Knob assembly for cooking apparatus

Abstract

The utility model relates to a knob assembly for cooking equipment. The utility model discloses a base (110) that drive shaft (71) passes through. The utility model has the knob main part (NB) that rotates with the above-mentioned drive shaft (71) as the center and moves linearly with the axial direction of the above-mentioned drive shaft (71). The knob main part (NB) has a locking button (140) with an operating part (143) exposed to the outside. At this time, the locking button (140) has a first position that is restricted from moving axially by the base (110) and a second position that can move axially. Therefore, the user can only press the locking button (140) first, then press the knob main part (NB) axially to make the cooking equipment work, so that the knob assembly can be prevented from being operated or malfunctioning by the locking button (140).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a knob assembly for cooking equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Cooking equipment is used to cook ingredients to make meals. It can also be used to heat food to a suitable temperature for consumption. Such cooking equipment is classified in various ways based on the form of the heat source used, the type of fuel, and so on. For example, cooking equipment can be divided into open and closed types based on the form of the space where food is placed. Examples of closed cooking equipment include ovens and microwave ovens, while examples of open cooking equipment include cooktops and griddles.

[0003] In enclosed cooking equipment, a door is used to conceal the space containing the food, and the food is cooked by heating the concealed space. In open cooking equipment, food or containers containing food are placed in an open space, and the food is cooked by heating the food or containers. In recent years, combined cooking equipment that integrates both enclosed and open cooking methods has also been used. In the case of combined cooking equipment, multiple heat sources are combined to cook various ingredients, and multiple dishes can be cooked simultaneously.

[0004] Such cooking appliances include a control knob. This knob can be used to start or stop the cooking appliance or to set a cooking mode. Additionally, this knob can be used to adjust the heating temperature.

[0005] Taking a gas stove as an example of a cooking appliance, the aforementioned knob is operated by pressing and turning to activate the appliance. This press-and-turn mechanism means that the appliance will only operate when the user presses and then rotates it. At this time, the user adjusts the heating temperature or selects a cooking mode by varying the rotation around the drive shaft while the knob is pressed. Because both steps are required for the appliance to operate, this press-and-turn mechanism enhances safety.

[0006] However, this type of knob, which requires pressing and rotating, protrudes outwards, meaning it can be turned accidentally by the user. For example, a user could press the knob without realizing it, causing it to rotate. Additionally, young children might operate the knob, activating the cooking appliance. Such unauthorized operation could lead to fires or burns, necessitating improvements to the safety of cooking equipment. Utility Model Content

[0007] The problem to be solved by utility models

[0008] This utility model was developed to solve the problems of the prior art as described above. The purpose of this utility model is to prevent the knob assembly from operating when the locking button (safety button) on the knob assembly is not pressed.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to make the direction of action of the locking button different from the rotation direction and pressing direction of the knob assembly.

[0010] Another objective of this invention is to minimize the number of additional components required by setting a locking button, thereby simplifying the structure of the knob assembly.

[0011] Another objective of this invention is to fix the locking button in a specific position by means of a button bracket, thereby enabling selective use of the locking button.

[0012] Another objective of this invention is to enable the button bracket to rotate independently of the knob body and the locking button.

[0013] Another objective of this invention is to prevent the button bracket from being exposed when the knob assembly is installed in cooking equipment or the like.

[0014] Methods for solving problems

[0015] According to the features of the present invention for achieving the above-described objectives, the knob assembly of the present invention includes a base disposed on an operation panel and a drive shaft protruding from the operation panel.

[0016] The aforementioned knob assembly is characterized by comprising: a knob body that rotates about a drive shaft protruding from the operation panel and moves linearly along the axial direction of the drive shaft; a locking button having an operating portion exposed to the outside of the knob body; and a safety pin disposed on the locking button in a manner linked to the locking button, having a first position and a second position after moving from the first position in a direction different from the axial direction, wherein in the first position, the safety pin interferes with the operation panel along the axial direction to restrict the axial movement of the knob body toward the operation panel, and in the second position, the axial interference between the safety pin and the operation panel is released, allowing the knob body to move axially toward the operation panel.

[0017] Therefore, the user can only press the locking button to apply axial pressure to the knob body and make the cooking device work. Thus, the locking button can prevent arbitrary operation or malfunction of the knob assembly.

[0018] The aforementioned knob body also includes a button bracket for relative rotation of the aforementioned knob body.

[0019] At this time, the button bracket rotates about a rotation center concentric with the drive shaft, thereby restricting the movement of the locking button. Thus, by having a button bracket that rotates independently of the locking button, the operation of the locking button can be restricted based on the position of the button bracket. Therefore, the user operates the button bracket and only activates the locking button when necessary.

[0020] In the first position, the locking button is spaced a first distance from the base along the axial direction. In the second position, the locking button is spaced a second distance from the base along the axial direction.

[0021] The second distance is greater than the first distance. Thus, the locking button in the first position is directly interfered with by the base, restricting its axial movement. Therefore, the structure for restricting the operation of the knob assembly can be implemented very simply.

[0022] The radial distance between the operating part and the drive shaft in the first position is greater than the radial distance between the operating part and the drive shaft in the second position.

[0023] The aforementioned locking button moves linearly between the first and second positions in a direction different from the aforementioned axial direction. When the direction in which the locking button is pressed and the direction in which the knob body is pressed are different from each other, the likelihood of the user accidentally activating the knob assembly decreases.

[0024] The knob body moves linearly in a first direction, which is the aforementioned axis. The locking button moves linearly between the aforementioned first position and the aforementioned second position along a second direction orthogonal to the aforementioned first direction.

[0025] The knob body and the locking button are restricted to each other along the aforementioned axis, and the knob body and the locking button move together linearly along the aforementioned axis.

[0026] An operating hole extends through the knob body in a direction orthogonal to the aforementioned axis. The operating part protrudes to the outside through the operating hole, and the operating part, together with the knob body, forms the appearance of the knob assembly. The locking button protrudes to the side of the knob body. This allows the user to naturally press the side-protruding locking button while holding the knob body.

[0027] The aforementioned locking button has a safety pin that interferes with or de-interferes with the aforementioned base. The aforementioned safety pin protrudes from the aforementioned locking button along the aforementioned axial direction in the direction of the aforementioned base.

[0028] The knob body moves linearly in a first direction, which is the aforementioned axial direction, and the locking button moves linearly between the aforementioned first position and the aforementioned second position along a second direction different from the aforementioned first direction. The safety pin protrudes in the aforementioned first direction.

[0029] The base has a limiter that interferes with the knob body. The limiter protrudes from the base along the axial direction in the direction of the locking button.

[0030] The aforementioned locking button includes a safety pin that either interferes with or de-interferes with the aforementioned base. In the first position, the limiter and the safety pin are aligned with each other along the aforementioned axis, causing interference. In the second position, the limiter and the safety pin are offset along the aforementioned axis, thus de-interfering.

[0031] The aforementioned limiter is formed with a gradually narrowing width toward the aforementioned drive shaft.

[0032] The aforementioned knob body includes a first knob body having an internal space open toward the aforementioned base. A second knob body is disposed within the aforementioned internal space. The second knob body rotates and moves linearly together with the first knob body.

[0033] An operating hole is provided through the main body of the first knob, which is used to protrude the operating part of the locking button.

[0034] The aforementioned operating hole is open in a direction orthogonal to the linear movement direction of the aforementioned knob body.

[0035] The locking button is restricted from moving as it moves from the second position to the first position due to interference from the edge of the operating hole.

[0036] The second knob body has a shaft engagement portion for engaging one end of the drive shaft. In the second knob body, the remaining portion excluding the shaft engagement portion and the locking button are arranged on opposite sides of each other with the shaft engagement portion as the center.

[0037] A pin is attached to the second knob body. The safety pin is located on the pin.

[0038] The second knob body contains a pair of elastic members that provide elastic force to the locking button. The second knob body has a support plate that protrudes along the axial direction and toward the opposite side of the base. The support plate is disposed between the pair of elastic members.

[0039] The aforementioned support plate and the aforementioned operating part are arranged opposite to each other.

[0040] A portion of the side surface of the second knob body facing the internal space has a curved shape. Another portion of the side surface of the second knob body facing the locking button has a flat shape.

[0041] The aforementioned elastic component provides an elastic force to the locking button in the direction that causes the locking button to move toward the first position.

[0042] The two ends of the aforementioned elastic member are supported by the surfaces of the aforementioned knob body and the aforementioned locking button, which are respectively arranged opposite to each other.

[0043] The aforementioned locking button has an elastic support portion that supports one end of the aforementioned elastic member.

[0044] A base hole is formed in the base for the passage of the drive shaft. A limiter protrudes from the base in the direction through which the base hole passes. The limiter interferes with the locking button.

[0045] The locking button is restricted from moving as it moves from the first position to the second position due to interference with the second knob body.

[0046] The knob body is fitted with a load-bearing plate that rotates and moves together with the knob body. A pin-through hole is formed in the load-bearing plate for the safety pin of the locking button to pass through.

[0047] The aforementioned button bracket has a button constraint position that interferes with the aforementioned locking button and restricts the movement of the aforementioned locking button, and a button release position that rotates from the aforementioned button constraint position to release the interference with the aforementioned locking button.

[0048] The aforementioned button bracket includes an interference portion that interferes with the aforementioned locking button. The radial distance between the interference portion and the locking button, based on the movement direction of the locking button in the button constrained position, is shorter than the radial distance between the interference portion and the locking button, based on the movement direction of the locking button, in the button released position.

[0049] The aforementioned locking button has a knob release position that allows axial movement of the aforementioned knob body. In the aforementioned button constraint position, the aforementioned button bracket interferes with the aforementioned locking button disposed in the aforementioned knob release position, and the aforementioned locking button is constrained in the aforementioned knob release position.

[0050] The aforementioned locking button has a knob locking position that restricts the axial movement of the knob body by interfering with the aforementioned operation panel along the aforementioned axis, and a knob releasing position that allows the axial movement of the knob body to be realized by moving from the aforementioned knob locking position in a direction different from the aforementioned axis.

[0051] When the button bracket rotates about a rotation center concentric with the drive shaft, the length of the button bracket in the radial direction occupied by the movement path changes.

[0052] The aforementioned button bracket includes an annular bracket body and an interference part disposed at the button constraint position of the aforementioned button bracket in the movement path of the aforementioned locking button.

[0053] The aforementioned button holder includes an interference portion that protrudes radially toward the rotation center of the button holder. This interference portion is positioned along the movement path of the locking button at the button constraint position of the button holder.

[0054] Along a direction opposite to the direction in which the button bracket rotates toward the button constraint position, the length of the interference portion protruding in the radial direction increases.

[0055] At the aforementioned button constraint position, the aforementioned interference part is disposed between the aforementioned locking button and the aforementioned knob body.

[0056] A position fixing part is formed in the aforementioned interference portion along the radial direction of the aforementioned button bracket. A relative fixing part is formed in the aforementioned locking button along the moving direction of the aforementioned locking button. In the aforementioned button constraint position, the aforementioned position fixing part and the aforementioned relative fixing part are combined, thereby fixing the aforementioned button bracket in the aforementioned button constraint position.

[0057] A position fixing part is formed in the aforementioned interference part along the radial direction of the aforementioned button bracket. A first opposing fixing part is formed in the aforementioned knob body, facing the aforementioned position fixing part.

[0058] The locking button has a second relative fixing part that is spaced apart from the first relative fixing part along the rotation path of the button bracket.

[0059] In the button release position, the position fixing part engages with the first opposing fixing part, thereby fixing the button bracket to the button release position. In the button constraint position, the position fixing part engages with the second opposing fixing part, thereby fixing the button bracket to the button constraint position.

[0060] A weight plate is incorporated into the knob body and rotates and moves together with it. A rotational space is formed between the weight plate and the knob body. A portion of the button bracket is disposed within this rotational space, and the button bracket rotates along with the rotational space.

[0061] A load-bearing plate is integrated into the knob body, rotating and moving together with it. The center of the button bracket is positioned between the load-bearing plate and the knob body, with the aforementioned axis as a reference. The edge of the button bracket protrudes towards the operation panel.

[0062] A bracket handle protrudes from the edge of the aforementioned button bracket, facing the aforementioned control panel and protruding upward along the aforementioned axis.

