Household appliance

Abstract

The present invention relates to a household appliance. The household appliance of the present invention is characterized by comprising a first light diffusion guide disposed between a panel and a knob, and a second light diffusion guide disposed between the knob and the first light diffusion guide and transmitting light incident from the first light diffusion guide toward an inner region of the knob, the first light diffusion guide emitting a part of light incident to the first light diffusion guide from a region between the panel and the second light diffusion guide to achieve illumination, the second light diffusion guide emitting a part of light incident to the second light diffusion guide from a region between the first light diffusion guide and the knob to achieve illumination. Thereby, without additionally providing a light source, the number of illumination implementation positions can be increased, so that the cost increase required for the provision of the operating device can be suppressed, and illumination can be effectively implemented at a plurality of positions of the operating device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a household appliance, and more specifically, to a household appliance having a rotatable operating device. Background Technology

[0002] Household appliances such as cooking equipment, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers, which utilize various switches to control their operation, are widely used. For example, cooking equipment may offer various switches for adjusting cooking modes, heating intensity, and heating time, while washing machines may offer various switches for selecting washing modes and adjusting washing time. These switches can be categorized based on their operation method, such as push-button switches, slide switches, and rotary switches.

[0003] Rotary switches are widely used in cooking appliances for selecting cooking modes or adjusting heating intensity. Knobs are the most representative type of rotary switch. A knob rotates around a predetermined axis, and users can select the cooking mode or adjust the heating intensity by adjusting the amount of rotation.

[0004] Typically, a knob includes a knob body that forms the knob's appearance, and a connecting structure formed inside the knob body and connected to the valve's rotation axis. Additionally, lighting can be applied to the knob. Lighting applied to knobs can provide illumination of the knob itself or the text, symbols, etc., marked on the knob, or ambient lighting to illuminate the area around the knob. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a household appliance that can suppress cost increases and provide lighting at multiple locations of the operating device.

[0006] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a home appliance that can improve the aesthetics of the appliance while enhancing the recognizability of information provided by the operating device.

[0007] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a household appliance with an improved structure that can save the cost and time required for assembling the operating device.

[0008] A household appliance according to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned objectives is characterized by comprising a first light diffusion guide disposed between a panel and a knob, a light source emitting light toward the first light diffusion guide, and a second light diffusion guide disposed between the knob and the first light diffusion guide and transmitting light incident from the first light diffusion guide to the internal region of the knob. The first light diffusion guide emits a portion of the light incident on it from the region between the panel and the second light diffusion guide to achieve illumination, and the second light diffusion guide emits a portion of the light incident on it from the region between the first light diffusion guide and the knob to achieve illumination.

[0009] Furthermore, another embodiment of the present invention is characterized by including a first light diffusion guide disposed between a panel and a knob, a light source emitting light toward the first light diffusion guide, and a second light diffusion guide disposed between the knob and the first light diffusion guide and transmitting light incident from the first light diffusion guide to the inner region of the knob. The first light diffusion guide emits a portion of the light incident on it from the region between the panel and the second light diffusion guide to achieve illumination. The second light diffusion guide emits a portion of the light incident on it from a portion of the second light diffusion guide exposed to the outside of the knob and from the region located between the first light diffusion guide and the knob to achieve illumination at a plurality of positions.

[0010] In another embodiment of the present invention, a first light diffusion guide disposed between the panel and the knob, and a light source emitting light toward the first light diffusion guide are disposed on a base member, the base member being disposed on the panel.

[0011] A household appliance according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a knob configured to be rotatable relative to a panel and having a rotation axis; a first light diffusion guide disposed between the panel and the knob, and disposed on the panel; a light source emitting light toward the first light diffusion guide; and a second light diffusion guide, at least a portion of which is disposed between the knob and the first light diffusion guide, to transmit light incident from the first light diffusion guide to an internal region of the knob.

[0012] Additionally, the first light diffusion guide may include: a light transmission section that transmits light received from the light source to the second light diffusion guide; and an edge illumination section that emits a portion of the light incident on the light transmission section from the area between the panel and the second light diffusion guide to achieve illumination.

[0013] Preferably, the second light diffusion guide can emit a portion of the light incident on the second light diffusion guide from the area between the first light diffusion guide and the knob to achieve illumination.

[0014] Additionally, preferably, the edge lighting section provides illumination on the radially outer side of the knob and the second light diffusion guide.

[0015] Additionally, preferably, the light transmission portion is formed in a shape including a surface orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0016] Additionally, preferably, the edge illumination portion protrudes axially from the outer edge of the light transmission portion.

[0017] In addition, preferably, the light transmission part and the edge illumination part are connected in the radial direction.

[0018] Additionally, preferably, the light transmission part is disposed between the panel and the second light diffusion guide at a position covered by the second light diffusion guide.

[0019] Additionally, preferably, at least a portion of the edge lighting portion is disposed in an area between the panel and the second light diffusion guide that is not covered by the second light diffusion guide.

[0020] Additionally, preferably, at least a portion of the edge lighting portion protrudes to cover the gap between the panel and the knob radially outward.

[0021] In addition, the second light diffusion guide may include a first guide portion and a second guide portion.

[0022] Additionally, preferably, in the axial direction, the first guide portion is disposed between the first light diffusion guide and the second guide portion.

[0023] In addition, preferably, at least a portion of the first guide portion and at least a portion of the second guide portion are axially opposed to at least a portion of the first light diffusion guide, so as to be able to receive light emitted from the first light diffusion guide.

[0024] In addition, the present invention may also include an inner member disposed between the inner surface of the first guide portion facing the light transmission portion and the light transmission portion.

[0025] Additionally, the inner component may include: a light-shielding portion that blocks light transmission between the light-transmitting portion and the first guiding portion; and a light-transmitting portion that allows light transmission between the light-transmitting portion and the first guiding portion.

[0026] Additionally, preferably, light emitted from the light source or the light transmission part passes through the light-transmitting part and then through the first guide part.

[0027] In addition, preferably, the light-shielding portion is the result of a light-shielding material being coated onto the inner surface of the first guide portion.

[0028] Alternatively, preferably, the light-transmitting portion is the result of removing a portion of the light-shielding material that has been coated on the inner surface of the first guide portion after a coating process.

[0029] Additionally, the present invention may also include an outer member disposed apart from the inner member via the first guide portion.

[0030] In addition, preferably, the light transmittance of the outer component is higher than that of the light-shielding portion and lower than that of the first guide portion.

[0031] In addition, the first guide portion may include an inclined surface that is inclined between the axial and radial directions.

[0032] In addition, preferably, the light-transmitting portion is disposed on the inclined surface.

[0033] Alternatively, preferably, the knob covers the second guide portion and is integrated with the second light diffusion guide.

[0034] Additionally, preferably, a through hole is provided on the front of the knob, and a portion of the second guide portion protrudes to the outside of the knob through the through hole to achieve illumination.

[0035] Additionally, the second light diffusion guide may include a protrusion that protrudes from the second guide to be insertable into the through hole.

[0036] Alternatively, preferably, the protrusion is inserted into the knob through the through hole to protrude to the outside of the knob, so that the light received by the second guide portion is emitted to the outside of the knob.

[0037] Additionally, preferably, the knob covers the second guide portion and is integrated with the second light diffusion guide, at least a portion of the first guide portion provides illumination between the panel and the knob, at least a portion of the second guide portion protrudes outward from the knob to provide illumination, and the positions of illumination provided by the first guide portion and illumination provided by the second guide portion are axially spaced apart.

[0038] Additionally, the present invention may also include a base member disposed on the panel.

[0039] Additionally, preferably, at least one of the light source and the first light diffusion guide is disposed on the base member.

[0040] In addition, preferably, the substrate on which the light source is provided is disposed between the panel and the base member, and is disposed on the base member.

