the partition and the center of the through hole.

15. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 1, wherein, A stepped portion with varying axial thickness is formed at the boundary between the first main body and the second main body.

16. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 15, wherein, The stepped portion protrudes along the axial direction at the boundary portion.

17. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 15, wherein, Multiple stepped portions are provided at intervals between each other in the boundary section. The multiple stepped portions are arranged along an arc shape.

18. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 15, wherein, The boundary portion is provided with a plurality of stepped sections. Imaginary extensions of the surfaces of the plurality of stepped portions, extending along the normal direction, intersect each other in the region where they overlap with the mounting holes in the axial direction.

19. The safety device for cooking appliances according to claim 15, wherein, The boundary portion is provided with a plurality of stepped sections. The plurality of stepped portions are arranged in a left-right symmetrical structure with reference to the center line in the length direction connecting the center of the first main body portion and the center of the second main body portion.

20. A cooking utensil comprising: The drive shaft protrudes forward through the control panel; A knob assembly that is coupled to the drive shaft and moves linearly in the axial direction of the drive shaft; as well as A safety device is disposed between the control panel and the knob assembly. The safety device includes: The first main body has a mounting hole through which the drive shaft passes; as well as The second main body has one end connected to the first main body, and the other end spaced apart from the first end in a direction different from the axial direction. A mounting hole is formed in the first main body portion, through which the drive shaft passes, thus becoming the rotation center of the safety device. An interference region with an axial thickness greater than that of the first body portion is defined in the second body portion to restrict the movement of the knob assembly in the axial direction.

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