[0063] The aforementioned knob body includes a first knob body and a second knob body that rotates and moves linearly together with the first knob body. The first knob body has an internal space open toward the aforementioned operation panel. The second knob body is positioned within the aforementioned internal space at a point along a movement path detached from the aforementioned button bracket.

[0064] The aforementioned button bracket has a first rotational state in which the interference part is disengaged from the movement path of the locking button, and a second rotational state in which the interference part rotates relative to the knob body in the first rotational state and enters the movement path of the locking button.

[0065] Utility Model Effect

[0066] The knob assembly for cooking equipment of this utility model, as described above, has the following effects.

[0067] In this invention, the knob body (handle) is not pressed axially when the locking button is not pressed. The user can only apply axial pressure to the knob body and activate the cooking appliance by pressing the locking button first. Thus, the locking button prevents arbitrary operation or malfunction of the knob assembly, thereby improving the safety of the cooking appliance.

[0068] Furthermore, in this invention, the locking button can operate in a direction different from the axial movement of the knob body. When the direction in which the locking button is pressed and the direction in which the knob body is pressed are different, the possibility of the user accidentally activating the knob assembly can be reduced. This improves the safety of the cooking equipment.

[0069] In particular, the operating part of the locking button can move along a straight or curved path in a second direction, which is different from the linear movement direction of the knob body, i.e., the axial direction (first direction), and the rotation direction of the knob body. This further reduces the possibility of the knob assembly arbitrarily operating due to user error or interference from objects around the cooking equipment.

[0070] Furthermore, in this invention, the locking button protrudes to the side of the knob body. This allows the user to naturally press the protruding locking button while holding the knob body. Therefore, even with the addition of the locking button, the operability of the knob assembly is not reduced, and the user can easily operate the cooking appliance.

[0071] Furthermore, in this invention, the locking button can move linearly between a first position where axial movement is interfered with and a second position where axial movement is possible. In this case, the locking button in the first position directly interferes with the base of the knob assembly or the operation panel on which the knob assembly is mounted, thus restricting axial movement. Therefore, the structure for restricting the operation of the knob assembly can be implemented very simply, minimizing the number of additional components required by the locking button.

[0072] Furthermore, in this invention, a second knob body (inner body) is provided inside the first knob body (outer body) that forms the appearance of the knob body. The second knob body (inner body) is symmetrical to the locking button. When the second knob body and the locking button are symmetrically arranged in the knob assembly, it can prevent the center of gravity of the knob assembly from tilting to one side due to the locking button. Therefore, even with the addition of a locking button, the knob assembly of this invention can still provide a good operating feel. Moreover, by filling the empty space on the side of the knob assembly without the locking button with the second knob body, the overall durability of the knob assembly can also be improved.

[0073] Furthermore, by symmetrically arranging the second knob body and the locking button within the knob assembly, the volume occupied by the components within the internal space of the knob assembly can be reduced, thereby improving the utilization rate of the internal space of the knob assembly. This allows for the miniaturization and weight reduction of the knob assembly.

[0074] Furthermore, in this invention, the second knob body, which constitutes the main body of the knob, can be responsible for the connection with other components such as the drive shaft (valve shaft). Thus, the first knob body, exposed to the outside and held by the user, has a relatively simple structure, preventing shrinkage caused by its complex shape during injection molding. Therefore, the aesthetics and manufacturing quality of the knob assembly can be improved.

[0075] Furthermore, in this invention, a pair of elastic members are provided inside the knob body, thereby enabling the locking button to return to the first position. A support plate disposed between the pair of elastic members and located on the second knob body guides the pair of elastic members as they contract / relax. Thus, in this invention, the pair of elastic members work together to reset the locking button, preventing it from tilting to one side and ensuring a stable reset, thereby improving the operational reliability of the knob assembly.

[0076] Furthermore, this invention features a button holder that operates independently of the locking button, allowing the locking button's movement to be restricted based on the button holder's position. For example, the button holder fixes the locking button in the knob release position. In this way, the locking button remains in a state that allows the knob assembly to be pressed. Therefore, the user operates the button holder and activates the locking button only when needed, thereby improving the convenience of the knob assembly.

[0077] Furthermore, in this invention, the locking button can also move in conjunction with the button bracket during the rotation of the button bracket. When the button bracket rotates to the button restraint position, the locking button is pushed by the interference part of the button bracket during this process, and can naturally move towards the knob release position. Thus, the user can release the knob assembly simply by rotating the button bracket, resulting in excellent ease of operation.

[0078] Furthermore, in this invention, the locking button moves linearly, while the button bracket can rotate. By giving the two components different actuation mechanisms, the likelihood of the user accidentally activating the knob assembly is reduced. This improves the safety of the cooking equipment.

[0079] Furthermore, in this invention, the button bracket rotates in a direction different from the movement direction of the knob body and the locking button. This allows for easier setting of the movement paths of the button bracket and the locking button within the knob assembly.

[0080] Furthermore, in this invention, the button holder is disposed inside the knob assembly and not exposed to the outside. The user must first detach the knob assembly from the cooking device to operate the button holder. This restricts access to the button holder, prevents arbitrary locking of the button, and improves the operational reliability of the cooking device.

[0081] Furthermore, by placing the button bracket inside the knob assembly without exposing it to the outside, the aesthetic appeal of the knob assembly can be prevented from being diminished due to the exposure of the button bracket.

[0082] Furthermore, when the knob assembly is detached from the cooking device, the button holder is exposed to the user in a spacious area that opens to the rear of the knob assembly. Therefore, after the knob assembly is detached, the user can easily approach and operate the button holder.

[0083] Specifically, the user can rotate the button holder by holding its handle, thereby moving the button holder towards the button's constrained position. This allows the user to easily operate the button holder without the need for additional tools, thus providing excellent operability similar to a knob assembly.

[0084] Furthermore, in this invention, the button holder can rotate along the load-bearing plate constituting the knob assembly. Thus, the rotation of the button holder can be achieved using the load-bearing plate without the need for additional components for rotating the button holder. Therefore, even if a button holder is added, no additional components are required for operating the button holder, and the knob assembly can maintain a simple structure.

[0085] Specifically, in this invention, the rotation guide of the button holder is disposed in the rotation space formed between the knob body and the load-bearing plate, thereby enabling the button holder to rotate while being axially fixed to the knob body and the load-bearing plate. Therefore, it also provides the effect of stably performing the rotational action of the button holder.

[0086] Furthermore, in this invention, the locking button is equipped with a safety pin that can move together with the locking button in a direction different from the movement direction of the knob body. That is, the safety pin moves in a direction different from the interference direction of the knob body and disengages from the interference position to form an unlocked state. Therefore, the transition structure between the knob's locked state and the knob's unlocked state can be simply demonstrated.

[0087] Specifically, in this invention, the direction in which the safety pin moves towards the unlocked position can be different from the direction (axial) of the knob assembly's movement. Therefore, even if the user presses the knob assembly forcefully, the safety pin will not move towards the unlocked position, firmly maintaining the locked state. This further improves the safety of the cooking equipment.

[0088] Furthermore, in this invention, the safety pin is disposed on the locking button and is subordinate to the movement of the locking button. Therefore, no additional structure is needed for performing the relative movement between the safety pin and the locking button, thus simplifying the overall structure of the knob assembly.

[0089] Furthermore, in the locked position, the safety pin contacts the base, but in the unlocked position, the safety pin is axially spaced from the base. Therefore, when the knob assembly is rotated in the unlocked position, the safety pin remains in contact with the base, thus preventing an increase in friction caused by contact between the safety pin and the base, and improving the operability of the knob assembly.

[0090] Furthermore, in this invention, the safety pin can move in a direction different from the direction of interference, but its movement is restricted by the locking button. When the knob body moves axially, the locking button and safety pin structure can move axially together with the knob body. As a result, the locking button and safety pin do not need to move axially independently relative to the knob body, making the operating mechanism of the knob assembly simpler to represent. Attached Figure Description

[0091] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a cooking device to which the knob assembly of the present invention is applicable.

[0092] Figure 2 It shows the composition Figure 1 A perspective view of the structure of the control panel and knob assembly of one embodiment of the cooking appliance shown.

[0093] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the components of one embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention, exploded.

[0094] Figure 4 This involves disassembling the components of one embodiment of the knob assembly constituting this utility model from... Figure 3 A three-dimensional image shown from different angles.

[0095] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a first knob body and a load-bearing plate omitted in one embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention.

[0096] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in its first state (locked state).

[0097] Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of line VII-VII'.

[0098] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in its second state (unlocked state).

[0099] Figure 9 Yes Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the IX-IX' line.

[0100] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in its third state (pressed state).

[0101] Figure 11 Yes Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the XI-XI' line.

[0102] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the state of an embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in the fourth state (rotation state).

[0103] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the base and locking button of one embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention interfering with each other.

[0104] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing a state in which the base and the locking button of one embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention do not interfere with each other.

[0105] Figure 15 This is a perspective view showing the components of a second embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention, exploded.

[0106] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the second embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in the locked state.

[0107] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view showing the second embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in the unlocked state.

[0108] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the base and locking button of a second embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention interfering with each other.

[0109] Figure 19 This is a perspective view showing the base and locking button of a second embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention in a state where they do not interfere with each other.

[0110] Figure 20 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the base of a third embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention.

[0111] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of a fourth embodiment of the knob assembly of this utility model.

[0112] Figure 22 This is a perspective view showing the components of the fifth embodiment of the knob assembly constituting the present invention, exploded.

[0113] Figure 23 The fifth embodiment of the knob assembly constituting this utility model is disassembled from the components and... Figure 3 A three-dimensional image shown from different angles.

[0114] Figure 24 This is a perspective view showing the first knob body and the load plate of the fifth embodiment constituting the knob assembly of the present invention omitted.

[0115] Figure 25 This is a perspective view showing the fifth embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in a locked state.

[0116] Figure 26 Yes Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of line VII-VII'.

[0117] Figure 27 This is a perspective view showing the fifth embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in the unlocked state.

[0118] Figure 28 Yes Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the IX-IX' line.

[0119] Figure 29This is a perspective view showing the fifth embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in a pressed state.

[0120] Figure 30 Yes Figure 29 A cross-sectional view of the XI-XI' line.

[0121] Figure 31 This is a perspective view showing the state of the fifth embodiment of the knob assembly of the present invention in the rotating state.

[0122] Figure 32 This is a perspective view showing the first knob body of the fifth embodiment constituting the knob assembly of the present invention with its body omitted.

[0123] Figure 33 This is a bottom view showing the lower structure of the fifth embodiment of the knob assembly of this utility model.

[0124] Figure 34 and Figure 35 These are perspective and bottom views showing the locking button and the button bracket of the fifth embodiment of the present invention respectively in the state of the knob locking position and the button release position.

[0125] Figure 36 and Figure 37 These are perspective and bottom views showing the locking button and the button bracket of the fifth embodiment of the present invention in the state of being configured in the knob release position.

[0126] Figure 38 and Figure 39 These are perspective and bottom views showing the state in which the locking button of the fifth embodiment of the present invention is configured in the knob release position and the button bracket is configured in the button constraint position.

[0127] (Symbol Explanation)

[0128] 28: Heating device; 30: Control panel

[0129] 31: Front panel 70: Heating drive unit

[0130] 71: Drive shaft 100: Knob assembly

[0131] 110: Base; 115: Limiter

[0132] 120: First knob body 123: Handle

[0133] 125: Operating hole; 130: Second knob body

[0134] 131: Shaft joint; 132: Shaft joint hole

[0135] 136: Support plate 140: Locking button

[0136] 143: Operations Section 150: Safety Pin

[0137] 158: Sales Department; 160: Load-bearing plate

[0138] 165: Pin through hole S: Elastic component Detailed Implementation

[0139] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the illustrative drawings. When adding symbols to the constituent elements of the various figures, the same symbols will be used as much as possible for the same constituent elements, even if they are illustrated in different figures. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related well-known structures or functions will be omitted if it is determined that a detailed explanation would hinder the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0140] This utility model relates to a knob assembly 100 and a cooking device including the knob assembly 100, wherein the upper part of the cooking device has a cooktop section 20 including a plurality of heating devices 28. The heating devices 28 may be gas heating devices 28 that use gas as energy, electric cooktops, or induction cookers. Figure 1 The image illustrates the gas heating device 28 within the heating device 28 of the stove section 20. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the heating device 28 is arranged to protrude from the upper part of the cooking apparatus. Alternatively, the heating device 28 may be located inside the cooking apparatus or both inside and outside the cooking apparatus.