[0041] Additionally, preferably, the base component includes: a base plate disposed between the light source and the light transmission part; and a light-transmitting hole forming a channel connecting the light source and the light transmission part in the base plate.

[0042] Additionally, preferably, the first light diffusion guide is disposed between the base member and the second light diffusion guide, and is coupled to the base member.

[0043] Additionally, the present invention may include a fastening member for attaching the base member to the panel.

[0044] Additionally, the base component may include a base plate forming a surface facing the light transmission section.

[0045] Additionally, the fastening member may include a main body portion extending through the base plate and the panel, and a head portion protruding outward from the base plate and connected to the main body portion.

[0046] Alternatively, preferably, at least a portion of the head is inserted into the inside of the light transmission part or passes through the light transmission part axially.

[0047] Additionally, the first light diffusion guide may also include a cover portion formed by a portion of the light transmission portion recessed in a direction away from the base plate.

[0048] Alternatively, preferably, at least a portion of the head is inserted into the space surrounded by the cover.

[0049] Additionally, preferably, the cover is connected to the light transmission part to enable light to be transmitted between the light transmission part and the cover.

[0050] In addition, the first light diffusion guide may also include a through hole, which forms a channel in the first light diffusion guide for the fastening member to pass through axially.

[0051] In addition, preferably, the knob is disposed on the front side of the panel, and the through hole is disposed on a lower side than the cover.

[0052] In addition, preferably, in the axial direction, the light source is disposed between the panel and the first light diffusion guide, the base member is disposed between the light source and the first light diffusion guide, and the substrate on which the light source is disposed and the first light diffusion guide are disposed on the base member.

[0053] In addition, the present invention may also include an adjustment shaft rotatably disposed on the object to be adjusted.

[0054] Alternatively, preferably, the adjustment shaft extends axially through the panel, the base member, and the first light diffusion guide and is combined with the second light diffusion guide.

[0055] Alternatively, preferably, the base component is integrated with the panel and the adjustable object.

[0056] Additionally, the present invention may also include a first fastening member for attaching the base member to the panel and a second fastening member for attaching the base member to the adjustable object.

[0057] In addition, the first light diffusion guide may also include a through hole, which forms a channel in the first light diffusion guide for at least one of the first fastening member and the second fastening member to pass through axially.

[0058] Additionally, a household appliance according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a knob configured to rotate relative to a panel and having a rotation axis; a first light diffusion guide disposed between the panel and the knob, and disposed on the panel; a light source emitting light toward the first light diffusion guide; and a second light diffusion guide including a first guide portion disposed between the first light diffusion guide and the knob, and a second guide portion transmitting light received from the first guide portion to the interior of the knob; the first light diffusion guide may include: a light transmission portion transmitting light received from the light source to the first guide portion; and an edge illumination portion emitting a portion of the light incident on the light transmission portion from the area between the panel and the knob to achieve illumination.

[0059] Additionally, preferably, in the axial direction, the first guide portion is disposed between the first light diffusion guide and the second guide portion, the first guide portion emitting a portion of the light incident on the first guide portion outward from the area between the first light diffusion guide and the knob to achieve illumination, and the second guide portion emitting a portion of the light incident on the second guide portion outward from the outside of the knob through a portion of the second guide portion exposed to the outside of the knob to achieve illumination.

[0060] In addition, preferably, the illumination implemented by the first light diffusion guide and the illumination implemented by the second light diffusion guide are arranged in axially spaced positions, and the illumination implemented by the first guide portion and the illumination implemented by the second guide portion are arranged in axially spaced positions.

[0061] Additionally, a household appliance according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a knob configured to rotate relative to a panel and having a rotation axis; a first light diffusion guide disposed between the panel and the knob; a light source emitting light toward the first light diffusion guide; a base member disposed between the light source and the light diffusion guide; and a second light diffusion guide, at least a portion of which is disposed between the knob and the first light diffusion guide, transmitting light incident from the first light diffusion guide to an internal region of the knob; the light source and the first light diffusion guide may be disposed on the base member, and the base member may be disposed on the panel.

[0062] Furthermore, preferably, when the light source is disposed on the base member, the base member is disposed on the panel.

[0063] According to the household appliance of the present invention, the number of lighting locations can be increased without adding a light source, thereby providing the following effect: while suppressing the increase in the cost required to install the operating device, lighting can be effectively achieved at multiple locations of the operating device.

[0064] In addition, by providing illumination at multiple locations on the operating device, the present invention not only enhances the aesthetics of household appliances but also provides information such as the current status of the operating device and graphic symbols provided by the operating device 100 with high recognizability.

[0065] Furthermore, with the substrate 145, on which the light source 140 is pre-installed, on the base member 150, the present invention can easily and quickly assemble the operating device 100 by simply attaching the base member 150 to the adjustment object 70 and attaching the first light diffusion guide 120 to the base member 150. This provides the effect of effectively saving the cost and time required for assembling the operating device 100. Attached Figure Description

[0066] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a household appliance illustrating an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A side sectional view of the internal structure of the household appliance shown.

[0068] Figure 3 It is Figure 1The operating device shown is separated and illustrated in the diagram.

[0069] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the disassembled state of the operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the rear of the operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of an operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 7 It is Figure 6 The enlarged view shows a partial magnification.

[0073] Figure 8 It is Figure 6 The enlarged view shows a partial magnification.

[0074] Figure 9 It is Figure 8 The enlarged view shows a partial magnification.

[0075] Figure 10 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along the "10-10" line.

[0076] Figure 11 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line "11-11".

[0077] Figure 12 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line “12-12”.

[0078] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the state of the operating device before it is lit, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the illuminated state of an operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0081] 10: Main body 40: Stove section

[0082] 30: Door 50: Control Panel

[0083] 55: Display Department; 60: Electrical Room

[0084] 70: Adjusting the object body; 75: Adjusting the axis.

[0085] 100: Operating device; 110: Knob

[0086] 111: Bottom surface; 112: Recessed area

[0087] 114: Through-hole; 120: First light diffusion guide.

[0088] 121: Light transmission part; 122: First through-hole part

[0089] 123: Edge lighting section; 124: Second through-hole section

[0090] 125: First hook component; 127: Cover part

[0091] 130: Second light diffusion guide; 131: First guide part

[0092] 132: Inner component 132a: Light-shielding part

[0093] 132b: Light-transmitting part; 133: Outer component

[0094] 135: Second guide section; 136: Flat section

[0095] 137: Protruding face 138: Protruding part

[0096] 139: Shaft joint 140: Light source

[0097] 145: Base plate; 150: Base component

[0098] 151: Base plate; 152: Light transmission hole

[0099] 153: Second hook component; 154: Hook hole

[0100] 156: Through hole in shaft; 160: First fastening component

[0101] 161: Main body 163: Head

[0102] 165: Second fastening component Detailed Implementation

[0103] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, thus enabling those skilled in the art to readily implement the technical concept of this invention. In the description of this invention, detailed descriptions of well-known technologies related to this invention are omitted if they are deemed likely to obscure the main points. Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar constituent elements.

[0104] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe a variety of constituent elements, these constituent elements are not limited by these terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one constituent element from others, and unless otherwise specified, a first constituent element can be a second constituent element.

[0105] This invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and various modifications and implementations are possible. These embodiments are provided merely to fully disclose the scope of the invention and to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and it should be understood that not only can the configuration of one embodiment be interchanged or added to the configuration of another embodiment, but the invention also includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions made within the technical concept and scope of the invention.

[0106] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are only for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. The technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited to the drawings, including all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions made within the spirit and technical scope of the invention. In the drawings, for ease of understanding, the dimensions or thicknesses of the constituent elements may be exaggerated or reduced, but this should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention.