[0141] The knob assembly 100 is used to operate the heating device 28. The user operates the knob assembly 100 to turn the heating device 28 on / off. The user operates the knob assembly 100 to adjust the heat provided by the heating device 28. Alternatively, the user operates the knob assembly 100 to operate the oven section 40, 50 or select the cooking mode of the cooking equipment.

[0142] The user presses the knob assembly 100 to rotate it, thereby controlling the heating device 28. At this time, as... Figure 2 As shown, to prevent arbitrary operation of the knob assembly 100 due to user error or interference with surrounding objects, this invention includes a locking button 140. The knob assembly 100 will now be described with a focus on this locking button 140 and the accidental operation prevention structure.

[0143] The exterior of the cooking device is formed by the outer body 10, which, excluding the door located at the front, forms the frame of the cooking device. A separate inner shell (not shown) is disposed inside the outer body 10.

[0144] The aforementioned 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, a total of four heating devices 28 are arranged in the aforementioned stove section 20.

[0145] The cooktop section 20 is equipped with a grate 25. The grate 25 is a frame that allows cooking containers to be placed on top of the heating device 28. The grate 25 can be detachably installed on the cooktop section 20. The grate 25 is located above the heating device 28.

[0146] An operation panel 30 is disposed above the oven sections 40 and 50 and in front of the cooktop section 20. The operation panel 30 includes knob assemblies 100 for operating the oven sections 40 and 50 and the cooktop section 20. Multiple knob assemblies 100 operate the independent heating devices 28 and oven components respectively. The operation panel 30 can also be considered an operating device or a front panel. The operation panel 30 is not disposed in front of the cooktop section 20, but rather in various locations such as the lower part of the cooking equipment, the side of the cooking equipment, or the upper surface of the cooking equipment.

[0147] The aforementioned control panel 30 includes a display unit 60. The display unit 60 displays information about the cooking equipment. The display unit 60 is a touch panel and can be used by the user to operate the cooking equipment. That is, the display unit 60 can also be a control unit. Alternatively, the display unit 60 can be omitted.

[0148] Observing the oven sections 40 and 50, the oven sections 40 and 50 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. The first oven device 40 and the second oven device 50 each form an independent cooking chamber that is divided from each other.

[0149] The first door 45 of the aforementioned first oven device 40 operates by a pull-down motion, rotating up and down with its upper and lower ends as the center. Alternatively, the first door 45 operates by a lateral swing motion, opening to the side. Symbol 47 indicates a handle for opening and closing the first door 45.

[0150] The second door 55 of the aforementioned second oven device 50 can be operated by sliding in a back-and-forth direction. As another example, similar to the first door 45, the second door 55 can also be operated by a pull-down motion, rotating up and down with its upper and lower ends as the center. Symbol 57 indicates a handle for opening and closing the first door 55.

[0151] Next, the knob assembly 100 described above will be explained. For reference, as follows: Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the control panel 30 is provided with six knob assemblies 100. This is only one example; the control panel 30 may also have one to five or more knob assemblies 100. Alternatively, the knob assemblies 100 may not be located on the control panel 30, but may be directly located on the upper surface or side of the cooking appliance. Yet another example, the knob assemblies 100 may also be located on the lower front part of the cooking appliance.

[0152] like Figure 2 As shown, the knob assembly 100 includes a generally circular main body and a portion protruding from the circular main body for easy gripping. In this embodiment, a locking button 140 is provided on the side of the knob assembly 100. The user can only operate the knob assembly 100, or more precisely, perform axial movement, by pressing the locking button 140.

[0153] For reference, in the following description, axial refers to drive shaft 71 (refer to...). Figure 3 The length direction of ) is Figure 2 and even Figure 4 The X-axis direction. In the following description, the direction of rotation refers to the direction in which the knob assembly 100 rotates about the aforementioned drive shaft 71 (refer to...). Figure 12 (The arrow). Additionally, in the following description, the radial direction refers to the fact that the radial direction of the drive shaft 71 is the same as the radial direction of the rotation path of the knob assembly 100. In the following description, the direction of linear movement of the locking button 140 is... Figures 2 to 4 The Y-axis direction. Of course, when the knob assembly 100 is rotated, the linear movement direction of the locking button 140 can also be changed.

[0154] observe Figure 3 and Figure 4The diagram shows the disassembled state of the knob assembly 100. For clarity, refer first to the drive shaft 71, which is connected to the knob assembly 100. The drive shaft 71 is the rotation center of the knob assembly 100. The drive shaft 71 rotates together with the knob assembly 100 when it rotates. The drive shaft 71 also moves linearly together with the knob assembly 100 when it moves axially.

[0155] The aforementioned drive shaft 71 is disposed in the heating drive unit 70 (see reference). Figure 4 The heating drive unit 70 serves to supply energy to the heating device 28. For example, the heating drive unit 70 is driven by the drive shaft 71, thereby controlling the heating device 28. Therefore, the drive shaft 71 can be regarded as a valve shaft.

[0156] Here, the energy source can be either gas or electricity. When the energy source is electricity, the heating drive unit 70 can be referred to as a regulator; when the energy source is gas, it can be referred to as a valve assembly. The drive shaft 71 can be a component constituting the knob assembly 100. Alternatively, the drive shaft 71 can be a part of the heating drive unit 70. Reference numeral 32 indicates a through-hole in the front panel 31 through which the drive shaft 71 passes.

[0157] More specifically, the drive shaft 71 is pressable and rotatable to the heating drive unit 70. When the drive shaft 71 is not pressed, the heating drive unit 70 prevents the drive shaft 71 from rotating. As the drive shaft 71 presses and rotates the heating drive unit 70, the heating drive unit 70 supplies energy to the heating device 28.

[0158] The drive shaft 71 includes a coupling member 75. The coupling member 75 surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the drive shaft 71. The coupling member 75 is made of an elastic material such as a coil spring. The coupling member 75 is disposed between the drive shaft 71 and the shaft coupling portion 131 (described later), providing an 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.

[0159] The drive shaft 71 is operated via the knob assembly 100. More precisely, the drive shaft 71 is coupled to the knob body NB and rotates together with the knob body NB. The drive shaft 71 and the knob body NB move linearly in the axial direction. Therefore, when the user operates the knob assembly 100, the heating drive unit 70 is driven via the drive shaft 71, thereby activating the heating device 28.

[0160] Observing the structure of the knob assembly 100, the knob assembly 100 includes a base 110. The base 110 is disposed on the front panel 31 of the operation panel 30. A base hole 111 is provided through the base 110 for the drive shaft 71 to pass through, supporting the rotation of the drive shaft 71. That is, the base 110 enables the drive shaft 71 to rotate stably and move linearly in the axial direction.

[0161] As another example, the base 110 may omit the base hole 111. In this case, the drive shaft 71 passes directly through the front panel 31 without passing through the base 110.

[0162] The base 110 is a generally circular structure. Centered on the base hole 111 formed at the center of the base 110, a base fixing hole 112 is formed on the outer side of the base hole 111. The base fixing hole 112 is a portion for the passage of the first connector B1, which assembles the base 110 to the front panel 31.

[0163] A limiter 115 protrudes from the base 110. The limiter 115 protrudes axially. More precisely, the limiter 115 protrudes forward, i.e., towards the locking button 140. The limiter 115 axially interferes with the locking button 140, restricting the axial movement of the locking button 140. The limiter 115 prevents the locking button 140 from moving linearly toward the front panel 31, thereby preventing the knob body NB from being pressed toward the front panel 31.

[0164] When the locking button 140 is in the first position, the limiter 115 protrudes toward the safety pin 150. When the locking button 140 is rotated together with the knob body NB and positioned in the third position (see reference...), Figure 12 The limiter 115, fixed to the operation panel 30, is positioned circumferentially separated from the safety pin 150. Here, circumferential direction refers to the rotation direction of the knob body NB.

[0165] The aforementioned limiter 115 is disposed at the edge of the aforementioned base 110. The limiter 115 is disposed at the end portion of the base 110, the width of which gradually narrows towards one end. In other words, the limiter 115 is positioned at the location furthest from the aforementioned base hole 111. The limiter 115 has a width that increases towards the end 115b of the drive shaft 71 in the direction approaching the aforementioned base hole 111 (see reference). Figure 13 The shape gradually narrows, which will be explained again later.

[0166] The aforementioned limiter 115 can be omitted. With the limiter 115 omitted, a drive hole (not shown) is formed in the base 110. The pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150, which will be described below, interferes with the surface of the base 110 when the locking button 140 is in the first position, and passes through the drive hole when the locking button 140 is in the second position. When the pin portion 155 passes through the drive hole, the locking button 140 and the knob body NB can move axially.

[0167] As another example, the base 110 can be omitted. As yet another example, the base 110 is integrally formed on the operation panel 30. That is, the base 110 can be considered part of the operation panel 30. In this case, the locking button 140 and the knob body NB interfere with the operation panel 30 axially. As yet another example, the base 110 may not be disc-shaped, but rather have various polygonal shapes.

[0168] The frame of the aforementioned knob assembly 100 is formed by a knob body NB. The knob body NB surrounds the drive shaft 71 and the base 110. The knob body NB is the part held by the user. 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 is exposed to the outside. The second knob body 130 is disposed inside the first knob body 120.

[0169] In this embodiment, the first knob body 120 is the portion exposed to the outside and operated by the user in the knob assembly 100. The second knob body 130 is disposed inside the first knob body 120, performs engagement with other components, and serves to guide the elastic component S described later. As another example, the first knob body 120 and the second knob body 130 are formed as a single unit.

[0170] The first knob body 120 includes a knob ring 121 that is generally truncated cone or cylindrical in shape. The knob ring 121 is arranged facing the front panel 31. A grip portion 123 protrudes 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 can be the part held by the user. The grip portion 123 is positioned in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (see reference). Figure 2 (Extending in the Z-axis direction). Symbol 123a is a reference scale formed on the aforementioned grip portion 123. Although not shown, the scale may also be marked on the surface of the aforementioned knob ring 121.

[0171] An operating hole 125 penetrates the knob body NB in ​​a direction orthogonal to the aforementioned axial direction. The operating portion 143 of the locking button 140 is exposed to the outside through the operating hole 125, and the operating portion 143, together with the knob body NB, forms the appearance of the knob assembly 100. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The operating portion 143, which is part of the aforementioned locking button 140, protrudes from the knob body NB and together with the knob body NB forms the appearance of the knob assembly 100. That is, it can be regarded as part of the aforementioned locking button 140 filling the aforementioned operating hole 125.

[0172] In this embodiment, an operation hole 125 is provided through the first knob body 120, which is used to protrude the operating portion 143 of the locking button 140. More precisely, the operation hole 125 passes through the grip portion 123 of the first knob body 120. Since the operation hole 125 is formed in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction, the operating portion 143 of the locking button 140 also protrudes through the operation hole 125 in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. In other words, the operation hole 125 is open in a direction orthogonal to the linear movement direction of the knob body NB.

[0173] The aforementioned operating hole 125 is formed on either the left or right side of the first knob body 120. In this embodiment, the operating hole 125 is formed on the left side of the first knob body 120. In this embodiment, only one locking button 140 is provided, so the operating hole 125 only needs to be formed on either side of the first knob body 120. As another example, the operating hole 125 is formed on the right side of the first knob body 120. As yet another example, the operating hole 125 is formed on both the left and right sides of the first knob body 120.

[0174] As explained below, the locking button 140, during its movement from the second position to the first position, interferes with the edge 125a of the operating hole 125, thus restricting its movement. The locking button 140 is stopped by the edge 125a of the operating hole 125, partially separating from the knob body NB, and remains in the internal space 121a formed inside the first knob body 120. The edge 125a of the operating hole 125 can be considered as a stop end 125a. The first and second positions of the locking button 140 will be described in detail below.

[0175] The second knob body 130 is disposed within the internal space 121a of the first knob body 120. The second knob body 130 is connected to the first knob body 120 via a second connector B2. The second connector B2 is then fixed to the assembly hole 124 of the first knob body 120 via a load-bearing plate 160 and the second knob body 130. Thus, the first knob body 120, the second knob body 130, and the load-bearing plate 160 are assembled together and operate in unison.

[0176] The second knob body 130 has a shaft engagement portion 131 for engaging one end of the drive shaft 71. The shaft engagement portion 131 is generally cylindrical in shape. The shaft engagement portion 131 is located at the center of the knob body NB. The shaft engagement portion 131 has a shaft engagement hole 132 into which the drive shaft 71 is inserted. The drive shaft 71 does not rotate freely inside the shaft engagement hole 132 and is fixed inside the shaft engagement hole 132.

[0177] When one end of the drive shaft 71 is inserted into the shaft engagement hole 132, the drive shaft 71 rotates together with the second knob body 130 and moves axially together with the second knob body 130. That is, when the second knob body 130 is driven together with the first knob body 120, the drive shaft 71 is also driven together. For example, when the second knob body 130 and the first knob body 120 are pressed 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 as the center, the drive shaft 71 also rotates together. Therefore, the drive shaft 71 can also be referred to as a rotating shaft.

[0178] The second knob body 130 is combined with the drive shaft 71 and can also be combined with the load-bearing plate 160. Thus, the second knob body 130 achieves a combined structure with other components, resulting in a relatively simple and thin structure for the first knob body 120. Therefore, during injection molding of the first knob body 120, it is prevented that a portion of the first knob body 120 shrinks due to its complex shape, preventing the formation of sink marks or flow marks.

[0179] The second knob body 130 includes a body plate 133. The body plate 133 has a generally plate-like structure. The body plate 133 is connected to the shaft coupling portion 131. The body plate 133 is the portion that engages with the first knob body 120 and the load-bearing plate 160. Therefore, the body plate 133 has a connecting member through hole 134 for the passage of the second connecting member B2. (Observation) Figure 4The main body plate 133 has a plate protrusion 137, which is inserted into the plate groove 167 of the load-bearing plate 160 (see reference). Figure 3 As another example, the second knob body 130 and the first knob body 120 are pressed into each other or fixed to each other by adhesive.

[0180] In this embodiment, the main body plate 133 and the internal space 121a are respectively shaped to form a roughly semi-circular shape. That is, a portion of the side surface of the second knob body 130 facing the inner surface of the internal space 121a has a curved shape, and another portion of the side surface of the second knob body 130 facing the locking button 140 has a flat shape. The curved portion faces the inner surface of the internal space 121a, and the flat portion faces the locking button 140. A portion of the locking button 140 is interfered with by the flat portion of the second knob body 130. The interference of the flat portion of the second knob body 130 restricts the distance the locking button 140 can move from the first position to the second position.

[0181] The second knob body 130 includes a support plate 136. The support plate 136 protrudes along the axial direction and toward the opposite side of the base 110. The support plate 136 protrudes from the body plate 133 in a generally plate-like shape. The support plate 136 extends in the same direction as the grip portion 123, i.e., orthogonal to the axial direction. One end of the support plate 136 is in close contact with the inner surface of the first knob body 120, i.e., the inner surface of the grip portion 123. This configuration is illustrated in the diagram. Figure 7 .

[0182] The aforementioned support plate 136 is disposed between a pair of elastic members S, described later. (Observation) Figure 5 The support plate 136 is disposed between a pair of elastic members S to maintain the interval between the pair of elastic members S. That is, the support plate 136 prevents the pair of elastic members S from tilting to either side during the contraction / relaxation process.

[0183] The remaining portion of the second knob body 130, excluding the shaft coupling portion 131, and the locking button 140 are arranged on opposite sides of each other with the shaft coupling portion 131 as the center. More precisely, the body plate 133 and the locking button 140 are arranged on opposite sides of each other with the drive shaft 71 as the center. (Observation) Figure 7With the drive shaft 71 as a reference, the main body plate 133 is positioned on the left side, and the locking button 140 is positioned on the right side. This prevents the center of gravity of the knob assembly 100 from tilting to either side. Furthermore, the main body plate 133 fills the empty space on the side of the internal space 121a without the locking button 140, thereby improving the overall durability of the knob assembly 100.

[0184] Re-reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The aforementioned knob assembly 100 includes a locking button 140. The locking button 140 is disposed on the knob body NB and is subordinate to the operation of the knob body NB. Basically, when the knob body NB moves linearly along its axis or rotates around the drive shaft 71, the locking button 140 moves linearly and rotates together with the knob body NB. However, the locking button 140 moves independently of the knob body NB in ​​a direction different from the aforementioned axial direction.

[0185] The aforementioned locking button 140 constitutes part of the grip surface held by the user when holding the knob assembly 100. For example, when the user holds the knob assembly 100 with their thumb and forefinger, while holding the surface of the grip portion 123 with their forefinger, they simultaneously hold the operating portion 143 of the locking button 140 with their thumb. In this state, the user applies pressure to the knob assembly 100 with their thumb and forefinger, thereby fixing the surface of the grip portion 123, but pressing the operating portion 143 formed on the opposite side and moving it inward toward the knob body NB.

[0186] like Figure 5 As shown, the locking button 140 is positioned on the opposite side of the remaining portion of the second knob body 130, excluding the shaft connection portion 131, with reference to the shaft connection portion 131. More precisely, the main body plate 133 and the locking button 140 are positioned on opposite sides of each other with the drive shaft 71 as the center.

[0187] The locking button 140 restricts or releases the movement of the knob body NB, the load plate 160, and the locking button 140 constituting the knob assembly 100 along the axial direction, i.e., the direction of the operation panel 30. The locking button 140 has a first position where the axial movement is restricted by interference from the base 110, and a second position where the axial movement is permitted. Therefore, the first position can be referred to as the knob locking position, and the second position as the knob release position.

[0188] Here, the first position is when the aforementioned locking button 140 protrudes relatively from the aforementioned knob body NB. Figure 6 and Figure 7The locking button 140 is positioned at the first position, which is the furthest point from the drive shaft 71 in the radial direction. The first position refers to the position where the safety pin 150 is furthest from the drive shaft 71 in the radial direction. The second position is the position where the locking button 140 moves from the first position when pressed. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The locking button 140 is positioned from the second position, closest to the drive shaft 71 along the radial direction. The second position refers to the position where the safety pin 150 is positioned closest to the drive shaft 71 in the radial direction.

[0189] The aforementioned locking button 140 interferes axially with the base 110 in the aforementioned first position. Here, interference means that the axial movement of the locking button 140 is restricted. Thus, when the locking button 140 interferes axially with the base 110, the locking button 140 cannot move axially in the direction of the aforementioned operation panel 30 or its movement distance is restricted.

[0190] The knob body NB and the locking button 140 are constrained to each other along the aforementioned axial direction, and the knob body NB and the locking button 140 move linearly together along the aforementioned axial direction. Since the locking button 140 is constrained to the knob body NB along the axial direction, when the axial movement of the locking button 140 is restricted, the axial movement of the entire knob body NB is also restricted.

[0191] At this time, the locking button 140 moves linearly between the first position and the second position in a direction different from the axial direction. In this embodiment, the locking button 140 moves in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction and reciprocates between the first position and the second position. As another example, the locking button 140 may also move in a direction inclined at a predetermined angle to the axial direction. As yet another example, the locking button 140 may also move along a curved path relative to the axial direction.

[0192] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This shows the state in which the aforementioned locking button 140 is configured in the aforementioned first position. Figure 9 and Figure 10 This illustrates the state in which the locking button 140 is positioned in the second position. In other words, when the locking button 140 in the first position is pressed, it moves to the second position. When the external force pressing the locking button 140 is removed, the locking button 140 in the second position returns to the first position.

[0193] observe Figure 7In the first position described above, the locking button 140 is spaced apart from the base 110 by a first distance H1 along the axial direction. In this embodiment, in the first position described above, the pin 155 and the base 110 are spaced apart by a first distance H1. (Observation) Figure 9 In the second position, the locking button 140 is separated from the base 110 by a second distance H2 along the axial direction. In this embodiment, in the second position, the pin 155 and the base 110 are separated by a second distance H1. At this time, the second distance H2 is farther than the first distance H1. For reference, Figure 7 The first distance H1 mentioned above represents the distance between the surface 158a of the pin 155 and the surface 115a of the limiter 115 provided on the base 110. Figure 9 The second distance H2 mentioned above represents the distance between the surface 158a of the pin 155 and the first connecting member B1 that fixes the base.

[0194] Thus, in the second position described above, the locking button 140 and the base 110 are separated from each other by a second distance H2, which represents the distance that the locking button 140 can move axially. The locking button 140 moves linearly axially together with the knob body NB; therefore, the second distance H2 becomes the distance that the knob body NB can move axially. Figure 7 The symbol G represents the distance between the knob body NB and the front panel 31. When the locking button 140 is in the second position, the knob body NB and the locking button 140 can move together in a direction that reduces the distance G.

[0195] The aforementioned first distance H1 can be 0. When the aforementioned first distance H1 is 0, in the aforementioned first position, the surface of the locking button 140, more precisely, the surface 158a of the pin 155 and the surface 115a of the limiter 115 are in close contact. Therefore, in the aforementioned first position, the locking button 140 is completely unable to move axially. As another example, the aforementioned first distance H1 is greater than 0.

[0196] The first distance H1 is shorter than the distance required for the knob assembly 100 to press the drive shaft 71 and activate the cooking device. That is, the first distance H1 is shorter than the minimum axial movement (reference distance) required for the drive shaft 71 to operate the cooking device. Therefore, even if the first distance H1 is greater than 0, the axial movement distance of the knob assembly 100 is shorter than the reference distance of the drive shaft 71, thus preventing the rotation of the drive shaft 71.

[0197] The radial distance L1 between the operating part 143 and the drive shaft 71 in the first position is greater than the radial distance L2 between the operating part 143 and the drive shaft 71 in the second position. That is, when the locking button 140 moves to the second position, the radial distance between the locking button 140 and the drive shaft 71 becomes shorter. Here, the radial distance refers to the direction from the drive shaft 71 toward the edge of the knob body NB.

[0198] observe Figure 7 The radial distance L1 between the operating part 143 and the drive shaft 71 in the first position can be considered as the distance between the protruding end 144 protruding from the operating part 143 of the locking button 140 and the center line L extending from the drive shaft 71. Similarly, observe... Figure 9 The radial distance L2 between the operating part 143 and the drive shaft 71 in the second position can be regarded as the distance between the protruding end 144 protruding from the operating part 143 of the locking button 140 and the center line L extending from the drive shaft 71.

[0199] Reference Figure 5 Observing the structure of the aforementioned locking button 140, the locking button 140 includes a button body 141. The button body 141 is inserted into the aforementioned internal space 121a. The button body 141 extends along a direction orthogonal to the aforementioned axial direction. The side surface of the button body 141 has a curved shape corresponding to the inner surface of the aforementioned internal space 121a.

[0200] Reference Figure 7 The button body 141 has a pin engagement portion 142 at its lower part. The pin engagement portion 142 is for connection with a safety pin 150. The safety pin 150 is connected to the pin engagement portion 142. A pin block 152 provided on the safety pin 150 slides along a direction orthogonal to the axial direction and engages with the pin engagement portion 142. Alternatively, the pin block 152 of the safety pin 150 is bonded to the pin engagement portion 142. Yet another example, the pin block 152 of the safety pin 150 is threaded to the pin engagement portion 142.

[0201] The button body 141 includes an operation section 143. The operation section 143 extends vertically from the button body 141. Here, the vertical direction is defined as... Figure 5 The vertical direction is used as a reference. The aforementioned operating part 143 is the part that the user presses to operate the aforementioned button body 141. At least a portion of the aforementioned operating part 143 protrudes to the outside of the knob assembly 100 through the aforementioned operating hole 125 to form a grip surface.

[0202] observe Figure 7The surface 143a of the operating part 143 and the surface 136a of the support plate 136 of the second knob body 130 are arranged facing each other. A predetermined empty space R is formed between the surface 143a of the operating part 143 and the surface 136a of the support plate 136, which provides sufficient space for the operating part 143 of the locking button 140 to move.