[0107] The terminology used in this specification is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions include plural expressions. In this specification, terms such as "comprising," "consisting of," etc., are intended to indicate the presence of the features, quantities, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof disclosed in the specification. That is, it should be understood that terms such as "comprising," "consisting of," etc., in the specification do not presuppose the presence or additional possibility of one or more other features, quantities, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0108] Terms containing ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe a variety of constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0109] When a constituent element is referred to as "connected" or "linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that it may be directly connected to or linked to that other constituent element, but there may also be other constituent elements between them. Conversely, if a constituent element is referred to as "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements between them.

[0110] When referring to a constituent element as being "above" or "below" another constituent element, it should be understood that the constituent element is directly positioned above the other constituent element, or that there may be other constituent elements between them.

[0111] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms as defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and shall not be interpreted in an ideal or excessive form unless expressly defined herein.

[0112] With the household appliance placed on the floor, the direction with the door is defined as "front," with the center of the appliance as the reference point. Therefore, the direction to enter the appliance by opening the door is "rear." For ease of explanation, these directions, front and rear, can be referred to as the "first direction." Thus, front can be called one side of the first direction, and rear can be called the other side of the first direction.

[0113] Alternatively, the direction of gravity can be defined as downward, while the opposite direction of gravity can be defined as upward.

[0114] Furthermore, the horizontal direction orthogonal to the front-back direction of the household appliance, that is, the width direction of the appliance when viewed from the front of the appliance's door, can be called the left-right direction. For ease of explanation, the left-right direction can be called the second direction. Thus, the right side can be called one side of the second direction, and the left side can be called the other side of the second direction.

[0115] Alternatively, the width direction of the household appliance can be referred to as the lateral direction. Therefore, the right side can be called one side of the lateral direction, and the left side can be called the other side of the lateral direction.

[0116] Furthermore, the aforementioned up and down directions can be referred to as the third direction. Thus, the top direction can be called one side of the third direction, and the bottom direction can be called the other side of the third direction.

[0117] Furthermore, the aforementioned vertical direction can be referred to as the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the front-back direction and the left-right direction, i.e., the first direction and the second direction, can be collectively referred to as the transverse direction.

[0118] Throughout the scope of this specification, when described as “A and / or B”, it means A, B, or A and B unless specifically stated otherwise; when described as “C to D”, it means C and below unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0119] [The overall structure of home appliances]

[0120] Figure 1This is a perspective view of a household appliance illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A side sectional view of the internal structure of the household appliance shown.

[0121] Reference Figure 1 According to one embodiment of the present invention, a household appliance may have its appearance formed by a body 10. The body 10 may be formed into a shape including a generally cuboid shape. Such a body 10 may be formed of a material having a specified strength to protect a plurality of components disposed in its internal space.

[0122] In this embodiment, the household appliance is a cooking device. More specifically, the household appliance in this embodiment is a cooking device for cooking food, especially a cooking device in the form of a composite cooking device that simultaneously has a closed cooking device and an open cooking device, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0123] As another example, the household appliance of the present invention may also be a cooking device that is not a composite cooking device, such as a gas stove, cooktop, electromagnetic microwave oven, oven, etc. In addition, it may also be other devices that are not cooking devices, such as dishwashers and washing machines.

[0124] In this embodiment, the case of using a household appliance as a cooking device will be used as an example for explanation.

[0125] The main body 10 includes a cavity 11 forming the skeleton of the main body 10. The cavity 11 can be formed into a hexahedral shape with an open front, and a cooking chamber 12 can be provided inside the cavity 11.

[0126] The cavity 11 can be formed into a hexahedral shape with an open front, and the cooking chamber 12 can be formed inside such a cavity 11. That is, the cooking chamber 12 can be formed into a roughly hexahedral space disposed inside the cavity 11, and can form a space that opens to the front.

[0127] With the cooking chamber 12 enclosed, food can be cooked by heating the interior of the cooking chamber 12. That is, in the cooking apparatus of this embodiment, which is provided as a closed cooking apparatus, the cooking chamber 12 is essentially the space for cooking food.

[0128] The cooking equipment is equipped with a heating device for heating the cooking chamber 12. The heating device can be a burner using gas fuel or an electric heater. As mentioned above, the structure of the heating device can be changed depending on the type of heat source used.

[0129] As an example, the heating device may include a convection device 20 disposed on the rear side of the cooking chamber 12. The convection device 20 circulates air by drawing in and heating the air inside the cooking chamber 12 and then expelling it back into the cooking chamber 12, thereby enabling the interior space of the cooking chamber 12 to be heated evenly.

[0130] Additionally, the heating device may include a broil burner or a grill heater. The broil burner or grill heater may be configured in the upper part of the cooking chamber 12 to heat the interior space of the cooking chamber 12 from the upper part of the cooking chamber 12.

[0131] The cooking appliance may be provided with a door 30 that allows selective opening and closing of the cooking chamber 12. As an example, the door 30 may be provided to open and close the cooking chamber 12 in a pull-down manner, rotating up and down with its upper end as the center.

[0132] A stove section 40 may be disposed on the upper part of the main body 10. The stove section 40 is configured to heat food or a container containing food for cooking. The stove section 40 may be provided with a top plate that forms the top surface appearance and closes the upper part of the main body 10.

[0133] At least one heating element may be provided in the central part of the stove section 40 for heating food to be cooked or containers containing food. For example, the heating element may be a heating device using gas fuel.

[0134] As another example, the heating element can also be constructed using an electric induction heater. As mentioned above, the structure of the heating element can be varied depending on the type of heat source used.

[0135] The cooking equipment may be equipped with a control panel 50. The control panel 50 may provide an input section for the user to input operation signals to operate the cooking equipment. The input section may be equipped with a plurality of operating devices 100, thereby allowing the user to directly input operation signals.

[0136] In addition, the control panel 50 may also include a display unit 55 that provides information such as the operation status of the cooking equipment and the cooking information of the food. Users can use the display unit 55 to check various information such as the operation status of the cooking equipment.

[0137] An electrical room 60 can be provided within the interior space of the main body 10, specifically the space between the cooktop section 40 and the cooking chamber 12. This electrical room 60 provides space for the arrangement of electrical components. The electrical room 60 can be a space formed between the cooktop section 40 and the cooking chamber 12, or it can be a conceptual space comprised of the space between the cooktop section 40 and the cooking chamber 12 plus the space inside the cooktop section 40. The front of the electrical room 60 can be concealed by the control panel 50, or, as shown in this embodiment, by a door 30.

[0138] [Overall structure of the operating device]

[0139] Figure 3 It is Figure 1 The diagram showing the separation of the operating device is provided. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the front of an embodiment of the operating device of the present invention, showing its disassembled state. Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the rear of the operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] Reference Figures 3 to 5 A plurality of operating devices 100 may be configured on the control panel 50. As an example, the control panel 50 may be configured on the upper front of the home appliance, forming part of the front appearance of the home appliance. The operating devices 100 may be configured on the front of such a control panel 50.

[0141] As another example, the control panel 50 can also be located on the top plate of the cooktop section 40. In this case, the operating device 100 can be located on the top surface of the control panel 50.

[0142] In this embodiment, an example is shown where the control panel 50 is located on the upper front of a household appliance. Operating devices 100 are located on the front side of such a control panel 50, and a plurality of operating devices 100 can be arranged along the side.

[0143] In this embodiment, examples are shown where each operating device 100 has the same or similar configuration. In this case, each operating device 100 can be configured to adjust the actions of different objects or to perform different functions.

[0144] For example, any one of the plurality of operating devices 100 can be configured as an operating device 100 for adjusting the operation of the heating element provided in the oven, and another can be configured as an operating device for adjusting the operation of the heating element provided in the stove section 40. As another example, any one of the plurality of operating devices 100 can be configured as an operating device 100 for selecting the type and state of the object to be cooked, and another can be configured as an operating device 100 for selecting the degree of cooking or the cooking time.

[0145] The operating device 100 may include a knob 110. The knob 110 is configured to rotate relative to the panel on which the operating device 100 is provided. In this embodiment, the operating device 100 is provided on the control panel 50 as an example, thus, the knob 110 in this embodiment can be configured to rotate relative to the control panel 50.

[0146] The knob 110 can form at least a portion of the front appearance of the operating device 100. Such a knob 110 can rotate about an adjustment shaft 75. The adjustment shaft 75 can be rotatably mounted on an adjustment object 70 mounted on a household appliance. The knob 110 can be coupled to the adjustment shaft 75 and can be rotated by the user, thus driving the adjustment shaft 75 to rotate.

[0147] In this embodiment, the regulating body 70 is shown as either a switch or a valve assembly. When the regulating body 70 is a switch, the knob 110 is rotated by the user, which in turn rotates the regulating shaft 75, thereby changing the type of signal generated by the switch. When the regulating body 70 is a valve assembly, the knob 110 is rotated by the user, which in turn rotates the regulating shaft 75, thereby adjusting the amount of fuel supplied to the heating element of the household appliance.

[0148] As an example, the adjustment shaft 75 can be a shaft extending in the front-to-back direction. In this case, the knob 110 can be engaged with the adjustment shaft 75 from the front. As another example, the adjustment shaft 75 can also be a shaft extending in the vertical direction. In this case, the knob 110 can be engaged with the adjustment shaft 75 from the top.

[0149] In this embodiment, a knob 110 is attached to an adjustment shaft 75 that extends in the front-rear direction. In this embodiment, the knob 110 is attached to the adjustment shaft 75 on the front side of the control panel 50, and can rotate about the adjustment shaft 75 to drive the adjustment shaft 75 to rotate.

[0150] Additionally, the operating device 100 may include a first light diffusion guide 120. The first light diffusion guide 120 may be disposed between the panel, i.e., the control panel 50 and the knob 110. For example, the first light diffusion guide 120 may be disposed on the front side of the control panel 50 and on the rear side of the knob 110. Such a first light diffusion guide 120 can be provided on the control panel 50.

[0151] Additionally, the operating device 100 may include a light source 140. The light source 140 is configured to emit light toward the first light diffusion guide 120. The light source 140 may be provided in the form of a substrate 145 mounted on a PCB and may be located on the control panel 50 or the base member 150 described later.

[0152] The first light diffusion guide 120 can be constructed from a structure with light guide properties. That is, light emitted from the light source 140 can enter the first light diffusion guide 120, and the light entering the first light diffusion guide 120 can move inside the first light diffusion guide 120. Furthermore, a portion of the light moving inside the first light diffusion guide 120 can exit to the outside.

[0153] Therefore, the light emitted from the light source 140 and incident inside the first light diffusion guide 120 can diffuse throughout the entire first light diffusion guide 120. Furthermore, a portion of this light can exit to the outside of the first light diffusion guide 120 and then be transmitted to the second light diffusion guide 130 (described later), or it can provide illumination around the first light diffusion guide 120.

[0154] Additionally, the operating device 100 may include a second light diffusion guide 130. As an example, the second light diffusion guide 130 may be disposed in front of the first light diffusion guide 120. Such a second light diffusion guide 130 may be constructed from a structure having the same light guide properties as the first light diffusion guide 120.

[0155] That is, light incident inside the second light diffusion guide 130 can move inside the second light diffusion guide 130. And, a portion of the light moving inside the second light diffusion guide 130 can be emitted to the outside.

[0156] Therefore, light emitted from the light source 140 or the first light diffusion guide 120 and incident inside the second light diffusion guide 130 can diffuse throughout the entire second light diffusion guide 130. Furthermore, a portion of this light can be transmitted into the interior of the knob 110 to illuminate the knob 110, or it can be emitted from the area between the first light diffusion guide 120 and the knob 110 to illuminate the surrounding area.

[0157] Additionally, the operating device 100 may include a base member 150. The base member 150 may be disposed on the control panel 50. At least one of the light source 140 and the first light diffusion guide 120 may be disposed on such a base member 150.

[0158] [Structure of the first light diffusion guide]

[0159] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of an operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 It is Figure 6 The enlarged view shows a partial magnification.

[0160] Reference Figures 4 to 7The first light diffusion guide 120 may include a light transmission section 121. Axially, i.e., in the front-to-back direction, the light transmission section 121 may be disposed between the light source 140 and the second light diffusion guide 130. Such a light transmission section 121 is configured to transmit light received from the light source 140 to the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0161] As an example, the light transmission section 121 can be formed into a plane orthogonal to the axial direction. For instance, the light transmission section 121 can be provided in a disk shape to form a plane parallel to the front surface of the control panel 50. A large portion of such a light transmission section 121 can be configured in a position between the control panel 50 and the second light diffusion guide 130, covered by the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0162] Additionally, the first light diffusion guide 120 may include an edge illumination portion 123. The edge illumination portion 123 may be disposed radially outside the light transmission portion 121. As an example, the edge illumination portion 123 may be formed in a ring shape surrounding the edge of the light transmission portion 121. Such an edge illumination portion 123 and light transmission portion 121 may be connected radially.

[0163] The first light diffusion guide 120, as described above, can emit a portion of the light incident on the light transmission section 121 from the area between the control panel 50 and the second light diffusion guide 130. The light emitted from such an edge illumination section 123 can illuminate the area between the control panel 50 and the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0164] The edge lighting section 123 can be configured at a position between the control panel 50 and the second light diffusion guide 130 that is not covered by the second light diffusion guide 130. That is, the edge lighting section 123 can be configured radially outside the second light diffusion guide 130. Such an edge lighting section 123 can provide illumination radially outside the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0165] Additionally, the edge lighting section 123 can be formed to protrude axially from the outer edge of the light transmission section 121. At least a portion of such edge lighting section 123 protrudes in such a way that it can cover the space between the control panel 50 and the second light diffusion guide 130 radially outward.

[0166] According to this embodiment, a certain degree of gap can be formed between the control panel 50 and the second light diffusion guide 130, which are axially separated by the light transmission section 121, and the portion of the edge lighting section 123 that protrudes forward along the axial direction, more specifically, can cover the gap radially outward.

[0167] The edge lighting section 123, as described above, forms a barrier between the control panel 50 and the second light diffusion guide 130, enabling ambient lighting in the area between the control panel 50 and the operating device 100. The first light diffusion guide 120 with such an edge lighting section 123 can help provide superior emotional quality to home appliances.

[0168] [Structure of the second light diffusion guide]

[0169] Figure 8 It is Figure 6 The magnified view shown is a partial enlargement. Figure 9 It is Figure 8 The enlarged view shows a partial magnification.

[0170] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 8 The second light diffusion guide 130 may include a first guide portion 131. In the axial direction, the first guide portion 131 may be disposed between the first light diffusion guide 120 and the knob 110.

[0171] Light emitted from the light source 140 or the first light diffusion guide 120 can enter the first guide portion 131, and the light entering the first guide portion 131 can diffuse throughout the entire first guide portion 131. Furthermore, a portion of this light can exit to the outside of the first guide portion 131, thereby providing illumination around the first guide portion 131, and more specifically, in the area between the first light diffusion guide 120 and the knob 110.

[0172] Additionally, the second light diffusion guide 130 may include a second guide portion 135. Axially, the first guide portion 131 may be disposed between the first light diffusion guide 120 and the second guide portion 135. For example, the second guide portion 135 may be disposed in front of the first guide portion 131.