[0203] The aforementioned operating portion 143 includes the aforementioned protruding end 144. The protruding end 144 extends from the operating portion 143 in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the operating portion 143 extends from the button body 141. The protruding end 144 increases the contact area between the surface of the operating portion 143 and the surface of the knob body NB. (Observation) Figure 7 The upper surface of the aforementioned protruding end 144 is in contact with the bottom surface of the first knob body 120 constituting the knob body NB. Through the aforementioned protruding end 144, the locking button 140 can be positioned in a predetermined direction (towards...). Figure 7 The movement is performed stably in the left and right directions (based on the baseline).

[0204] Re-observation Figure 5 The aforementioned operating part 143 includes an elastic support part 145. The elastic support part 145 supports one end of the elastic member S. The elastic support parts 145 are respectively disposed on both sides of the operating part 143, each supporting one end of a pair of elastic members S. The elastic support parts 145 protrude further towards the center of the internal space 121a than the operating part 143. The surface of the elastic support part 145 is formed as a planar structure.

[0205] In this embodiment, the pair of elastic support portions 145 are positioned further outward than the support plate 136 of the second knob body 130. The pair of elastic members S are respectively disposed on both sides of the support plate 136, and each pair of elastic members S is supported by the pair of elastic support portions 145. Thus, when one end of each pair of elastic members S is supported by the pair of elastic support portions 145, the pair of elastic members S maintains a distance between them through the support plate 136.

[0206] The aforementioned elastic member S provides an elastic force to the locking button 140 in the direction that moves the locking button 140 to the first position. In this embodiment, the elastic member S is disposed on both sides of the support plate 136. The pair of elastic members S do not tilt or skew towards either side of the locking button 140, but reciprocate in a predetermined direction.

[0207] The two ends of the aforementioned elastic member S are supported by the surfaces of the aforementioned knob body NB and the aforementioned locking button 140, which are respectively arranged facing each other. More precisely, one end of the aforementioned elastic member S is supported by the aforementioned elastic support portion 145, and the other end of the aforementioned elastic member S is supported by the inner wall 127 of the aforementioned first knob body 120 (see reference). Figure 4 Support.

[0208] observe Figure 5 and Figure 7 The knob body NB has a safety pin 150 that interferes with or interferes with unlocking the base 110. The safety pin 150 protrudes further towards the base 110 along the axial direction than the locking button 140. The pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 is generally cantilever beam shaped. In the first position, the pin portion 155 is the part that substantially interferes with the base 110.

[0209] The knob body NB moves linearly along the aforementioned axial direction, i.e., the first direction, while the locking button 140 moves linearly between the first and second positions along a second direction different from the first direction. At this time, the safety pin 150 moves along the locking button 140 in conjunction with it. The pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 protrudes in the aforementioned first direction, and the protruding pin portion 155 moves linearly between the first and second positions via the locking button 140.

[0210] The aforementioned safety pin 150 interferes with the limiter 115 of the base 110. In the first position, the limiter 115 and the safety pin 150 are aligned with each other along the axial direction, causing interference. In the second position, the limiter 115 and the safety pin 150 are offset along the axial direction, thus removing the interference. Therefore, depending on the position of the locking button 140, the safety pin 150 interferes with or removes interference from the limiter 115. This structure will be explained again below.

[0211] The aforementioned safety pin 150 includes a pin block 152. The pin block 152, as part of the pin engagement portion 142, has a plate-like structure. The pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 protrudes axially from the pin block 152. The pin block 152 and the operating portion 143 of the locking button 140 are made of different materials. For example, the safety pin 150, where external force is concentrated when the user presses the knob assembly 100 axially, is made of a metal material with relatively high durability. Alternatively, the pin block 152 can be omitted, and the pin portion 155 can be directly engaged with the pin engagement portion 142.

[0212] The safety pin 150 is connected to the pin engagement portion 142 of the locking button 140 via the pin block 152. The safety pin 150 connected to the pin engagement portion 142 is subordinate to the operation of the locking button 140. That is, the safety pin 150 moves axially together with the locking button 140 and rotates around the drive shaft 71.

[0213] As another example, the safety pin 150 can be omitted, and a protrusion (not shown) can be directly provided on the locking button 140. A portion of the actuation button 140 protrudes in the aforementioned axial direction, i.e., the first direction, to form the protrusion. As yet another example, the locking button 140 can be considered as part of the safety pin 150. As yet another example, the locking button 140 can be omitted, and the safety pin 150 can be directly connected to the knob body NB. When the locking button 140 is omitted, the user can directly operate the safety pin 150.

[0214] As another example, the aforementioned knob body NB has multiple safety pins. These multiple safety pins interfere with the surfaces of multiple limiters 115 or the aforementioned base 110.

[0215] Reference Figure 5 Observing the movement of the aforementioned knob body NB and locking button 140, the locking button 140 is pressed in the direction of arrow ①. When the locking button 140 is pressed in the direction of arrow ①, the locking button 140 moves from the first position to the second position. For reference, Figure 5 The aforementioned locking button 140 is positioned in the first position and its axial movement is restricted. When the aforementioned locking button 140 moves in the direction of arrow ①, the knob assembly 100, including the aforementioned second knob body 130, moves axially (in the direction of arrow ②), except for the aforementioned base 110.

[0216] Thus, the axially movable knob assembly 100 rotates in the direction of arrow ③. At this time, the first knob body 120 and the locking button 140 also rotate together with the second knob body 130. The second knob body 130 can also rotate in the opposite direction to arrow ③. On the other hand, when the user removes the external force applied to the locking button 140, the locking button 140 moves in the direction of arrow ④ via the elastic member S and returns to the first position.

[0217] Re-reference Figure 3 and Figure 4A weight plate 160 is incorporated into the knob body NB, rotating and moving together with it. The weight plate 160 has a disc structure corresponding to the internal space 121a. The weight plate 160 increases the overall weight of the knob assembly 100, improving its operability. Therefore, the weight plate 160 is made of metal.

[0218] The shaft through hole 161 for inserting the drive shaft 71 passes through the center of the load plate 160. Centered on the shaft through hole 161, a plate connecting hole 164 and a plate groove 167 for the passage of the second connecting member B2 are formed around the shaft through hole 161. The plate protrusion 137 of the main body plate 133 is inserted into the plate groove 167.

[0219] The pin passes through the load-bearing plate 160 via the pin through hole 165. The pin portion 155 passes through the pin through hole 165. At this time, the pin portion 155 needs to move from the first position to the second position; therefore, the pin through hole 165 extends along the radial direction of the load-bearing plate 160. The pin portion 155 moves from the first position to the second position with the pin through hole 165 inserted into it.

[0220] Figures 6 to 12 The operation of the components constituting this embodiment is illustrated in the diagrams. First, observe... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The illustration shows the locking button 140 in the first position. When the locking button 140 is in the first position, the operating part 143 protrudes outward toward the operating hole 125. When the locking button 140 is in the first position, the safety pin 150 is axially aligned with the limiter 115 of the base 110, thereby restricting the axial movement of the safety pin 150. Figure 7 The first distance H1 between the pin portion 155 of the aforementioned safety pin 150 and the aforementioned limiter 115 is shorter than the distance to which the aforementioned knob assembly 100 presses the aforementioned drive shaft 71 to activate the operation of the cooking device.

[0221] In this state, the user uses Figure 8 When the operating part 143 is pressed in the direction of the arrow, the locking button 140 is inserted into the inside of the knob body NB. At this time, the user needs to overcome the elastic force of the elastic member S to press the operating part 143. In this way, the locking button 140 moves to the second position. Thus, the user naturally presses the side-protruding locking button 140 while holding the knob body NB. Therefore, even with the addition of the locking button 140, the operability of the knob assembly 100 is not reduced, and the user can easily operate the cooking device.

[0222] observe Figure 9 The safety pin 150 and the limiter 115 of the base 110 are not axially aligned, but are positioned at a point where they are disengaged from the limiter 115. Here, "disengaged" means that the pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 and the limiter 115 are not axially facing each other. Therefore, the safety pin 150 can move axially without interference from the limiter 115. Figure 9 H2 represents the distance that the aforementioned safety pin 150 can move.

[0223] While the user is pressing the locking button 140, they hold the grip part 123 and press the knob body NB axially. Figure 10 The middle arrow indicates the direction in which the knob body NB is pressed axially. In this way, the knob body NB, the locking button 140, and the load plate 160 can all move in the direction of the front panel 31.

[0224] Thus, in this embodiment, the locking button 140 operates in a direction different from the axial movement of the knob body NB. When the direction in which the locking button 140 is pressed and the direction in which the knob body NB is pressed are different from each other, the possibility of the user accidentally activating the knob assembly 100 is reduced.

[0225] More specifically, the operating part 143 of the aforementioned locking button 140 moves in the same direction as the linear movement of the aforementioned knob body NB, i.e., axially (first direction). Figure 9 The second direction (the up and down direction) and the rotation direction of the knob body NB are different. Figure 9 The knob assembly 100 moves linearly (left and right). This further reduces the possibility of the knob assembly 100 arbitrarily moving due to user error or interference from objects around the cooking equipment.

[0226] observe Figure 11 The illustration shows the relationship with Figure 9 Compared to the state where the knob body NB, the locking button 140, and the load plate 160 have moved closer to the operation panel 30, the safety pin 150 moves closer to the base 110 via the limiter 115. In this embodiment, one end of the safety pin 150, namely the pin portion 155, moves until it engages with the first connecting member B1.

[0227] Thus, when the aforementioned knob body NB, the aforementioned locking button 140, and the aforementioned load plate 160 move axially, the second knob body 130, which fixes the aforementioned drive shaft 71 via the aforementioned shaft coupling 131, causes the aforementioned drive shaft 71 to move axially together. The axially moving drive shaft 71 drives the heating drive unit 70 of the aforementioned cooking device. Here, the driving of the heating drive unit 70 includes various actions such as turning the cooking device on / off and selecting the cooking mode of the cooking device.

[0228] The drive shaft 71 rotates when it moves an axial reference distance. In this embodiment, the heating drive unit 70 is controlled such that the drive shaft 71 can only rotate when it moves an axial reference distance. Figure 12 The diagram shows the knob body NB rotating clockwise, and the drive shaft 71 can also rotate clockwise together with the knob body NB. Thus, when the knob body NB rotates, the action button 140 moves to the third position. At this time, when the drive shaft 71 rotates together with the knob body NB, functions such as adjusting the heat output of the cooking appliance, controlling the number of heating devices 28, and selecting the cooking mode can be performed.

[0229] Thus, in this embodiment, the action of the locking button 140 precedes the subsequent action of the knob body NB. Only when the locking button 140 moves to the second position can the axial movement and rotation of the knob body NB be performed, and during this process, the drive shaft 71 belonging to the knob body NB also operates.

[0230] Upon closer inspection of the structure and operation of this locking button 140, Figure 13 and Figure 14 Detailed illustrations are provided. Figure 9 and Figure 11 The relative positions of the aforementioned locking button 140 and base 110. For example... Figure 13 As shown, in the first position, the surface 158a of the pin 155 faces the surface 115a of the limiter 115. The surface 158a of the pin 155 overlaps axially with the surface 115a of the limiter 115, and the safety pin 150 is supported by the limiter 115.

[0231] At this time, the aforementioned limiter 115 is formed such that its width gradually narrows towards one end of the drive shaft 71. Here, the direction towards the drive shaft 71 is... Figure 13The base hole 111 of the base 110 is oriented towards the base 110. Thus, the limiter 115 is formed such that its width gradually narrows towards one end, thereby forming a guide surface 115b. When the knob assembly 100 is reset from the third position to the first position, the guide surface 115b can prevent interference between the limiter 115 and the safety pin 150.

[0232] More precisely, during the process of the knob assembly 100 being rotated in the opposite direction from an axially pressed state to return to its original state, the safety pin 150 contacts the limiter 115. When the pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 contacts the limiter 115, the pin portion 155 is guided to the guide surface 115b, and the entire actuation button 140 moves to the second position. That is, when the knob assembly 100 returns to its original position, the pin portion 155 is not blocked by the limiter 110 and unable to rotate, but moves along the guide surface 115b of the limiter 110 and returns to its original position.