[0173] As an example, the first guide portion 131 can be formed in a generally annular shape. A hollow portion is formed inside such a first guide portion 131, and the back side of the first guide portion 131 can be opened toward the light transmission portion 121.

[0174] More specifically, the first guide portion 131 can be formed with a shape that decreases in diameter as it approaches the front side. The outer peripheral surface of such a first guide portion 131 may include an inclined surface that slopes between the axial and radial directions.

[0175] The second guide portion 135 can be formed to cover the open front of the first guide portion 131. According to this embodiment, the knob 110 can cover the second guide portion 135 and be integrated with the second light diffusion guide 130. As an example, a large portion of the second guide portion 135 can be accommodated in the space formed inside the knob 110, and the second guide portion 135 can be integrated with the knob 110 inside the knob 110. Such a second guide portion 135 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the inner side of the knob 110.

[0176] As an example, the second guide portion 135 may include a planar portion 136. The planar portion 136 may form a plane that covers the open front surface of the first guide portion 131 and may be parallel to the light transmission portion 121.

[0177] Furthermore, the planar portion 136 can be formed as a plane parallel to the bottom surface 111 of the knob 110. This planar portion 136 can contact the bottom surface 111 of the knob 110 when the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130 are coupled together. The bottom surface and planar portion 136 of the knob 110, which are connected in the front-rear direction, can form a mating surface between the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0178] Additionally, the second guide portion 135 may also include a protruding surface 137. The protruding surface 137 may be formed to protrude further forward than the flat portion 136.

[0179] According to this embodiment, a recessed portion 112 may be provided in the knob 110. The recessed portion 112 may be formed in a shape in which a part of the knob 110 is recessed from the bottom surface of the knob 110 to the front.

[0180] The protruding face 137 is formed to protrude on the second guide 135 in a shape corresponding to the shape of the recess 112, and can be inserted into the recess 112 when the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130 are engaged.

[0181] When the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130 are engaged, the bottom surface and the flat surface 136 of the knob 110 can be connected in the front-to-back direction, and the protruding surface 137 can be inserted into the recess 112. By inserting the protruding surface 137 into the recess 112, the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130 can be engaged, and the engagement position between the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130 can be guided.

[0182] Furthermore, with the bottom surface and the planar surface 136 of the knob 110 connected in the front-to-back direction, a fastening member, such as a screw, can be inserted through the bottom surface and the planar surface 136 of the knob 110 in the front-to-back direction to securely connect the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130. At this time, the operation of fastening the fastening member to the mating surface of the second light diffusion guide 130 and the knob 110 can be performed from the rear side of the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0183] [Illumination Implementation Structure of the Second Light Diffusion Guide]

[0184] According to this embodiment, at least a portion of the first guiding portion 131 and at least a portion of the second guiding portion 135 can be axially arranged facing at least a portion of the first light diffusion guide 120 to receive light emitted from the first light diffusion guide 120. More specifically, at least a portion of the first guiding portion 131 and at least a portion of the second guiding portion 135 can be axially arranged facing at least a portion of the light transmission portion 121 to receive light emitted from the light transmission portion 121.

[0185] In this embodiment, a case is illustrated by arranging most of the first guide portion 131 and the second guide portion 135 axially towards the light transmission portion 121. For example, the first guide portion 131 can be configured such that the plane formed by the light transmission portion 121 forms an interior angle with and connects to the inclined surface formed by the first guide portion 131, and most of the second guide portion 135 can be configured to face the plane formed by the light transmission portion 121 parallel to it. Thus, light emitted forward from the light transmission portion 121 can be effectively transmitted to the first guide portion 131 and the second guide portion 135.

[0186] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 8 A through hole 114 may be provided on the front side of the knob 110. The through hole 114 may be formed axially through the front side of the knob 110. A portion of the second guide portion 135 may be exposed to the outside of the knob 110 through the through hole 114 to achieve illumination. For example, a portion of the second guide portion 135 may be exposed to the front of the knob 110 through the through hole 114, thereby achieving illumination on the front side of the knob 110.

[0187] As an example, the second light diffusion guide 130 may include a protrusion 138. The protrusion 138 may protrude from the second guide 135 to be insertable into the through hole 114. For example, the protrusion 138 may protrude forward from the front of the protruding surface 137 and may be inserted into the through hole 114 when the knob 110 and the second light diffusion guide 130 are engaged.

[0188] According to this embodiment, light incident inside the second light diffusion guide 130 can diffuse throughout the entire second light diffusion guide 130, thereby allowing light diffused inside the second light diffusion guide 130 to illuminate the protruding surface 137 and the protrusion 138, which in turn illuminates the protrusion 138. That is, by utilizing a portion of the second guide portion 135 that protrudes towards the front of the knob 110 through the through hole 114, illumination can be achieved on the front of the knob 110.

[0189] As an example, the protrusion 138 can be inserted into and combined with the front of the knob 110, and the front of the protrusion 138 and the front of the knob 110 are on the same plane. Thus, illumination can be achieved on the same plane as the front of the knob 110, which can help to provide a more superior sensory quality for home appliances.

[0190] As described above, the operating device 100 of this embodiment can provide illumination not only on the front of the knob 110, but also between the knob 110 and the first light diffusion guide 120. Such illumination can be achieved by the second light diffusion guide 130, and more specifically, by the first guide portion 131.

[0191] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 In this embodiment, the second light diffusion guide 130 may include an inner member 132. The inner member 132 may be disposed between the inner surface of the first guide portion 131 facing the light transmission portion 121 and the light transmission portion 121. For example, the inner member 132 may be disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the first guide portion 131.

[0192] The inner member 132 may include a light-shielding portion 132a. The light-shielding portion 132a is configured to block light transmission between the light transmission portion 121 and the first guide portion 131. For example, the light-shielding portion 132a may be disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the first guide portion 131 to block light from entering the interior of the first guide portion 131.

[0193] Additionally, the inner member 132 may include a light-transmitting portion 132b. The light-transmitting portion 132b is configured to allow light transmission between the light transmission portion 121 and the first guide portion 131. The light-transmitting portion 132b may be disposed on the inner member 132 in an area where the light-shielding portion 132a is not disposed.

[0194] Light emitted from the light source 140 or the light transmission unit 121 can pass through the light-transmitting part 132b and then through the first guide part 131. That is, when the light-shielding part 132a is provided, light cannot pass through the first guide part 131, and light can only pass through the first guide part 131 when the light-transmitting part 132b is provided.

[0195] As an example, the light-shielding portion 132a may be a product of light-shielding material being coated onto the inner surface of the first guide portion 131. Alternatively, the light-transmitting portion 132b may be a portion of the light-shielding material coated onto the inner surface of the first guide portion 131, i.e., a portion of the light-shielding portion 132a coated onto the inner surface of the first guide portion 131 being removed from the first guide portion 131.

[0196] As an example, the light-transmitting portion 132b can be formed to represent the shape of the text, symbols, etc. to be displayed by the illumination achieved by the first guide portion 131. For example, the light-transmitting portion 132b can be formed to represent the shape of a graphic symbol (pictogram) to be displayed by the illumination achieved by the first guide portion 131.

[0197] According to this embodiment, when the first guide portion 131 is not illuminated, no text, symbols, etc. are displayed on the outer surface of the first guide portion 131. However, when the first guide portion 131 is illuminated, text, symbols, etc. can be clearly displayed on the outer surface of the first guide portion 131 under bright illumination.

[0198] As described above, the outer peripheral surface of the first guide portion 131 may include an inclined surface, which may be formed as a surface between the forward and centrifugal directions. Furthermore, the light-transmitting portion 132b may be disposed on the inclined surface formed as described above. Thus, the text, symbols, etc., displayed on the first guide portion 131 can be clearly seen from the front and side of the household appliance.

[0199] Additionally, the second light diffusion guide 130 in this embodiment may also include an outer member 133. The outer member 133 may be disposed apart from the inner member 132 through the first guide portion 131. For example, the outer member 133 may be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the first guide portion 131.

[0200] The outer member 133 is configured to allow light emitted from the first guide portion 131 to pass through. That is, light that enters the interior of the first guide portion 131 through the light-transmitting portion 132b can be emitted to the outside of the first guide portion 131 via the outer member 133.

[0201] According to this embodiment, the light transmittance of the outer member 133 can be set to be higher than that of the light-shielding portion 132a and lower than that of the first guide portion 131. For example, if the light transmittance of the light-shielding portion 132a is 0% and the light transmittance of the first guide portion 131 is 100%, then the light transmittance of the outer member 133 can be set to 50%. As an example, the outer member 133 may be a product of a semi-transparent material with a light transmittance of approximately 50% coated onto the outer surface of the first guide portion 131.

[0202] The outer member 133 provided as described above can make the illumination realized on the first guide portion 131 appear soft and not glaring, thereby helping to effectively improve the recognizability of the text, symbols, etc. displayed by the first guide portion 131.

[0203] [The connection structure between the base component and its surrounding structure]

[0204] Figure 10 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line "10-10". Figure 11 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line "11-11". Figure 12 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line “12-12”.

[0205] Reference Figures 4 to 6 , Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 The base member 150 can be disposed between the control panel 50 and the first light diffusion guide 120. For example, the base member 150 can be disposed on the front side of the control panel 50 and the rear side of the first light diffusion guide 120. Such a base member 150 can be provided on the control panel 50.

[0206] The base member 150 may be provided with at least one of the light source 140 and the first light diffusion guide 120. In this embodiment, it is shown that both the light source 140 and the first light diffusion guide 120 are provided in the base member 150.

[0207] As an example, the substrate 145 on which the light source 140 is mounted can be disposed between the control panel 50 and the base member 150 and located on the base member 150. Additionally, the first light diffusion guide 120 can be disposed between the knob 110 and the base member 150 and located on the base member 150. For example, the substrate 145 on which the light source 140 is mounted can be located on the back side of the base member 150, and the first light diffusion guide 120 can be located on the front side of the base member 150.

[0208] The base member 150 may include a base plate 151. The base plate 151 may be disposed between the control panel 50 and the first light diffusion guide 120, and may form a surface facing the light transmission portion 121 of the first light diffusion guide 120. For example, the base plate 151 may be provided in a disk shape to form a plane parallel to the light transmission portion 121.

[0209] According to this embodiment, the substrate 145 on which the light source 140 is mounted can be disposed on the back side of the base plate 151. Furthermore, a light-transmitting hole 152 can be provided in the base plate 151. The light-transmitting hole 152 can form a channel connecting the light source 140 and the light transmission unit 121 in the base plate 151. As an example, the light-transmitting hole 152 can be formed through the base plate 151 axially.

[0210] Light emitted from the light source 140 located on the rear side of the base member 150 can pass through the light-transmitting hole 152 through the base member 150 and enter the interior of the first light diffusion guide 120.

[0211] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first light diffusion guide 120 can be disposed on the front side of the base plate 151. In this embodiment, it is shown as an example where the first light diffusion guide 120 is detachably attached to the base plate 151.

[0212] As an example, the first light diffusion guide 120 may include a plurality of first hook members 125. Correspondingly, a plurality of hook holes 154 may be provided on the base plate 151. Each hook hole 154 may be formed through the base plate 151 axially, and each first hook member 125 may pass through the hook hole 154 through the base plate 151 and engage with the base member 150.

[0213] The first hook member 125 and the hook hole 154 can be configured in a position that does not obstruct the connection between the substrate 145 on which the light source 140 is mounted and the base member 150, and does not obstruct the movement of light through the light passage hole 152. For example, the first hook member 125 and the hook hole 154 can be configured in a position closer to the outer edge of the base member 150 than the light source 140 and the substrate 145.

[0214] According to this embodiment, the base member 150 can be attached to the control panel 50 using a first fastening member 160. As an example, the first fastening member 160 can be provided in the form of a screw including a main body 161 and a head 163. Such a first fastening member 160 can pass through the front of the base plate 151 and the control panel 50 in sequence, and attach the base member 150 to the control panel 50.

[0215] At this time, the main body 161, which has external threads formed on its outer peripheral surface, can penetrate the base plate 151 and the control panel 50. The head 163 disposed at the front end of such main body 161 can protrude outward from the base plate 151 and connect with the main body 161.

[0216] That is, when the first fastening member 160 is fastened to the base member 150, the head 163 protruding radially outward toward the main body 161 can protrude further forward from the front of the base plate 151. When viewed from the side, at least a portion of such a head 163 can be disposed in the area overlapping with the light transmission portion 121 of the first light diffusion guide 120.

[0217] For example, when the first light diffusion guide 120 is combined with the base member 150 and the first fastening member 160 is fastened to the base member 150, at least a portion of the head 163 can be inserted into the inside of the light transmission section 121 or pass through the light transmission section 121 axially.

[0218] More specifically, a first through hole 122 may be provided in the light transmission section 121, through which at least a portion of the head 163 may be inserted into the inside of the light transmission section 121 or pass through the light transmission section 121 axially.

[0219] The first through-hole 122 may form a channel in the first light diffusion guide 120, or more specifically, in the light transmission section 121, for the first fastening member 160 to pass through axially. As an example, the first through-hole 122 may be formed through the light transmission section 121 axially.

[0220] The first through-hole portion 122 formed as described above, even with the head 163 of the first fastening member 160 protruding from the front of the base member 150, helps to position the base plate 151 and the light transmission portion 121 as close to each other as possible. The closer the base plate 151 and the light transmission portion 121 are positioned, the smaller the gap between the control panel 50 and the knob 110, and the shorter the distance between the light source 140 and the first light diffusion guide 120, thereby enabling more efficient light transmission to the first light diffusion guide 120.

[0221] That is, the protruding portion of the first fastening member 160, which is used to attach the base member 150 to the control panel 50, can pass through the light transmission part 121 through the first through hole 122, so that the light transmission part 121 can be arranged close to the base plate 151. As a result, the gap between the control panel 50 and the knob 110 is reduced, thereby enabling more efficient light transmission to the first light diffusion guide 120. Thus, the home appliance of this embodiment can provide the following effects: improved lighting quality achieved by the operating device 100, improved operability of the operating device 100, and improved aesthetics of the home appliance.

[0222] Additionally, the first light diffusion guide 120 in this embodiment may also include a cover portion 127. As an example, the cover portion 127 may be formed as a portion of the light transmission portion 121 facing away from the base plate 151, i.e., a shape that is recessed in front.

[0223] For example, when viewed from the rear, the cover 127 can be a groove shape in which a portion of the back side of the light transmission portion 121 is recessed towards the front, and when viewed from the front, the cover 127 can be a shape in which a portion of the front side of the light transmission portion 121 protrudes in a dome shape.

[0224] The base member 150 can be attached to the control panel 50 by means of a plurality of first fastening members 160, the head 163 of at least any one of the first fastening members 160 being disposed in a region axially facing the cover 127. At least a portion of such head 163 can be inserted into the space surrounded by the cover 127.

[0225] The cover portion 127 can be connected to the light transmission portion 121 to enable light to be transmitted between the light transmission portion 121 and the cover portion 127. That is, light incident inside the light transmission portion 121 can pass through the cover portion 127 and move inside the light transmission portion 121, or it can exit from the cover portion 127 toward the second light diffusion guide 130 to the outside of the light transmission portion 121.

[0226] According to this embodiment, the protruding portion of the first fastening member 160 used to attach the base member 150 to the control panel 50 can be inserted into the space secured by the cover portion 127. Thus, even though the head 163 of the first fastening member 160 protrudes from the front of the base member 150, the base plate 151 and the light transmission portion 121 can be arranged in a position that is as close to each other as possible.