[0233] On the other hand, as the cross-sectional area of ​​the limiter 115 narrows in the direction of the drive shaft 71, the area of ​​axial overlap between the surface 158a of the pin 155 and the surface 115a of the limiter 115 is greatly reduced as the device moves from the first position to the second position. Therefore, even with manufacturing tolerances, the locking button 140 can be moved in the second position, while axial movement is stably restricted in the first position.

[0234] observe Figure 14 In the second position, the safety pin 150 is completely disengaged from the limiter 115. When the pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 disengages from the limiter 115, the safety pin 150 becomes axially movable. Thus, in this embodiment, the locking button 140 can move linearly between a first position where axial movement is interfered with and a second position where axial movement is permitted. At this time, the locking button 140 directly interferes with the base 110 of the knob assembly 100 in the first position, thus restricting axial movement. Therefore, the structure for restricting the operation of the knob assembly 100 can be implemented very simply.

[0235] Figure 15 The diagram shows the components of the second embodiment constituting the knob assembly 100 of this invention in disassembled form. When describing only the structure different from the above embodiment, the locking button 140 integrally includes the safety pin 150. The safety pin 150 protrudes from the surface of the locking button 140 toward the base 110.

[0236] The aforementioned safety pin 150 protrudes from the edge of the aforementioned locking button 140. Here, the edge of the aforementioned locking button 140 forms the surface 148a of the aforementioned safety pin 150 (see reference). Figure 16 The portion of the drive shaft 71 that faces the center of the aforementioned drive shaft 71.

[0237] Figure 16 and Figure 17 The figures show the second embodiment of the knob assembly 100 in both a locked and released state. As shown, the safety pin 150 protrudes downwards from the bottom surface of the locking button 140. The pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 is integrally formed with the locking button 140, and together with the safety pin 150, it is in a first position (…). Figure 16 (state) and second position ( Figure 17 It moves between states.

[0238] Figure 18 and Figure 19 Only the base 110 and locking button 140 of the second embodiment constituting the knob assembly 100 of this utility model are illustrated. The illustration shows a state where the locking button 140 interferes with the limiter 115 of the base 110. Figure 18 In this configuration, the safety pin 150 is arranged axially overlappingly on the upper part of the limiter 115.

[0239] At this time, the pin portion 155 of the aforementioned safety pin 150 has a pair of plate-like structures, which are spaced apart from each other. This improves the durability of the pin portion 155 with its pair of plate-like structures. Therefore, even if a large external force is applied to press the knob body NB axially when the aforementioned safety pin 150 is not pressed, the pin portion 155 can resist such an external force. Figure 19 This shows the state where the pin 155 is completely disengaged from the limiter 115.

[0240] Figure 20 The base of a third embodiment constituting the knob assembly of this utility model is shown. When describing a structure different from the above embodiment, a central base hole 111 extends through the base 110. An annular base body 112 surrounds the base hole 111. When the base 110 is disposed on the front surface of the operation panel 30, the base body 112 protrudes from the front surface of the operation panel 30. A curved inner circumferential surface is formed on the base body 112. The safety pin 150 rotates along the inner circumferential surface.

[0241] The base 110 includes a base plate 113. The base plate 113 forms the chassis of the base 110. The base hole 111 passes through the center of the base plate 113. The base plate 113 is formed of a thin plate-like structure. After the pin portion 155 of the safety pin 150 moves to the second position, it rotates toward the base plate 113.

[0242] At this time, the aforementioned limiter 115 is formed on the base body 112. The limiter 115 is formed by a portion of the base body 112 protruding toward the center of the base 110. That is, the limiter 115 protrudes from the center of the rotation path of the safety pin 150 toward the radial direction of the rotation path. The safety pin 150 is interfered with when inserted into the limiter 115, so the limiter 115 can also be referred to as an interference part. As another example, the limiter 115 may also be configured not to protrude further toward the radial direction of the rotation path, but to form a step axially from the base plate 113. Thus, in this embodiment, the limiter 115 has a structure that does not protrude axially.

[0243] When the safety pin 150 is positioned in the first position, the pin portion 155 is positioned on the upper part of the limiter 115. Consequently, the pin portion 155 interferes with the limiter 115, preventing it from moving axially or allowing it to move only a very limited distance. Therefore, the safety pin 150 and the knob body NB constrained by the safety pin 150 are also unable to move axially or can only move a very limited distance.

[0244] When the safety pin 150 is in the second position, the pin portion 155 is positioned away from the upper part of the limiter 115. For example, when the safety pin 150 is in the second position, the pin portion 155 is positioned facing the base plate 113. In this state, the safety pin 150 moves axially. More precisely, the safety pin 150 moves axially to the extent that one end of the pin portion 155 contacts the surface of the base plate 113. As a result, the knob body NB, which is constrained by the safety pin 150, also moves axially, driving the drive shaft 71.

[0245] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the knob assembly 100 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In describing a structure different from the above embodiment, the knob body NB integrally provides an actuation button 140. The actuation button 140 is formed by cutting a portion of the knob body NB. The actuation button 140 is formed as a cantilever beam structure where one end is connected to the knob body NB and the other end rotates. In this embodiment, the operating portion 143 of the actuation button 140 constitutes part of the appearance of the knob body NB.

[0246] A safety pin 150 is integrally provided at the lower part of the aforementioned actuation button 140. The safety pin 150 protrudes further from the lower part of the actuation button 140 toward the base 110. The safety pin 150 protrudes toward the limiter 115 of the base 110, so as to... Figure 21 Based on the state, the axial direction is interfered with by the aforementioned limiter 115. In this embodiment, the aforementioned safety pin 150 is integrally disposed on the aforementioned action button 140, so the aforementioned safety pin 150 and the aforementioned action button 140 can be regarded as a whole as a safety pin.

[0247] Figure 21 The middle arrow ① indicates the direction in which the aforementioned action button 140 is pressed and rotated. When the user presses the operating part 143 of the aforementioned action button 140, the other end of the action button 140 (the lower end as shown in the figure), which is not connected to the aforementioned knob body NB, rotates toward the empty space R provided inside the knob body NB. During this process, the aforementioned safety pin 150 also rotates. The action button 140 and safety pin 150 thus rotate to a second position. Arrow ② indicates the direction in which the aforementioned safety pin 150 moves toward the second position.

[0248] Although not shown, the safety pin 150 may be omitted from the locking button 140, and the limiter 115 may protrude from the base 110. In this case, when the locking button 140 is in the first position, the limiter 115 interferes with the surface of the locking button 140, and when the locking button 140 is in the second position, the limiter 115 does not interfere with the surface of the locking button 140.

[0249] On the other hand, although not shown, the aforementioned elastic member S may be omitted from the knob assembly 100. In this case, the user can manually move the locking button 140 from the second position to the first position. The user can pull the locking button 140 or hold another holding structure (not shown) provided on the locking button 140 to reset the locking button 140 back to the first position.

[0250] Although not shown, the knob body NB may also have a protruding structure symmetrical in shape to the operating portion 143 on the opposite side of the operating portion 143, with the center of the knob body NB as a reference. This protruding structure protrudes symmetrically to the operating portion 143, thereby improving the user's grip.

[0251] Figures 22 to 39This is a fifth embodiment of the knob assembly 100 of the present invention. Detailed descriptions of structures identical to those described above are omitted. This embodiment includes a button holder 170 for securing the locking button 140 to a specific position or for unlocking the constraint. The knob assembly 100 will now be described with emphasis on the locking button 140, the button holder 170, and the malfunction prevention structure.

[0252] observe Figure 22 and Figure 23 The illustration shows the knob assembly 100 with the button bracket 170. The button bracket 170 is generally annular and is configured to surround the load-bearing plate 160. The button bracket 170 does not protrude outside the knob body NB. More precisely, when the knob assembly 100 is mounted to the operation panel 30, the button bracket 170 is not exposed. This is because the knob body NB surrounds the button bracket 170. Therefore, in order to operate the button bracket 170, the user needs to first detach the knob assembly 100 from the drive shaft 71. This structure will be explained again later.

[0253] like Figure 24 As shown, the button bracket 170 may have a larger diameter than the second knob body 130. Figure 24 The load-bearing plate 160, which is surrounded by the button bracket 170, is obscured by the button bracket 170. Alternatively, the button bracket 170 can be seen as filling the gap between the load-bearing plate and the first knob body 120.

[0254] Figure 25 and Figure 26 This shows the state in which the aforementioned locking button 140 is configured in the aforementioned knob locked position. Figure 27 and Figure 28 This diagram illustrates the state in which the locking button 140 is configured in the knob release position. In other words, when the locking button 140 in the knob lock position is pressed, it moves towards the knob release position. When the external force pressing the locking button 140 is removed, the locking button 140 in the knob release position returns to the knob lock position. However, as explained below, when the button holder 170 moves towards the button restraint position, the locking button 140 is restrained in the knob release position.

[0255] Figure 29 and Figure 30 The diagram shows the state in which the knob assembly 100 is axially pressed in the knob release position and moves towards the knob press position. At this time, the knob assembly 100 presses the drive shaft 71 axially together, thus enabling the heating device 28 to be driven. Figure 31The diagram shows the knob body NB rotating clockwise, and the drive shaft 71 also rotates clockwise along with the knob body NB. Thus, when the knob body NB rotates, the action button 140 moves to the third position. This structure has been described in the above embodiment, and therefore detailed explanation is omitted.

[0256] Re-observation Figure 26 In the aforementioned knob locked position, the locking button 140 is spaced apart from the base 110 by a first distance H1 along the aforementioned axial direction. In this embodiment, in the aforementioned knob locked position, the safety pin 150 and the base 110 are spaced apart by a first distance H1. (Observation) Figure 28 In the knob release position, the locking button 140 is separated from the base 110 by a second distance H2 along the axial direction. In this embodiment, in the knob release position, the safety pin 150 and the base 110 are separated by a second distance H2. At this time, the second distance H2 is formed to be farther than the first distance H1. For reference, in Figure 26 The first distance H1 mentioned above represents the distance between the surface 150a of the safety pin 150 and the surface 115a of the limiter 115 provided on the base 110. Figure 28 The second distance H2 mentioned above represents the distance between the surface 150a of the safety pin 150 and the first connecting member B1 that fixes the base.

[0257] Thus, in the released position of the knob, the locking button 140 and the base 110 are separated by a second distance H2, which represents the distance that the locking button 140 can move axially. The locking button 140 moves linearly axially together with the knob body NB; therefore, the second distance H2 becomes the distance that the knob body NB can move axially. Figure 26 The symbol G represents the distance between the knob body NB and the front panel 31. When the locking button 140 is in the knob release position, the knob body NB and the locking button 140 move together in the direction of reducing the distance G.

[0258] The aforementioned locking button 140 includes a constraint support portion 148. This constraint support portion 148 protrudes from the button body 141 to prevent interference with the button bracket 170. The constraint support portion 148 will be described again below.

[0259] Re-reference Figure 24Observing the operation of the aforementioned knob body NB and locking button 140, the locking button 140 is pressed in the direction of arrow ①. When the locking button 140 is pressed in the direction of arrow ①, the locking button 140 moves from the knob locked position to the knob released position. For reference, Figure 24 The aforementioned locking button 140 is positioned in the knob locking position, thereby restricting axial movement. When the aforementioned locking button 140 moves in the direction of arrow ①, the knob assembly 100, including the aforementioned second knob body 130, moves axially (in the direction of arrow ②), except for the aforementioned base 110.

[0260] Thus, the axially movable knob assembly 100 rotates in the direction of arrow ③. At this time, the second knob body 130 also rotates together with the first knob body 120 and the locking button 140. The second knob body 130 also rotates in the opposite direction to arrow ③. On the other hand, when the user removes the external force pressing the locking button 140, the locking button 140 moves in the direction of arrow ④ via the elastic member S and returns to the knob locked position.

[0261] At this time, when the button bracket 170 rotates in the direction of arrow ⑤, the button bracket 170 is positioned in the button constraint position. In the button constraint position, interference occurs between the button bracket 170 and the locking button 140, thereby restricting the locking button 140 from moving back to its original position, i.e., the knob locking position (in the direction of arrow ④). This structure will be described in detail below.

[0262] Next, the button bracket 170 will be described in detail. The button bracket 170 rotates independently of the locking button 140. In this embodiment, the button bracket 170 is disposed between the load-bearing plate 160 and the second knob body 130. The button bracket 170 is guided between the load-bearing plate 160 and the second knob body 130 in the button release position (…). Figure 34 The position of the middle button bracket 170) and the button constraint position ( Figure 38 The button bracket (position 170) is moved.

[0263] The button bracket 170 rotates around a rotation center concentric with the drive shaft 71, thereby restricting the movement of the locking button 140. Here, the rotation center concentric with the drive shaft 71 refers to the center of the rotation path of the button bracket 170. In this embodiment, the rotation center of the button bracket 170 is the same as the center of the drive shaft 71. However, in reality, the button bracket 170 does not rotate around the drive shaft 71; instead, it is guided to rotate by the load-bearing plate 160.

[0264] If the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 is considered as part of the knob body NB, then the aforementioned button bracket 170 can also be considered as being disposed on the knob body NB. Alternatively, the load-bearing plate 160 can be omitted, and the aforementioned button bracket 170 can be disposed on the knob body NB. When the aforementioned button bracket 170 is disposed on the knob body NB, the button bracket 170 is guided to rotate by the knob body NB, thereby allowing it to move between the button release position and the button restraint position.

[0265] On the other hand, the aforementioned button release position refers to the state in which the locking button 140 moves between the aforementioned knob lock position and knob release position. The aforementioned button constraint position refers to the state in which the button bracket 170 is interfered with by the aforementioned locking button 140, and the aforementioned locking button 140 is constrained to a specific position. For example, when the aforementioned button bracket 170 moves to the aforementioned button constraint position, the aforementioned locking button 140 is constrained to the aforementioned knob release position. As another example, when the aforementioned button bracket 170 moves to the aforementioned button constraint position, the aforementioned locking button 140 is constrained to the aforementioned knob lock position.

[0266] Thus, in this embodiment, the button bracket 170 constrains the locking button 140 to a specific position, thereby preventing the function of the locking button 140 from being activated. If the user does not wish to perform the function of the locking button 140, i.e., does not wish the knob assembly 100 to be in a locked state, the button bracket 170 can be moved to the button release position. The function and structure of this button bracket 170 will be described below.

[0267] The button bracket 170 has a button constraint position that restricts the movement of the locking button 140 due to interference, and a button release position that releases the interference with the locking button 140 by rotating from the button constraint position. The button constraint position and the button release position are separated along the rotation path of the button bracket 170.

[0268] In the aforementioned button constraint position, the aforementioned button bracket 170 is interfered with by the aforementioned locking button 140, which is positioned in the aforementioned knob release position, and the aforementioned locking button 140 is constrained in the aforementioned knob release position. Observation Figure 24 The aforementioned locking button 140 is positioned in the knob locking position, and the aforementioned safety pin 150 ( Figure 24 (The angle is not shown) is aligned axially with the aforementioned limiter 115. At this time, Figure 24 The diagram shows the state in which the button bracket 170 is positioned in the button release position. In this state, the button bracket 170 rotates counterclockwise (arrow ⑤ direction), constraining the locking button 140 from moving towards the knob locking position (arrow ④ direction).

[0269] In this embodiment, the button bracket 170 rotates in a third direction different from the linear direction (i.e., the first direction) and the second direction. That is, the button bracket 170 rotates between the button restraint position and the button release position. Figure 24 Based on this, the first direction is the direction of movement of the knob body NB when it is pressed, i.e., the axial direction (arrow ② direction), and the second direction is the direction of movement of the locking button 140 (arrows ① and ④ directions). The third direction is the direction of rotation towards a rotation center concentric with the rotation axis. Therefore, the movement paths of the components do not overlap but are dispersed, allowing for efficient component configuration.

[0270] The button holder 170 can rotate together with the knob body NB, and it can also rotate independently of the knob body NB. When the user rotates the knob body NB, the button holder 170 also rotates together with the knob body NB. However, when the button holder 170 is rotated towards the button restraint position or the button release position, the knob body NB and the button holder 170 can rotate relative to each other. This process will be explained again below.

[0271] The button bracket 170 moves axially along the drive shaft 71 together with the knob body NB. When the knob assembly 100 is mounted on the operation panel 30, and the user presses the knob body NB, the button bracket 170 is also pressed axially along with the knob body NB. This action is feasible because the button bracket 170 is axially coupled to the knob body NB. More precisely, the button bracket 170 is axially positioned between the second knob body 130 and the load plate 160, and is axially fixed by the second knob body 130 and the load plate 160.

[0272] To achieve this configuration, in this embodiment, when the button bracket 170 is assembled to the knob assembly 100, the weight plate 160 is overlapped on the button bracket 170 and assembled while the button bracket 170 is first positioned on the knob body NB.

[0273] Reference Figures 32 to 33 Observing the aforementioned button bracket 170, Figure 32Based on this, the locking button 140 moves linearly in the direction of arrow ①, and the button bracket 170 rotates in the direction of arrow ②. When the button bracket 170 rotates about a rotation center concentric with the drive shaft 71, the length of the button bracket 170 in the radial direction occupied by the movement path changes. Therefore, when the button bracket 170 rotates, the interference distance between the button bracket 170 and the locking button 140 also changes.

[0274] by Figure 33 Based on this, the safety pin 150 and the locking button 140 move linearly to the left in conjunction, while the button bracket 170 rotates counterclockwise. In this embodiment, a display section (not shown) is formed on the surface of the load-bearing plate 160 to display the rotation direction of the button bracket 170 and the button restraint and unlock states of the button bracket 170. The user can know the current state and rotation direction of the button bracket 170 through such a display section.

[0275] The aforementioned button holder 170 has a button constraint position that interferes with and restricts the movement of the locking button 140, and a button release position that moves away from the button constraint position to release the interference with the locking button 140. More precisely, the aforementioned button holder 170 has a button constraint position that is disposed on the movement path of the locking button 140 to restrict the movement of the locking button 140, and a button release position that disengages from the movement path of the locking button 140 to release the interference with the locking button 140. Figure 33 Based on the above, the button bracket 170 rotates counterclockwise around the shaft coupling hole 131 as the rotation center to enter the movement path of the locking button 140.

[0276] Figure 32 This illustrates a state where there is no interference between the aforementioned button bracket 170 and the aforementioned locking button 140. Figure 32 Based on this, when the button bracket 170 is rotated, the button bracket 170 can fill the space vacated by the movement of the locking button 140.

[0277] The aforementioned button bracket 170 includes a first rotational state that disengages from the movement path of the aforementioned locking button 140, and a second rotational state in which it rotates relative to the aforementioned knob body NB in ​​the first rotational state. The button release position is... Figure 37 and button constraint position Figure 39A comparison reveals that in the button release position, the button bracket 170 is in a first rotational state, and in the button restraint position, it is in a second rotational state. At this time, the first and second rotational states have a phase difference of approximately 90 degrees. Here, the button bracket 170 rotates towards a rotation center passing through the center of the aforementioned axis. The phase difference between the first and second rotational states does not need to be limited to 90 degrees. For example, the button bracket 170 may have a rotation angle less than 90 degrees or more than 90 degrees.

[0278] A careful observation of the structure of the button bracket 170 reveals that it includes a generally annular bracket body 171 (see reference). Figure 22 , Figure 23 The aforementioned support body 171 surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160. The aforementioned support body 171 rotates along the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160. That is, the aforementioned button bracket 170 surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 and is coupled thereto, rotating around the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 as the center. (Refer to...) Figure 26 The aforementioned support body 171 has a diameter larger than that of the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160. At the same time, the aforementioned support body 171 has a diameter smaller than that of the knob ring 121 of the aforementioned first knob body 120. Therefore, the aforementioned support body 171 is surrounded by the aforementioned knob ring 121 and is not exposed.

[0279] The aforementioned bracket body 171 includes a rotation guide 172. The rotation guide 172 protrudes from one end of the bracket body 171 toward the rotation center of the button bracket 170. The rotation guide 172 is mounted on the surface of the load-bearing plate 160. Figure 26 Based on this, the aforementioned rotary guide 172 is mounted on the upper surface of the aforementioned load plate 160. The aforementioned rotary guide 172 prevents the aforementioned button bracket 170 from aligning with the aforementioned operation panel 30. Figure 26 (below) detached. The aforementioned rotating guide 172 is formed as a continuous circular or discontinuous arc shape on the edge of the aforementioned support body 171.

[0280] In this embodiment, a rotational space FS is formed between the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 and the aforementioned knob body NB. For example... Figure 26 As shown, the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 and the aforementioned knob body NB are spaced apart to form a rotation space FS. A portion of the aforementioned button bracket 170 is disposed in the aforementioned rotation space FS. More precisely, the rotation guide 172 and the stop rib 173 (described later) of the aforementioned button bracket 170 are disposed in the aforementioned rotation space FS, and the aforementioned button bracket 170 rotates with the aforementioned rotation space FS. In this way, the aforementioned rotation space FS guides the rotation of the aforementioned button bracket 170, so the aforementioned button bracket 170 does not tilt to either side and rotates stably in an aligned state.

[0281] The center of the aforementioned button bracket 170 is positioned between the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 and the aforementioned knob body NB, with the aforementioned axial direction as a reference. (See reference...) Figure 33 The aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 covers the center portion of the aforementioned button bracket 170. The edge of the aforementioned button bracket 170 is exposed towards the aforementioned operation panel 30. That is, although the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 covers the center portion of the aforementioned button bracket 170, the edge portion of the button bracket 170 is exposed. This is because, in this embodiment, the diameter of the aforementioned button bracket 170 is smaller than the diameter of the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160. As another example, the diameter of the aforementioned button bracket 170 may be smaller than the diameter of the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160. In this case, the aforementioned button bracket 170 is inserted into an arc-shaped or circular groove formed in the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160.

[0282] Refer to the section omitting the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160. Figure 35 The button bracket 170 includes a stop rib 173. The stop rib 173 protrudes further towards the rotation center of the button bracket 170 than the rotation guide 172. The stop rib 173 increases the surface area of ​​the button bracket 170 that is stopped by the load plate 160, making the button bracket 170 rotate more stably. The stop rib 173 is intermittently arranged along the rotation guide 172.

[0283] Re-reference Figure 32 and Figure 33 The button holder 170 includes a holder handle 174. The holder handle 174 protrudes axially from the edge of the button holder 170 toward the operation panel 30. The holder handle 174 is the portion that the user grips when rotating the button holder 170. The holder handle 174 protrudes further in the axial and radial directions than the rotation guide 172, providing a convenient grip for the user. Alternatively, the holder handle 174 can be omitted, and the user can rotate the button holder 170 itself.

[0284] Reference Figure 34 and Figure 35 The aforementioned bracket body 171 includes an interference part 175. The interference part 175 is positioned at the button constraint position of the button bracket 170 along the movement path of the locking button 140. The interference part 175 supports one side of the locking button 140 as it moves toward the knob locking position, preventing the locking button 140 from moving back toward the knob release position.

[0285] The aforementioned interference portion 175 has the same axial thickness as the aforementioned support body 171. That is, the aforementioned interference portion 175 protrudes from the annular support body 171 toward the center of the support body 171, but does not protrude in the aforementioned axial direction.

[0286] The button bracket 170 protrudes radially toward its rotation center. When the button bracket 170 protrudes radially, the direction in which the interference part 175 faces changes according to the rotation angle of the button bracket 170. For example, the interference part 175 may be positioned at the button constraint position of the button bracket 170, along the movement path of the locking button 140, and protrude toward the locking button 140.

[0287] observe Figure 35 The length of the interference portion 175 protruding radially from the circumference of the button bracket 170 increases. Figure 35 Based on this, the length of the aforementioned interference portion 175 gradually increases in the radial direction along a clockwise direction. More precisely, the interference portion 175 extends in the direction in which the button bracket 170 rotates toward the button constraint position. Figure 35 The opposite direction (counterclockwise) Figure 35 The length of the button bracket 170 protruding in the radial direction increases (clockwise). Thus, when the button bracket 170 rotates, the force used to overcome the elastic force generated by the elastic member S is dispersed, thereby improving operability.