[0227] That is, the cover portion 127 functions similarly to the aforementioned first through hole portion 122. However, unlike the first through hole portion 122, the cover portion 127 does not penetrate through the light transmission portion 121, but is connected to the light transmission portion 121 so that light can be transmitted between the light transmission portion 121 and the cover portion 127.

[0228] Such a cover 127 enables the light transmission part 121 to diffuse and emit light in the area where the first fastening member 160 is disposed, which can help improve the lighting quality achieved by the first light diffusion guide 120 and the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0229] In this embodiment, an example is shown where both a first through-hole portion 122 and a cover portion 127 are provided in the first light diffusion guide 120. When the first light diffusion guide 120 only has a cover portion 127 and no first through-hole portion 122, the possibility of interference between the cover portion 127 and the second light diffusion guide 130 inevitably increases compared to the case where the first light diffusion guide 120 has both a first through-hole portion 122 and a cover portion 127, or only has a first through-hole portion 122. This is because the cover portion 127 is formed to protrude towards the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0230] However, if the first light diffusion guide 120 is provided with only the first through hole 122 and without the cover 127, there may be problems such as the area in the light transmission section 121 that realizes light diffusion and light emission becoming smaller and the non-uniformity of the light emission surface increasing.

[0231] With this in mind, in this embodiment, the first light diffusion guide 120 is provided with both a first through hole portion 122 and a cover portion 127. A portion of the plurality of first fastening members 160 are disposed in the region where the cover portion 127 is formed, and the remaining portion are disposed in the region where the first through hole portion 122 is formed.

[0232] Furthermore, when the operating device 100 is positioned on the front of the household appliance, that is, when the knob 110 is positioned in front of the control panel 50, the first through-hole portion 122 can be positioned lower than the cover portion 127. As an example, the cover portion 127 can be positioned higher than the adjustment shaft 75, and the first through-hole portion 122 can be positioned lower than the adjustment shaft 75.

[0233] When the operating device 100 is positioned on the front of a household appliance, the area located at the lower part of the adjustment shaft 75 is less visible to the user compared to the area located at the upper part of the adjustment shaft 75. Considering this, in this embodiment, by positioning the cover 127 higher than the first through-hole 122, the area where light diffusion and emission are effectively achieved using the cover 127 can be positioned in an area easily visible to the user.

[0234] Therefore, the operating device 100 of this embodiment can effectively improve the lighting quality achieved by the operating device 100 while reducing the possibility of interference between the cover 127 and the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0235] Additionally, the base component 150 may also include at least one second hook component 153. Correspondingly, the control panel 50 may be provided with a plurality of hook holes. Each hook hole may be formed axially through the front surface of the control panel 50, and each second hook component 153 may pass through the hook hole through the front surface of the control panel 50 and engage with the control panel 50.

[0236] The engagement between the second hook member 153 and the control panel 50 provides a first engagement point between the control panel 50 and the base member 150 before the engagement between the control panel 50 and the base member 150 is achieved using the first fastening member 160. Furthermore, the engagement between the second hook member 153 and the control panel 50 also guides the position of the base member 150 so that it is positioned where the engagement between the control panel 50 and the base member 150 is achieved using the first fastening member 160.

[0237] On the other hand, refer to Figures 4 to 6 as well as Figure 12 The base component 150 can be combined not only with the control panel 50, but also with the adjustable object 70. The combination between the base component 150 and the adjustable object 70 can be achieved using the second fastening component 165.

[0238] As an example, the adjustment object 70 can be disposed inside the household appliance, and more specifically, it can be disposed on the rear side of the front of the control panel 50. The second fastening member 165 provided to achieve such a combination of the adjustment object 70 and the base member 150 can be provided in a screw form, similar to the first fastening member 160, including a main body and a head.

[0239] The second fastening member 165 provided as described above can pass through the front of the base plate 151 and the front of the adjustment object 70 in sequence from the front of the base plate 151, and connect the base member 150 to the adjustment object 70.

[0240] On the other hand, the adjustment shaft 75 provided on the adjustment object body 70 can pass through the control panel 50, the base member 150 and the first light diffusion guide 120 along the axial direction and be combined with the second light diffusion guide 130. In addition, the second light diffusion guide 130 can be provided with a shaft connection portion 139.

[0241] The shaft coupling portion 139 can be disposed within the internal space of the second light diffusion guide 130 surrounded by the first guide portion 131 and the second guide portion 135, and can be provided in the form of a boss protruding rearward from the second guide portion 135. The adjustment shaft 75 can be coupled to the second light diffusion guide 130 via the shaft coupling portion 139, and the knob 110 can be coupled to the adjustment shaft 75 by means of its coupling with the second light diffusion guide 130.

[0242] As an example, a shaft through hole 156 may be provided in the base member 150, and a second through hole portion 124 may be provided in the first light diffusion guide 120. The shaft through hole 156 and the second through hole portion 124 may respectively form channels in the base member 150 and the first light diffusion guide 120 for the adjustment shaft 75 to pass through axially. The shaft through hole 156 and the second through hole portion 124 may respectively penetrate the base plate 151 and the light transmission portion 121 axially.

[0243] Additionally, the second through-hole portion 124 can form a channel in the first light diffusion guide 120 for the second fastening member 165 to pass through axially. As an example, a pair of second fastening members 165 can be configured to be radially spaced apart by a predetermined interval across the shaft through-hole 156, and the second through-hole portion 124 can be shaped to simultaneously form channels for the pair of second fastening members 165 and the adjusting shaft 75.

[0244] According to this embodiment, with the substrate 145, on which the light source 140 is mounted, disposed on the base member 150, the base member 150 can be disposed on the control panel 50. That is, after the operation of placing the substrate 145 on the base member 150 is completed, the operation of connecting the base member 150 to the control panel 50 using the second fastening member 165 can be performed. Then, the first light diffusion guide 120 can be disposed on the base member 150 by using a hook engagement achieved by inserting the first hook member 125 into the base member 150 through the hook hole 154.

[0245] Therefore, with the substrate 145 on which the light source 140 is installed pre-set on the base member 150, the installation of the light source 140 and the base member 150 can be easily and quickly achieved by simply connecting the base member 150 to the adjustment object 70.

[0246] Furthermore, since the first light diffusion guide 120 can be easily and quickly installed by simply attaching the first light diffusion guide 120 to the base member 150, it can reduce the difficulty of assembling the operating device 100 and effectively shorten the time required for assembling the operating device 100.

[0247] On the other hand, when the base member 150 and the adjustment object 70 are joined with the first light diffusion guide 120 already provided on the base member 150, the second through hole 124 can provide a channel for the second fastening member 165 to pass through. That is, the second fastening member 165 can pass through the fastening hole of the base plate 151 exposed in front of the light transmission part 121 through the second through hole 124 to fasten to the base member 150 and the adjustment object 70.

[0248] At this time, even after the first light diffusion guide 120 has been installed on the base member 150, the fastening operation between the base member 150 and the adjustment object 70 can still be achieved through the second through hole 124, which can help improve the degree of freedom of the operation device 100 assembly operation.

[0249] In addition, the second through hole 124 provides a channel for the second fastening member 165 to pass through axially, so that even if the head of the second fastening member 165 protrudes from the front of the base member 150, it can help to arrange the base plate 151 and the light transmission part 121 in a position that is as close to each other as possible.

[0250] [Function and effect of the operating device]

[0251] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the operating device of an embodiment of the present invention before it is turned on. Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the illuminated state of an operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0252] like Figure 13 As shown, when the operating device 100 is in an inactive state, for example, when the protrusion 138 exposed on the front of the knob 110 is facing the 12 o'clock direction, the illumination of the operating device 100 will not be turned on.