[0288] At the aforementioned button constraint position, the interference part 175 is disposed between the locking button 140 and the knob body NB. That is, with the radial direction as a reference, the interference part 175 is disposed between the locking button 140 and the first knob body 120. (Refer to...) Figure 38 and Figure 39 The button body 141, the interference part 175, and the knob ring 121 of the locking button 140 are arranged sequentially along the radial direction with the shaft through hole 131 as the center. In this way, when the interference part 175 is arranged between the locking button 140 and the knob body NB, the interference part 175 will block the path of the locking button 140 to move to the knob locking position.

[0289] The aforementioned interference portion 175 has a position fixing portion 178 formed in the radial direction of the aforementioned button bracket 170. The position fixing portion 178 fixes the interference portion 175 to the aforementioned button restraint position or the aforementioned button release position. In this embodiment, the position fixing portion 178 is recessed in the radial direction of the button bracket 170 on the surface of the interference portion 175. (Refer to...) Figure 34 and Figure 35 The aforementioned position fixing part 178 is recessed outside the aforementioned interference part 175 in a direction away from the aforementioned drive shaft 71.

[0290] The aforementioned position fixing part 178 is coupled to a relative fixing part 138, 148 provided in at least one of the aforementioned knob body NB or the aforementioned locking button 140. The aforementioned relative fixing parts 138, 148 are inserted into the aforementioned position fixing part 178 to fix the aforementioned button bracket 170 in the circumferential direction. The aforementioned button bracket 170, which is locked in the aforementioned relative fixing parts 138, 148, will not rotate arbitrarily in the circumferential direction; it can only rotate when the user applies external force.

[0291] The aforementioned relative fixing parts 138 and 148 include a first relative fixing part 138 and a second relative fixing part 148. The first relative fixing part 138 is disposed in the knob body NB at a position facing the position fixing part 178. The first relative fixing part 138 is inserted into the position fixing part 178 to fix the button bracket 170 in the button release position. Figure 35 As shown, the first relative fixing part 138 protrudes from the surface of the second knob body 130 in a cylindrical shape.

[0292] The second relative fixing part 148 is provided on the locking button 140. The second relative fixing part 148 protrudes from the locking button 140 in the direction of movement of the locking button 140. The second relative fixing part 148 engages with the position fixing part 178 at the button constraint position, thereby fixing the button bracket 170 to the button constraint position. (Observation) Figure 39 It can be that the aforementioned position fixing part 178 is combined with the aforementioned second relative fixing part 148.

[0293] As another example, the aforementioned relative fixing part 138 may be provided only on the aforementioned knob body NB. As yet another example, the aforementioned relative fixing part 148 may be provided only on the aforementioned locking button 140. As yet another example, the aforementioned position fixing part 178 protrudes from the aforementioned button bracket 170, and the aforementioned first relative fixing part 138 and the aforementioned second relative fixing part 148 are respectively configured to be recessed from the aforementioned second knob body 130 and the aforementioned locking button 140. As yet another example, the aforementioned position fixing part 178 may be provided on the aforementioned rotation guide 172, rather than on the aforementioned interference part 175.

[0294] Next, refer to Figures 34 to 39 The process of constraining the aforementioned locking button 140 will be explained. For reference, in the bottom view, i.e. Figure 35 , Figure 37 and Figure 39 The weight plate 160 is omitted in the diagram to show the button bracket 170.

[0295] The user first separates the entire knob assembly 100 from the operation panel 30. When the knob assembly 100 is pulled axially from the operation panel 30, the knob assembly 100 and the drive shaft 71 separate from each other, thereby disengaging the knob assembly 100 from the operation panel 30.

[0296] observe Figure 34 and Figure 35 The diagram shows the state where the locking button 140 is in the knob locked position and the button bracket 170 is in the button released position. Referring to the diagram, the interference portion 175 of the button bracket 170 is positioned on the lower side. That is, the interference portion 175 of the button bracket 170 is not positioned in the movement path of the locking button 140. At this time, the position fixing portion 178 of the interference portion 175 remains fixed by being engaged with the first opposing fixing portion 138 of the second knob body 130.

[0297] In this state, the user moves inward ( Figure 36 Pressing the locking button 140 of the disassembled knob assembly 100 (in the direction of the arrow) moves the locking button 140 to the knob release position. In this state, when the user removes the external force pressing the locking button 140, the locking button 140 moves back to the knob lock position via the elastic member S.

[0298] observe Figure 37 The aforementioned locking button 140 moves toward the knob release position (to the left of the figure), creating an empty space between the button body 141 of the locking button 140 and the first knob body 120. This empty space is the space originally occupied by the locking button 140, and can be considered part of the movement path of the locking button 140.

[0299] The user can rotate the button bracket 170 while pressing the locking button 140. More precisely, while pressing the locking button 140, the user can... Figure 38 and Figure 39 The arrow direction causes the button bracket 170 to rotate. At this time, while the user is holding the first knob body 120 and fixing it in place, the user holds the bracket handle 174 with the other hand and rotates it.

[0300] In this way, the interference part 175 fills the empty space between the button body 141 of the locking button 140 and the first knob body 120. That is, the interference part 175 moves toward the button constraint position. When it moves toward the button constraint position, the button bracket 170 interferes with the button body 141 of the locking button 140, preventing the locking button 140 from moving toward the knob locking position.

[0301] Thus, when the button bracket 170 rotates around a rotation center concentric with the drive shaft 71 and moves toward the knob locking position, the elastic member S, the locking button 140, and the button bracket 170 are aligned in the radial direction of the knob body NB.

[0302] More specifically, the user overcomes the elastic force of the aforementioned elastic component S and pushes the button bracket 170 forward (towards...). Figure 39 While the button bracket 170 is moving in the leftward direction (based on the reference direction), the user rotates the button bracket 170. When the position fixing part 178 of the interference part 175 reaches the position of the second relative fixing part 148 on which the locking button 140 is formed, the second relative fixing part 148 naturally inserts into the position fixing part 178, thereby fixing the position of the button bracket 170.

[0303] In this state, when the user removes the force pushing the button bracket 170, the locking button 140 is pressed tightly against the surface of the button bracket 170 by the elastic force of the elastic member S. Thus, the button bracket 170 remains in the state of moving towards the button restraint position.

[0304] That is, when the button bracket 170 is positioned in the button restraint position, the interference portion 175 of the button bracket 170 reaches the button body 141 and supports the locking button 140. Thus, even if the elastic member S pushes the locking button 140 towards the knob locking position (towards...), Figure 39 (Based on the right-hand direction), it can also be held in the knob release position by means of the aforementioned button bracket 170.

[0305] In this state, when the user reassembles the knob assembly 100 onto the drive shaft 71, the knob assembly 100 is positioned on the control panel 30. At this time, the locking button 140 is in a pressed state, i.e., a state where it is restrained from moving towards the knob release position, so the user does not need to press the locking button 140 to operate the cooking appliance. Therefore, the user can operate the button bracket 170 and activate the locking button 140 only when needed, thereby improving the convenience of the knob assembly 100.

[0306] On the other hand, unlike the above-described operating sequence, the user can rotate the button bracket 170 without pressing the locking button 140. If the user rotates the button bracket 170 without pressing the locking button 140, the tilting structure of the interference part 175 will press the locking button 140 from the knob locking position to the knob releasing position when the button bracket 170 rotates.

[0307] At this time, as explained above, the interference part 175 rotates in the same direction as the button bracket 170 rotates toward the button constraint position. Figure 39 The length of the button protruding in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) becomes longer. As a result, when the button bracket 170 is rotated, the force used to overcome the elastic force generated by the elastic member S is dispersed, so that the user can move the locking button 140 along with the button bracket 170 while rotating it without applying a large force.

[0308] As another example, threads are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 or the aforementioned knob body NB. Threads that engage with these threads are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned button bracket 170. In this way, the aforementioned button bracket 170 rotates continuously with the screw and is threadedly connected to the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 or the knob body NB, thereby having different rotation angles.

[0309] As another example, the aforementioned load-bearing plate 160 can be omitted, and the aforementioned button bracket 170 is only attached to the aforementioned knob body NB. The aforementioned button bracket 170 can rotate in a state of engagement with the aforementioned knob body NB.

[0310] As another example, although not shown, the aforementioned elastic member S can be omitted from the knob assembly 100. In this case, the user can manually move the locking button 140 from the second position to the first position. The user can return the operating button 140 to the first position by pulling the locking button 140 or by holding another gripping structure (not shown) provided on the locking button 140.

[0311] As another example, although not shown, the safety pin 150 can be omitted from the aforementioned operation button 140, and the limiter 115 protrudes from the aforementioned base 110. In this case, when the aforementioned locking button 140 is in the first position, the aforementioned limiter 115 interferes with the surface of the aforementioned locking button 140, and when the aforementioned locking button 140 is in the second position, the aforementioned limiter 115 does not interfere with the surface of the aforementioned locking button 140.

[0312] In the above embodiment, the example described is that the knob assembly 100 is applied to a cooking device, but the knob assembly 100 can be applied to various electronic products such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, garment care machines, air conditioners, blenders, and dishwashers.

[0313] The above description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of this utility model. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of this utility model. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments are used to illustrate the technical concept of this utility model, and are not intended to limit this utility model. The scope of the technical concept of this utility model is not limited to such embodiments. The protection scope of this utility model should be interpreted through the scope of the following claims, and all technical concepts within the same scope should be included within the scope of the rights of this utility model.

Claims

1. A knob assembly, characterized by include: The knob body rotates around a drive shaft protruding from the control panel and moves linearly along the axis of the drive shaft. The locking button has an operating part that protrudes to the outside of the knob body; and A safety pin is disposed on the locking button in conjunction with the locking button, and has a first position and a second position after moving from the first position in a direction different from the axial direction. In the first position described above, the safety pin interferes with the operation panel along the axial direction, thereby restricting the axial movement of the knob body toward the operation panel. In the second position, the axial interference between the safety pin and the control panel is eliminated, allowing the knob body to move axially toward the control panel.

2. The knob assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the aforementioned first position, the safety pin is spaced a first distance from the operation panel or the base of the operation panel, with the aforementioned axial direction as a reference. In the second position, the safety pin is separated from the operation panel or the base by a second distance based on the axial direction, and the second distance is greater than the first distance.

3. The knob assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned locking button moves independently of the aforementioned knob body in a direction different from the aforementioned axis between the aforementioned first position and the aforementioned second position. When the knob body rotates around the drive shaft, the locking button moves to the third position as the knob body rotates.

4. The knob assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned safety pin moves along the aforementioned axial direction together with the aforementioned knob body and the aforementioned safety button. The aforementioned safety pin, together with the aforementioned locking button, moves independently of the aforementioned knob body between the aforementioned first position and the aforementioned second position in a direction different from the aforementioned axial direction.

5. The knob assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned safety pin protrudes from the aforementioned locking button along the aforementioned axis. In the second position described above, the safety pin is axially spaced from the operation panel or the base of the operation panel.

6. The knob assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned control panel is equipped with a base. The aforementioned safety pin protrudes toward the aforementioned base and interferes with the aforementioned base in the aforementioned first position along the aforementioned axial direction.

7. The knob assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned control panel is equipped with a base. The aforementioned base has a limiter that interferes with the aforementioned safety pin. In the first position, the safety pin interferes with the limiter along the axial direction.

8. The knob assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body of the aforementioned knob includes: The first knob body has an internal space open towards the aforementioned control panel; and The second knob body is disposed in the aforementioned internal space and rotates and moves linearly together with the first knob body. The first knob body has an operating hole through which the operating part of the locking button is exposed.

9. A knob assembly for a cooking appliance, comprising: The knob body rotates around a drive shaft protruding from the control panel and moves linearly along the axis of the drive shaft. A locking button, which moves along a path different from the aforementioned axial direction, restricts the aforementioned axial movement of the knob body; and A button bracket, which is disposed on the knob body and rotates relative to the knob body. The aforementioned button bracket rotates around a rotation center concentric with the aforementioned drive shaft to restrict the movement of the aforementioned locking button.

10. The knob assembly for a cooking appliance according to claim 9, characterized in that, The aforementioned button bracket has a button constraint position and a button release position. The button constraint position is a position that interferes with the aforementioned locking button and restricts the movement of the aforementioned locking button. The button release position is a position that rotates from the aforementioned button constraint position to release the interference between the locking button and the aforementioned locking button.

Images