[0253] In such a state, such as Figure 6 and Figure 14 As shown, if a user holds and rotates the knob 110 of any one of the plurality of operating devices 100, the illumination of that operating device 100 can be turned on. At this time, the protrusion 138 can emit light at a position corresponding to the angle of rotation of the knob 110 to achieve illumination. Hereinafter, the illumination achieved at this position will be referred to as "first illumination".

[0254] Additionally, illumination can also be achieved in the area of ​​the first guide portion 131 where the second light diffusion guide 130 is located, such as the area between the control panel 50 and the knob 110, and more specifically, the area between the first light diffusion guide 120 and the first illumination. Hereinafter, the illumination achieved at this location will be referred to as "second illumination".

[0255] The second light diffusion guide 130 is combined with the knob 110 and can rotate together with the knob 110 when the knob 110 is rotated. Thus, the position of the text, symbols, etc. displayed by the illumination realized in the first guide section 131 can be changed by rotating the knob 110.

[0256] As another example, the first guide portion 131 can also be configured to be unaffected by the rotation of the knob 110. For instance, the first guide portion 131 can be configured to be separate from the second guide portion 135 and fixed to the first light diffusion guide 120 or the control panel 50, so as to avoid rotating together with the knob 110 and the second guide portion 135. In this case, the position of the text, symbols, etc. displayed by the illumination implemented in the first guide portion 131 can remain unchanged due to the rotation of the knob 110.

[0257] According to this embodiment, the illumination provided by the first guide portion 131 and the illumination provided by the second guide portion 135 can be arranged axially spaced apart. That is, in the operating device 100, the positions for providing the first illumination and the positions for providing the second illumination can be axially spaced apart, more specifically, in the front-rear direction.

[0258] For example, the first illumination can be achieved on the front of the knob 110, and the second illumination can be achieved on the rear side of the knob 110. The first illumination and the second illumination can be separated by an amount corresponding to the front-back length of the knob 110.

[0259] Additionally, lighting can be implemented in the area where the first light diffusion guide 120 is located, such as the area between the control panel 50 and the knob 110, and more specifically, the area between the control panel 50 and the second lighting. Hereinafter, the lighting implemented in this location will be referred to as "third lighting".

[0260] According to this embodiment, the illumination provided by the first light diffusion guide 120 and the illumination provided by the second light diffusion guide 130 can be configured to be axially spaced apart. That is, in the operating device 100, the position for providing the third illumination can be axially spaced from the positions for providing the first and second illuminations, and more specifically, in the front-rear direction.

[0261] For example, the first illumination can be implemented on the front of the knob 110, the third illumination can be implemented adjacent to the control panel 50, and the second illumination can be implemented between the first and third illuminations. As described above, the plurality of illuminations implemented in the operating device 100 can each perform different functions.

[0262] As an example, the first illumination can display the position of the knob 110 in the rotation direction on the front of the knob 110. That is, the first illumination, achieved by the portion of the second light diffusion guide 130 exposed to the front of the knob 110, can indicate whether the knob 110 has been operated and to what extent the operated knob 110 has been rotated.

[0263] Additionally, the second illumination can indicate what changes have occurred through the operation of the knob 110. For example, the second illumination, achieved by the portion of the second light diffusion guide 130 that protrudes to the side of the knob 110, can enable information such as the heating intensity and heating time of the cooking appliance to be displayed on the knob 110.

[0264] Additionally, the third lighting can illuminate the area between the control panel 50 and the operating device 100. For example, the third lighting implemented by the first light diffusion guide 120 can provide soft ambient lighting around the operating device 100.

[0265] As described above, the household appliance of this embodiment can provide illumination at three or more locations of the operating device 100 by sharing the light emitted from a single unit of the light source 140. This allows for efficient illumination at multiple locations of the operating device 100 without increasing the number or location of the light sources 140.

[0266] This type of household appliance, by increasing the number of lighting locations without adding a light source 140, can provide an effective lighting effect at multiple locations of the operating device 100 while suppressing the increase in the cost required to install the operating device 100.

[0267] In addition, by providing illumination at multiple locations of the operating device 100, the household appliance in this embodiment not only enhances the aesthetics of the appliance but also provides information such as the current status and graphic symbols of the operating device 100 with high recognizability.

[0268] Although the invention has been described with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, these are merely exemplary, and it should be understood that those skilled in the art can implement various modifications and equivalent embodiments thereto. Therefore, the true scope of protection of this invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A household appliance, wherein, include: A knob, configured to rotate relative to the panel and positioned in front of the panel; A first light diffusion guide is disposed between the panel and the knob, and is located on the panel; The light source emits light toward the first light diffusion guide; as well as A second light diffusion guide, at least a portion of which is disposed between the knob and the first light diffusion guide, transmits light incident from the first light diffusion guide to the internal region of the knob; The first light diffusion guide includes: The light transmission unit transmits the light received from the light source to the second light diffusion guide; and The edge lighting section emits a portion of the light incident on the light transmission section from the area between the panel and the second light diffusion guide to achieve illumination; The second light diffusion guide emits a portion of the light incident on it from the area between the first light diffusion guide and the knob to achieve illumination.

2. The household appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The light transmission part is formed to include a surface orthogonal to the front-back direction; The edge illumination section protrudes from the outer edge of the light transmission section in the front-back direction.

3. The household appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The light transmission part and the edge illumination part are connected in the radial direction; The light transmission part is disposed between the panel and the second light diffusion guide at a position covered by the second light diffusion guide; At least a portion of the edge lighting portion is disposed in an area between the panel and the second light diffusion guide that is not covered by the second light diffusion guide.

4. The household appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The second light diffusion guide includes a first guide portion and a second guide portion; In the front-to-back direction, the first guide portion is disposed between the first light diffusion guide and the second guide portion; At least a portion of the first guide portion and at least a portion of the second guide portion are arranged facing each other in the front-rear direction with at least a portion of the first light diffusion guide, so as to be able to receive light emitted from the first light diffusion guide.

5. The household appliance according to claim 4, wherein, It also includes an inner side member disposed between the inner surface of the first guide portion facing the light transmission portion and the light transmission portion; The inner component includes: The light-shielding part blocks the light transmission between the light transmission part and the first guiding part; and The light-transmitting portion allows light to pass between the light-transmitting portion and the first guiding portion; Light emitted from the light source or the light transmission part passes through the light transmission part and then through the first guide part.

6. The household appliance according to claim 4, wherein, The knob covers the second guide portion and is integrated with the second light diffusion guide; A through hole is provided on the front of the knob; A portion of the second guide portion protrudes to the outside of the knob through the through hole to provide illumination.

7. The household appliance according to claim 4, wherein, The knob covers the second guide portion and is integrated with the second light diffusion guide; At least a portion of the first guide portion provides illumination between the panel and the knob; At least a portion of the second guide portion protrudes to the outside of the knob to provide illumination; The positions of the illumination provided by the first guide portion and the positions of the illumination provided by the second guide portion are spaced apart in the front-to-back direction.

8. The household appliance according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a base component disposed on the panel; The first light diffusion guide is disposed between the base member and the second light diffusion guide, and is coupled to the base member.

9. The household appliance according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a base component disposed on the panel; A substrate having the light source is disposed between the panel and the base member, and is disposed on the base member; The base component includes: A base plate is disposed between the light source and the light transmission part; as well as A light-transmitting hole is formed on the base plate to connect the light source and the light transmission part.

10. The household appliance according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a base component disposed on the panel; In the front-to-back direction, the light source is disposed between the panel and the first light diffusion guide, and the base member is disposed between the light source and the first light diffusion guide; The substrate with the light source and the first light diffusion guide are disposed on the base component.

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